In my five years as a wedding photographer, I have traveled all around the DMV area, getting to explore some of the coolest wedding venues. From castles and mansions to amusement parks and museums, I guarantee that we can find a wedding venue that feels true to you and your love! Here are four of my favorite wedding venues in the DMV area. They’re all wildly different and have something unique to offer. Plus, I have experience working at each of these venues, so I’m sharing the inside scoop on what makes them so special! 

The Cloisters Castle in Lutherville, Maryland 

We are starting off strong with a literal CASTLE. The Cloisters Castle is a medieval-inspired venue tucked away on 60 acres of woods. With beautifully intricate stonework, arched walkways, and a drool-worthy library, the Cloisters Castle feels like it dropped straight out of a storybook. Gorgeous in all seasons, there are so many hidden corners to explore. I truly don’t think there is a bad backdrop on the whole property. 

You can get married in the Cloister’s garden and then host dinner in the Gallery, with the adjoining rooms set aside for dancing. The Cloisters is especially popular with fantasy fans. If you love dressing up and want to embrace a sense of whimsy on your wedding day, I will be there with you to adjust your crown! But no matter what type of wedding you want to have, the Cloisters Castle guarantees to stun your guests and feel like a fairytale from start to finish.

Murray Hill Events in Leesburg, Virginia 

Looking for something classic, with charming history and stunning views? Murray Hill Events might be perfect for you! The property boasts some of the best views of the Potomac River and the Catoctin Mountain Range. The 18th-century style home is one of my favorite mansions in the area, and it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Landmarks! I loved shooting at Murray Hill Events because every square foot of this property is timeless, classy, and effortlessly elegant. 

You can get ready on-site and choose from eight (yes, eight!) different locations for your ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Want a rustic barn? They’ve got one. Looking for a more intimate space for your ceremony? Try the screened-in porch overlooking the river! Want to have a rip-roaring party and jump in the pool after your reception? Yeah, they’ve got that, too. Murray Hill Events is one of the most beautiful and versatile wedding venues in the DMV area! 

Glen Echo Park in Glen Echo, Maryland 

This one is for you, my out-of-the-box lovers. Have you ever wanted to get married at an old amusement park? Now you can. Glen Echo Park is one of the most unique and quirky wedding venues in the DMV. You can have your ceremony in a covered pavilion and take your portraits all around the park, and then rejoin your guests for a neon dance party reception! 

If you know me, you know I’m a sucker for bold colors, interesting backdrops, and neon lights. So shooting a wedding at Glen Echo Park was essentially a dream for me. Between the ceremony and reception, you can take the coolest couples portraits all around the park, embracing the retro vibes. You will be hard-pressed to find a more creative or unique wedding venue. 

Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion in Chevy Chase, Maryland 

Up next, we have another stunning historic property. What can I say? Ya girl loves a good mansion. Situated on 40 acres of protected woodlands, Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion is one of the most jaw-dropping mansions I have seen. From first looks on the balcony to dancing the night away in the Great Hall, this venue has everything you need for a beautiful, memorable wedding. 

And the best part? A percentage of your rental fee goes directly to Nature Forward, a local environmental nonprofit. This means that you can have a stunning wedding and help protect the environment! (And it counts as a tax write-off, too.) With easy access from D.C., beautiful nature, and enough room for all your loved ones, Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion is at the top of my list of DMV wedding venues to return to. 

Other Wedding Venues in the DMV Area That I Love! 

The venues listed above are my favorites that I’ve gotten to work with so far! But the DMV area is full of places that I’m still dying to visit. If you’re still searching for your venue, I highly encourage you to check out these amazing locations: Graduate Annapolis, Evergreen Museum & Library, Cylburn Arboretum, American Visionary Art Museum, and the Baltimore Museum of Art. 

I hope this list has helped you narrow down your search for your dream wedding venue! Each of these venues has its own unique flair and will make a perfect backdrop for your celebration. And hey, if you do end up booking one of the venues listed here for your wedding, I know this really cool local photographer… (It’s me). Explore my wedding photography services or reach out to secure your date!