One of the first things on every couple’s wedding to-do list is finding and booking a venue. You have to ask yourself a few questions, like what kind of place do you want to get married in — a ballroom, castle or outdoor setting? What style do you want your wedding to evoke? Does your guest list match the venue’s capacity?
Here are some of our favorite venues across the US which each speak to a very distinct style. Pick up The Knot Magazine Spring 2015 Issue on stands now for a full list of our top 10 picks, plus more of the best venues near you!
Malibu Rocky Oaks Estate Vineyards, Malibu, California
We love the idea of a new twist on the vineyard wedding. At an elevation of more than 2,000 feet in the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Rocky Oaks will take your breath away. Picture this: A narrow road winds through acres of grapevines to a Tuscan-style villa with panoramic views, which, on sunny days, include the ocean. For a unique ceremony space, check out its functioning mountaintop helipad (seats 160) for 360 degrees of wonder.
Thorncrown Chapel, Eureka Springs, Arkansas
A glimmering 48-foot chapel made of 425 windows is probably the last thing anyone would expect to find nestled beneath a canopy of trees in the foothills of the Ozark Mountains in Arkansas. And that’s exactly why we love Thorncrown Chapel. Thanks to 6,000 square feet of glass, this one-of-a-kind ceremony space completely blurs the line between outdoors and in for a result that’s truly spiritual. Speaking of spiritual, a full-time minister is also available to perform your service—for up to 100 guests—at no additional charge.
San Francisco City Hall, San Francisco
Who says a city hall wedding can’t be spectacular? This landmark has been destroyed by fire and earthquake in the past but is just as magnificent as ever. The Rotunda at San Francisco City Hall, with its grand marble staircase and soaring, 24-karat-embellished ceiling, is its most stunning feature. Invite guests to mingle on the second-story balconies while they enjoy incredible views of the party below.
The Blue Dress Barn, Benton Harbor, Michigan
Nothing says “country elegance” quite like a weathered old barn. At The Blue Dress Barn, you could say your vows in the gardens, then move the party under the open timber roof of the 4,600-square-foot dairy barn—one of the largest standing in Michigan. In fact, many argue that this is the venue that launched the barn wedding craze. The rustic space, which can seat up to 250 guests, comes dressed with wrought-iron chandeliers, twinkling lights and paper lanterns (facility rental from $3,800, BlueDressBarn.com).
Bella Collina, Montverde, Florida
You don’t have to fly 150 guests to Italy to get that destination vibe. Instead, check out our fave stateside venue with a foreign flair: Bella Collina. With one look at its rolling hills and rustic fieldstone facade, you and your guests will think you’ve been whisked far, far away—and it’s just 30 minutes outside of Orlando. Flanked by Italian cypress trees, the reflection pool is perfect for an alfresco cocktail hour or intimate reception.
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As seen in The Knot Magazine Spring 2015
For more great venues click here!
