Wedding planning can be overwhelming with so many decisions to make about the ceremony, wedding script, reception and, of course, the venue. While traditional wedding venues like banquet halls and country clubs are popular choices, more couples are opting for unconventional wedding venues that break the mold and reflect their unique personalities and styles.
Unconventional Wedding Venues in the Great Outdoors
If you and your partner love the outdoors, there’s no shortage of venues to choose from. Getting married surrounded by the beauty of nature can add an extra layer of magic to your big day.
Whether you envision saying "I do" with the backdrop of majestic mountains, serene lakes or an open-air metropolitan locale, the following suggestions offer plenty of inspiration for making your celebration as extraordinary as your love story.
National Parks
National parks are perfect for couples who appreciate nature and want their wedding to feel both adventurous and scenic. For example, in the Grand Canyon, couples can marry with the awe-inspiring canyon views as their backdrop. Yosemite National Park also offers various outdoor venues that provide a stunning and natural setting for a ceremony, including lakesides and meadows.
Cemeteries
Cemetery weddings can offer a peaceful, serene atmosphere surrounded by history, with unique and often beautiful architectural elements. Getting married in a cemetery provides one of the most unconventional wedding venues and deeply personal settings for couples who appreciate history, tranquility, and the timeless beauty of these spaces.
Mountain Venues
For those who love hiking or skiing, a mountaintop wedding offers an extraordinary backdrop. You can say your vows at an alpine lodge or even on top of a mountain accessible by gondola. Locations like Aspen, Colorado, or Banff, Canada, are famous for mountain weddings and offer both stunning scenery and a variety of outdoor activities for guests to enjoy.
Rooftop Weddings
If you're in an urban area and still want an outdoor vibe, consider hosting your wedding on a rooftop. A rooftop venue can provide sweeping views of the city skyline, making it a fantastic option for couples who enjoy city life. Many hotels and restaurants offer rooftop event spaces, and with the right decorations, you can create a luxurious yet relaxed atmosphere that feels completely unique.
Unconventional Wedding Venues That Are Intimate and Meaningful
For some couples, the most meaningful wedding venues are those that hold a special place in their hearts. An unconventional wedding venue that reflects your personality or shared memories can turn your wedding into an intimate and unforgettable event. Tying a space back to a favorite hobby or a sentimental location brings deeper meaning to the big day.
A Relative’s Yard or Farm
If you're looking for a low-key yet meaningful venue, consider hosting your wedding at a relative’s home, farm or backyard. You could even ask a loved one to officiate. This option can save you money while also creating a warm, inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for an intimate celebration. The personal touch of a family member’s home also makes the day feel all the more special, especially if it’s a place where you have shared fond memories.
A Museum or Library
For couples who have a love for history, art or books, tying the knot in a museum or library can be a dream come true. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by famous artworks at the Louvre or amidst rare books in an old library. Museums and libraries offer an unconventional, cultural backdrop that adds sophistication, depth, and a personalized touch to your ceremony.
Art Studios or Galleries
For creative couples, an art studio or gallery could make the perfect wedding venue. Whether you met at a community pottery class or simply appreciate art in general, hosting your ceremony in a studio space allows you to say 'I do' while surrounded by beautiful and inspiring works of art.
A Science Center or Planetarium
If you and your partner share a passion for science or the stars, why not get married in a science center or planetarium? You can say your vows under the stars in a planetarium dome or celebrate with interactive exhibits that bring out the kid in everyone. It’s an unconventional wedding venue that is sure to delight science lovers and make the experience unforgettable.
What Type of Wedding Venues Are Cheapest?
When planning your wedding, budget is often a big factor in your venue decision. While they may not be the most unconventional wedding venues, the following locales can help you stay within your budget while still making your day special.
The Courthouse
A courthouse wedding is an excellent option for couples looking for an affordable and simple ceremony. Civil ceremonies at city halls or county offices are typically under $100 and may even be free in some areas. Courthouse weddings are often quick and easy to arrange, allowing you to focus on other aspects of the wedding without breaking the bank.
At Home
Why not host your wedding right at home? Hosting a ceremony and reception at your own home is often the most affordable option, and you can save money on rental fees. However, you may still need to rent items like chairs, tables, and decorations if you don’t already have them. If you're on a budget, this could be a great way to make the day personal and intimate.
Hotels and Rentals
Consider rental properties, including vacation homes and cabins. Hotel suites or small event spaces are also a budget-friendly alternative that provides privacy and space for your wedding.
Parks and Beaches
Parks and beaches can be very affordable, with some public spaces free of charge. Many cities and local governments charge a small permit fee for using a park or beach, but it’s typically far less expensive than renting a traditional venue. You’ll need to plan for possible weather conditions, but these venues can offer a romantic setting at a fraction of the cost.
Unconventional Wedding Venues for Unconventional Couples
From scenic vistas to intimate spaces, there’s an unconventional wedding venue out there to fit every couple’s unique style. Want to make your ceremony truly one of a kind? Become ordained through ULC and perform the ceremony yourself, ensuring a celebration that's as extraordinary as your love story.
