Be Inspired by Real Weddings at Popular Venue Types

When planning the details of your ceremony and reception, one of the first decisions you will make is in regards to the venue. Where will you be hosting the ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and any pre-wedding parties, such as the rehearsal dinner or after-wedding brunch? Your choices will largely depend on the theme of your event, how many guests you'd like to have attend, as well as the area of the country or world where you'd like to exchange vows. 

From hotels and resorts with beautiful ballrooms to private estates or your own backyard, we've compiled some venues that our couples typically choose for their big day. Take a look at seven of the most popular venue types, below. To see more from the celebrations pictured, be sure to click on your favorite images! Also, be sure to follow the links to see even more soirées at these types of wedding venues.

Hotels & Resorts 

There's a reason so many brides and grooms choose to host their ceremony and/or reception at a hotel. Properties of this type are typically pros when it comes to hosting an event, so you won't have to worry about staff members not knowing what they're supposed to be doing. Resorts also provide accommodations for guests, a variety of venues to choose from, and they can be nostalgic too. We've seen brides choose certain hotels based on past family vacations, special moments with their fiancé while they were dating, or even because they want to walk down the same aisle their parents did years earlier. 

See more real weddings that took place at hotels and resorts across the country and the world! Photo by KT Merry Photography; Planning & Design by Posh Parties; Venue: The Breakers; From Real Wedding: Soft-Hued Spring Wedding at The Breakers in Palm Beach, Florida

Country Clubs & Golf Clubs 

If you or your family members belong to a country club or golf club, this timeless venue can be the perfect place to host your nuptials – especially if you or your spouse love golf and feel that the space holds a special meaning to you or your family. This venue type is also a great option for those sticking with marital family traditions. 

See more real weddings that took place at country clubs and golf clubs throughout the country to inspire your big day! Photo by Michael Carr Photography; Planning & Design by Ann Whittington Events; From Real Wedding: Glamorous Outdoor Wedding with Rustic & Rose Gold Details in Texas

Farms & Barns 

We see no sign of the rustic wedding trend ending any time soon, and a farm or barn is a wonderful place to exchange vows if this is the theme you're going for. We've also had couples design glam, contemporary celebrations in pastoral locations, so the options really are endless! 

See more real weddings that took place at farms and barns. From rustic to romantic, you'll find a wedding to inspire your own celebration! Photo by Christine Bentley Photography; Bridal Salon: The White Dress; From Real Wedding: A Rustic-Elegant Barn Wedding in Santa Barbara, California

Castles, Mansions & Historic Venues 

The royal wedding between Meghan Markle and Prince Harry will likely inspire a number of princess-style celebrations at castles, mansions, or historic venues. Whether you're saying "I do" on the mainland or abroad, it's easy to feel like a princess on the grounds of a magnificent venue with gorgeous architectural details. 

See more real weddings that took place at castles, mansions, and historic venues around country and the world! Photo by Dear Stacey; Venue: Oheka Castle; From Real Wedding: Sentimental Alfresco Ceremony + Classic Reception at Oheka Castle

Estates & Private Homes 

There are two parts to this type of venue – when it's your private home or that of a family member or friend, or an estate that can be rented out for events. Both pose great options for pairs desiring a private celebration without any potential wedding crashers (read: nosy hotel guests). 

See more real weddings that took place at estates and private homes! Photo by Tec Petaja; Floral Design by Amaryllis Floral & Event Design; From Real Wedding: Childhood Friends Celebrate Wedding at Marriott Family's Lake House

Museums, Libraries & Zoos 

Museums are wonderful for brides and grooms who desire a unique space to host their nuptials. Museums and libraries are especially ideal for lovers of art and literature, or couples who want to exchange vows where so many romantic masterpieces and novels are housed. Zoos are also a great choice for animal lovers. 

See more real weddings that took place at museums, libraries, and zoos across the states! Photo by Kent Drake Photography; Floral & Event Design by HMR Designs; From Real Wedding: An Event Planner's Wedding at a Museum by Sue the Tyrannosaurus Rex

Vineyards & Wineries 

Saying "I do" at a vineyard or winery is incredibly romantic. It's the perfect locale for those couples wanting an outdoor wedding featuring ample natural greenery, or those who just love wine. We also love the fact that couples can visit the vineyard or winery for future anniversaries. 

See more real weddings that took place at vineyards and wineries across the country and the world! Photo by Elisabeth Millay Photography; From Real Wedding: Romantic Neutral-Hued Wedding at a Paso Robles, California Vineyard

For additional wedding ideas, discover some of our favorite destination wedding location ideas, learn what you need to know about planning an outdoor wedding, view famous wedding venues featured in movies, and see the wedding venues we highly recommend!

Opening photo by Matt Kennedy Photography; From Real Wedding: Alfresco Ceremony + Rustic-Chic Barn Reception in San Luis Obispo