Yay! You’re engaged! Now what? Set a date and decide. . .  Where are you getting married?!

There is an overwhelming number of items on those crazy to do lists from The Knot, but one of the first steps in planning your dream wedding is to decide on your wedding venue. I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite places to get married in Maryland and Washington, D.C.  I shoot weddings at a variety of locations and work with couples from Baltimore, D.C., and all across Maryland.

These are some of my favorite, unique wedding venues in the area:

1. Your Backyard!

Seriously. Laid-back BBQ-style weddings are my jam. What could be more meaningful than welcoming your new spouse into your family than promising your love outside your family home? You could also think about other childhood favorites like your grandparent’s place. I always witness and capture the crazy amount of love and support and coming together at backyard weddings. Getting married at your own home? Email me! I want to document your big day!

2. Blue Moon Rising | Deep Creek Lake, MD

Blue Moon is such a unique venue with it’s 14 eco-cabins on site, so everyone can stay together. It’s like being at camp but elevated. Nestled within the forest with an attentive staff, it’s the most peaceful, laid-back place for your fairytale wedding! Seriously, Rob and Ox will build you a bonfire so you can keep celebrating long into the night.

3. Antrim 1812 | Taneytown, MD

Antrim 1844 is one of those wedding venues that feels like it was made for a love story. With its historic mansion, beautifully landscaped gardens, and elegant grounds, it offers a romantic, timeless backdrop for everything from intimate moments to grand celebrations. Every corner has its own charm, giving your wedding photographs a beautiful blend of classic elegance, natural beauty, and genuine emotion.

4. Chanteclaire Farm | Friendsville, MD

If you dream of an inclusive venue in the rolling hills far away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Chanteclaire is for you. The team is ready to guide your planning experience in an elegant venue on 100 acres of Maryland farmland. The small touches bring this historic location to a modern and chic celebration. Leigh and her team have your back, from the first visit through the morning after your wedding.

5. Union Mills Public House | Frederick, MD

Union Mills Public House is in downtown Frederick along Carroll Creek. If you’ve been there, you know how cute Frederick is. This venue has options for weddings outdoors with the reception inside the brick work building.

6. Green Hill Farm | Sharpsburg, MD

What prettier place to get married than on a flower farm. Green Hill Farm offers varying packages for weddings with a few on site accommodations as well. The gardens, event barn, meandering pathways, and historical buildings are all conducive to a beautiful event. They also host an annual Chicken Swap, and yes, I’ve been there. 🐔

7. Fernstone Retreat | Farmington, PA

This beautiful venue is located in Pennsylvania and is for the whimsical forest lovers. Accommodations are on site at this venue and the reception site has a magical tree growing the center. Seriously, it’s so majestic. A stream also runs through the property giving life to the natural world located on this property.

8. VISARTS | Rockville, MD

VisArts is perfect for couples who want a wedding that feels modern, creative, and a little unexpected. Located in the heart of Rockville Town Square, this contemporary venue blends light-filled event spaces, rooftop views, and art-filled galleries for a celebration that feels uniquely your own. With a mix of urban charm and artistic personality, there are endless opportunities for photographs that feel vibrant, personal, and full of life. It’s an ideal setting for couples who want to do things a little differently.

9. Camp Puh’tok | Monktown, MD

Whether you envision exchanging vows beneath the pines in a romantic outdoor setting or indoors surrounded by nature through large windows and covered porches, they have the perfect outdoor space for your big day. You get full property access for the whole weekend so you can celebrate from rehearsal dinner through the send off brunch.

10. Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery | Thurmont, MD

Springfield Manor is located in the Catoctin Mountains near Thurmont, Maryland. The mountain sunsets are absolutely breathtaking and provide the most beautiful glow that illuminates gorgeous weddings. On the grounds are lavender fields and a vineyard. Couples can choose from a rustic barn setting for their reception or a more formal dining area to celebrate with friends and family.

11. Savage River Highlands | Finzel, MD

Nestled outside of Frostburg, Maryland is the Savage River Forest. The area is now state owned and is full of hiking trails, yurts, cabins, and a lodge. Wildlife abounds in this peaceful retreat sure to bring calm to your wedding day. Savage Highlands became a state park to ensure this ecologically significant mountain landscape is stewarded for the long term and remains compatible with the surrounding Savage River State Forest trail and recreation network.

12. Camp Hidden Valley at Deer Creek Preserve | White Hall, MD

Deer Creek Preserve is a dream for couples who want their wedding day surrounded by nature without sacrificing an elevated, elegant feel. With its scenic countryside setting, open landscapes, and peaceful natural beauty, the venue offers a sense of escape that makes the day feel intimate and intentional. From golden-hour portraits to quiet moments tucked away from the celebration, it’s the kind of place where the beauty of the surroundings and the emotion of the day come together effortlessly.

13. Brookside Gardens | Wheaton, MD

Brookside Gardens is a little slice of magic for couples who love lush greenery, colorful blooms, and the feeling of being tucked away in a secret garden. With winding paths, romantic landscapes, and beautiful gardens that change with the seasons, it offers an ever-changing backdrop for wedding portraits that feel natural, timeless, and full of wonder. Their sustainability missions make it all the more reason to host your wedding here.

14. Baltimore Museum of Industry | Baltimore, MD

The Baltimore Museum of Industry is perfect for couples who love a little history, industrial character, and a setting that feels anything but ordinary. Housed in a historic waterfront building, the museum pairs exposed brick, vintage machinery, and architectural details with beautiful views of Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. It’s a one-of-a-kind backdrop with an urban feel.

15. Swallow Falls | Deep Creek Lake, MD

Swallow Falls is near and dear to my heart. I grew up swimming in the river, hiking the trails, and learning all about the plants and animals that live there. Now, I photograph couples, families, and weddings at this magical park. I can show you all the best places for photos, vows, and celebration. It’s best for smaller weddings, but we do have the option of going off site for your repcetion as well.

Want more ideas on awesome places to get married?! Have something cool and quirky already lined up? Email me to discuss your wedding vision and how we can capture your amazing wedding moments on camera to preserve for generations. It’s a big day and a big job! I’m game.