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 the best 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!
Check out Annie and Dane’s wedding at his parent’s house and Josh and Elisha’s backyard party at a family residence.
2. The Comus Inn at Sugarloaf Mountain
Sugarloaf Mountain in Dickerson, Maryland offers absolutely gorgeous views. The Comus Inn is located just a few miles from the state park and hosts wedding ceremonies and receptions both indoors and outdoors. Embrace your spouse as you watch the sun sink into the trees. Sigh… such beauty!
Looking for an outdoor space that’s a little more secluded? Shade Trees and Evergreens is east of Baltimore, near Frederick. The lush forest and lake on the grounds create a stunning backdrop for the most perfect woodsy wedding. Dance under the stars in the glass-covered reception area.
Want to see how it looks set up for Melissa and Ellen’s rustic, DIY wedding? Click here! They put tons of heart into their decor.
Blue Water Farm is perfect for a weekend wedding extravaganza! This waterfront residence sits on 150 acres of farmland and boasts gorgeous views. With enough sleeping room for 20, bring the whole family or the entire bridal party to kick back, relax, and enjoy nature.
The Anchor Inn is located on the water near Pasadena, Maryland. You can feel the soft breeze off the water as friends and family watch you vow yourself to your love. Receptions are held indoors in a beautiful, naturally-lit dining area. It’s a photographer’s dream for indoor reception areas. Amy and Rob held their beach-themed nuptials here.
6. Gambrill Tea Room
Western Maryland is filled with scenic views of the mountains, and Gambrill State Park does not disappoint with its overlook and woodsy terrain. Marry the love of your life overlooking the gorgeous Appalachians. Bonus: The sun sets right against the overlook, just down from the Gambrill Tea Room where you can celebrate with guests.
This beautiful venue is located in North East, Maryland and is on the water. Elk Manor is a 163-acre premiere venue close to both Baltimore and Philadelphia. Choose between the manor, the beach, or the barn for your festivities. More beautiful sunsets await you as you dance the night away with friends and family.
8. American Visionary Arts Museum
Downtown Baltimore has so many quirky, cool places to photograph couples. The American Visionary Arts Museum has several of those cool things. See that ivy down below? I looooovveeee shooting in ivy. And in case you didn’t know, there are super cool “LOVE” letters out front. Wedding parties are hosted upstairs at the museum in a swanky loft and are decorated to the couple’s liking. Check it out!
9. River Farm
With 25 acres of lawn, meadows, woodland, formal gardens, and scenic views of the Potomac, River Farm is a place of natural year-round beauty and a perfect showcase for your wedding any time of year. Located in the Washington, D.C. metro area, this American Horticultural Society venue also has an estate on the grounds for your dining and dancing needs.
Joe and Nawel eloped in the Estate House at River Farm. Check out their holiday wedding surrounded by their closest friends and family.
10. Springfield Manor Winery and Distillery
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.
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.
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