Wedding Planner
Northern Virginia and beyond
Helping You Create The Moments You'll Remember For A Lifetime
Photography by Love, Lomax Studios
Are you planning your dream wedding in Northern Virginia? Look no further! This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the abundance of breathtaking wedding venues in this picturesque region. Whether you envision a rustic barn wedding, a waterfront celebration, or an elegant ballroom affair, Northern Virginia has it all. With its scenic landscapes, charming vineyards, and historic landmarks, you'll find the perfect backdrop for your special day.
In Northern Virginia, you can exchange vows amidst rolling hills and panoramic views at one of the region's many beautiful wineries. Or, if you prefer the classic elegance of a historic mansion, there are stunning venues that exude timeless charm. For those seeking a unique and unconventional setting, think outside the box with a rustic barn or a modern art gallery. The options are endless, ensuring that your wedding will be as unique as your love story.
Join us as we explore the ultimate guide to wedding venues in Northern Virginia. From glamorous estates to hidden gems, we'll help you find the perfect place to say "I do" and create memories that will last a lifetime.
*For the purposes of this guide, the location of Northern Virginia is defined as any location up to an hour drive from DC. This includes all venues in Loudoun County, Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Fauquier County. Please refer to each county's tourist page linked in the previous sentence to view a full list of public event venues available.
Table of Contents:
Popular vineyard and winery wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Popular golf and country club wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Factors to consider when choosing a wedding venue in Northern Virginia
Questions to ask potential wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Types of wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia offers a diverse array of wedding venue options to suit every couple's style and vision. From elegant ballrooms to rustic barns, the region boasts a wide range of settings that can accommodate weddings of all sizes and themes.
One of the most popular types of wedding venues in Northern Virginia is a vineyard or winery. These picturesque settings provide a stunning backdrop for couples who envision an outdoor celebration amidst rolling hills and lush vineyards. Many of these venues also offer on-site catering, allowing couples to create a seamless and memorable experience for their guests.
Another popular choice is a barn wedding venue. These charming, rustic spaces offer a unique and charming ambiance that has become increasingly sought-after in recent years. Couples can find barn venues that range from simple and intimate to grand and elaborate, allowing them to tailor the setting to their specific needs and preferences.
For couples seeking a more traditional and elegant setting, Northern Virginia is home to a variety of banquet halls and ballrooms. These venues often feature grand, ornate interiors and can accommodate large wedding parties with ease. Many of these venues also offer in-house catering and event planning services, making the planning process more streamlined and stress-free.
Golf and country club venues are another popular option in Northern Virginia, offering couples the opportunity to exchange vows in a picturesque, manicured setting. These venues typically feature well-appointed clubhouses, lush landscaping, and access to amenities like golf courses and swimming pools.
In addition to these more common venue types, Northern Virginia also boasts a wealth of historic wedding venues, from grand mansions to charming historic inns. These venues offer a unique and timeless ambiance, often with stunning architectural features and a rich sense of history.
Finally, for couples who dream of a waterfront wedding, Northern Virginia has several beautiful venues situated along the region's rivers and lakes. These venues provide a serene and picturesque setting, allowing couples to exchange vows with the soothing sounds of water in the background.
Popular vineyard and winery wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is renowned for its thriving wine country, and many of the region's wineries and vineyards have become popular wedding destinations. These venues offer couples the opportunity to celebrate their love amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of the Virginia countryside.
One of the most sought-after vineyard wedding venues in Northern Virginia is Morais Vineyards and Winery. This stunning Portuguese estate boasts a picturesque winery, as well as beautifully manicured gardens and unique structures that provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding celebration. Couples have multiple ceremony site options like the private chapel or in front of the pond, and then enjoy a reception in the estate's grand ballroom or outdoor pavilion.
Photography by Gabrielle Rose Photography
Another beautiful option is 8 Chains North Winery, which offers panoramic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and a charming, rustic-chic event space. Couples can tie the knot on the venue's vineyard, and then enjoy a reception inside with a view of their barrel room and complete with their award winning wine!
For couples seeking a more intimate, boutique winery experience, the Breaux Vineyards is a great choice. This family-owned winery features a charming tasting room and outdoor patio, as well as a picturesque ceremony site nestled among the vines. Couples can work with the venue's in-house event team to create a truly personalized and memorable wedding day.
Other notable vineyard and winery wedding venues in Northern Virginia include Fleetwood Farm Winery, which boasts an exquisite garden and estate, and Barrel Oak Winery, which offers a beautiful barn setting and a private cottage dedicated to events.
Regardless of the specific venue, couples who choose a Northern Virginia vineyard or winery for their wedding can expect to be surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, exceptional wine, and a truly unique and memorable celebration of their love.
Popular rustic and barn wedding venues in Northern Virginia
For couples seeking a rustic, charming, and uniquely Northern Virginia wedding experience, the region's abundance of barn wedding venues is a true treasure. There are also many rustic venues in Virginia that aren't barns but exude the same beautiful qualities of a barn. These picturesque settings offer a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, creating the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration.
One of the most unique rustic wedding venues in Northern Virginia is Stone Tower Winery. This stunning, multi-level barn venue features exposed wooden beams, a grand stone fireplace, and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and rolling hills. Couples can exchange vows in the venue's charming outdoor ceremony site before moving inside for a reception filled with fine wine, gourmet cuisine, and a lively dance floor.
Another sought-after venue is Brentsville Hall (pictured at the top of this post), which has a perfect blend of rustic and elegant qualities. The venue's color changing chandeliers, create a truly enchanting setting for a wedding celebration, and there's a pond on the property to take private waterside photos.
For couples seeking a more intimate barn wedding experience, Mt. Defiance Cider Barn is a stunning option. This Middleburg venue features a charming, two-story barn with a cozy, romantic ambiance. Couples can exchange vows on the venue's private lawn before moving inside for a reception filled with locally-brewed cocktails.
Photography by Hand Hewn Living
Other notable barn wedding venues in Northern Virginia include the The Middleburg Barn, which offers a stunning, modern barn-inspired event space with water front views, and the Marriott Ranch, which features a rustic pavilion surrounded by the blue ridge mountains.
Regardless of the specific barn venue, couples who choose to tie the knot in Northern Virginia can expect a truly unique and unforgettable wedding experience, complete with rustic charm, stunning natural beauty, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Popular banquet hall wedding venues in Northern Virginia
For couples seeking a more traditional and elegant wedding setting, Northern Virginia is home to a variety of stunning banquet hall venues that offer the perfect blend of grandeur and sophistication.
One of the most renowned banquet hall venues in the area is Foxchase Manor, a sprawling event space that features a grand ballroom with soaring ceilings, sparkling chandeliers, and elegant decor. Couples can exchange vows in the venue's beautifully appointed ceremony space before moving into the ballroom for a reception filled with gourmet cuisine, fine wines, and plenty of room for dancing.
Another popular choice is the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles, a luxurious hotel and event venue that boasts a stunning Grand Ballroom. This spacious, light-filled space can accommodate up to 1,000 guests and features a stunning, domed ceiling, as well as elegant decor and state-of-the-art audio-visual capabilities.
For couples seeking a more intimate and cozy banquet hall experience, Poplar Springs Manor is a fantastic option. This venue features both indoor and outdoor options with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Lodging and spa packages are also offered at this location.
Other notable banquet hall wedding venues in Northern Virginia include Hyatt Regency Reston, which boasts a grand ballroom and a stunning outdoor terrace, and Buchanan Hall, a non-profit, historic ballroom with a stage that renowned jazz musician Duke Ellington used to perform on.
Photography by Bethany Aubre Photography
Regardless of the specific banquet hall venue, couples can expect a level of grandeur, sophistication, and attention to detail that will make their wedding day truly unforgettable. With a range of amenities, catering options, and experienced event staff, these venues offer a seamless and stress-free wedding planning experience.
Popular golf and country club wedding venues in Northern Virginia
For couples who envision a wedding celebration surrounded by lush, manicured landscapes and world-class amenities, Northern Virginia's abundance of golf and country club venues offer the perfect solution. These prestigious settings provide a stunning backdrop for a truly memorable wedding day.
One of the most sought-after golf and country club venues in the region is the Westfields Golf Club, located in Clifton. This luxurious venue boasts a grand, stately clubhouse, as well as a championship golf course and beautiful views of the Potomac River. Couples can exchange vows on the venue's scenic outdoor terrace before moving inside for a reception filled with fine dining and impeccable service.
Another popular option is Belmont Country Club, a premier golf and event venue that offers a beautifully appointed ballroom, as well as a picturesque outdoor ceremony site overlooking the club's immaculately groomed fairways. Couples can work with the venue's experienced event staff to create a personalized and unforgettable wedding celebration.
For couples seeking a more intimate, yet still elegant, golf and country club experience, River Creek Club in Leesburg is a fantastic choice. This venue features a charming clubhouse, a stunning outdoor ceremony site, and a beautifully appointed ballroom that can accommodate up to 300 guests. Couples can enjoy access to the club's world-class golf course and other amenities, as well as exceptional catering and event services.
Another notable golf and country club wedding venues in Northern Virginia include Raspberry Falls Golf & Hunt Club, which boasts a stunning, rustic-chic event space and views of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Regardless of the specific venue, couples who choose a golf and country club setting for their Northern Virginia wedding can expect a level of luxury, sophistication, and attention to detail that will make their special day truly unforgettable.
Popular historic wedding venues in Northern Virginia
Northern Virginia is home to a wealth of historic venues that offer couples the opportunity to exchange vows in settings steeped in charm, character, and timeless elegance. From grand, 19th-century mansions to charming historic inns, these venues provide a unique and unforgettable backdrop for a wedding celebration.
One of the most renowned historic wedding venues in the region is the Rust Manor House, a stunning estate that features beautifully manicured gardens. Couples can exchange vows in the estate's picturesque outdoor ceremony site before moving into the grand tent for an elegant reception for up to 200 guests.
Another popular historic venue is the Birkby House, a charming, 18th-century manor that offers a serene and intimate setting for a wedding celebration. Couples can exchange vows in the private garden before enjoying a reception in the newly built glass conservatory.
Great Marsh Estate, inspired by traditional Georgian architecture, is perfect for couples wanting a Bridgerton-inspired look for their event. This beautiful estate also includes a large stable converted into an elegant reception space with rolling hills in view.
Photography by Barbora Jones Photography
Other notable historic wedding venues in Northern Virginia include the Woodlawn & Pope-Leighey House, a beautifully preserved 18th-century mansion that offers a picturesque outdoor ceremony site, and The Red Fox Inn and Tavern, an 18th-century landmark in Middleburg that offers both event spaces and accommodations for guests.
Regardless of the specific historic venue, couples who choose to tie the knot in Northern Virginia can expect a wedding experience that is truly unique, memorable, and steeped in the region's rich cultural heritage.
Popular waterfront wedding venues in Northern Virginia
For couples who dream of exchanging vows against the serene backdrop of rolling rivers, tranquil lakes, or the majestic Potomac, Northern Virginia offers a wealth of stunning waterfront wedding venues that can make that vision a reality.
One of the most sought-after waterfront venues in the region is The Ospreys at Belmont Bay. Couples can exchange vows against the stunning natural scenery before moving into the elegant indoor event space for an elegant reception with impeccable food and service.
Another popular waterfront option is The River View at Occoquan, one of four wedding venues offered at NOVA Parks. Couples can say "I do" with the Occoquan river as their backdrop before celebrating with their guests in the spacious ballroom that can accommodate up to 400 guests.
For couples seeking a more intimate waterfront setting, Stonewall Golf Club is a stunning choice. Couples can experience a private ceremony on Lake Manassas, followed by a private ballroom to continue overlooking the beautiful scenery.
Other notable waterfront wedding venues in Northern Virginia include the River Creek Club, which offers a picturesque outdoor ceremony site overlooking the Potomac River, and Harbour View, which offers multiple event spaces to choose from.
Regardless of the specific waterfront venue, couples who choose to tie the knot in Northern Virginia can expect a wedding experience that is truly breathtaking, with the soothing sounds of water and the natural beauty of the region serving as the perfect backdrop for their special day.
Factors to consider when choosing a wedding venue in Northern Virginia
Choosing the perfect wedding venue in Northern Virginia can be a daunting task, as the region offers an abundance of stunning and diverse options. However, by considering the following key factors, couples can narrow down their search and find the venue that best fits their vision, budget, and needs.
One of the most important factors to consider is the venue's capacity and layout. Couples will need to determine the size of their guest list and ensure that the venue can comfortably accommodate their wedding party and all of their loved ones. Additionally, the layout of the venue should flow seamlessly, with ample space for a ceremony, reception, and any other event activities. Something important to note is that unfortunately there are some venues that say the capacity is higher than what is comfortably feasible in order to book more events; ask the venue how many guests they seat at the tables to get a better idea. 5ft round tables should have no more than 8 guests and 6ft round tables should have no more than 10 guests.
Another crucial factor is the venue's overall aesthetic and atmosphere. Couples should consider the style and design of the venue, as well as the surrounding natural or architectural elements, to ensure that it aligns with their desired wedding theme and aesthetic. For example, a couple seeking a rustic, barn-style wedding may not be as drawn to a grand, formal ballroom.
The venue's amenities and services are also essential considerations. Couples should inquire about the availability of in-house catering, bar services, event planning assistance, and any other offerings that can streamline the planning process and enhance the overall wedding experience. I personally recommend as a Master Certified Wedding Planner to reconsider selecting a venue that does not offer tables and chairs. Additionally, it's important to understand the venue's policies and restrictions, such as capacity limits, noise ordinances, and vendor requirements; specifically, there are some venues that require selection from a list and require approval and/or even charge a fee to select someone outside of that list.
Another key factor to consider is the venue's location and accessibility. Couples should think about the convenience of the venue for their guests, taking into account factors like elevators and ramps, parking availability, proximity of event locations on the property, proximity to hotels and transportation hubs, and ease of access for guests traveling from out of town.
Finally, budget is a critical consideration when choosing a wedding venue in Northern Virginia. Couples should carefully research and compare the pricing and package options of various venues to ensure that they find one that fits their overall wedding budget. This may involve considering factors like rental fees, catering costs, and any additional fees or service charges.
By carefully weighing these factors, couples can navigate the wealth of wedding venue options in Northern Virginia and find the perfect setting to celebrate their love and create memories that will last a lifetime. Hiring a wedding planner to recommend venues and help tour the venues alongside you can help by having a professional look past the beauty of the venue and make sure the space is a right fit for the couple.
Questions to ask potential wedding venues in Northern Virginia
When researching and touring potential wedding venues in Northern Virginia, it's important for couples to ask the right questions to ensure that the venue is the perfect fit for their needs and vision. Here are some key questions to consider:
What is the venue's capacity, both for the ceremony and reception? Can it accommodate your expected guest list?
What is the venue's pricing structure, including rental fees, catering costs, and any additional service charges or fees? Are there any discounts or package deals available for off-season or weekday events?
What is the venue's availability on your desired wedding date? Are there any other events scheduled that could impact your celebration?
What is the venue's policy on outside vendors, such as caterers, florists, and musicians? Are there any preferred or required vendors that couples must use?
Does the venue offer in-house catering and bar services? If so, what are the menu options and pricing? Do they charge a fee to bring in outside catering and bar services?
How many hours does the rental fee include? How many hours are included for set up and breakdown?
What are the venue's policies and restrictions, such as noise limits, alcohol service, and décor guidelines?
What is the venue's cancellation and rescheduling policy, and what happens in the event of inclement weather?
Looking for a Wedding Planner?
Meet Brittney, the Northern Virginia Wedding Planner behind the blog and business, Forever Moments. Her passion is helping couples on their wedding planning journey to ensure a happy and stress-free experience. Brittney's team of certified, licensed, and insured wedding professionals are dedicated to creating and executing your one-of-a-kind wedding!