Best Places to Get Married in Virginia: Top Venues for Your Dream Wedding
Planning a wedding can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the perfect venue. Virginia, with its picturesque landscapes and diverse settings, offers countless options for a memorable wedding day. Whether you dream of a rustic vineyard, a charming inn, or a grand historic estate, you’ll find something special in this beautiful state.
Virginia’s wedding venues cater to all types of ceremonies and receptions, ensuring your special day is everything you’ve imagined. From the rolling hills and serene beaches to the quaint countryside and bustling cities, each location adds its own unique touch to your celebration. As you explore the possibilities, you’ll discover that Virginia has something to suit every style and budget.
1) Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards
Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards is a beautiful wedding venue in North Garden, Virginia. It’s nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering stunning views that will take your breath away.
This venue is perfect for wine lovers, with its scenic vineyards and rustic charm. The Granary can host up to 200 guests, making it ideal for both intimate and large weddings.
You and your guests can enjoy a private tasting room and on-site vineyard. The whole property feels cozy yet grand, creating a magical atmosphere for your special day. Learn more about it.
2) The Founders Inn and Spa
Located in Virginia Beach, The Founders Inn and Spa offers a luxurious setting for your wedding day. Imagine saying your vows surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens and cascading fountains.
This venue features elegant ballrooms and vintage touches. The stunning brick building and outdoor garden area create a perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.
With professional catering and banquet staff, you can relax and enjoy your special day. Consider hosting your wedding at The Founders Inn and Spa for a memorable experience.
3) King Family Vineyards
King Family Vineyards is an ideal wedding location nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains.
You can have your ceremony either indoors or outdoors. Imagine saying your vows with stunning mountain views in the background.
At King Family Vineyards, you and your guests will also enjoy award-winning wines. This charming venue can host up to 200 guests, making it perfect for both small and large weddings.
4) Williamsburg Winery
If you’re looking for a romantic and unique place to get married in Virginia, consider the Williamsburg Winery.
This venue offers beautiful settings with a touch of history and elegance. You can choose from different charming spots for your ceremony and reception.
Their boutique hotel, Wedmore Place, provides a cozy and quaint option for you and your guests to stay overnight. Find more details on the Williamsburg Winery page.
5) Early Mountain Vineyards
Early Mountain Vineyards in Madison, VA, is a stunning place to get married. Just a 40-minute drive from Charlottesville, you’ll find it nestled in the Blue Ridge foothills.
The venue offers sweeping views of the mountains, which make for amazing wedding photos. You’ll love the rustic yet modern ambiance that the facilities provide.
With over 300 acres of beautiful scenery, Early Mountain Vineyards is perfect for an unforgettable wedding. You can even stay in a charming Guest Cottage nestled among the grapevines. This secluded spot is ideal for your wedding night and offers breathtaking views.
For more information, visit Early Mountain Vineyards.
6) The Clifton
The Clifton in Charlottesville, Virginia, gives your wedding a mix of historic charm and modern elegance. Located on 100 acres of pristine countryside, this venue offers breathtaking views.
You can have The Clifton for a day, or make it a full weekend event. Enjoy luxurious amenities and exceptional service in this beautiful setting. You can learn more about it on The Clifton’s website.
7) The Inn at Little Washington
The Inn at Little Washington offers a blend of luxury and charm, perfect for your dream wedding. Nestled in Virginia, this venue provides a stunning mountain backdrop.
You’ll love the exquisite pre-wedding facilities, including the Gamekeeper’s Cottage, which offers a peaceful and private space for bridal preparations.
The food is top-notch, with a menu crafted by renowned Chef Patrick O’Connell. Your guests will enjoy an unforgettable culinary experience. Learn more about what this venue has to offer through the experiences shared by others at The Knot.
8) The Tides Inn
The Tides Inn in Irvington, VA, is a charming wedding venue by the Chesapeake Bay. The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere make it a great choice for a wedding.
Your guests can enjoy a variety of activities, including tennis, golf, paddleboarding, and kayaking. The nearby Virginia Wine Trail and Oyster Trail add a local flavor to your celebration.
The Tides Inn offers beautiful venues and packages starting at reasonable prices. Plus, there’s an on-site spa and fitness center for relaxation.
9) Keswick Vineyards
Keswick Vineyards is a beautiful spot for your wedding in Virginia. Located at 1575 Keswick Winery Drive in Keswick, VA, it features stunning vineyard landscapes and Blue Ridge Mountain views.
You can host up to 200 guests at this venue. The outdoor spaces are perfect for ceremonies, with a sparkling water fountain adding to the charm.
For more details, visit Keswick Vineyards.
10) The Mill at Fine Creek
The Mill at Fine Creek is a charming wedding venue in Powhatan, Virginia. Nestled on 10 acres of lush greenery and historic ruins, it’s a unique spot for your special day.
You’ll love having exclusive access, as they host only one event per day. With a guest capacity of up to 200 people, it’s perfect for both intimate and larger gatherings.
Thirteen guest cottages are available, offering comfort and privacy for your guests. The staff here is known for being incredibly accommodating, ensuring a smooth and memorable celebration. Explore more on their site.
Choosing the Perfect Venue
When looking for a wedding venue in Virginia, there’s a lot to consider. You’ll need to think about whether you prefer indoor or outdoor settings, have a thing for historic charm, or lean towards a modern vibe.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Venues
Choosing between indoor and outdoor venues can shape your wedding experience. Indoor venues offer a controlled environment free from weather worries. They often come with amenities like climate control, sound systems, and backup generators. Examples include the elegant Maridor in Roanoke, which is known for its cozy interiors.
Outdoor venues, on the other hand, provide breathtaking natural backdrops. Think lush gardens, scenic vistas, and open skies. Locations like Castle Hill Cider in Keswick spread over 600 acres are perfect if you love nature. While weather can be unpredictable, many outdoor venues offer tents or pavilions as fallbacks.
Historic Locations
Virginia is rich in history and offers many venues with a storied past. Choosing a historic location adds a timeless charm and unique character to your big day. The Maridor is a prime example, dating back to 1916 and full of historical details.
Another option is The Virginia Cliffe Inn in Glen Allen. It offers both ceremony and reception spaces, with a historic yet quaint atmosphere. Historic locations often have beautifully landscaped grounds and period architecture, making for a memorable setting and stunning photos.
Modern Venues
If you prefer a sleek and contemporary setting, Virginia has a number of stunning modern venues. These spaces often feature state-of-the-art amenities and stylish décor. The Gala 417 in Virginia Beach is a great example, offering a spacious and open 5,000 square foot venue. It provides a stress-free planning process with everything included.
Modern venues are ideal if you’re looking for a vibrant and up-to-date atmosphere. They can also be more customizable, allowing you to design a space that fits your aesthetic perfectly. Often, these venues have top-notch facilities to ensure your guests are comfortable throughout the celebration.
Seasonal Considerations
Choosing the right season for your wedding in Virginia can make a big difference. The state offers varying weather, natural beauty, and vibe each season, making it crucial to match your wedding style and preferences to the right time of year.
Spring Weddings
Spring in Virginia brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures. The landscapes burst into colors, making outdoor weddings stunning. Locations like the Blue Ridge Mountains and Charlottesville wineries offer breathtaking views.
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so always have a backup plan for rain. Indoor venues with large windows, like the Mariner’s Museum and Park in Newport News, offer beautiful views while keeping everyone dry.
Spring is also a popular wedding season, so book your venue and vendors early. Look for deals in early spring as it might be less expensive than peak late spring.
Summer Weddings
Summer is the most popular time for weddings in Virginia. You can count on long, sunny days and warm nights. Beaches like Virginia Beach and destination spots like Oceanaire Resort Hotel are perfect for a seaside celebration.
Keep in mind, summers can get hot and humid. Consider venues with air-conditioned areas or shaded outdoor spaces. Provide fans, cold drinks, and light menus to keep guests comfortable.
Summer also brings more tourists to Virginia beaches. If you pick a coastal venue, reserve hotel rooms and parking in advance for your guests. Weekday weddings might help avoid the crowds.
Fall Weddings
Fall is a beautiful season in Virginia with cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage. Mountain venues like the Blue Ridge area and places like Dover Hall Estate are perfect for capturing the stunning autumn colors in your wedding photos.
Fall weather is generally stable but can turn chilly, so advise guests to dress in layers. Outdoor fireplaces and warm blankets add a cozy touch to your event.
Fall is harvest season, offering fresh, local produce for your menu. Embrace the season by incorporating autumnal decorations like pumpkins, leaves, and rustic elements into your wedding design. Make sure to book early as fall dates fill up quickly.
Additional Planning Tips
Planning your wedding in Virginia can be a delightful experience with the right resources. Key areas to focus on include hiring local vendors, arranging travel and accommodations, and understanding legal requirements.
Local Vendors
Virginia offers many talented vendors for weddings. Start by searching for photographers, caterers, and florists who have experience with local venues. You might find it useful to explore this guide to eloping in Virginia for more insights on choosing local vendors.
Make a list and contact them early to check their availability and rates. Ask for samples of their work and look for reviews from past brides. Meeting with vendors in person can also give you a better feel for their style and professionalism.
Travel and Accommodation
Travel and accommodation for your guests are crucial details to manage. Look for hotels or inns near your venue that offer wedding packages or group rates. Websites like Zion Springs can help identify venues with excellent nearby lodging options.
Consider transportation options for guests, such as shuttles or car services, especially if your venue is far from the hotel. Informing guests early about travel plans and accommodation options in the invitation or on a wedding website can make the process smoother.
Legal Requirements
Getting legally married in Virginia is straightforward. No residency requirements exist, so you don’t need to live in the state to get married there. A marriage license costs around $30 and can be obtained the same day as your ceremony.
Both parties must be present and provide a valid ID like a passport or driver’s license. Ensure you also have a legally recognized officiant to perform the ceremony. Courthouse weddings are popular for their simplicity, but you can also get married at a scenic outdoor location with the right permits.
