Best DC Wedding Venues (Part 1)
D.C. + DMV area
If you are an East Coast bride in search of the perfect DC wedding venue, this is the blog for you! As a DC wedding photographer, I never pass up the opportunity to spend the day at any number of DC venues. From elegant manors to historic buildings, you are sure to find something that is perfect to start your forever – A space matching your wedding aesthetic and bringing your wedding vision to life.
Your wedding venue is a key component in executing your wedding day. It’s the backdrop where all your pictures will take place! You’ll say “I Do” and have the best time of your life. You might cry happy tears. You will dance and mingle and listen to heartfelt speeches. You’ll take epic portraits and have amazing memories created within this very space. It amazes me that it is my job capture it all through the lens of my camera, so that every moment is documented for you to reminiscent.
Let’s take a look at some of my favorite DC wedding venues!
Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR)
One of the most elegant and historic venues in DC, DAR offers many different event spaces that will suite many styles of wedding. Not only do they have stunning indoor spaces, the Portico also provides a great outdoor space with a view of the Washington Monument. Their staff are fantastic and will take good care of you as well. It’s the perfect location if you’re wanting a iconic DC wedding with an amazing experience!
Lars Anderson House
This premier venue in DC is the definition of luxury. The Larz Anderson House has witnessed decades of high profile parties, and it’s now open to the public for private events. It’s obvious that the interior of the venue is opulent, but it also has a beautiful outdoor space (not pictures) with a pool and stylish awnings. The Larz Anderson House would be the perfect venue for a more intimate affair of less than 130 guests. Note that they do have some strict restrictions and rules in order to preserve the historical artifacts and antiques, as well as the historical value of the building.
Waldorf Astoria Washington, DC
The Waldorf Astoria is a familiar name in the luxury hotel world, and it’s event spaces carry the same excellence. Hosting up to 1300, they have many event spaces that can accommodate intimate parties and extravagant weddings. An added benefit of having your wedding at the hotel is convenience for yourself and your guests.
The St. Regis Washington, DC
Another big name in the luxury hotel world, the St. Regis in DC is unmatched. I especially love their courtyard, the Astor Terrace, and the Astor Ballroom! The St. Regis provides both indoor and options for your ceremony and reception, and with attentive butlers taking care of your guests, it’s the venue for you if you want a seamless experience.
National Portrait Museum
If you’re looking for something a little different, the National Portrait Museum is for you. Their indoor garden space is so unique, where you can dance amongst lush trees (yes, trees) and beautifully manicured garden while simultaneously admiring the architecture. If you plan to have a medium / large reception, the NPM would be able to accommodate your guests and provide plenty of space for the party. Even if you’re not having your wedding there, the NPM is a great location for wedding portraits.
George Peabody Library
The historic George Peabody Library in Baltimore is ranked one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. The library interior is one of the coolest ceremony locations I’ve seen, with over 300,000 around you and a 5-story ceiling. If you’re looking for a classic and jaw-dropping backdrop, this would be my pick.
Once you have picked out your perfect venue, the real planning begins! I like to take the time to get to know my couples and their vendor team before the wedding day, so we can make a plan to capture every moment without missing a beat. We will come up with a photography timeline and talk through any details that may affect wedding photos as the planning process goes on.
I truly believe that Kansas City offers some of the best wedding venues. Whether you are going for city skylines or stretching countryside, there is a little bit of something for everyone. You can truly find perfect backdrop for your midwestern wedding, right here in KCMO! As always, you can inquire via my contact page with any questions on finding your dream venue, or to get started looking for your Kansas City wedding photographer.
For some tips on planning out your photo timelines, you can check out my previously written blog – How to Plan for Photos on your Wedding Day.
