Venues & vendors

Wedding venues

Choosing a wedding venue is an imporant part of planning your wedding-- many other decisions can't be made until you know where you'll say "I do". If you don't know where to start or are having trouble making a decision we have ideas, inspiration, and advice to help you land on the perfect place.

AllWedding venuesPhotos & videoFood & cateringFlorists & flowersBands, DJs & musicCakes & dessertsBar & beverages
The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day, The Sanctuary RI
Venues & vendors

The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day

Here’s our guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues, from rooftops and gardens to parks and cemeteries.

Unique Northern California Wedding Venues
Venues & vendors

Unique Northern California Wedding Venues

Looking for the most unique wedding venues Northern California has to offer? You’ll find them here.

Southern California Wedding Venues You Should Know About
Venues & vendors

Southern California Wedding Venues You Should Know About

Looking for a Southern California wedding venue for your special day? Check out our list of the best options for venues and the easiest way to find them.

The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow
Venues & vendors

The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC

Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.

Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?
Venues & vendors

Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?

Yosemite weddings are a wonder to behold. Here’s everything you need to know about your Yosemite wedding from Zola!

Where to Get Married in Sequoia National Park
Venues & vendors

Where to Get Married in Sequoia National Park

Saying “I do” in the shade of giant sequoias? Here’s everything you need to know for your Sequoia National Park wedding.

Vendor Feature: Turn your wedding business into a wedding brand
Venues & vendors

Turn your wedding business into a wedding brand

The CEO of Fêtewell Event Venues, Kate operates a number of in-demand historic wedding spaces across the U.S. as well as offering insight into DIY renovation and wedding advice to her million TikTok followers (@TheVenueCEO). Here she shares her personal and practical tips on how to build your brand and why it matters.

bride and groom sitting on a hay bale
Venues & vendors

Getting Married in Dallas, TX: A Complete Guide

Are you getting married in Dallas? Our guide covers everything you need to know to plan the wedding of your dreams, from Texas marriage license info to local venues and more.

Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?
Venues & vendors

Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?

Have you been dreaming of a Glacier National Park wedding? Good news: it’s possible. Just be sure to follow these guidelines for a successful wedding day.

The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events
Venues & vendors

The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC

Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you.

Unique Wedding Venues in North Jersey
Venues & vendors

Unique Wedding Venues in North Jersey

Dance, camp, or lounge in style on your big day with these truly unique North Jersey wedding venues.

Where to Get Married in Big Sur
Venues & vendors

Where to Get Married in Big Sur

Big Sur is a jewel of the California coast. If you’re planning a wedding in Big Sur, here’s where you should start your search: Zola.

Back
...234...
1234...7
Next

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

  • Rings
  • Proposals

Wedding planning 101

Wedding trends

Venues & vendors

Invites & paper

Registry & gifts

Parties & events

Fashion & beauty

Honeymoons

Relationship advice

News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

\n
Web Accessibility
\n \n\n\n\n\n\n\n \n ","subtopicPage":{"articles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"the-best-outdoor-nyc-wedding-venues-for-your-big-day","title":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day","excerpt":"Here’s our guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues, from rooftops and gardens to parks and cemeteries.","author":"Jennifer Prince","publishedAt":"2022-11-14T15:35:38.590Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ld6U3BmDByPQNNxDq1j5M/8dfb69ab83fd3bd6987cb86c8d7bd4e4/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Atrium_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day, The Sanctuary RI"},"heroCredit":"Brooklyn Botanic Garden","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- If you’re getting married in New York City, Zola can [help you find all of the vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that you need.\n- The best outdoor NYC wedding venues include rooftops, botanical gardens, and even a cemetery.","body":"Many people head to New York City to take in the sights, gaze up at skyscrapers of exceptional height, and marvel at turn of the century architecture. However, with all the hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle, you may be surprised to find that NYC has some amazing outdoor wedding venues. \n\nIt’s a bit of a secret that these event spaces exist, but Zola is clueing couples in on the details. By utilizing roof spaces, parks, and historic estates to host open-air events, the city has created many gems hidden amongst stately high rises. From [intimate gardens](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/outdoor-wedding-ideas-for-fall) to working farms on rooftops, you’ll discover the unexpected on this ultimate list. \n\nWhen it comes to choosing your wedding vendors, Zola has you covered. Whether you’re trying to find a florist for a large-scale wedding or need the perfect space to hold your [micro-wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding), search Zola’s vendor list first. Although the suggestions below aren’t exhaustive, here’s Zola’s guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues. Narrowing them down will be the hardest part.\n\n## Top Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues \n\n### 1. [Brooklyn Grange](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-grange)\n\n![Brooklyn Grange](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6BW4Kf9eQvJFyG6lLNbYkI/4fba2e4cb00a821f19209dc49ddc9bad/Brooklyn_Grange_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Brooklyn Grange](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-grange)'s listing*\n\nAs the perfect juxtaposition between urban and rural, Brooklyn Grange offers not one, but two of NYC’s most unique outdoor wedding experiences. Their 1.5 acre farm at the Brooklyn Navy Yard sits on a rooftop, and it provides unforgettable memories for the couple who wants a garden wedding against the backdrop of the Manhattan skyline. Another option is their Sunset Park location, which features two patios and 3,000 feet of indoor space. Both areas can hold a maximum of 100 to 150 guests, plus, they’re both the perfect locations for hosting a respite in the middle of a bustling city.\n\n### 2. [The Sanctuary RI](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-sanctuary-ri)\n\n![The Sanctuary RI](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3t3YuqZvgXyZhSzPhP3E9c/9725858929813ee6fed43e4fb57544b0/The_Sanctuary_RI_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Sanctuary RI](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-sanctuary-ri)'s listing*\n\nFor a waterfront wedding in the heart of NYC, choose The Sanctuary RI. This converted church still has the original stained-glass windows and offers views of both Manhattan and the East River. The venue can handle up to 300 seated guests and has both indoor and outdoor spaces. Although their multiple open-air areas are ideal for a wedding ceremony, don’t miss out on utilizing the inside for your reception. The 40-foot ceilings and 30-foot marble bar are nothing short of breathtaking, and they add to the magical ambiance.\n\n### 3. [Bryant Park Grill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bryant-park-grill)\n\n![Bryant Park Grill](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6iNRx5eElYBWq2vygbsF3K/c50e32f581794cebfbe7696b087e754c/Bryant_Park_Grill_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Bryant Park Grill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bryant-park-grill)'s listing*\n\nAs the name indicates, Bryant Park Grill is known for their cuisine, so prepare your tastebuds for a wonderful reception experience. Beyond their catering expertise, this venue is an oasis in the city. Peppered with stunning, Parisian-inspired London Planetrees, the restaurant has event spaces both inside and outside. So, host a chic, luxurious wedding on site, and then stage your photos by the carousel, library, or Bryant Park, all of which are nearby. One perk about this NYC wedding venue is that you can host a large event of up to 300 guests. Conversely, choose their private dining space that holds up to 44 for a more intimate affair.\n\n### 4. [Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bartow-pell-mansion-museum)\n\n![Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6jGtJWfuRpVkt38x7TbzsC/0ff6dbe8f854e486f29774b078cc8bf8/bartow-pell_mansion_museum.jpeg)\n\n*Photo from [Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bartow-pell-mansion-museum)'s listing*\n\nBy choosing the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum for your wedding day, you’ll feel like you own an estate for the day. This mid-19th-century home is located in Pelham Bay Park and allows you to use both the house and grounds. Utilize the interior of the mansion for getting ready, drinking mimosas, and taking wedding photos. Then, have your wedding in the serene garden followed by a reception in the conservatory. Another option is to invite up to 300 guests for an event on the lawn. Ample outdoor space to roam is a plus, especially if you invite children or have an active flower girl.\n\n### 5. [Wave Hill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/wave-hill)\n\n![Wave Hill](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/202k5QOelnAM7n3PjPC6XP/04702381609eda69c204087fb9aaa4b3/Wave_Hill_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Wave Hill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/wave-hill)'s listing*\n\nHaving an outdoor wedding on the property of Wave Hill sounds like a dream come true. Take in the views of the New Jersey Palisades and the Hudson River as you say “I do” under the pergola on the Great Lawn. For your cocktail hour, you can utilize their smaller lawn area or the terrace. Then, plan to host your reception meal in Armor Hall. Avid readers and history buffs will also appreciate spending time dancing in the Mark Twain Room. Weddings are limited to the evenings and cap off with 180 guests at this gorgeous property overlooking the water.\n\n### 6. [Van Cortlandt Golf Lake House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/van-cortlandt-golf-lake-house)\n\n![Van Cortlandt Golf Lake House](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5XAhGcJ746MOJb5xjUU8TF/fe291e2bb79237628e67ee555b1894f4/Van_Cortlandt_Golf_Lake_House_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Van Cortlandt Golf Lake House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/van-cortlandt-golf-lake-house)'s listing*\n\nThe Zola couples that reviewed the Van Cortlandt Golf Lake House spoke of how dreamy and beautiful it is, and it’s hard to disagree. Located in the northwest corner of the Bronx, the 2,500 square-foot deck overlooks the lake, offering the ultimate peaceful view. This venue can host up to 150 guests and also has on-site catering. If you need to make use of interior space, there is a 2,000-square-foot clubhouse available. Bonus: the venue is on the oldest public golf course in the United States.\n\n### 7. [New York Marble Cemetery](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/new-york-marble-cemetery) \n\n![New York Marble Cemetery](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7DqQWEkeFCwJh2FhpgFYBS/3c864b61c72a3ddac29d0039fdef0d54/New_York_Marble_Cemetery_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [New York Marble Cemetery](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/new-york-marble-cemetery)'s listing*\n\nAlthough a cemetery may not be the first NYC wedding venue that comes to mind, it’s something you should consider. One visit to New York Marble Cemetery will prove that this venue takes the cake. Host your intimate ceremony in their historic garden area. The stately walls will take your breath away and make the perfect wedding backdrop. One unique aspect of this event space is that it’s free of monuments, so it’s almost difficult for guests to notice that they’re inside a cemetery. This outdoor wedding venue can hold up to 150 seated guests, yet is also ideal for micro weddings and elopements.\n\n### 8. [Prospect Park Picnic House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/prospect-park-picnic-house)\n\n![Prospect Park Picnic House](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/iIbtGNE8NacUaa2RvRg4B/b2c0162bc2a97e924d2ff47c5f7ae128/Prospect_Park_Picnic_House_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Prospect Park Picnic House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/prospect-park-picnic-house)'s listing*\n\nWith the ability to hold 240 standing guests, the Prospect Park Picnic House is an ideal venue to say your wedding vows. Get married with a view of the 90-acre meadow area, and then use the house’s interior for your wedding reception. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to have a memorable photo of your wedding party lined up on the outdoor stairway. This NYC venue can also provide tables and chairs, and the proceeds from event rentals go directly toward the Prospect Park Alliance, which maintains the park.\n\n### 9. [Milk and Roses](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/milk-and-roses)\n\n![Milk & Roses](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6A0xg3aMMH8mGjaiYyE76f/688e0cc522983ce994011fc8c7552570/Milk___Roses_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Milk and Roses](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/milk-and-roses)'s listing*\n\nFor an intimate event tailored specifically for the needs of your special day, head to Milk and Roses. This outdoor NYC wedding venue has 2,500 square feet of space, which you are free to use however you wish. Host a micro wedding and reception, or use the garden for your rehearsal dinner. Either way, up to 90 wedding guests can rave about this cozy, warm wedding venue. No matter what you choose, their entire backyard provides a respite for those searching for a small space in Brooklyn.\n\n### 10. [Purslane at the Prospect Park Boathouse](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/purslane-at-the-prospect-park-boathouse)\n\n![Purslane at the Prospect Park Boathouse](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3u9Drxg2hQsUBoz98XNYCh/62009019fe871fe0d2942f193f9a30ba/Purslane_at_the_Prospect_Park_Boathouse_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Purslane at the Prospect Park Boathouse](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/purslane-at-the-prospect-park-boathouse)'s listing*\n\nNew York City is filled with high-rise buildings with gorgeous architecture. Therefore, channel that beauty for your wedding day in a different way by hosting your wedding against the backdrop of a lovely boathouse. Purslane at the Prospect Park Boathouse is a circa 1905, Beaux-Arts style building overlooking scenic Lullwater and Lullwater Bridge. Up to 150 seated or 225 standing guests can enjoy a step back in time by roaming the property. Another perk is that this venue offers a plethora of spaces for the couple to sneak away and get photos.\n\n### 11. [Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Palm House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-botanic-garden-the-palm-house)\n\n![Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7iHoucPk5xGJrVZp9mAD0b/63c50e24bd22bd30c1d05fccdda200ed/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Palm_House_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.png)\n*Photo from [Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Palm House](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-botanic-garden-the-palm-house)'s listing*\n\nYou probably don’t need Zola to tell you that botanical gardens are some of the most beautiful places on earth; however, inviting your guests to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Palm House will confirm this fact. Not only can they admire stunning plants, but guests can enjoy one of the most unique experiences in NYC. Four different areas, including the Lily Pool Terrace and Cherry Esplanade, are available for up to 250 seated guests. Perhaps the most challenging choice at this NYC outdoor reception venue is settling on which spot to hold your wedding.\n\n### 12. [My Kitchen Banquet Space](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/my-kitchen-banquet-space) \n\n![My Kitchen Banquet Space 3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/e9Tirrz6gvsgtmxhB9usA/0cc0eefb2b43ec4fd75dc3df117e294f/image__5_.png)\n\n*Photo from [My Kitchen Banquet Space](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/my-kitchen-banquet-space)'s listing*\n\nAnother ideal spot for an intimate event, My Kitchen Banquet Space, is a secluded spot for your special day. Their garden area is suitable for your wedding ceremony, and then you can move inside to host your cocktail hour and reception. Due to the venue’s small size, the staff is excellent at crafting events specifically for each couple. The Banquet Hall seats up to 75 guests and overlooks the patio, but if you plan on hosting more guests, this venue is ideal for your rehearsal dinner or bridesmaids’ luncheon.\n\n### 13. [Carroll Hall](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/carroll-hall)\n\n![Carroll Hall](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6oBo1DPPUPO1YrgZ9ETY3o/a39814120037dada0d4a66de77f3e13a/Carroll_Hall_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Carroll Hall](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/carroll-hall)'s listing*\n\nCarroll Hall fits the bill nicely if you and your partner crave an urban vibe. Billed as an industrial-event wonderland, this NYC outdoor wedding venue boasts a creative variety of spaces. Sneak up to The Treehouse, which holds six guests, or get married in The Garden, which holds up to 130 guests. Their indoor Warehouse space is ideal for a reception, and Rose’s Room is a tiny, private area perfect for a wedding shower or rehearsal dinner. Not many venues in New York City match the variety that Carroll Hall offers.\n\n### 14. [Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Atrium](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-botanic-garden-the-atrium)\n\n![Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Atrium](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ld6U3BmDByPQNNxDq1j5M/0f40c890294aca5e2702260d3c95c4c5/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Atrium_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Brooklyn Botanic Garden: The Atrium](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brooklyn-botanic-garden-the-atrium)'s listing*\n\nIf Brooklyn Botanic Garden sounds familiar, you’re right; however, this time Zola is focusing on The Atrium space. Able to host 125 seated and 200 standing, this NYC venue offers a lovely oasis with sprawling lawns, colorful flowers, and idyllic trees. This venue is the perfect backdrop for your outdoor wedding. The Lillian and Amy Goldman Atrium is ideal for eco-friendly couples as the space is ecologically sustainable, with a living roof of grasses and wildflowers. Plus, the experienced Patina Restaurant Group is responsible for catering, so both the sights and savories will be delicious.\n\n### 15. [620 Loft & Garden](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/620-loft-garden)\n\n![620 Loft & Garden](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3rxLPhGXRaz1fYaG1DEpxo/002311b3ceb7297e5176c15c9f242698/620_Loft___Garden_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [620 Loft & Garden](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/620-loft-garden)'s listing*\n\nAlthough some roofs feature views of the skyline, 620 Loft & Garden highlights the surrounding buildings, which are gorgeous. Get married in a beautifully curated, historic garden complete with a reflecting pool. And, get ready, as the architecturally stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral is right next door, creating the perfect sight wall. You can also see Fifth Avenue from the top of the venue, giving your guests something to chat about while you sneak off with your photographer. This NYC wedding venue holds up to 165 guests standing, and would be stunning for a sunset wedding.\n\n## Zola: Here for Your Wedding Venue Needs\nWhether you live in New York City or want to plan a destination wedding, use Zola to find your wedding professionals. Additionally, Zola has recommended vendors all over the country, so you can easily search for quality wedding professionals no matter where you live. It doesn’t stop there, as you can use Zola to find advice for wedding planning every step of the way. From before your [engagement](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-an-engagement-party) to long after the big day, Zola is the ultimate resource in helping you have the wedding—and newlywed life—of your dreams.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We've curated a list of NYC wedding vendors with the help of ratings given by our Zola couples.","title":"Zola Couples Share Their Favorite NYC Wedding Vendors","slug":"zola-couples-share-their-favorite-nyc-wedding-vendors","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1SfW00oR8W77DkKtaexp5M/e78d8d052ab9acb358e3cb63ad0f1240/Stems_Brooklyn_Couple___s_Choice.jpg","altText":"The Ultimate List of Vetted NYC Wedding Vendors: Couple’s Choice, Stems Brooklyn"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Been dreaming of having a rooftop wedding with stunning views? In a city like New York, there are a lot of choices. Take a look at our top 11 picks for rooftop wedding venues in NYC.","title":"The 11 Best Rooftop Wedding Venues in NYC","slug":"the-13-best-rooftop-wedding-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6znPk1rFjBcooUUaS28ERJ/af4f298fec21026a3ed0f4c090c87f33/Sound_River_Studios_Best_Rooftop_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The 13 Best Rooftop Wedding Venues in NYC, The Surrey Hotel"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.","title":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC","slug":"the-15-best-small-wedding-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/2a3ca7dca443aab6967df71536a6cf48/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg","altText":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you. ","title":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC","slug":"the-top-35-minority-owned-voc-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37AtYy73sCzbUhC2ACYOMC/6bbee0af098db310e70a49b5cd505248/Vivian_Pang_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:12.706Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"unique-northern-california-wedding-venues","title":"Unique Northern California Wedding Venues","excerpt":"Looking for the most unique wedding venues Northern California has to offer? You’ll find them here. ","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-02T20:38:33.116Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2xnP3RNBIVrSA5CyOB9fJe/e1ea03be47b1158d3d155c3463ec9fb2/Hero_BeautifulBlushPinkWeddinginSanFran_ClaneGesselPhotography.jpg","altText":"Unique Northern California Wedding Venues"},"heroCredit":"Clane Gessel Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- There are plenty of fun and unique Northern California wedding venues in categories like museums, vineyards, observatories, and even sugar mills.\n- It’s best to iron out details like headcount, budget, dates, and need for on-site assistance before you even begin your search.\n- To pick a unique wedding venue, take an imaginative and flexible approach that caters to both you and your partner’s individual tastes, personalities, and styles. \n- Choosing your setting is just the beginning—Zola can help with the venue search and everything that comes after.","body":"Whether you prefer sweet simplicity or whacky gimmicks, Northern California has no shortage of settings to choose from for a unique celebration. The list at hand compiles a bevy of California wedding venue options to refresh your venue search in categories such as:\n\n- Museums\n- Vineyards\n- Observatories\n- Sugar Mills\n\nRead on to get inspired by all the [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) Northern California has to offer.\n\n### Finding Your Perfect Venue \nNorthern California’s cultural scene and natural beauty make it a popular place for weddings, which can make your search for the perfect venue overwhelming—and fast. \n\nBefore you even open your web browser, set aside some time to sit down with your spouse-to-be and spitball some ideas for the type of wedding ceremony you’d both find most meaningful.\n\nA spirit of flexibility is necessary to maintain, especially at the beginning of the process, so there’s no need to devise a hard-and-fast list of non-negotiables. You should, however, have at least a sense of the following criteria:\n\n- A rough estimate of the length of your guest list\n- Whether you’ll want the same or separate locations for your ceremony and wedding reception\n- A practical budget estimation\n- Ideal dates or season you’ll want to host your wedding\n- The degree of assistance you’d like from your chosen California wedding venue\n\nOnce you’ve narrowed down the general parameters of your ideal wedding, you’ll have an easier time nixing obvious “nos” from your search—and you’ll be able to develop a more refined set of questions so you can do your pre-booking due diligence with your favorite selections.\n\n### Choosing Wedding Venues: Thinking Outside the Box \nBeyond the concrete, logistical elements of your celebration, be sure to introduce some levity into the decision-making process. Asking the fun questions will help you nail down that specific *je ne sais quoi* you’re looking for from your ideal location.\n\nHere’s some food for thought to experiment with:\n\n- What are some of the most genuinely fun special events you’ve attended together?\n- Are there any routine adventures or interests you enjoy together?\n- What activities did you love to do as kids? \n- What were some places you loved to visit or have always wanted to visit?\n- What time of year do you both feel the most exhilarated?\n\nEven if the dreamiest elements of your wedding seem out of reach, there are plenty of inventive ways to imbue your celebration with treasured elements from your brainstorm. For instance, if you and your partner dream of traveling to Barcelona but can’t foot the bill for a destination wedding, consider chatting with your planner about caterers who specialize in Catalan cuisine.\n\nAllowing yourself the time and space to dream up the style, theme, and flavors of your Northern California wedding venue will guide you in the right direction, priming you to find the best locations when you stumble across them.\n\n## Unique Northern California Wedding Venues \n\nNow that you’ve tapped into your own big ideas for design, dining, and diversion, it’s time to take a stroll through some unique wedding venues in Northern California.\n\n### City View at Metreon, San Francisco, CA\n![City View At Metreon](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2POxfCp3fOf2C4IJ3zG04o/0711849d3ea6aa0e99978a6a99beed39/7eb7f4e8-a47b-41f4-932b-83ffe1af44e0.jpeg) *Photo from [City View at Metreon's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/city-view-at-metreon)*\n\nIf you’re on the hunt for a wedding venue that will dazzle your guests with the bright lights and big city skyline of San Francisco, the [City View at the Metreon](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/city-view-at-metreon) is sure to surpass your expectations.\n\nNewly renovated to accommodate up to 800 seated and 2,000 standing guests, the City View banquet hall possesses more than 31,000 square feet of interior and outdoor terrace space. Some of their amenities include:\n\n- Dressing room and bridal suite\n- Floor-to-ceiling glass windows\n- Seven living walls of greenery\n- Ample indoor space with multiple entryways and wheelchair accessibility\n- At-the-ready event staff\n- Catering\n- Impeccable list of vendors\n\nWith adjustable interiors that can divvy up the dining, dancing, and celebration areas, this venue gives you unparalleled flexibility to tune your surroundings to your wedding agenda and personal style. \n\n### Contemporary Jewish Museum, San Francisco, CA\n\n![Contemporary Jewish Museum](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2f2eqLajjpRZgxTQBwfpwB/80fc7169cfb6b18e2c63856e2eeb973f/6cd97c2a-4812-4a75-b1c8-1c494cd3fede.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Contemporary Jewish Museum's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/contemporary-jewish-museum)*\n\nThe uber-hip [Contemporary Jewish Museum](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/contemporary-jewish-museum) is a versatile, modern space for couples looking to wed in Downtown San Francisco. There are four spaces in the CJM available to couples:\n\n- __Koret-Taube Grand Lobby:__ This spare, industrial-glam interior makes for an ideal foyer for guests to gather and unwind before the festivities. The lobby may also be used for smaller receptions or for nuptial dinners that cap at 200 seated guests.\n\n- __The Blue Cube:__ The Blue Cube is the quaintest and most modern room of the bunch, with vectored ceilings and a clean white palette to work with. Small ceremonies, cocktail hour, and wedding rites like cake cutting and bouquet throwing are ideal for the Cube.\n\n- __Richard and Rhoda Goldman Hall:__ The 3,500-square-foot Goldman Hall is the biggest and most adaptable open space on the museum premises. Host a large banquet, dance the night away, or project your couples’ montage with built-in AV systems and colorful disco-esque lighting.\n\n- __Stephen & Maribelle Leavitt Yud Gallery:__ If you’re looking for a space with great acoustics and a mellow vibe, the Gallery is a gorgeous specimen. Vaulted ceilings give it a sacred and special feel, making it ideal for exchanging vows, warm reception suppers, and intimate live concerts (a romantic string quartet, perhaps?).\n\nYou’ll want to work with a pro to make the most of this modern museum space. Fortunately, the CJM has a roster of core wedding planners that can help you mix, match, and maximize the areas available to you for weddings ranging between 50 and 200 seated guests.\n\n### Cornerstone Sonoma, Sonoma, CA\n\n![Cornerstone-sonoma](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/5yhROxpkcln7pVU8oqGgEt/70c2fc1d2c08cebc1e7e73b9a8337c36/21a3cfe8-e6bb-46d0-8f27-0e176ce8618b.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Cornerstone Sonoma's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/cornerstone-sonoma)*\n\nFor couples searching for a spot to host a timeless, country-style wedding, [Cornerstone Sonoma](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/cornerstone-sonoma) is a must-see. It’s a perennially shifting landscaping masterpiece that invites visitors to enjoy new flora throughout the changing seasons—lily ponds, great lawns, rambling orchards, you name it.\n\nWeddings at Cornerstone take place in one of three venues: the Wedding Garden, the Vineyard Lawn, and the Garden Barn, which can accommodate medium-sized weddings between 120 and 300 seated guests. The following wedding conveniences may be provided by the venue:\n\n- Dressing room and bridal suite\n- Bar services\n- Catering provided by FOLKTABLE\n- Service staff\n- Clean-up assistance\n\nWhile many outdoor venues can be difficult to navigate for older guests, this facility is fully wheelchair accessible. Couples are required to tour the Cornerstone complex before putting down a deposit to reserve the property for their wedding.\n\n### Saratoga Springs, Saratoga, CA\n\n![saratoga-springs 2](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/26t5aFoGLvHQhOxxZXibkw/4b76eca6bea144b5445d9eed769175f2/bde69dc6-486f-477e-8621-731f3cb5a31d.jpeg) *Photo from [Saratoga Springs' Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/saratoga-springs)*\n\nFamily-owned and operated [Saratoga Springs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/saratoga-springs) has had a love affair with nature from its founding in the 19th century. Saratoga is now a full-service events and excursions venue known for making outdoor weddings not only accessible, but enchanting.\n\nSaratoga Springs is one of our most capacious venues, with room for up to 800 seated guests. Packages include:\n\n- Personal event coordinator\n- Dressing room and bridal suite\n- Set-up and clean-up assistance\n- Event staff\n- Catering\n- Dance floor\n- AV capabilities\n- Liability insurance\n- Full wheelchair accessibility \n\nNestled among the redwoods, brooks, and nature’s archway of the California sky, Saratoga Springs is perfect for couples who want to commemorate their commitment to each other with a nod to their love of nature.\n\n### Straus Home Ranch, Marshall, CA\n\n![Straus-home-ranch](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/1ZGuGVnW097iF4GUZkofgO/e92e9b7ab14a32a951d76d9c8ecf4916/2c6c5fe0-7c97-4618-ad1b-93636e361d43.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Straus Home Ranch's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/straus-home-ranch)*\n\nThe word is out on the glorious [Straus Home Ranch](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/straus-home-ranch), a Tomales Bay homestead that’s been in operation for more than 160 years. Set the scene for your ceremony, reception, or other festivities in three venues:\n\n- A 150-year-old eucalyptus grove\n- A 19th-century barn\n- A sprawling country garden\n\nEach setting has room for up to 185 guests. The Tomales Bay beach is also located on the property—an idyllic mise-en-scene for your wedding photos. \n\nStraus Home Ranch is open to elopements, and their full wedding package enables you to stay in the Straus handsome country home, with full use of the homestead’s facilities. The Ranch is perched right beside outdoorsy West Marin, which is brimming with outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and even oyster hunting jaunts for your guests to enjoy.\n\n### Sterling Hotel by Wedgewood Weddings, Sacramento, CA\n\n![Sterling-hotel-by-wedgewood-weddings](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2JiC4gW3iu6I5BVFZtJxnN/d94e76ceb8bfb038ba6c1f6d992ec1f3/6411568f-2be4-488f-83ca-538cd88e391e.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Sterling Hotel by Wedgewood Weddings' Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sterling-hotel-by-wedgewood-weddings)*\n\nIf you think you may have been born in the wrong era, your wedding is a fine opportunity to travel to another time. For the occasion, consider reserving [The Sterling Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sterling-hotel-by-wedgewood-weddings): a dashing Victorian mansion with antique fixtures like a ballroom, stained glass rotunda, classic cellar bar, courtyard, and on-site chapel.\n\nThis wedding venue can accommodate up to 200 guests, with three standard packages at the ready for newlyweds:\n\n- __Classic Package:__ This package includes a five-hour reservation, two-entrée buffet, cash bar, and AV capabilities.\n\n- __Premier Package:__ The Premier includes the Classic’s amenities, as well as a three-entrée buffet or duet plate, complete bar, and décor like custom floral arrangements.\n\n- __Elite Package:__ This top-tier package includes a six-hour reservation, three-entrée or duet plate, full bar, and other activities and decorations like a photo booth, grand sparklers, and even a wedding officiant.\n\nThe Sterling is a reputable, full-service wedding venue with years of experience, and is happy to oblige couples with custom wedding packages. The hotel has charming rooms available for guests to retire to after your celebrations, and its location in downtown Sacramento means other hotels and Airbnbs are a stone’s throw away.\n\n### The Terrace Room, Oakland, CA\n\n![The-terrace-room](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/6IJ7rCUdRvi0XuMAnOinA0/73a726fbd5e078aaf207cf80efbf0b5b/fcaeb09c-7f68-4773-931c-edc333df393b.jpeg) *Photo from [The Terrace Room's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-terrace-room)*\n\nTo pull off a classic wedding in the heart of Oakland, you’ll need to scope out [The Terrace Room](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-terrace-room)—a sumptuous ballroom and full-service venue hemmed by glass windows that provide waterfront views of Lake Merritt and the verdant hills of Oakland.\n\nA wedding reservation at the Terrace Room includes:\n\n- Complete private access\n- Tables, Chiavari chairs, linens, and table settings\n- Food, beverage, and alcohol\n- Events staff\n- AV capabilities\n\nThis space can accommodate up to 190 seated or 220 standing guests, with a series of menus the culinary team has perfected and plenty of flexibility for customization. \n\n### Vizcaya Sacramento, Sacramento, CA\n\n![Vizcaya Sacramento](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/796MbfwTG6VNuXF13Ji4P3/ad1713004f5747b7ca7e2fa29a2587a1/5d85242e-fe0c-4a1c-8f85-defa5983e886.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Vizcaya Sacramento's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/vizcaya-sacramento)*\n\nSet in a Victorian estate from the 1880s, [Vizcaya Sacramento](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/vizcaya-sacramento) is a designated historical landmark. The property boasts ivy-spun colonnades, a Victorian tower, and exquisite gardens for couples marrying in Sacramento.\n\nAll-inclusive wedding packages come with:\n\n- A personal wedding coordinator familiar with the venue\n- Bridal suite and groom’s lounge\n- Ceremony rehearsal\n- Beverage service\n- Event staff\n- Set-up and clean-up\n- Table set-up and settings\n- At-the-ready dance floor\n\nThe hearth of Vizcaya is the mansion’s ballroom, where you can gather up to 240 guests for your ceremony or reception. While the venue has its own seasoned catering team to provide your wedding banquet, there’s no requirement to book exclusively from Vizcaya’s roster of vendors. \n\nWhen they’re not making wedding dreams a reality, Vizcaya Sacramento operates as a romantic B&B, which means you won’t have to travel far to put your feet up on your wedding night.\n\n### Old Sugar Mill, Clarksburg, CA\n\n![Old Sugar Mill](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/61ZPObECWIzijQKImrGiaT/59b74481d870023ba298f6ac79d8d351/418529b4-a981-47b7-a2a6-7afa00c0d87f.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Old Sugar Mill's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/old-sugar-mill)*\n\nWhat could be sweeter than a former beet sugar refinery for your wedding? Today, the hallowed halls of [Old Sugar Mill](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/old-sugar-mill) have been converted into an esteemed Northern California winery. Strung with fairy lights, the high-ceilinged exposed-brick interiors provide a remarkably romantic setting for weddings.\n\nWhen you partner with one of Old Sugar Mill’s four seasoned wedding planners, you’ll receive:\n\n- The assistance of a wedding coordinator\n- Bridal suite and groom’s lounge for the wedding party\n- Up to six hours of private property use\n- Up to two hours of set-up and one hour of clean-up\n- A complimentary wine tasting\n- Tables, chairs, and table set-up\n- A wine barrel bar\n- Complimentary parking\n\nOld Sugar Mill offers three signature wedding packages designed for up to 250 seated guests. Whatever the size of your event, rest assured Old Sugar Mill will impart a warm, fairytale touch to weddings of all scales.\n\n## Build Out Your One-of-a-Kind Wedding With Zola \nPicking a venue sets the stage for your wedding and sets the tone for all the other arrangements that follow. Zola’s suite of complementary [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) tools can help you stay on top of everything from the fine print to the big picture, such as:\n\n- Vendor options to accompany your venue of choice\n- Wedding websites to house all of the event details \n- Customizable paper products, from save the dates to thank you cards\n- Simplified registries \n\nFor the most dynamic, easy-to-use, and totally free wedding planning tools, look no further than Zola.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Plan your ideal honeymoon with our curated destinations list. From breathtaking beaches to charming cities, discover the perfect romantic escape.","title":"34 Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024","slug":"best-honeymoon-destinations","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/xMfB590ouqVlhSF5M5gmO/3e7b6ada89c87837e1c9eca1c7e686c4/best-honeymoon-destinations-hero.jpeg","altText":"Couple holding hands walking on a beach"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the 60 best bachelorette party themes of 2024 with ideas for activities, drinks, and food. Find the perfect party for every bride!","title":"60 Best Bachelorette Party Themes of 2024","slug":"bachelorette-party-themes","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"Bride's Crew","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/33vA9FilPkEXnDkMjTkg5F/e698249214e8c6ce0673ab8fbee59392/pexels-yuliia-auer-5303406.jpg","altText":"Bachelorette Party Themes & Party Names"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding in San Diego? This guide covers everything you should know. ","title":"How to Get Married in San Diego: A Complete Guide","slug":"how-to-get-married-in-san-diego","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5qtkvhZXj3kq4jFdveP49c/f403428295f59cb28abb4904b71f33b0/bride-and-groom-in-park-with-balloon.jpg","altText":"bride-and-groom-walking"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a wedding in the Bay Area? From best venues to local requirements, here’s everything you need to know about getting married in San Francisco.","title":"How to Get Married in San Francisco: A Complete Guide","slug":"how-to-get-married-in-san-francisco","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5xobmddRlu6zzRcQ6S3htE/72645a7a17d8d4b3b05172bbd6f0ca0c/san-francisco-guide-hero.jpg","altText":"married couple taking wedding photo on San Francisco bay coast"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"If you plan to get married in Los Angeles, make time for preparations. Learn about costs, wedding venues, COVID-19 updates, and more in our complete guide. ","title":"How to Get Married in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide","slug":"how-to-get-married-in-los-angeles","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7b6TG1i4fGweDZvmnRk7Oi/fb95ac2f7d3e9f3d9f7d7ed4de87bea6/los-angeles-wedding-city-guide-hero-1.jpg","altText":"Couple getting married in Los Angeles on the beach"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Videographers record your special day. So, how do they do it? Read on to find out.\n","title":"Is A Wedding Videographer Worth It?","slug":"demystifying-wedding-videographers","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2dYthv4qmHsnE1ksKwxoSD/ea2dc03ecf6e46616f34f428c4c7dcfb/Hero_Unsplash_JonTyson.jpg","altText":"Demystifying Wedding Videographers"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Breaking up is hard to do, but sometimes it's necessary. Having trouble with a wedding vendor? Here's when it's OK to part ways and how to do it gracefully.","title":"Is It Ever OK to Break Up With a Wedding Vendor?","slug":"break-up-with-a-wedding-vendor","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1eaIjk7B1Yb8HT51YP9i88/1133caa5d4a99df147a81560cbbddc9f/HERO_BJonesPhotography_10807x720.jpg","altText":"catered dinner at wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Knowing how to choose a wedding florist is the first step in having gorgeous florals for your big day. Let us walk you through picking the right florist for your wedding.","title":"How to Choose a Wedding Florist in 5 Steps","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-florist-everything-you-need-to-know","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7hmllIWhU2QJiZlouGsNk6/b45b3ee39d9fe0b7ed6941551afa2b19/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"How to Choose a Wedding Florist: Everything You Need to Know"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Classic wedding themes are tried and true. Explore these 20 classic wedding themes with Zola, your wedding day experts!","title":"20 Classic Wedding Theme Ideas for an Unforgettable Celebration","slug":"10-classic-wedding-themes","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UtlYrRvOVd4tN0Jpub4RM/90ffbe9b31f87e52d8ecfb00f555180a/Hero_New_DisneyFairytaleWeddingatTheCarriageHouse_C.BaronPhotography.jpg","altText":"couple on a beach"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:11.193Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"southern-california-wedding-venues-you-should-know-about","title":"Southern California Wedding Venues You Should Know About","excerpt":"Looking for a Southern California wedding venue for your special day? Check out our list of the best options for venues and the easiest way to find them.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-06T03:53:57.823Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MavFwZCYBUmrdAVw1bPv8/fa7e70533e69a1e297cdcbeba25e2f1b/Hero_RomanticWeddingatLombardiHouse_OnelovePhotography.jpg","altText":"Southern California Wedding Venues You Should Know About"},"heroCredit":"Onelove Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- From deserts to greenhouses, we’re showing you 7 Southern California wedding venues you should know about.\n- We’re paying close attention to details such as location, capacity, and style of venue to help you make the big decision for your big day.\n- After taking your time to compare and contrast this handful of amazing venues, you can visit Zola to refine your search, update your preferences, and discover the venue that’s been waiting for you all along.","body":"Whether you’re looking for a desert bungalow for your California nuptials or a flora-filled locale to say I do, there are a plethora of Southern California [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) to choose from. When looking for the right California wedding venue, it’s important to weigh your options, determine your needs, and imagine how the California wedding venue will lend itself to your wedding themes. \n\nMost importantly, you need to know your options.\n\nIf you’re looking for the ultimate guide when it comes to Southern California wedding venues, you’ve come to the right place. From golf courses to splendid vistas, we’ve put together a list of every SoCal venue you need to know about.\n\n## Southern California Wedding Venues You Should Know About \n\n### The Stonehurst\n\n![THE STONEHURST](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2q8tfUlezUrHDUg6eXeXrZ/b4deb0399c882ee1ef35ab080d89bf81/78f6e708-37a2-4e69-b155-eb1146a03704.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Stonehurst's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-stonehurst)* \n\nSet across nine acres of Southern California’s most picture-perfect hills, [The Stonehurst](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-stonehurst) is a wedding venue with charm and versatility for a sun-set ceremony or a radiant reception.\n\nOnly a short drive from downtown Los Angeles, The Stonehurst has the feel of a chic and rustic oasis, curated and designed just for you. Plus, with plenty of options for personalization, you can ensure that every last detail fits the mold for wedding designs.\n\nChoose between a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces including:\n\n- __Greenhouse:__ Looking to get botanical when it comes to your nuptials? With 4,000 square feet of windows, exposed brick, skylights, and seating for 200 people, your entire wedding party can admire the property from the comfort of the Greenhouse.\n\n- __Barn:__ Perfect for a rustic cocktail hour, a farewell brunch, or the ceremony itself, the barn offers its distinct appeal. With unique chandeliers and an open floor plan, the possibilities are nearly endless if you’re looking for a bit of homespun glamour for your big day.\n\n- __Bamboo Garden:__ An invigorating and hidden garden, this locale is perfect for connecting with your inner zen. If you’re looking for a peaceful place to celebrate your love, look no further than the bamboo garden.\n\nThe versatility of The Stonehurst can’t be matched. No matter what kind of ceremony you’re imagining, this location can bring it to life. \n\n### The Greenhouse PNOC\n\n![The Greenhouse PNOC](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2ryYdAyDOjB3wqTUJMMNQ/db48868fa9144a4a61579606a66d48fd/15f5209b-1da7-4829-8083-580b29f69629.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Greenhouse PNOC's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-greenhouse-pnoc)*\n\nWith an eco-friendly and sustainable business model, as well as a passion for bringing out each couple’s unique personalities, [The Greenhouse PNOC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-greenhouse-pnoc) has helped bring wedding dreams to life since 2019. \n\nYou can explore unique spaces, such as:\n\n- __The Altar:__ Country-chic vibes abound at The Altar. You can celebrate your love in front of a gorgeous antique farmhouse, among the pepper trees, under glimmering cafe lighting. \n\n- __The Greenhouse:__ This 4,000 square foot, repurposed greenhouse is a great locale for dinner and dancing. Celebrate under the sunset and among the live plants, while the beautiful chandelier glimmers just above you.\n\n- __The Farmhouse:__ An ideal ready-room. Prepare for your vows and relax in the lounge. It’s a calm and cozy atmosphere to get ready for your big day.\n\n- __The Pump House:__ A decidedly different preparation room. With a bar, couches, and a TV, you’ll have the opportunity to loosen up and look forward to the reception.\n\nThere are few wedding venues in all of Southern California that can boast the thoughtful and personal touch that The Greenhouse PNOC bestows on each and every wedding they host. \n\n### Inn of the Seventh Ray\n\n![Inn of the Seventh Ray](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/6kvnhSM2QyTW1A0CasrQ6c/1be1f69d0ca7b956f61e1bd9b6ba6d1f/62612a9e-72c2-4a21-b993-5d1afe2e9d3a.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Inn of the Seventh Ray's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/inn-of-the-seventh-ray)*\n\nA creekside venue boasting a majestic waterfall and gorgeous sycamore trees, the [Inn of the Seventh Ray](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/inn-of-the-seventh-ray) could be the ideal wedding venue for the couple looking to bring even more magic and romance to their special day.\n\nThe Inn of the Seventh Ray offers amazing amenities, such as:\n\n- __Garden fresh menu:__ Enjoy the best of Topanga cooking with a seasonal menu with organic ingredients sourced locally. If you’re looking to elevate your culinary options, there’s no better way to craft a memorable meal for your guests.\n\n- __The Fountain Patio:__ With room for 130 guests, the Fountain Patio offers a gazebo and a picturesque hill for you and your guests to admire. \n\n- __The Garden Room:__ Adjacent to the Fountain Patio, 50 guests can sit near the fireplace and cozy up in this lovely space. \n\n- __The Waterfall Patio:__ Surrounded by oaks, pines, and sycamores, The Waterfall Patio can accommodate 45 guests for an evening of intimate charms, or it can act as the background for your most memorable moments.\n\nAt the Inn of the Seventh Ray, you can look forward to working with a capable and professional wedding venue staff that are committed to making every aspect of your wedding run smoothly and stress-free. \n\n### Coyote Hills Golf Course\n\n![Coyote Hills Golf Course](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/3MkpeFyQkWve2W498WnEb3/fcd6d50a6e21d416bc09735f9a0f0226/1ed4665f-88c8-4838-a5dc-2f0563127e3a.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Coyote Hills Golf Course's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/coyote-hills-golf-course)*\n\nAn Orange County institution, [Coyote Hills Golf Course](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/coyote-hills-golf-course) offers a luxury wedding experience that can range from romantic to classic. \n\nWith a team of wedding planning professionals, Coyote Hills offers customizable options and reception packages to make all of your wedding dreams a reality.\n\nThe venue boasts amazing locations on the property, including:\n\n- __Vista Falls:__ A 3,000 square foot banquet hall with floor-to-ceiling windows and a delightful atmosphere.\n\n- __Ceremony site:__ Wooden beams, wisteria vines, and a sparkling waterfall make for an amazing setting for exchanging your vows.\n\nAt the Coyote Hills Golf Course, you can look forward to service options ranging from lighting and sound to private dressing rooms. Consider Coyote Hills if you’re looking for a venue that exceeds expectations when it comes to romance and elegance.\n\n### Flora\n\n![Flora](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/3O1HfrNmx7dkVoiXMRWZEU/f6f44bb2e07da3bbcafc8a27df7390af/123307f4-52d7-4c86-9d0c-1b35b55eb8ef.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Flora's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/flora)*\n\nA tranquil and modern venue, [Flora’s](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/flora) roots date back to the construction of the building in 1922. As you walk up the plant-lined bath leading to a floral entryway, prepare yourself for wainscot walls and plenty of plants.\n\nFlora is best known for its amenities, such as:\n\n- Ambient lighting\n- Top-of-the-line sound system\n- Lofted ceilings\n- Skylights\n- Moveable partitions\n\nWith package offers from beverage and bar to event coordination and design, Flora can make wedding planning simple and successful.\n\n### Millwick\n\n![Millwick](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2JXvnXlztq8w9QVfH2Oi2E/27dbb3aab7961c2921a6b1217c153ff3/8edbaa9e-f155-402d-957d-87dfea52b0f3.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Millwick's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/millwick)*\n\nA private “super-loft” in the heart of Los Angeles, [Millwick](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/millwick) has repurposed itself from an industrial space to a venue designed to bring the best out of your big day. Formerly a warehouse, the space has retained just enough of its original look to charm anyone looking for a modern and unique venue with some serious history.\n\nMillwick offers two distinctive settings for your ceremony, including:\n\n- __Courtyard Garden:__ The outdoor portion of Millwick is a soothing courtyard, complete with trees, gardens, and exposed brick. It’s a hidden respite in urban Los Angeles that few can imagine without seeing it first hand.\n\n- __Grand Hall:__ Your indoor festivities will look truly glamorous under the skylights, truss ceilings, and golden lighting of the Grand Hall. With room for 175 guests, it makes a wonderful spot for an immaculate dinner and dancing.\n\nMillwick is set in the bustling Art District, near dozens of amazing restaurants for your wedding party to explore the day of the wedding or your entire wedding weekend.\n\n### Ethereal Gardens\n\n![Ethereal Gardens](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/12jQFZdOKhYweqVNRhHTuV/6d179cc0b3e797bc6f3dac082aae9969/5ff2b203-0d8e-4cf7-9b66-6bba4959392f.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Ethereal Gardens's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/ethereal-open-air-resort)*\n\nLocated in Escondido, [Ethereal Gardens](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/ethereal-open-air-resort) is a totally “out of the box” venue. That means that between its beautiful gardens, set amongst orchards and farms, you can invite your guests to a once-in-a-lifetime locale to share in your love.\n\nEnjoy the Ethereal Open Air Pavilion, a lush and pastoral area ideal for your wedding ceremony or reception. \n\nThe Pavilion is known for features such as:\n\n- Lush greenery\n- An herb garden\n- Peaked canopy\n\nFor an outdoor celebration with unmatched ambiance, the Ethereal Gardens has more than you could imagine in a convenient Southern California venue.\n\n## Find Your Venue Even Easier at Zola \nIt’s no surprise that any area as dense and diverse as Southern California is absolutely jam-packed with amazing wedding venues with a variety of unique offerings. Therein lies the only problem—too many good choices.\n\nWhile there are certainly worse problems to have when it comes to planning a wedding, a plethora of venues can make the decision process slower and more stressful than it should be. At least that’s what we think, at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-planning?question=CONGRATS_INTERSTITIAL).\n\nNot only have we developed an unmatched list of the best wedding venues that Southern California has to offer, but we’ve also sorted and tagged them. Now, you can search for a venue with filters such as:\n\n- Price\n- Availability\n- Capacity\n- Venue type\n- Setting\n\nThat means one simple search can bring you to the wedding venue of your dreams and reservations are only a click away. While you’re at it, you might want to know that [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-planning?question=CONGRATS_INTERSTITIAL) offers [every wedding vendor you need,](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), [free wedding websites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website), [a registry builder](https://www.zola.com/onboard/new), and a whole lot more.\n\nWeddings should be special, not stressful. Start making your wedding easy at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard/wedding-planning?question=CONGRATS_INTERSTITIAL).","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Looking for the most unique wedding venues Northern California has to offer? You’ll find them here. ","title":"Unique Northern California Wedding Venues","slug":"unique-northern-california-wedding-venues","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2xnP3RNBIVrSA5CyOB9fJe/e1ea03be47b1158d3d155c3463ec9fb2/Hero_BeautifulBlushPinkWeddinginSanFran_ClaneGesselPhotography.jpg","altText":"Unique Northern California Wedding Venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Popping the big question on sandy shores can be both romantic and timeless. Read on to find out our favorite beach proposal ideas. ","title":"13 Unique Beach Proposal Ideas for a Romantic Getaway","slug":"most-unique-beach-proposal-ideas","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ieQt6XnsH30jIJSUZYMOe/683c087b922eccfc01aee8aa07587dc7/Hero_Bright_BohoCoastalStyledShoot_HeidiBeePhotography.jpg","altText":"Most Unique Beach Proposal Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Knowing how to choose a wedding florist is the first step in having gorgeous florals for your big day. Let us walk you through picking the right florist for your wedding.","title":"How to Choose a Wedding Florist in 5 Steps","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-florist-everything-you-need-to-know","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7hmllIWhU2QJiZlouGsNk6/b45b3ee39d9fe0b7ed6941551afa2b19/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"How to Choose a Wedding Florist: Everything You Need to Know"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Getting married on a boat is one of the most unique wedding experiences for you and your guests. Here's how and where you can plan your boat wedding.","title":"How to Get Married on a Boat and Where to Do It","slug":"how-to-get-married-on-a-boat-and-where-to-do-it","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4l2d4k7rFUVljkFtbj0u2i/218f90f0ddb9d1a4a8bacef4c05db3ef/Hero_PrettyinPinkBoatWeddinginCharleston_.jpg","altText":"How to Get Married on a Boat and Where to Do It"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"A road trip honeymoon can be romantic and memorable. Our complete guide to planning a memorable RV honeymoon will help you plan. ","title":"How to Plan a Memorable RV Honeymoon","slug":"how-to-plan-a-memorable-rv-honeymoon","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1grPl5D3dvu4W8CG2vxNnB/cd30ce316f1b31e4627bb92e1e45d024/Hero_Unsplash_DinoReichmuth.jpg","altText":"RV Honeymoon"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The night before your big day should be a beautiful one. Try these rehearsal dinner decoration ideas from Zola.","title":"4 Creative Rehearsal Dinner Decoration Ideas","slug":"rehearsal-dinner-decoration-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5OgOj6KPYtsphTH55uxPAz/df153074345b90a0bd86e38aaf213a1d/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Rehearsal Dinner Decoration Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:10.358Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"the-15-best-small-wedding-venues-in-nyc","title":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC","excerpt":"Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.","author":"Anni Irish","publishedAt":"2022-11-14T16:06:44.127Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/2a3ca7dca443aab6967df71536a6cf48/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg","altText":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow "},"heroCredit":"Library Hotel Collection","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- If you’re the kind of couple that knows that throwing a small wedding is right for you, then that is half the battle. \n- With Zola's expansive inventory of wedding venues and vendors, [finding the right venue for you](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) is just a click away. \n- Whether you want to host an intimate wedding of 10 or 50, finding a venue is vital. Here is a list of 15 of our many NYC small wedding venues to help you narrow down the search.","body":"Intimate weddings can be a great option for couples who are looking to share a really unique experience with their guests that they can customize to their taste. There are a lot of advantages to hosting a small wedding, including: having the opportunity to spend more quality time with each guest, personalizing the wedding details more than you could if hosting a larger wedding, and giving you a chance to work with your dream vendors.\n\nIf you’re looking to [host a small wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) in New York City, one of the biggest challenges that you may face is knowing what venue to select. With so many choices it can get overwhelming, but don't worry, at Zola there are [many venues and vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that you can search for and book directly through our site. And, when it comes to planning your dream wedding, Zola's got your back. Take a look at some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day; plus, there are more to check out on our site, so go explore. \n\n## Small Wedding Venues in NYC\n\n### 1. [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow) \n\n![William & Willow](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3YdUSQOUAPJ5XLS03INMpj/bcb9ca4fbb439881cfa0b07bab3bb091/William___Willow_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the bustling Queens neighborhood of Astoria, William & Willow is a great venue option for an intimate wedding. The venue is able to accommodate 30 guests seated and up to 60 standing. And, with its close proximity to Astoria Park, it's the perfect location to get gorgeous photos before hosting a cozy gathering for friends and family at a wonderful local establishment.\n\n### 2. [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)\n\n![The Standard, East Village 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/64a3onvHVEeBX2mFLYLoUg/58e6b305f43d75ca59e2aa6d592afe62/The_Standard__East_Village_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)'s listing*\n\nTucked away in NYC's East Village—one of the most eclectic and lively neighborhoods in the city—and just steps away from Cooper Union, a premier art college, The Standard offers guests a luxurious and unique experience. There are a number of venues in the hotel, ranging from The Garden, which gives guests a tranquil environment from the bustle of the city, the Penthouse, which is the pinnacle of elegance, as well as the Overlook, Cafe Standard, and Narcissa. No matter the season or vibe that you're after, The Standard is able to meet all your needs, and it can accommodate up to 50 guests.\n\n### 3. [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho) \n\n![The Farm Soho Rooftop](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6tWYTwohoGmZnGGcn1KQcY/f4a5278f6e54a7b0c9a6d17202db8180/The_Farm_Soho_Rooftop_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho)'s listing*\n\nSituated in Soho, the Farm Soho Rooftop sits atop a historic building in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in all of New York (it is also home to one of the country's oldest cheese factories). The Farm Soho offers couples a chic and stylish experience that features breathtaking views of downtown Manhattan, Little Italy, the NYC skyline, and more. Boasting 2,300-square feet and an outdoor bar, this perfect venue can accommodate up to 50 guests, and it will offer you the wedding of a lifetime.\n\n### 4. [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince) \n\n![The Lofts At Prince](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3UmUlyLDFKkil9zDuOHjOy/7c0b92c263bec9361fc545110efa99b5/The_Lofts_At_Prince_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince)'s listing*\n\nWhen it comes to an intimate wedding in NYC, one thing that every couple dreams of is hosting their celebration inside a modern and sleek loft space. If that's the vision you have for your wedding, then the Lofts At Prince are for you. With the ability to host up to 45 people, the Lofts At Prince offer breathtaking views of the city, a skilled staff, and even a Penthouse suite that has an exclusive rooftop and fireplaces. Whatever vision you have for your wedding, the staff can help you make it a reality for your big day.\n\n### 5. [The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn) \n\n![The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7zkydPmWyvxODK9gkG3Cn2/1059c0dff44a56c92838a128a7a050de/The_Love_Shack_-_A_Little_Palace_in_Brooklyn.jpeg)\n\n*Photo from [The Love Shack](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the vibrant Bushwick community in Brooklyn, the Love Shack was an experiment that came out of a raw industrial space and was transformed into two live-in dollhouses. If you and your partner are looking for a bold and truly unique wedding experience, then look no further than The Love Shack. It can hold up to 22 seated guests, and is truly a venue where your imagination can run wild.\n\n### 6. [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown) \n\n![Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MNjbykLkg76d1isgkpB5F/79e28cee591059ecd0ed82d8abfb8b5e/Hampton_Inn_Brooklyn_Downtown_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown)'s listing*\n\nIf you’re after a Brooklyn vibe that is centrally located to many locales and has a gorgeous view of Manhattan, then the Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown is the perfect choice. Offering all the amenities of a hotel in an elegant and dynamic space, this venue can offer you and up to 32 guests a wide range of wedding experiences. Working with their skilled staff, you and your partner can plan the intimate wedding of your dreams.\n\n### 7. [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)\n\n![Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/d7f56db07e90d1b3ae211af014949c85/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)'s listing*\n\nThe Library Hotel offers the convenience of midtown Manhattan in a luxurious and chic space. With breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace of the NYC skyline, the New York Public Library, and more, The Library Hotel can provide the perfect backdrop for your day or night wedding, no matter the season. The Poetry Garden and outdoor terrace offer gorgeous glimpses of the city while giving you and your guests an elegant and memorable experience. The Writer's Den encapsulates the best of the Library Hotel's private club for you and up to 30 guests to enjoy during your wedding.\n\n### 8. [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel) \n\n![SIXTY LES Hotel 2 Small venue](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7pr7PcRi9w4HYriuPHcFtV/44d8bfff48d2b7d2f109c156c47f8459/eea82c70-c405-477f-bc81-07d574898672.jpeg)\n*Photo from [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel)'s listing*\n\nKnown for being one of the hippest neighborhoods in all of NYC, the Lower East Side definitely has a reputation that precedes it. SIXTY LES is definitely for the couple who is after a vibrant, festive party vibe for their wedding. With an outdoor terrace that offers both fantastic views of the city's skyline, as well as the perfect place to serve your guests al fresco, and a spacious, sleek indoor space, SIXTY LES has everything. With its ability to host up to 50 guests seated, there is so much versatility in this event space, so make it yours.\n\n### 9. [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc) \n\n![Maison Sun LLC 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5M95nYrmcGNoaDzm61S0Qj/a776844b0ea1afed30681da8e8f930b6/Maison_Sun_LLC_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the heart of Soho, Maison Sun features a luxury penthouse with a private rooftop that provides 360 degree views of the city. And, with their speakeasy exclusive dining room, nothing says luxury quite like having an intimate dinner for up to 50 guests in one of the most gorgeous spaces in Manhattan. Catering is provided by Executive Chef Conner Updegrave, who formerly worked as the former head chef of Blanca, a two-Michelin starred restaurant, so you know that the food will be delectable. Let the staff at Maison Sun help you plan your dream wedding.\n\n### 10. [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren) \n\n![The Wren Small venues NYC](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3im81mKeWLpqds88N8XIlW/e78e5404f246563aae673518aa2186a4/The_Wren_Small_venues_NYC.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren)'s listing*\n\nOffering dark wood interiors and a speakeasy vibe, The Wren is the perfect spot for couples who are looking to host an intimate wedding on the Bowery. A hidden gem in an otherwise bustling neighborhood, your guests will enter through the main entrance, then get whisked away downstairs into their own beautiful and sleek room. With its warm and cozy atmosphere, it's a gorgeous venue to host up to 20 guests. The staff at Wren are adept in helping you plan every step of the wedding you want, so start dreaming big.\n\n### 11. [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips) \n\n![PIPS](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3vXt44cC0jddNyOznl4tqY/5b27aa04f12e46857364e01edc892990/PIPS_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips)'s listing*\n\nIf you're seeking a venue that is inspired by the coastal region of Italy, plus offers a natural wine selection, then look no further than Pips.This venue offers the best of Italy, but is located In downtown Brooklyn. The staff at Pips, along with Executive Chef Jared Braithwaite, will work closely with you to develop a menu and wedding plan for up to 20 guests in a gorgeous and intimate space.\n\n### 12. [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog) \n\n![AKC Museum of the Dog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/69Up7eeFQfiCSy33cMMj0A/1e2d9787aa25dc568efbacb176e9adaa/AKC_Museum_of_the_Dog_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog)'s listing*\n\nFor dog lovers, and couples who are after a truly unique wedding experience in Manhattan, the AKC Museum of the Dog is for you. Located on luxurious Madison Avenue in midtown Manhattan, the Museum of the Dog wants to capture your heart with their stunning fine art collection, which offers an array of exhibits throughout the year in the Kalikow building. With two floors of its own, plus a mezzanine, it's the perfect location for up to 40 guests. If you want to celebrate your love for one another—and for man's best friend—the AKC Museum of the Dog is perfect for you.\n\n### 13. [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82) \n\n![Atrium82](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7chobjZBHpPcTuW2Nz0oEu/b444ce06b41e4e1f1ca9f110acecd3a6/Atrium82_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82)'s listing*\n\nFor couples who are looking for a dynamic venue that offers a stunning atmosphere, Atrium 82 may be right up your alley. Located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, Atrium82 is a female, Black-owned venue that seeks to empower the community. Underneath Tiffany stained glass, exposed brick, and gorgeous hardwood floors, this unique and intimate studio is a raw space that can be created into the wedding of your dreams for up to 30 people. Located only a short walk from Prospect Park, this intimate space can be transformed for any vision that you have for your big day.\n\n### 14. [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)\n\n![Bat Haus](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7s6iJ3GLdccGyLaQWbyncr/b133a855720f61cc5cef78c9d5c3126a/Bat_Haus_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)'s listing*\n\nBat Haus is another venue that is also active within the community that it's located in, and it provides a wide range of services, including serving as a wedding venue. It has the advantage of being able to offer you and your guests both inside and outside options with its gorgeous backyard, tons of natural sunlight, and beautiful hardwood floors. \n\nLocated in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Bat Haus captures the spirit of this area, while offering couples a number of wonderful options when it comes to hosting a wedding in a unique setting. And, with its ability to hold up to 45 guests, this extremely versatile venue is bursting with creativity, thus making it just the place to celebrate your wedding.\n\n### 15. [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2) \n\n![Maman Bryant Park 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2YZitGeWnTYiByl5sg2aMP/d5bd641e64bfca1f9be321b9155a96b0/Maman_Bryant_Park_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2)'s listing*\n\nIf you are looking for the best of what the French lifestyle brand Maman has to offer in the gorgeous location of Bryant Park, then their most recent project is for you. Utilizing the elegance and best of what their cafes have to offer with a French twist, Maman’s Bryan Park location is an elegant option for up to 34 of your closest friends and family. Be sure to request their famous chocolate chip cookies as a tasty dessert option that your guests will enjoy.\n\n## Zola: Discover Venues of All Shapes and Sizes\n\nNew York City has no shortage of small wedding venues, but, by using [Zola’s vetted vendors database](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), you’re getting access to some of the best in the wedding industry to help you plan your big day. There are a lot of options to choose from, so, when you’re planning your small wedding, remember to let what is most important to you and your partner help guide the process.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We've curated a list of NYC wedding vendors with the help of ratings given by our Zola couples.","title":"Zola Couples Share Their Favorite NYC Wedding Vendors","slug":"zola-couples-share-their-favorite-nyc-wedding-vendors","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1SfW00oR8W77DkKtaexp5M/e78d8d052ab9acb358e3cb63ad0f1240/Stems_Brooklyn_Couple___s_Choice.jpg","altText":"The Ultimate List of Vetted NYC Wedding Vendors: Couple’s Choice, Stems Brooklyn"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here’s our guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues, from rooftops and gardens to parks and cemeteries.","title":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day","slug":"the-best-outdoor-nyc-wedding-venues-for-your-big-day","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ld6U3BmDByPQNNxDq1j5M/8dfb69ab83fd3bd6987cb86c8d7bd4e4/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Atrium_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day, The Sanctuary RI"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here's our list of top NYC women-owned wedding vendors—from planners and caterers to florists and DJs—in NYC to help pull off your dream day.\n","title":"The Top Women-Owned Wedding Vendors in NYC","slug":"the-top-women-owned-wedding-vendors-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gblVXlOx3XBIlD8DuB8px/6a37eb71c6a3b639248612dd73cd3ae1/Two_Sisters_Events_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"New York City Women-Owned Wedding Vendors, Two Sisters Events"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you. ","title":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC","slug":"the-top-35-minority-owned-voc-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37AtYy73sCzbUhC2ACYOMC/6bbee0af098db310e70a49b5cd505248/Vivian_Pang_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:09.579Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"can-you-get-married-in-yosemite-national-park","title":"Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?","excerpt":"Yosemite weddings are a wonder to behold. Here’s everything you need to know about your Yosemite wedding from Zola!","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-28T02:30:39.282Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7CVxWLZbqbY5fLAtgGhUVO/97b7354df7cbceef88b47dcb547c8506/Hero_RusticYosemiteWeddingatRushCreekLodge_WhitneyJustesenPhotography.jpg","altText":"Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?"},"heroCredit":"Whitney Justesen Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- Yosemite National Park is a beautiful and historic venue to serve as the backdrop for your wedding ceremony.\n- Indoor park venues allow you to experience the beauty of the park, while still having a more traditional ceremony and reception. Outdoor park venues are also available for those of you looking for a ceremony more fully immersed in nature. \n- Since Yosemite National Park is a tourist hub, there are many resources outside the park itself that cater to visitors and help you plan your ceremony.\n- Anyone planning a wedding will need a Special Use Permit. It is important to follow all park regulations during your ceremony. Zola can help you with the planning and logistics so that you can fully enjoy your ceremony.","body":"From towering Sequoia trees to majestic waterfalls, Yosemite National Park is full of some of nature’s most breathtaking sites. Millions of people travel to the park every year to experience all it has to offer—and, for some couples, a question comes to mind while they’re immersed in the natural beauty.\n\nCan you have a Yosemite wedding?\n\nThe answer is yes. In fact, there are many places throughout the park where you can have a wedding. This guide will go over your options and touch on some of the practical issues you will need to consider while planning your Yosemite elopement or wedding.\n\n## Wedding Venues in Yosemite National Park\nSo, where can you actually have your wedding? Well, there are a lot of options. We’ll look at some of the most popular choices. Keep in mind that all of these choices are booked on a first-come, first-served basis. That means that the earlier you book, the more likely you are to secure a spot.\n\n### Indoor Venues \nIf you’re looking for a more traditional ceremony while still being able to enjoy the beauty of Yosemite, then looking at an indoor venue may be the way to go. Indoor venues allow for more guests and are easily accessible. Many also have facilities to host a reception after the ceremony, as well as attached lodging options.\n\nIndoor venues offer you the best of both worlds as you will still be able to take majestic Yosemite wedding photos and be in nature, while also providing you with more options for how to plan your wedding. They do book up fast, though, so be sure to plan in advance.\n\n#### *Yosemite Valley Chapel*\nAny talk of indoor wedding venues at Yosemite has to mention the Yosemite Valley Chapel. Built in 1879 as “an undenominational house of worship,” the chapel has been a setting for weddings since 1884. While it’s primarily used as a house of worship, it’s still a lovely venue for a wedding even today.\n\nEspecially for those looking for a religious ceremony, the chapel may be a perfect choice. So, if you’re thinking of the chapel, here are some things to keep in mind.\n\n- __Book in advance –__ The chapel is one of the most popular venues for Yosemite weddings, which means that availability can be limited. The chapel is available to be booked up to eighteen months before your ceremony.\n\n- __Rental fees –__ The chapel costs $850 to rent during peak season (April to September) and $750 to rent all other times. You’ll also have to pay a $50 candle fee. On top of that, couples will be required to pay a fee to use the chapel’s minister for your ceremony. If you choose not to use the minister, you’ll need to pay an attendant fee.\n\n- __Resident minister –__ The chapel’s minister is available to perform traditional Protestant weddings. If you use the minister, you will need to enroll in a mandatory one-day marriage enrichment seminar. You can also use your own officiant so long as you can provide any one of these three options:\n\n - Proof of ordination\n - Proof of license\n - A letter on your minister’s letterhead\n\n- __Chapel facilities –__ The chapel can seat up to 125 guests. It has an altar, an organ, and a baby grand piano. There’s only one bathroom that can’t be used as a dressing room. The chapel is wheelchair accessible.\n\n- __Decorations –__ Decorations are allowed so long as they don’t leave any remaining trace (so no tape or tacks). Since the chapel is a small space it is recommended to keep decorations to a minimum.\n\nIf you’re looking to get the most out of your decorations, [Zola’s wedding boutique](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop) has the solution for you. With everything from jewelry to decor, you’ll be able to find the items to best suit your theme and accentuate the natural beauty of your surroundings. \n\n- __Music –__ You can provide your own music so long as it is appropriate for a chapel.\n\n- __Reception –__ The chapel is for ceremonies only. No food or drink is allowed on chapel grounds, including the parking lot.\n\n- __Marriage license –__ You must have a valid California marriage license issued within 90 days of your ceremony. You do not have to be a California resident to acquire a marriage license.\n\n- __Weather –__ While the chapel is an indoor venue, weather can still play a factor in getting there. During the winter it is common for snow to be in the area, so prepare accordingly and be sure to arrive with shoes that will keep you safe on snow and ice.\n\n#### *The Ahwahnee*\nIf you’re looking for a luxury spot for your wedding, The Ahwahnee should be at the top of your list. It mixes architecture, fine dining, and luxury accommodations to be the only four-diamond hotel in Yosemite.\n\nThe Ahwahnee can accommodate weddings of up to 150 guests.\n\n#### *Yosemite Valley Lodge*\nThe Yosemite Valley Lodge is another beautiful option for your wedding. It can host your ceremony, reception, and serve as a hotel for your guests. Its central location in the heart of the Yosemite Valley also makes it a convenient starting spot for you and your guests to explore the park.\n\nThe Yosemite Valley Lodge can accommodate weddings of up to 150 guests.\n\n#### *Wawona Hotel*\nThe Wawona Hotel is a Victorian-era hotel that feels as if it has been transported from another time. It offers you and your guests the use of a swimming pool, nearby hiking trails, guided horseback tours, and views of the nearby waterfalls.\n\nThe Wawona Hotel can accommodate weddings of up to 85 guests.\n\n#### *Curry Village*\nIf you want a blend of indoor and outdoor experiences, then Curry Village may be just what you’re imagining. You and your guests will stay in tent cabins. Your ceremony will be held in the central pavilion with a choice of an indoor dining area or outdoor patios. \n\nYou and your guests will also be able to enjoy many activities around the ceremony including:\n\n- Hiking\n- Swimming\n- Rafting\n- Fishing\n- Horseback riding\n\n### Outdoor Venues \nWhile the indoor venues around Yosemite offer spectacular views and top-rated accommodations, maybe you’re the type who wants to be out amongst the stunning scenery. If that sounds like you, the park has a variety of picturesque outdoor wedding locations for a wedding ceremony. \n\nWhile the indoor venues have staff members used to hosting weddings who can help you through the [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) process, an outdoor wedding is often more of a do-it-yourself affair. But, we at [Zola](https://www.zola.com/) can help. With [Zola’s expert wedding advice](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice), we’ll be there to help guide you from the early wedding planning stages through to the day of your ceremony, so that you never need to feel alone or overwhelmed.\n\nOf course, the first part of planning your outdoor wedding is choosing your location. While your options are most open if you have a small wedding with fewer than 11 guests, you can still have larger outdoor weddings in the park. You just need to know where they’re allowed. \n\nSo, let’s go through a list of larger outdoor locations and let you know a little about each, plus how many guests they can accommodate.\n\n#### *Yosemite Valley Locations*\nOne of the most popular areas of Yosemite, the Yosemite Valley offers scenic backdrops for any wedding ceremony. It’s advisable to plan for an early ceremony to avoid crowds. Also, all wedding locations are located near waterfalls, which may make it difficult to hear people speaking (though extremely epic).\n\nSo, here are your options with a few of the most important points about each: \n\n- __Cascades picnic area –__ 30 people maximum. Ceremonies must take place at least six feet from the river’s edge. Ceremonies are not allowed on the falls viewing platform. Easily accessible.\n\n- __Lower Yosemite Falls paved trail –__ 50 people maximum. Ceremonies are not allowed at the base of the waterfall or on Yosemite Creek Bridge. Accessible with a brief walk.\n\n- __Swinging Bridge picnic area –__ 20 people maximum. Ceremonies are not allowed on the bridge or in the meadows. Easily accessible.\n\n- __Cathedral beach picnic area –__ 50 people maximum. Easily accessible.\n\n- __Sentinel Beach picnic area –__ 100 people maximum. Easily accessible.\n\n- __Bridalveil Falls –__ 50 people maximum. Accessible with a brief walk.\n\n#### *Wawona Locations*\nThese areas are also popular, so early morning ceremonies are advisable.\n\n- __Glacier Point amphitheater –__ 50 people maximum. Seating is included at the south end of the amphitheater. This is a high elevation site that can become inaccessible due to road closures during storms.\n\n- __Chilnualna Falls trailhead parking lot –__ 50 people maximum. Ceremonies take place down a slope, southwest of the parking lot.\n\n#### *Tuolumne Meadows Locations*\nWhile ceremonies are not allowed on the meadows themselves, there are areas available. The high elevation of these sites means that they can become inaccessible due to road closures.\n\n- __Tenaya Lake beach –__ 50 people maximum. Not open during winter months, but snow may be present even during some open periods. Accessible with a 100-yard walk.\n\n- __Tuolumne Meadows lodge area –__ 25 people maximum. Ceremonies take place upstream from the lodge on the Dana Fork granite slab. Accessible with a 250-yard walk. Closed during the winter but some snow may be present even during the open period.\n\n#### *Big Oak Flat Area*\nThis is another set of sites located at high elevations, which may become inaccessible due to road closures.\n\n- __Tuolumne Grove –__ 30 people maximum. This site is for the outdoorsy types, as it is only accessible with a two-and-a-half mile round trip hike. The path you take is paved, but steep with an elevation change of 400 feet. Ceremonies must remain on the footpath and avoid any sequoia trees or roots. Plan to bring plenty of water so that you stay hydrated.\n\n- __Merced Grove –__ 30 people maximum. This is for those who thought the Tuolumne Grove hike sounded fun, but too easy. This site requires a three mile round trip hike with a 600-foot elevation change. The path is unpaved and rated easy to moderate, so leave your fancy footwear at home. Again, be sure to have plenty of water to stay hydrated.\n\n## Wedding Logistics at Yosemite \nWith such a long history and the beauty of its natural surroundings, it’s no wonder that Yosemite National Park is such an attractive wedding destination. Of course, that popularity means that when you are planning your Yosemite wedding, there are procedures you have to follow. These will help ensure that your wedding can take advantage of the park’s natural beauty without affecting it in any unintended ways.\n\n### Permits\nIf you want to have a Yosemite National Park wedding, you need to have a special use permit. Permits cost $150. To obtain one, follow these steps:\n\n- Download an application from the Yosemite website.\n\n- Mail your completed application and the $150 application fee to Yosemite Park.\n\n- Once approved, a special use permit will be mailed to you.\n\n- Sign and return the permit to Yosemite Park.\n\nOnce you’ve completed these steps, you’re ready to get married. However, keep in mind that the application fee is separate and does not include any necessary entrance fees for you and your guests.\n\nIf you’re planning an outdoor ceremony with over 30 people, you will also need to hire an event monitor. These monitors cost $50 per hour.\n\n### Park Regulations\nNow that you have your wedding permit, you can start planning your ceremony. We’ve already shown that there are both indoor and outdoor venues to choose from at Yosemite. If you choose an indoor venue, planning is pretty straightforward and similar to other [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues).\n\nOutdoor venues offer you the opportunity to take full advantage of the natural beauty that surrounds you. However, in order to protect the park, there are regulations you will need to follow:\n\n- __Limits on where you can go –__ As we said earlier, if you’re having an intimate wedding with fewer than 11 people, much of the park is open to you for your ceremony, so long as you have a permit. However, there are still limits. Certain areas will be prohibited in order to protect the environment. For example, ceremonies are not allowed at the bases of Sequoia trees.\n\n- __Outside food/animals –__ Outside food can be dangerous to the wildlife of the park so you will not be permitted to bring any—this includes birdseed or rice that you may have planned to throw at the end of the ceremony. You’re also not allowed to release any animals such as doves or butterflies. Pets are also not allowed in the park.\n\n- __Signage –__ Be sure that your guests know where they’re going because you will not be able to put up any type of signs, including directional signs. Balloons and other decorations are also prohibited.\n\nA great way to stay in contact with your guests and keep them informed of directions, parking, weather, and any other information they may need is [Zola’s Wedding Guest List Manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests). We keep track of your RSVPs and create a hub for you to communicate with all your guests so that it’s easy to stay in touch.\n\n- __Seating –__ No outside seating is allowed to be set up. However, some areas do have existing seating such as picnic benches. Also, exceptions can be made for guests with special needs.\n\n- __Audio –__ No amplified music or public address system is allowed in the park. Keep in mind that some sites (like those near waterfalls) can get quite loud. Be sure to plan for this so that your ceremony doesn’t get drowned out.\n\n- __Vehicles –__ Vehicles must be parked in designated parking areas, so carpooling, when possible, is a good idea. Off-roading is not allowed in the park.\n\n- __Special conveyances –__ Arriving at your ceremony in a hot air balloon or a horse-drawn carriage is a fun, romantic idea. Unfortunately, it would mean introducing outside elements into the park, so special conveyances like this are not allowed. \n\n- __Drones –__ Drones are gaining popularity as a way to achieve new angles for wedding photos, but they’re not allowed in Yosemite. \n\nAt first glance, that may seem like a lot of rules. But, remember, these rules are all designed to protect the park, the wildlife, and you. To maintain the beauty that attracted you to Yosemite in the first place, it’s important to know and follow all regulations.\n\n## Use the Surrounding Area\nYosemite National Park is a major tourist attraction. That means that there are plenty of areas outside the park that cater to tourists. You can use this to your advantage while planning your wedding. \n\nWhile certain sites in the park offer accommodations, you can also look outside the park to find hotels and locations for your reception or rehearsal dinner. There are also local wedding vendors, [wedding beauty professionals](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-hair-makeup), and [wedding photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers) who know the area and can help you while you plan your ceremony. By using the surrounding area, you can still have an intimate wedding in the park, while also having larger gatherings and celebrations outside.\n\nBy using [Zola’s pre-screened wedding venue and venue finder tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), you can search through trusted vendors in the area. We can even help by offering recommendations and streamlining the process for you.\n\n## Plan Your Yosemite Wedding at Zola \nFrom traditionalists to nature lovers looking for a hike through stunning scenery, Yosemite offers wedding options that can fit your needs. With stunning views of nature everywhere you look, no matter where you choose you’re sure to have a beautiful backdrop for your ceremony and some breathtaking photos to remember it by.\n\nDo you know what else is beautiful and breathtaking? Having help as you try to make all your plans into reality, that’s where Zola comes in. We can help you sort out your venue, keep track of your guests, and make sure that you’re not forgetting anything as the day approaches. \n\nYosemite offers you the peace and calm of nature as a backdrop to your wedding ceremony. Let Zola help by offering you the peace and calm of having all your planning needs met by true wedding professionals, so that you can focus on enjoying your day to the fullest.","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Your Massachusetts wedding will be a hit—especially if you take a look through these tips from Zola!","title":"Massachusetts Wedding Planning Tips","slug":"massachusetts-wedding-planning-tips","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6H4i2DyKLPgTqeJ208IOYW/e423fc2bac835dacb054a94d7b8a1d5b/Hero_ClassicandRomanticWeddingatStateRoom_ThompsonPhotographyGroup.jpg","altText":"Massachusetts Wedding Planning Tips"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"An East Coast beach wedding can be wonderful. Here are seven things to consider when planning an East Coast beach wedding.","title":"7 Things to Consider When Planning an East Coast Beach Wedding","slug":"things-to-consider-when-planning-an-east-coast-beach-wedding","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4o8zu5B4Gt1vWdY23EWdG9/12ef4995cd9a0cd76e87c66adfbbafe8/Hero_IntimateSeasideNuptialsinKeyWest_FreasPhotography.jpg","altText":"7 Things to Consider When Planning an East Coast Beach Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Incorporating seasonal flowers into your wedding day gets you the best quality blooms for a lower price tag. This guide can help you save big on your floral budget, no matter what time of year you plan to tie the knot.","title":"The Complete Guide of Wedding Flowers by Season","slug":"a-seasonal-guide-to-wedding-flowers","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Wedding Style","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5xWU76Ld4DvkYZTbo1JoHw/9cbdf01861b4483240518f51bda3636c/A-Seasonal-Guide-to-Wedding-Flowers_CassieValentePhotography.jpg","altText":"A Seasonal Guide to Wedding Flowers"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Read our best rules, tips, and details for a smooth wedding in California’s Joshua Tree National Park.","title":"Can You Get Married at Joshua Tree National Park?","slug":"can-you-get-married-at-joshua-tree-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1YOckoggebllUFld5ccaX2/f22d143bfae232997c78e852d6cb1599/Hero_Unsplash_AllisonHeine.jpg","altText":"Can You Get Married at Joshua Tree National Park?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Have you been dreaming of a Glacier National Park wedding? Good news: it’s possible. Just be sure to follow these guidelines for a successful wedding day.","title":"Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?","slug":"can-you-have-a-wedding-at-glacier-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5Jy7vb8i2MAVYfL0QGM5ts/7145d37630abd3b886cd97af9abf133b/Hero_IntimateMountainElopementatGlacierNationalPark_40WattPhoto.jpg","altText":"Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wondering what you should check for in your wedding venue contract? We're here to help! So, continue reading to learn more about it.","title":"What to Look for in Your Wedding Venue Contract","slug":"what-to-know-look-for-in-your-wedding-venue-contract","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5t5JEY4HPjCkmgJXL7ZQej/47c15944010d65268ca939fa54e41d7f/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"What to Know/Look for in Your Wedding Venue Contract"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:08.771Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"where-to-get-married-in-sequoia-national-park","title":"Where to Get Married in Sequoia National Park","excerpt":"Saying “I do” in the shade of giant sequoias? Here’s everything you need to know for your Sequoia National Park wedding.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-12-30T05:15:39.857Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/38G5wgjYkty8svypoINGso/cb3e1d5d4ddc209f2fc340fc51099a1b/Hero_OutdoorBohoWeddingatHenryCowellRedwoodsStatePark_Pictilio.jpg","altText":"Where to Get Married in Sequoia National Park"},"heroCredit":"Pictilio","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Sequoia National Park is an enchanting setting for a wedding, but it has its fair share of criteria that you must abide by to hold your ceremony there.\n- There are nine locations in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park where couples may hold their wedding ceremony.\n- Prepare for your off-the-grid nuptials by nailing down your wedding planning basics at Zola.\n","body":"Sequoia National Park is renowned for its groves of giant trees—like nature’s old-growth cathedrals—which soar so far aloft that they instill visitors with an incomparable sense of beauty and awe.\n\nMuch of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National parks (together known as SEKI) is virtually unscathed wilderness, but there are nine versatile sites on these 400,000+ acres where couples may exchange their wedding vows and provide the perfect [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) for their guests. Even so, this environment bears several logistical challenges and some stringent ground rules for couples looking to marry on the land.\n\nIn this guide, we’ll cover:\n\n- Where to Get Married in Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park\n- Rules for Getting Married in Sequoia National Park\n- How to Prepare for Your Sequoia National Park Wedding\n- Where to Celebrate After Your Nuptials\n\nGetting married in a national park is no easy feat, but with appropriate planning and preparation, you and your nearest and dearest can honor your partnership with comfort in one of California’s—and the country’s—most resplendent natural settings.\n\n## Wedding Locations in Sequoia National Park \nSequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks share nine unique, pre-designated sites for couples looking to get married on their lands, each with their own appeal—and their own regulations for public use.\n\nThe size of your wedding will likely be a deciding factor in settling on a location: maximum headcounts range from 20 to 100 people, which includes the members of the wedding party and officiant.\n\nAlso, note that when COVID-19 restrictions are in effect, wedding parties for every site are limited to 15 people or fewer. If you think your wedding will surpass this maximum, reach out to your local NPS authorities to find out whether pandemic restrictions are in effect.\n\n### Halstead Meadow \nMidway between Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park is Halstead Meadow, a serene enclave for intimate weddings with no more than 20 people. Weddings may not be held on the meadow itself: The ceremony must take place on the periphery of the grass, though you’ll still have the backdrop of the tree-lined glen and sky behind you—particularly if you get married around sunset.\n\nBe advised that the Halstead Meadow is also a popular place for families and kids to gather and picnic. In addition to picnickers, you may find you have a wilder class of company in your midst—bears are known to frequent the Meadow, so be sure that you keep any honey you have with you stashed in the car.\n\n### Lost Grove Turnout\nLost Grove Turnout rests on the border of Sequoia National Park, shaded by clusters of redwoods. While celebrants may not get married around the base of the sequoias themselves, the fenced-off area where you may hold your ceremony is well-groomed and canopied by the steeple-like trees.\n\nWeddings are limited to 25 people and must be held between the summer and fall to avoid detrimental weather and snow conditions.\n\n### Sunset Rock\nFor couples looking to strike off and marry off the beaten path, the mountain peak of Sunset Rock boasts a beautiful backdrop for a wilderness wedding.\n\nThe site is a 45-minute hike from the trailhead parking lot at the Giant Forest Museum, but the Park’s shuttle service is also there to guide you and your guests to the plateau. Given that Sunset Rock is substantially more rugged than other SEKI locations, there are more restrictions on area use.\n\nIf your heart is set on holding your ceremony here, you’ll need to get in touch with the Commercial Services Office directly to discuss the permit requirements for getting married at this location.\n\n### Crescent Meadow\nCrescent Meadow is another green and gorgeous site in Sequoia National Park Lush, though this area can accommodate a slightly larger wedding party of 30 people.\n\nThe journey to Crescent Meadow is one of the highlights of this wedding site: not only is it beautiful, but the trail itself is gentle. It’s perfect if you have older folks, kids, or varying levels of hiking ability in your wedding party. \n\nGiven that it’s a meadow, the same rules that applied at Halstead apply here: you can’t marry on the meadow itself, but given how picturesque it is, you may not want to. Seasonality also plays a role in this location. You’ll need to hold your nuptials in the summer or fall because SEKI officials shut down access during the snowier seasons.\n\n### Beetle Rock\nBeetle Rock is one of the best Sequoia wedding locations to enjoy the Park’s views, particularly at sunset.\n\nThis site is also ideal for couples who don’t want to compromise on their guest list: up to 75 people are permitted to join you for a Beetle Rock ceremony, which can be reached via a brisk hike from the Great Forest Museum parking area, or by a 5-minute shuttle ride.\n\n### Giant Forest Museum Patio\nThe Giant Forest Museum is one of the more logistically seamless pre-approved sites to host your wedding in SEKI, though you may have to compromise on your wedding’s intimate feel in exchange for the on-site plumbing.\n\nNevertheless, the Giant Forest Museum patio grounds are tucked into the Giant Forest, one of California’s most iconic natural sanctuaries. The patio is a manicured, highly walkable, and well-maintained space that can accommodate up to 75 congregants for a wedding. \n\n### Wolverton/Long Meadow\nWolverton/Long Meadow in Sequoia National Park is the most commodious of all of the SEKI wedding locations, with plenty of space (and state approval) for weddings with as many as 100 people.\n\nWhile this is an especially popular place for wintertime recreation such as skiing, sledding, and snowshoeing, the atmosphere tends to be less rambunctious in the warmer months, making it a wonderful place to find a slice of seclusion for your ceremony. \n\nLike Halstead and Crescent meadows, you may not marry on Long Meadow itself, but rest assured no matter the season you will find some jaw-dropping lookout points to frame your special day wherever you are.\n\n### Panoramic Point, Grant Grove, Kings Canyon National Park\nTrue to its name, Panoramic Point in Kings Canyon National Park is sure to add striking natural beauty to your wedding with its epic alpine vistas.\n\nThis location’s wedding party limit is the same whether or not COVID-19 regulations are in effect: your guest list (including you, your partner, and the officiant) may not exceed 15 people. The trail to Panoramic Point is usually closed through the winter and spring, making this site ideal for couples keen on enjoying a quieter ceremony or elopement, and letting the beauty of the landscape take center stage.\n\n### Muir Rock/Roads End, Cedar Grove, Kings Canyon National Park\nMuir Rock in the Cedar Grove area of Kings Canyon National Park sits on a placid bend just off the Kings River. When the weather is warm, Muir Rock is a popular spot to take a soak or jump off the boulder—though Parks officials advise against swimming here in the height of summer, when cold water currents can make the river considerably more dangerous.\n\nWhether or not you choose to take a dip post-nup, holding your wedding at Muir Rock will feel elegant and special. Ceremonies are afforded a headcount of no more than 20 people, and may only be held between mid-April and mid-November.\n\n### How to Get Married in Sequoia National Park \nAll wedding planning requires a degree of compromise, and getting married in Sequoia or Kings Canyon National Park comes with plenty of regulatory and logistical considerations to take into account.\n\nWhichever location you choose, there are five key things to be aware of in preparation for your wedding day.\n\n### #1: Know the Rules \nGiven the state of COVID-19-related restrictions on public gatherings, you’ll need to consult the national parks guidelines for getting married in Sequoia & Kings Canyon territory before you proceed with your wedding plans.\n\nThat said, the US Department of the Interior has a series of evergreen non-negotiables for couples looking to hold their nuptial ceremony on park grounds:\n\n- __Mind the clock –__ Wedding ceremonies may last no longer than 3 hours at your chosen location. When applying for a wedding permit, the National Parks Service recommends requesting a time earlier or later in the day to make the most of your time, grant your wedding more privacy, and avoid any prospective bottlenecking of other parks-goers you’ll be sharing the site with.\n\n- __Respect the guest limits –__ While in effect, COVID-19 restrictions limit weddings at every SEKI location to no more than 15 guests. If COVID-19 restrictions are lifted before your wedding, you must adhere to the guest limit designated to your individual location.\n\n- __Budget accordingly –__ Holding your ceremony in a National Park can be a wonderful way to save money on costs normally associated with weddings—but an NPS wedding is still not a freebie. You still have to pay to secure a permit and cover the standard parks entry and parking lot fees for all wedding attendees.\n\n- __Plan your own transport –__ The NPS has strict rules around parking, and personal vehicles must be parked in official parking lots. Sequoia’s popularity means that parking lots can get jammed, so larger weddings will require some strategizing to ensure all of your guests secure a spot. Where possible, encourage your attendees to carpool and call ahead to see if the shuttle to your site will be in service on your chosen date.\n\nLastly, know that while wedding ceremonies are welcome at Sequoia National Parks, you’ll need to hold your wedding reception elsewhere. Fortunately, there are several hotels and lodgings in the area that are excellent wedding reception hosts (we’ll name a few of the standouts later in this article).\n\n### #2: Plan Ahead \nModern amenities such as WiFi, car travel, and reliable plumbing are so run-of-the-mill these days that we barely notice them—until you find yourself in Sequoia country, that is.\n\nWhile some areas of the parks give you guaranteed access to bathrooms, transportation, and cell service, it goes without saying that some regions of the park will have you and your guests roughing it like John Muir himself.\n\nKeeping this in mind, the best strategy for forging ahead with a SEKI wedding is to channel minimalism:\n\n- Fill up on gas beforehand, and check the limits on personal vehicles at your chosen wedding site.\n\n- Pack light and save any decorative extravagances for your reception.\n\n- Download any maps, directions, or other logistical information to your phone beforehand.\n\n- Bring along extra layers, rain gear, and any foul-weather accouterment for any guests who may have forgotten theirs.\n\n- Stay in close contact with your guests to see how you can make them as comfortable as possible.\n\nWhen cell service is a gamble, staying in close communication with your wedding party can be tricky. Your most fool-proof way to ensure that everyone stays on the same page is to relay all information on directions, scheduling, and logistical considerations on your wedding website.\n\nTake a look at Zola’s easy-to-use, free, and customizable [wedding website templates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Each template allows you to post and update everything your guests need to know as the details unfold so that everyone will be on the same page (and in the same location) when it’s time for your national park nuptials.\n\n### #3: Get a Wedding Permit\nIf you’ve fallen in love with the splendor of Sequoia National Park and are ready to make it your wedding’s home, the first thing you’ll have to do is secure a special use permit from the National Park Service.\n\nSummer can be a dicey season to hold your wedding, so be aware that permits will not be issued during the following high-traffic visiting periods:\n\n- Memorial Day weekend\n- Fourth of July weekend\n- Labor Day weekend\n\nYou may submit your permit applications as early as one year in advance of your wedding date. Applications must be received no fewer than 90 days before your wedding, along with a required non-refundable fee of $150. If approved, you must return your finalized (signed) permit document no fewer than 30 days before your selected date.\n\nOnce you’ve secured your permit, you’ll want to get the ball rolling on wedding invitations to ensure that your guests—especially those who are traveling long distances—have enough time to plan ahead for the off-the-grid trip.\n\nTo send out your save-the-date cards (along with invitations, thank you notes, and, if necessary, change-the-date cards), check out [Zola’s wedding paper designs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/paper) to get the word out on your Sequoia National Park wedding.\n\n### #4: Brace Yourself for (Accidental) Wedding Crashers\nHaving a wedding in one of the United States’ most treasured national parks is a remarkable experience, but it doesn’t necessarily grant you privacy.\n\nThe National Park Service stresses that your wedding may not impede other visitors’ enjoyment of the park, so don’t be surprised if you see some admiring (albeit uninvited) hikers ooh-ing and aww-ing at your ceremony from the sidelines. \n\n### #5: Be Prepared to Improvise\nCalifornia has its own hazards to deal with that have, unfortunately, affected normal operations around its public parks.\n\nMany of California’s parks are dealing with unprecedented wildfire risks, and the Department of the Interior is hard at work trying to ensure that Sequoia and Kings Canyon remain safe, sustainable, and beautiful places for all to enjoy.\n\nAs such, you’ll need to check out the NPS’s fire-management projects planned for your wedding year to see if any of your potential locations will be affected. Permits cannot be refunded even in the event of fires, poor air quality, or weather-related closures, so it’s important to maintain a flexible attitude while controlled burns and conservation efforts are in progress.\n\n## Where to Celebrate After Your Ceremony in Sequoia National Park \nAfter you hold your wedding ceremony, you’ll want to find the perfect spot to celebrate with your loved ones in one of Sequoia National Park’s lodges and hotels.\n\nThe SEKI National Parks service is affiliated with three popular venues of Delaware North Parks & Resorts.\n\n### Wuksachi Lodge, Red Fir, California\nAt an elevation of 7,200 feet, the picturesque stone-and-cedar Wuksachi Lodge is ideal for small to medium-scaled wedding receptions. Guest lodgings are located 100-200 feet from the main lodge, and pets are welcome on the property.\n\nThe Lodge’s American-style Peaks Restaurant can host up to 100 seated guests for your wedding meal, which can be served sit-down or buffet-style. Their cozy banquet hall will give guests a view of the thousand-year-old forests and mountains, with space to venture onto the outdoor patio to take in the sunset when the weather is warm.\n\n### Grant Grove Cabins, Hume, California\nWhile the accommodations are comfortable, space is limited at Grant Grove Cabins, making this site best for tight-knit wedding groups and elopements.\n\nHiking trails and landmarks like the General Grant Tree are all within walking distance, so it’s a wonderful place to restore, unwind, and continue your expeditions of the SEKI parks after your stay.\n\n### Cedar Grove Lodge, Cedar Grove, California\nCedar Grove Lodge is a modest, yet comfortable hotel tucked away in Kings Canyon National Park. The Lodge is open from May to mid-October, with day hiking trails and even mountain horseback rides available a stone’s throw away.\n\nYou won’t find the resources to host an extravagant wedding banquet here, but there is a no-frills café that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you’re looking for spots to host your reception meal, you’ll need to drive an hour or so to find restaurants that can accommodate you.\n\n### John Muir Lodge, Hume, California\nThe John Muir Lodge is located in Kings Canyon National Park near Grant Grove Village. If you’re feeling like digging your heels into the atmosphere and roughing it for your reception, the nearby Grant Grove Market can provide you with plenty of hot dogs, canned beans, and s’mores ingredients for a firepit wedding meal under the stars.\n\nAlternatively, the John Muir also has a restaurant on-site where you can enjoy a relaxed wedding meal and some well-deserved coffee in the morning.\n\n### Off-Site Receptions\nWhile you may be thrilled to hold your ceremony in the majesty of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park, there’s no shame in postponing your wedding reception so that you can celebrate somewhere nearer to civilization, and a little more accessible to all of your desired guests.\n\nTo find distinguished vendors a little closer to home, check out [Zola’s catalog of venues, caterers, photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) and more in your area. Whether you search based on budget, style, or popularity, every supplier is pre-screened to meet Zola’s standards, ensuring that you’ll assemble the right team to help you and your partner ring in the wedding bells.\n\n## Embark on Your National Parks Nuptials at Zola \nHolding your wedding ceremony at Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks testifies to the spirit of adventure and independence with which you and your partner are consecrating your next chapter. \n\nNevertheless, even the most intrepid trailblazers among us need a little assistance when it comes to wedding plans. Whether you hold your wedding in a meadow, a mountaintop, or knee-deep in the Kings River, Zola has a suite of complementary tools to streamline the wedding planning process:\n\n- Pre-approved vendors in your chosen location\n- Wedding website templates to convey all your wedding details to your guests\n- Customizable wedding paper suite, from save-the-dates to thank-you cards\n- Online registries to simplify the registration process for your guests\n\nWith Zola in your back pocket—and a healthy dose of trail mix and bug spray—you’ll be able to enjoy pulling off your Sequoia National Park wedding easily.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Oregon has a huge variety of potential wedding backdrops to choose from—from Portland and Crater Lake to the Columbia River Gorge. Here are a few tips to make the most of this gorgeous state. ","title":"Oregon Wedding Planning Tips","slug":"oregon-wedding-planning-tips","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6gQ46enVaxdlFrd7eQT3tM/5b2d238082487262e2d834fb7aac1587/Hero_OceansideRusticChicPortlandAffair_HelenHill.jpg","altText":"Oregon Wedding Planning Tips"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Getting married in a special place guarantees spectacular memories. See the best destination wedding locations around the globe to find your special place.","title":"Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. and Abroad","slug":"what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JyyfK4TYb7znx1R7IPm5k/404773d01587da2b2225d4293f7a1b69/Hero_Zola__17_.jpg","altText":"Graphic image of a passport cover with passport pages sticking out"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We share eight of the best island locations to host a dreamy destination wedding.\n","title":"8 Best Island Destinations for Weddings","slug":"best-island-destinations-for-weddings","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1VT69TyMkUvOMO2cJIOdxz/3c2d316d7e97f8eca4363e2d01cf85ed/Hero_Unsplash_AlexAzabache.jpg","altText":"8 Best Island Destinations for Weddings"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"There are few things more epic than the Grand Canyon—except maybe a Grand Canyon wedding. Here are Zola’s Grand Canyon tips.","title":"Getting Married at The Grand Canyon: What You Need to Know","slug":"getting-married-at-the-grand-canyon","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/60LJjgpl3AnnTeRAOjsYmh/ded32ed4de46ff3d7e5b9da34e4a193e/Hero_BohoLaceyWeddingDresses_PoppyseedPhotography.jpg","altText":"Getting Married at The Grand Canyon"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Short answer? A Bryce Canyon wedding is absolutely possible. Here are Zola’s best tips for your special day in Bryce Canyon.","title":"Can You Get Married in Bryce Canyon?","slug":"can-you-get-married-in-bryce-canyon","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6A72Jmsf4Eu4mny3ZXpkLe/69efc9c7bb1e6e5d9c0709187e271484/Hero_Unsplash_AllisonHeine__1_.jpg","altText":"Can You Get Married in Bryce Canyon?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Grand Teton National Park is the perfect backdrop for your wedding. Here are Zola’s tips for a Grand Teton National Park Wedding.","title":"How to Get Married in Grand Teton National Park","slug":"how-to-get-married-in-grand-teton-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/16qZNwFZ5pxsdplWgJFITO/57ec6f9221adac63cf1dd36acb4678b6/Hero_NaturalWeddingatOVYCamp_DanielNealPhotography.jpg","altText":"How to Get Married in Grand Teton National Park"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Read our best rules, tips, and details for a smooth wedding in California’s Joshua Tree National Park.","title":"Can You Get Married at Joshua Tree National Park?","slug":"can-you-get-married-at-joshua-tree-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1YOckoggebllUFld5ccaX2/f22d143bfae232997c78e852d6cb1599/Hero_Unsplash_AllisonHeine.jpg","altText":"Can You Get Married at Joshua Tree National Park?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Yosemite weddings are a wonder to behold. Here’s everything you need to know about your Yosemite wedding from Zola!","title":"Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?","slug":"can-you-get-married-in-yosemite-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7CVxWLZbqbY5fLAtgGhUVO/97b7354df7cbceef88b47dcb547c8506/Hero_RusticYosemiteWeddingatRushCreekLodge_WhitneyJustesenPhotography.jpg","altText":"Can You Get Married in Yosemite National Park?"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:07.816Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"turn-your-wedding-business-into-a-wedding-brand","title":"Turn your wedding business into a wedding brand","excerpt":"The CEO of Fêtewell Event Venues, Kate operates a number of in-demand historic wedding spaces across the U.S. as well as offering insight into DIY renovation and wedding advice to her million TikTok followers (@TheVenueCEO). Here she shares her personal and practical tips on how to build your brand and why it matters.","author":"Kate Dear","publishedAt":"2023-10-16T21:09:00.027Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3oFSUffeup8CjGtRGQOnSA/00db722707d5a6488ac41fc4c8861b8a/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Hero.jpg","altText":"Vendor Feature: Turn your wedding business into a wedding brand"},"heroCredit":"Sarah James Photography","body":"What do you think when you hear the word “brand”? A name? A logo? \n\nThose are important but they’re just the beginning. Your brand is a comprehensive story that encompasses your values, your personality, and the unique experience you offer to your ideal client. The right brand identity is a magnet for clients and collaborators who resonate with your vision. A strong brand is important for any business but essential for wedding vendors.\n\n---\n\nI operate [three wedding venues](https://fetewell.com/) in Maryland and several franchise locations throughout the U.S. (and soon Canada!). When someone asks me how I got here the answer is always the same — by being true to the brand identity that I invested in and established from day one.\n\nWhen I opened my first event space, with my freshly minted MBA under my arm, I took an almost analytical approach to the wedding market, scouring reviews of existing venues in my area to see what client needs weren’t being met. I had almost zero experience in the events industry — I made the leap from broadcast journalist to wedding venue owner — but knew that the key to success for just about any business is to create a product that solves a problem in an existing market instead of creating a product and then forcing it to fit into the market. But being that solution won’t do you any good if no one knows about it. Your brand is the tool you use to convey to potential clients that you are the solution to their problem.\n\nIn this article I’ll share my story and practical tips for how you can build your brand, including:\n\n- The role of branding in reflecting who you are and what makes you, you\n- Distinguishing yourself and your business in a crowded wedding market\n- Maintaining a consistent brand and reputation across platforms\n- How a great brand can help match you with your ideal client\n\n## Who you are: How your brand reflects what’s important to you\n\nWeddings are personal. In my own life, I encountered three major problems in the wedding industry that I kept in mind when developing my brand because I knew I wanted my business to be part of the change.\n\nFirst, I found that there was an unmet gap in the local market for venues that were high-end and luxurious but also approachable and warm. Approachable luxury became central to my brand identity because it embodied how I would run my business and attract my ideal clients. \n\nSecond, venues in my area felt like they existed on opposite ends of the scale — either dated or trendy, with few options in between. I knew I wanted to repurpose historic buildings and give them new life as event spaces. A wedding is an event that will be celebrated and remembered for years afterward and I wanted to create venues that felt timeless. \n\nFinally, and most personally, when two members of my family were planning their wedding, I remember how painful it was when vendors would refuse to work with them because they were a same-sex couple. Nobody should face rejection while planning their wedding because of who they are. I wanted my brand to immediately convey to potential clients that we welcome all so they wouldn’t even have to ask if they would be fully celebrated at my venues. This focus on inclusion and diversity are core values that I want to convey on all touchpoints so that my brand resonates with my ideal client. I wanted potential clients to see themselves represented in my branding. \n\nUsing these personal principles and working closely with a professional brand designer, I was able to successfully define and create my unique brand identity in a way that is part of all aspects of my marketing to this day. This might be the most valuable investment I made when starting my business.\n\n## Every wedding is different. Every wedding business should be, too.\n\nWhether you're a wedding planner, photographer, florist, or, like me, a wedding venue owner, the challenge remains the same — how do you set yourself apart? To distinguish yourself, start by:\n\n__1. Your Story:__ Share the journey that led you to become a wedding professional. People connect with authenticity, so don't be afraid to be honest and emotional. Couples connect with the person behind the business and sharing that journey helps them feel comfortable working with you. For me, my story is that I wanted to make the industry more inclusive and save historic buildings. \n\n__2. Your Values:__ What do you stand for? Is it impeccable service, creativity, eco-friendliness, or something else? Communicate these values clearly in your messaging. Personally, I put my values front and center with the name of my business. Fêtewell (‘fet-‘wel) translates to “celebrate fully.” That’s the spirit behind my portfolio of special event venues.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ctozPrlhlvhOvkp5YIG5r/04130572ca5bdc7e2c75e0cb1c6b573c/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip1.jpg)\n\n__3. Your Brand Voice__: Your brand voice is the personality of your services. It should reflect your values and connect with your target audience. Whether you're elegant and sophisticated or casual and rustic, your voice should be consistent across all touchpoints. And don’t forget that our language around weddings can be gendered and non-inclusive. I find [this guide](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/supporting-inclusivity-and-diversity-in-the-wedding-industry) helpful.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1jmJfmHYOOgevfl43haflR/ef726a7654c8ec66effae1c69fb0463d/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip2.jpg)\n\n__4. Your Target Audience:__ You can't be all things to all people. Identify your ideal clients and tailor your brand to their desires and needs. For example, are you targeting luxury clients or DIY clients who want to be hands-on and get creative? Research their preferences, pain points, and aspirations. Understanding your audience is key to creating a brand that resonates.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/68b4UMsCZJmO55rPojk6Rz/3a8a0558be72a279175b4a41ab4a0a7e/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip3.jpg)\n\n__5. Your Visual Identity:__ Your visual identity is the face of your brand. It includes your logo, color palette, typography, and overall design. A cohesive visual identity makes your brand memorable.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip4](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/28EKEIwnpglCsxJD07ZpfD/0e28da633ebe41855a626971ddc40ff2/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip4.jpg)\n\n__6. The Company You Keep:__ Remember the people you work with, whether on your team or other vendors, say a lot about your brand; those relationships can either amplify or detract from your brand and impact your business. Be selective and thoughtful.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip5](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1fA2oh3gWdhSgsmurewsPN/1684e5f8d637747259fdbe5e6a5aaa34/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip5.jpg)\n\n__7. Adapt:__ Remember, your brand isn't static. It's a living entity that evolves with your business. Stay true to your values, deliver exceptional service, and continue to adapt to remain relevant. I’ve invested in a brand refresh every couple of years to make sure I’m staying current with not only the industry but my own brand’s evolution.\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Tip6](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3MPzjE0oZCDyC4M2Vokodq/add3d639c0ff6e24800573d0f8243a47/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Tip6.jpg)\n\n## Finding a home for your brand\n\nWhen you start a wedding business, you quickly realize how many platforms exist. Do your research before joining to make sure that they are aligned with your goals as a brand and will put you in front of your ideal client. Show up consistently on social media, your website, and marketing platforms like Zola so that no matter where potential clients find you, they immediately recognize the experience that you are selling.\n\n__1. Choose the right platform for your brand:__ Not all platforms will be right for your brand, so make sure you’re showing up on ones that align with your target audience. For instance, Instagram and Pinterest are visual-heavy platforms perfect for showcasing wedding venues, while LinkedIn can be valuable for B2B networking. I’ve also found great success marketing on TikTok, but it may not be for everyone.\n\n__2. Establish posting standards:__ Whether you manage your channels yourself or hire a social media manager, make sure you convey your values on social media. For example, because inclusion is a core value for me, I have a standing rule that there must be clients from underrepresented backgrounds in the top 9 on my Instagram grid at all times so couples don’t have to scroll to see themselves represented. I also use an approachable, conversational tone in my venue’s posts. \n\n__3. Sign up for Marketing Channels that align with your values:__ All of my venues are listed on Zola because Zola requires all vendors who advertise on their site to sign the 6-point [Zola Vendor Pledge](https://www.zola.com/inspire/vendors/pledge). Just by being on Zola, couples will know your brand vows to respect every couple, be proud to be part of their wedding day and be honest and upfront at all times.\n\n## Why couples care: Boosting lead quality and inspiring confidence\n\nUltimately, the success of your wedding business hinges on your ability to find the best match and inspire confidence in couples to book your services. You have only a few seconds to convince couples that your business is worth the financial and emotional investment on their big day. Here are some good ways to start:\n\n![1016 TheVenueCEO EA-Infographic2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/787rKEro2w41k4mDm4XL14/525c89f6812b3d51c469135f2269f199/1016_TheVenueCEO_EA-Infographic2.jpg)\n\nIf you try to appeal to everyone, you’ll stand out to no one. The wedding vendors who succeed are known for something and your brand is what you are known for. From your origin story to your online presence, it defines who you are and sets you apart in a crowded market, attracts the right couples, builds a dedicated team, and inspires confidence in your services.\n\n## Final thoughts\n\nBefore potential clients ever meet you, they’ll meet your brand. Your brand is the best tool you have to show clients why they should choose you for their big day. By investing time and care into crafting a brand that represents you and your company consistently across all touchpoints, you’ll have the perfect introduction to your company working 24/7 no matter where potential clients first hear about your business.\n\nWhether you've been in business for years or just getting started, building a robust and authentic brand is a crucial task for any wedding business. It's not just about designing a logo or choosing a color palette; it's about defining who you are, what you stand for, and how you want to be perceived in the market. Use your brand to set yourself apart from competitors and attract the right couples in the right places. It's your brand that speaks volumes before you utter a single word, making it the most powerful tool in your arsenal.\n\n---\n\nInterested in learning more about how Zola can help you activate and elevate your brand? Create your free listing [here](http://www.zola.com/forvendors) or reach out to your vendor experience representative at *weddingvendors@zola.com*, and we’ll help you get started!\n","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"After the unprecedented wave of weddings in 2022, 2023 is uncharted territory. Zola surveyed over 300 wedding professionals on what they expect to happen and how they’re responding. Read on to better understand, benchmark, and prepare for the year to come! ","title":"How is 2023 shaping up for wedding pros?","slug":"state-of-the-industry","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6xTQvnu0PLRHdu2iX2D36K/ba19489578bc62ef6541275b2fa71892/pexels-jonathan-borba-9703865.jpg","altText":"How is 2023 shaping up for wedding pros?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Zola surveyed over 4,000 couples on their planning journeys to find out what’s shaping 2023. This report explores how and why these answers matter to wedding professionals.","title":"The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition","slug":"the-first-look-report-2023-wedding-pro-edition","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1b2kgD7ELk6Y0nurJIhPVC/2e23c9e37f5e2c4fb298f364c38a2b82/shingi-rice-DCXuZ7WzM9I-unsplash__1__copy.jpeg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023: Wedding Pro Edition"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Zola’s annual guide to wedding trends and budgets. Here's what's new in 2023...","title":"The First Look Report 2023","slug":"the-first-look-report-2023","topic":"Wedding trends","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2zcJgr4dnJctFWU9OddY94/3cbc6c57a171d66cd58708ec901913cd/1116_EA_FLR-Main_FLR_Report.jpg","altText":"The First Look Report 2023 Hero"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"In 2023, the most popular months to get engaged and married will look a bit familiar. It’s official: Everyone’s opting for these months—and here’s why.","title":"Most Popular Months to Get Engaged and Married in 2023","slug":"most-popular-months-to-get-engaged-and-married","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1RBNfTEOwI6UdlwKrEQqw0/8bddc5094111a16de83743ba5ec39212/1116_EA_FLR-Months_Everyones_Getting_Engaged.jpg","altText":"top months to get engaged and married"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:07.011Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"getting-married-in-dallas","title":"Getting Married in Dallas, TX: A Complete Guide","excerpt":"Are you getting married in Dallas? Our guide covers everything you need to know to plan the wedding of your dreams, from Texas marriage license info to local venues and more. ","publishedAt":"2021-07-12T22:53:31.483Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/ilEEHWFwiVEbtuyA1fUVf/8ce15a3050613e46067416b7e97b099c/bride-and-groom-sitting-on-hay-bale.jpg","altText":"bride and groom sitting on a hay bale"},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","body":"Are you getting married in Dallas? If so, the “Big D” (as locals call it) has so much to offer! They say everything’s bigger in Texas, and as home to both the nation’s largest arts district and metropolitan area, Dallas definitely lives up to its state’s reputation. \n\nFrom rustic barns and lakes to high-end industrial spaces, the Dallas-Fort Worth area has a plethora of venue options to envision your dream wedding. As one of the largest LGBTQ+ populations in Texas, same-sex couples will discover the diverse and welcoming community of Dallas. And if you desire Tex-Mex and food trucks at your wedding, this is the place to do it!\n\nIf this is your first time in the city, this guide is for you. Here, you’ll learn everything you need to know about getting married in Dallas, including the marriage license process, COVID-19 updates, local vendor options, and more. \n\nUse our jump-to links below to skip to what you need: \n\n- Places to Get Married in Dallas, TX \n- How to Obtain a Marriage License in Dallas \n- Dallas Wedding Trends \n- Real Weddings and Best Places for Photographs \n- LGBTQIA Marriages in Dallas, TX\n- How to Find Local Dallas Vendors \n- Dallas Wedding Guest Guide \n\n \n## Places to Get Married in Dallas, TX \nWith the slogan “Big things happen here,” you won’t expect anything less for [wedding venues in Dallas](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-venues). The city is full of unique sites and outdoor vicinities with breathtaking views. \n\nFind the size, setting, and style of your dreams with our list of prescreened venues throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area:\n\n- __Waterfront venues:__ Love the water? Opt for a venue overlooking White Rock Lake or Lake Ray Hubbard. Many lodges and ranches in Dallas offer this picturesque view for your wedding.\n- __Farms and ranches:__ The perfect combination of rustic and romantic, consider a barn venue on one of many farms and ranches throughout Dallas. With lush green acres and western ambiance, your wedding can embrace the Texas style. \n- __Hotels:__ Having a destination wedding? Numerous hotels in Dallas provide full-service wedding services, including indoor and outdoor spaces and lodging amenities. \n- __Gardens and parks:__ Whether small and intimate or large and extravagant, parks are a great option to host your wedding, rehearsal dinners, bridal luncheons, and more. Here you can enjoy the Texas countryside charm with beautiful backdrops of nature. \n- __Museums and galleries:__ With a famous art district full of extraordinary architecture and galleries, Dallas is where you’ll find unique venues to complement your personal style and taste. Choose from museums, industrial halls, and even the zoo to host your wedding!\n\n### Dallas County Courthouse Wedding\nIf you prefer to save money and have a quick, intimate wedding, you can get married at the Dallas County Courthouse. Simply complete your marriage license application [online](https://dallastx.eforms.kofile.com/48113/mlformal/) and afterwards you will receive an order number to book an appointment with the county clerk. In Texas, couples must wait 72 hours after receiving their marriage license to get married. \n\n \n## How to Obtain a Marriage License in Dallas\n__COVID-19 Update:__ The county clerk is only issuing marriage licenses to residents of Dallas County. Due to social distancing regulations, only couples receiving the marriage license may enter the county clerk’s office. All marriage license applications must be completed online to book an appointment at the office.\n\nTo receive your marriage license in Dallas County, here’s what to do: \n\n- __Book an appointment:__ You will have to complete the online marriage license application which will then provide an order number to schedule your appointment at the county clerk’s office. \n- __Appear in person:__ Both you and your partner must appear together before the county clerk to receive your marriage license. The only exception is if one party is a member of the armed forces on active duty. \n- __Provide proof of identity:__ Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, state I.D. card, current passport, military I.D. card, or certified birth certificate with a valid I.D. \n- __Pay the fee:__ The cost of a marriage license in Texas is $81. You can pay by credit or debit card, cash, or money order made payable to the Dallas County Clerk. \n- __Get married within the designated time frame:__ In Texas, you must wait 72 hours after obtaining your marriage license to legally get married. Couples must also perform their marriage ceremony within 90 days after receiving their marriage license before it expires.\n\n### Do I Need a Marriage License in Dallas, TX? \nYes, you will need to obtain a Texas marriage license from the county clerk to legally get married in Dallas County. Fortunately, any marriage license issued in the State of Texas can be used for wedding ceremonies in other states. \n\n### Where to Get Your Marriage License in Dallas, TX\nYou can apply online through the Dallas County official website for your marriage license to schedule an in-person appointment with the county clerk.\n\n### Can I Get Married the Same Day in Dallas?\nNo. Due to the 72-hour waiting period in Texas after receiving a marriage license, you cannot get married the same day in Dallas. \n\n \n## Dallas Wedding Trends \n\n![Dallas wedding trends](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/5VAvn44EnQbjCyxtRJPWwZ/2bcb11305ec8c94cfd00e0dfd303d10a/dallas-wedding-trends.jpg)\n\nFrom luxurious and glamorous to southern rustic and chic, wedding style options in Dallas are endless. Saying “I do” in Dallas exposes you to the Texas state of mind: delicious southern cuisine, live music, and comfy dress codes (pull out the cowboy boots!). If you’re thinking of a summer BBQ reception with mobile bars and homemade key lime pie for the [wedding cake](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-cake-ideas), you’re in the right place. And while not all Texas weddings are “large and in charge,” big and voluminous [wedding hairstyles](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-hairstyles) are definitely the southern way! \n\n### Average Cost of a Wedding in Dallas, TX \nThe average cost of a wedding in the Dallas-Fort Worth, TX area is around $26,000. Keep in mind that other factors, including number of guests, location, and season, can affect overall [wedding costs](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding). \n\n![average wedding costs in dallas](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/5XPbdscgASE2R8ipcMJ1rB/b4f317793104022c1d7bedd9f5c552a8/dallas-city-guide.png)\n\n### Best Times of Year for Weddings in Dallas\nThe season you choose to host your wedding plays a major role in your venue and style options. Before [choosing a wedding month](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choosing-your-wedding-month), here is some insight on climate and weather.\n\nWhen it comes to Dallas, the good news is you can experience year-round sunny weather. Summertime, especially July, is the hottest season, where temperatures can soar up to 100°F. Fall and winter are generally mild, with daytime highs averaging around 65°F. Springtime is usually bearable, but is also the rainiest season and known for occasional thunderstorms. \n\nDespite the temperature, humidity levels vary greatly season to season. Overall, if you’re shooting for an outdoor wedding, check in regularly on heatwave and humidity level warnings a couple of weeks before your wedding date. Having a plan B for your wedding venue is the best way to beat the heat. \n\n![Dallas seasonal guide chart](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/4v8HTi21WfdJmsE6N3281z/68a6db06d3e3e90b6233746e205de065/dallas-guide-chart.png)\n\n### Busiest Weeks in Dallas, TX \nBelow are a few popular events held annually in Dallas where you can expect high volume of traffic and tourism: \n\n- MLK Jr. Parade- __January__\n- Dallas St. Patrick’s Day Parade & Festival- __March__\n- Dallas Film Festival- __May__\n- Taste of Dallas- __June__\n- Deep Ellum Arts Festival- __September__\n- Dallas Pride festival & parade- __September__\n- Dallas Holiday Parade- __December__\n- BMW Dallas Marathon- __December__\n\n### Dallas Weddings and COVID-19 \nAs the situation of the pandemic is ever-evolving, Dallas County continues to update its [official website](https://www.dallascounty.org/covid-19/) daily on the number of positive COVID-19 cases in the area. As of March 2021, all Texas businesses are allowed to open at 100 percent capacity and face masks are not required.\n\nThe current travel advisories of Dallas follow the CDC recommendations, including maintaining social distancing and hand hygiene, and instructions to stay home if sick. Dallas residents and visitors can register through the county’s official website for the COVID vaccine as well as find a comprehensive list of COVID testing sites.\n\n \n## Real Dallas Weddings\nFrom [wedding colors](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-colors) to personalized ceremonies, these [real Dallas weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/dallas-tx) will help inspire your plans for the big day. Use our filters to find inspiration by season, trending styles, and location. \n\n[__Modern Black-Tie Wedding at Omni Hotel__](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding/modern-black-tie-wedding-at-omni-hotel)\n![Real Dallas Wedding at the Omni Hotel](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/26U9f1JdTVsRGxxrFi9dcH/5bb7449ee61863563944a2574b74c915/modern-black-tie-at-omni-hotel.jpg)\n\n[__Glam Winter Wedding at Hall on Dragon__](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding/glam-winter-wedding-at-the-hall-on-dragon)\n\n![Real Dallas Wedding Glam Winter](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/7ihemQGKPBO9fmR1OTJBxT/4c05102f34e8a718bce743b28428a882/glam-winter-wedding__1_.jpg)\n\n[__Whimsical Wedding by a River__](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding/whimsical-and-enchanting-wedding-by-a-river)\n\n![Real Dallas Wedding by a River](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/7vfmkcU76cc8a6pRTEb2Wu/a59663e4d54a098ef37fb8a0bdbcf762/whimsical-wedding-by-a-river.jpg)\n\n### Best Spots for Wedding Photos in Dallas \nThe Dallas-Fort Worth area is a bustling metropolitan area full of hidden gems. From vibrant murals to stunning architecture, you’ll definitely find great photo ops during your visit. Whether you’re out on the town for your bachelor(ette) party or looking for dreamy backdrops for your wedding photos, here are a few notable spots to consider:\n\n- [Pegasus at Omni Dallas](https://www.omnihotels.com/blog/art-omni-dallas/)\n- [Mandalay Canal](https://www.mandalaycanal.com/)\n- [White Rock Lake](https://www.dallasparks.org/235/White-Rock-Lake)\n- [Dallas Design District](https://dallasdesigndistrict.com/)\n- [Mustangs of Las Colinas](https://www.irvingarchivesandmuseum.com/mustangs-of-las-colinas)\n- [The Dallas Arboretum](https://www.dallasarboretum.org/)\n- [Deep Ellum](https://deepellumtexas.com/)\n\n![Best Photo Spots in Dallas TX](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/1yjl00LKLiHLKLx4KHjbf3/5f44e115b70ab232ca75297e81e73704/7-instagram-worthy-photo-spots-in-dallas.png)\n\n \n## LGBTQ+ Marriages in Dallas, TX\n\n![LGBTQ weddings in Dallas TX](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/2IHQAYZJinDoalj4aufEPt/e8981ac6ce524e360e2a03b67affe202/lgbtq-weddings-in-dallas.jpg)\n\nTexas has recognized same-sex marriage equality since 2015, after the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling of Obergefell vs. Hodges. Owing to its “Big things happen here” slogan, Dallas has the sixth-largest LGBTQ+ population in the nation, and the biggest in the state of Texas. The city is also home to the Cathedral of Hope, the world’s largest inclusive LGBTQ+ place of worship and Sue Ellen’s, one of the largest lesbian bars in the country. \n\nPlanning a same-sex wedding? Check out venue options in Oak Lawn and the Bishop Arts District, two Dallas neighborhoods known as prime gathering places of the LGBTQ+ community. From Dallas Pride (a month-long celebration) to dozens of gay-owned businesses, the diversity and inclusivity of Dallas will welcome you with open arms. \n\n \n## How to Find Local Dallas Vendors \nNow that you’re set on the “Big D'' as your wedding location, it’s time to jumpstart your wedding to-do list! The next step is to book your vendors and venues, and quickly! To help, we have a list of local vendors in which you can sort by price, venue style, wedding theme, and more: \n\n- [Venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-venues)\n- [Florists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-florists)\n- [Caterers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-catering)\n- [Beauty professionals](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-hair-makeup)\n- [Cakes and desserts](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-cakes-desserts) \n- [Photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-photographers) \n- [Videographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/dallas-tx--wedding-videographers) \n\n \n## Dallas Wedding Guest Guide\n\n![Dallas Wedding Guest Guide](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/3fLd8bMUifPYu2pyeiG23j/2680e7a47ef8dc556ceb58c23a653c66/dallas-wedding-guest-guide.jpg)\n\nAs for wedding guests, there’s much to prepare before arrival. To assist in logistics, we’ve got you covered on tips of getting to Dallas, places to stay, and fun things to do.\n\n### How to Get to Dallas, TX \nAs one of the largest cities in Texas, there are plenty of ways to get to Dallas, depending on your method of transportation. Best of all, Dallas has more domestic nonstop flights than any other city in the U.S.\n\n__Arriving by plane:__ Visitors have the option of flying into one of Dallas’ two major airports, the [Dallas Fort Worth International Airport](https://www.dfwairport.com/) (DFW) and the [Dallas Love Field Airport](https://www.dallas-lovefield.com/) (DAL).\n\n__Arriving by train:__ A cheaper alternative to flying, you can get to Dallas, on [Amtrak](https://www.amtrak.com/stations/dal) from over 300 different cities. The Dallas train station, Eddie Bernice Johnson Union Station, is located downtown and near many popular tourist attractions, including Reunion Tower and the Dallas Convention Center.\n\n__Getting around by rail:__ The [DART](https://www.dart.org/riding/dartrail.asp) rail system in Dallas has over 65 stations throughout the city, including the DFW airport. One-way fares cost $2.50, but you can opt for an All Day Pass (unlimited rides) for $6. \n\n__Getting around by car:__ Since there are a lot of connections, freeways, and heavy traffic in Dallas, some visitors may not feel comfortable driving in the city. In this case, Dallas has plenty of rideshare options, including Lyft and Uber. \n\n### Best Dallas Neighborhoods for Out-of-Town Guests \n\n![Best Dallas Neighborhoods](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/39jMlqTHFxxXUqUU6XunH7/6e4055d2495130ac5173e78fb8266cab/best-dallas-neighborhoods.jpg)\n\nAfter planning your arrival to Dallas, the next step is booking a place to stay. From trendy restaurants to eclectic art galleries, there’s a place that suits your tastes! Below are our top recommendations for neighborhoods in Dallas County:\n\n__Arts District:__ Do you have a passion for art? This downtown hub is the nation’s largest urban art district. Walk the 20 square blocks of creativity to see performing arts, the Nasher Sculpture center, museums, and more! \n\n__Fair Park:__ From concerts and aquariums to sports and live music, this family-friendly neighborhood has something for everyone. Fair Park is also home to The State Fair of Texas, where people from all over the world come to experience all things Texas: southern fried cooking, the largest car show in the southwest, rodeos, and other entertainment.\n\n__Trinity Groves:__ The best destination in town for foodies, this West Dallas neighborhood is 15 acres of restaurants and trails. Trinity Groves is where you can find some of the best Tex-Mex, seafood and barbeque cuisine, as well as relaxing spots for hiking and picnicking.\n\n__Downtown Dallas:__ Looking for great food and entertainment? Downtown Dallas is where you’ll find luxurious shopping, walking tours, and southern cuisine. Stroll through the West End to find a strip of shops, bars, museums, and the Dallas Farmers Market. \n\n__Design District:__ Just two miles north of downtown, the Design District boasts upscale art galleries, antique shops, and numerous dining options. You’ll also find the Dallas Market Center, the most complete wholesale marketplace in the world. \n\n### 10 Fun Things to Do in Dallas, TX\n\n![Fun Things to Do in Dallas TX](//images.contentful.com/77l22z9el0aa/3lTTHYnGQpK5VYuUJjl6a/45974bfa7e3cd3b6f37e6e033ade8fb4/fun-things-to-do-in-dallas.jpg)\n\nFrom diverse neighborhoods to prime shopping destinations, there’s so much to see and experience while in the “Big D.” Whether you’re a Cowboys fan or a foodie lover, Dallas has something for you! Here are 10 of the top attractions to visit while you’re in town:\n\n1. __Explore the Dallas World Aquarium:__ Take the kids to see penguins up close and personal! Located in central downtown Dallas, the aquarium is easy to get to and offers full-service restaurants.\n2. __Check out the Dallas Museum of Art:__ Located in the downtown Art District, this art museum is one of the largest in the country. Enjoy over 25,000 works of art from diverse cultures, talks, tours, and more.\n3. __Catch an event at the AT&T Stadium:__ Home of the Dallas Cowboys, this retractable stadium is the largest domed structure in the world! From the Super Bowl to concerts by Paul McCartney and Beyonce, you find an event here all year long. \n4. __Enjoy a show at the Medieval Times Dinner Theater:__ Fun and family-friendly, this 11th century-styled castle will take you back in time to knights and swordfights. Tickets for the tournament include a four-course feast! \n5. __Visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial:__ Have a love for history? This museum offers public programs for visitors to learn about the life, presidency, and legacy of JFK. \n6. __Texas Motor Speedway:__ Did someone say NASCAR? Enjoy races, camping areas, five-star dining, and more! The Speedway even allows you to book and host events, including weddings!\n7. __Visit the Dallas Zoo:__ This 106-acre zoo is the largest in Texas. See over 2,000 animals, including rare and endangered species, along with interactive and educational exhibits for the kids. \n8. __Relax in Klyde Warren Park:__ This urban green space sits in central Dallas and is a popular gathering place for visitors and locals alike. From yoga retreats to outdoor concerts and films, there’s always something to do!\n9. __Listen to music at the House of Blues Dallas:__ For nearly three decades, the House of Blues has been the home of folk art, southern-inspired food, and live music. Enjoy an evening of dinner, cocktails, and shows. \n10. __Take dancing lessons at the Red River Dance Hall:__ Last but not least, if you’re in Dallas, this night club is the place to go! From live country music and swing dance lessons to a mechanical bull, you can say you’ve truly experienced Texas! \n\nWith everything you need to plan the perfect Dallas wedding, Zola is here for you every step of the way. From building your [wedding registry](https://www.zola.com/wedding-registry) to customizing [invites](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop), we’ll help bring your wedding vision to life. \n\n__Sources:__ [Dallas County Clerk](https://www.dallascounty.org/government/county-clerk/marriage-license.php) | [Visit Dallas](https://www.visitdallas.com/)","tag":"How-To ","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:06.270Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"can-you-have-a-wedding-at-glacier-national-park","title":"Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?","excerpt":"Have you been dreaming of a Glacier National Park wedding? Good news: it’s possible. Just be sure to follow these guidelines for a successful wedding day.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-07T01:11:40.481Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5Jy7vb8i2MAVYfL0QGM5ts/7145d37630abd3b886cd97af9abf133b/Hero_IntimateMountainElopementatGlacierNationalPark_40WattPhoto.jpg","altText":"Can You Have a Wedding at Glacier National Park?"},"heroCredit":"40 Watt Photo","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Good news: Couples who have set their sights on celebrating their love in Glacier National Park can, in fact, do so with a valid Special Use Permit. \n- You’ll be required to include details regarding the anticipated number of guests and vehicles, as well as any necessary equipment. The more in-depth you can be, the better. \n- As with any national park, be sure to leave no trace. Respect the wildlife of the area and do your part to preserve the space for future generations to enjoy.","body":"You’re getting married in Montana but not just anywhere in Montana. You and your spouse-to-be will be making it official amidst the alpine meadows of Glacier National Park. Yes, you can host your dream wedding event in one of the United States’ most pristine parks—but it won’t be quite as easy as simply saying “I do” in a normal [wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues). \n\nBecause this idyllic Montana wedding venue is part of protected land, there are a few hoops you’ll have to jump through in order to make sure your wedding ceremony is not only stunning, but also respectful to the nature that surrounds you. But don’t worry: We’ll cover it all, including: \n\n- Park Permits\n- Advanced Booking\n- Applicable Fees\n- Everything You Need to Plan Your Glacier Wedding\n\nPack your canteen, hiking boots, and a whole lot of love. Your Glacier National Park wedding adventure is about to begin. \n\n## Getting a Permit: Your Step-By-Step Guide \nYou can have a wedding at Glacier National Park, but you cannot do so without proper permission. Here’s how to apply for a wedding permit at Glacier National Park:\n\n \n- __Download the Application:__ Not sure how to obtain a permit for your big day? Naturally, all you have to do is apply. [Download the application](https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/upload/NPS-10-930s-Application-for-SUP-Short-Form-Weddings-1-8-21.pdf) for a Special Use Permit, and follow the steps as prompted. \n\n- __Be Specific:__ When it comes to getting your permit approved for a Glacier National Park wedding, specificity is key. More isn’t always better, but it certainly is when it comes to day-of details. What’s the precise time you plan to hold your ceremony? What kind of special equipment will you need? How many guests and vehicles do you anticipate having? Include as much detail as you can on the application form to avoid confusion and back-and-forth exchanges that only lengthen the process. \n\n \n- __Submit Your Application:__ Send your completed application by mail or email. Along with the application itself, you’ll need to pay a processing fee of $125 via check or money order. If you wish to pay by credit card, contact the National Park Service via email (glac_sup@nps.gov) to specify your preferred method of payment. \n\n- __Important:__ Paying the application fee and paying for park entrance are two entirely different procedures. The $125 permit application fee does not cover the park entrance fees you’ll need to pay for separately on your wedding day. All visitors to the park must have a valid entrance pass. \n\n- __Wait to Hear Back:__ After submitting your application for a Special Use Permit, the National Park Service will review it and, upon approval, formalize a final permit which they’ll send to you either by mail or email. \n\n- __Important:__ Just because you’ve received the permit from the National Park Service does not mean that you’ve been given the green light to proceed with your wedding. First, you’ll need to sign the permit yourself and return a copy to the NPS. \n\n- __Celebrate Your Love:__ Hooray, you’ve been approved for a wedding ceremony at Glacier National Park. First, take a moment and propose a toast to landing a spot at this highly sought-after wedding venue. Then, it’s time to dive into the details of the day. \n\nAgain, remember to include as many details as you can about your event when applying for a permit. Use the Zola Wedding Checklist to help you keep track of deadlines, prioritize your to-dos, and track various wedding-day details.\n\nHere are a couple more reminders you’ll want to include on the list:\n\n- When completing your application, you’ll be able to submit the preferred date for your wedding along with a couple of alternative dates. Since there tends to be a high volume of applicants, be flexible with the dates you submit and don’t send out any save-the-dates until you’ve been approved. \n\n- You may apply up to one year prior to your proposed wedding date and as late as one month before. Be sure to set up a timeline that allows you to complete all of the necessary steps without missing your window of opportunity. \n\n## Getting Married at Glacier National Park: FAQs \nWhat accessories will you pair with your wedding day outfit? How will you keep track of guest count? Who will supply you with a to-die-for bouquet as you float down the aisle?\n\nNo need to worry. Zola takes the guesswork out of those questions. Shop for all of your must-have wedding accents at the [Zola Boutique](https://www.zola.com/shop/category/wedding-shop), find your future florist, and organize your guest list with ease.\n\n*As for your park-specific questions, read on.* \n\n### Why Do I Need a Permit to Get Married at Glacier National Park?\nPut simply: It’s the law. Glacier National Park is resting its flawlessly beautiful self atop one million acres of protected land. So it’s safe to say that the park staff members have their work cut out for them. Part of their job? Making sure the space is being used in a way that’s both enjoyable for the visitors and respectful to the surrounding land and all that inhabits it. \n\nTo avoid overburdening the area with excessive crowds and potentially harmful activities, park rangers have to closely monitor all happenings occurring within its boundaries. Be sure to follow each step closely when applying for your permit to increase the likelihood of getting approved. \n\n### Where Can I Get Married Within the Park? \nWith one million acres of stunning landscapes, you and your partner are bound to find a corner to call your own on your wedding day. Not all of it is yours for the taking, however. Glacier National Park places restrictions on where, exactly, wedding ceremonies can take place. \n\nAcross the many districts within Glacier National Park, you’re sure to find a space that fulfills your vision, accommodates your guests, and is as minimally invasive to the protected land as possible. \n\nFind your dream wedding destination in:\n\n- __Lake McDonald District:__ With a number of amphitheaters, picnic areas, and scenic pull-out spots, you’ll find lovely little locations for your vows. Note that privacy is impossible to guarantee, the time limit is often only one hour, and tables and chairs aren’t always allowed. The maximum capacity varies between 15 and 30 people during peak season.\n\n- __North Fork District:__ For a waterside wedding, you might like Juniper River Access, Bowman Lake, or Kintla Lake. Just note: All have a one-hour time limit and only allow small ceremonies only. \n\n- __Two Medicine District:__ Campgrounds, picnic areas, and lakeside locations abound in Two Medicine District. There are six separate venues to choose from with varied maximum capacities, parking accessibility, and equipment restrictions that promise a simple ceremony.\n\n- __Triple Divide (St. Mary) District:__ Choose between the St. Mary and Rising Sun Amphitheaters, the authentic 1913 Ranger Station, Wild Goose Island Pullout, and more unique spots in this area. Similar time and equipment restrictions apply and catered events are forbidden in many areas. \n\n- __Chief Mountain District:__ There are plenty of areas and amenities surrounding the Many Glacier Hotel: the beach, the green out behind the lodge, the stunning deck, or the amphitheater. Privacy isn’t guaranteed across the board and most areas do not allow furniture, food, and other props, but the views make up for a lot of the limitations.\n\n### Is It Possible to Elope in Glacier National Park? \nIf you and your partner prefer to spontaneously celebrate your love, it could be possible to do so at Glacier National Park. You’ll still need to follow the procedure in order to obtain a Special Use Permit and you’ll need to give at least one month’s notice to the National Park Service prior to the date of your tentative elopement. \n\nIf you’re able to secure a date and a location, there’s not much else stopping you from saying “I do” in secret or in the presence of just a few family members and friends. \n\n## Settling on a Location\nThere are so many beautiful settings to choose from within Glacier National Park. For a complete list of all of your venue options, visit the [National Park Service](https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/weddings.htm) website. They’ll provide you with all the specifics regarding capacity, equipment restrictions, hours of availability, and more. \n\nHere are a few standouts for you to start considering right now:\n\n- __Avalanche Amphitheater__\n\n- __Maximum Occupancy During Peak Season:__ 30 \n- __Hours Available:__ 1 hour limit\n- __Additional Notes:__ Bringing additional tables and chairs is okay, however, guests should be advised that parking is limited during peak season. \n\n- __Running Eagle Falls__\n\n- __Maximum Occupancy During Peak Season:__ 12\n- __Hours Available:__ 1 hour limit\n- __Additional Notes:__ Additional tables and chairs are not allowed, and privacy is not guaranteed. \n\n- __Big Bend__\n\n- __Maximum Occupancy During Peak Season:__ 15\n- __Hours Available:__ 30 minute limit before 9 am or after 5 pm only \n- __Additional Notes:__ Additional tables and chairs are not allowed, and privacy is not guaranteed. \n\n- __Walton Picnic Area__\n\n- __Maximum occupancy during peak season:__ 15\n- __Hours available:__ 1-hour limit\n- __Additional notes:__ No additional tables or chairs are allowed. A pit toilet is available as well as three to four picnic tables. \n\n- __Lake McDonald Lodge Beach__\n\n- __Maximum Occupancy During Peak Season:__ 15\n- __Hours Available:__ 1 hour limit\n- __Additional Notes:__ Allows up to four chairs on the sand, but only for individuals with disabilities. \n\nAs you work out the logistics of where your event will take place, keep in mind that no space can hold more than 30 guests. If a small wedding is what you’ve been envisioning all along, Glacier National Park will be a feasible and functional choice. \n\nFor couples with a more sizable guest list, consider inviting only those closest to you to the ceremony itself. Later, you can gather the entire crowd for a reception outside of the park with enough space for everyone to comfortably eat, drink, and dance the night away. Just don’t forget to organize your invitees with Zola’s always-handy [Guest List Manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests). \n\n## Everything Else You Should Know About Getting Married at Glacier National Park \nBefore sending you on your way to Lake McDonald, Logan Pass, and all the other natural gems within Glacier National Park, there are a few more details you’ll want to account for. \n\nAside from permits and park logistics, take a look at everything else you need to know before your big day:\n\n- __Parking Isn’t Guaranteed:__ You’ll want to keep park capacity in mind when it comes to building your guest list. You’d love for everyone you hold dear to take part in your special day, but simply put, it just might not be possible. Since parking reservations are not accepted at Glacier National Park, you’ll have to find ways of beating the first-come, first-served system. Encourage your guests to share vehicles and travel together to take advantage of limited spaces in the parking lots. \n\n- __Keep the Music Low:__ The music playing as you, your partner, and your wedding party waltz down the aisle can’t be loud enough to cause your neighbors—both human and animal—any alarm. Detail the specifics of your ceremony playlist and sound system in your permit application. Keep things relatively quiet and you should be given the green light. \n\n- __Pictures Without a Permit Are Okay:__ If you and your partner have decided to hold your formal ceremony somewhere outside park boundaries, you might consider stopping in for a few photos instead. There’s no need to acquire a permit if all you want to do is take a few photos together against the breathtaking backdrop. Just be mindful of trail signs. Getting “The Shot” isn’t worth the risk of destroying the local fauna. \n\n- __No Passes for Logan Pass:__ There are plenty of charming corners in which you can exchange vows with your spouse-to-be. Logan Pass, however, is not one of them. Glacier National Park does not grant permission for couples to wed inside this protected area. Snapping a few photos is okay, however, as long as you’re mindful of the delicate alpine plants growing in that section of the park. \n\n- __Plan Around Peak Season:__ May through October is the busiest time of the year at Glacier National Park. With pristine weather conditions and blossoming flowers, it’s no wonder this time of year draws the biggest crowds. That’s not to say you should avoid getting married during these warm weather months—just be sure to plan wisely and plenty in advance. \n\n- __Be Mindful of the Weather:__ Couples getting married in Glacier National Park should know that it may be impossible to reschedule events cancelled due to extreme weather. The NPS may try to work with you to find another day, but there aren’t any guarantees. If you’re unable to use your permit due to weather, refunds on the permit fee may not be possible either. \n\n \n- __Leave No Trace:__ Whether you’re getting married in Glacier National Park or simply visiting as a tourist, the same rule applies: leave no trace. It’s likely because of the park’s natural splendor that you’ve chosen to get married here in the first place. Do your part to keep it protected and in tip-top shape for future generations by leaving it just as you found it. Dispose of waste properly, respect the wildlife, and carry out what you carry in.\n\n## Plan Your Park Wedding With Zola\nIt’s time to hit the trails and follow the path to wedded bliss at Glacier National Park. The permit application process and special considerations will all be worth it when you and your partner get to exchange vows in the heart of one of Mother Nature’s most beautiful wedding destinations. \n\n- Look to the wedding experts at Zola next to tie up all the other loose ends in the wedding planning process. Here’s what you can do when you use Zola:\n\n- Keep your guests informed about all the specifics of your national park venue on your [customizable wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). All the details will be in one easily accessible place. \n\n- Share the news of your wedding day and invite the most cherished members of your crew to attend with a [paper suite collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) that matches your outdoor aesthetic. \n\nUse the [vendor search tool](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to book a photographer. With a backdrop this stunning, you’ll want every detail captured. \n\nWe’ve packed up all of the essential planning tools and are ready to help you on your big adventure. Say “I do” to [Zola](https://www.zola.com/), and let’s wander our way to a one-of-a-kind Glacier National Park wedding. ","tag":"Inspiration","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Zion National Park weddings are the stuff of daydreams, but they can also become your reality. To wed at Zion, make sure that you meet the requirements and follow all regulations.","title":" Can You Have a Wedding at Zion National Park?","slug":"can-you-have-a-wedding-at-zion-national-park","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5dCuY0VRz0RwIF24US2ciQ/0b2f324f00eaf415112076293248e86a/Hero_ZionNationalParkMountainTopStyledShoot_HazelandLacePhotography.jpg","altText":"Can You Have a Wedding at Zion National Park?"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Stay within your wedding budget! See average wedding cost breakdowns by state, guest size, and vendor service, plus money-saving tips from the experts.","title":"How much does the average wedding cost in 2025?","slug":"whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/25FItUWv901zAj6EyEJu4B/fe6ac2437279c146282875bd93e98921/0401_Average_cost_wedding_stats_header.jpg","altText":"How Much Do Weddings Cost in 2025 Graphic"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Plan your ideal honeymoon with our curated destinations list. From breathtaking beaches to charming cities, discover the perfect romantic escape.","title":"34 Best Honeymoon Destinations for 2024","slug":"best-honeymoon-destinations","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/xMfB590ouqVlhSF5M5gmO/3e7b6ada89c87837e1c9eca1c7e686c4/best-honeymoon-destinations-hero.jpeg","altText":"Couple holding hands walking on a beach"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for simple vow renewal ideas? Discover top tips and recommendations from the pros at Zola today. ","title":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas","slug":"simple-vow-renewal-ideas","topic":"Relationship advice","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4PZSW1hObQ6TnM557egpbG/3ee842eade872a59be2ffc64a370f857/inline_unsplash__19___1_.jpg","altText":"Simple Vow Renewal Ideas"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"There are many benefits to having a small wedding. To get you started, here's our wedding planning checklist and things to consider.","title":"The Small Wedding Checklist You Need","slug":"the-small-wedding-checklist-you-need","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2AVuIm2AbEIiZ5LPNGXsBQ/aaef55a70fa6b17967732410314700a6/Hero_Zola__24_.jpg","altText":"Small Wedding Checklist"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"When it comes to your wedding, you already have enough on your plate. Let the wedding experts help with our ultimate wedding checklist for the bride.","title":"Wedding Checklist for the Bride","slug":"wedding-checklist-for-the-bride","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/GTKTIjGXez9A45dVFqXIA/cfd2bf72e4b5e845d4c99f8bcd1d7cf9/Hero_NewEnglandWeddingatLakeviewPavilion_K_OPhoto.jpg","altText":"Wedding Checklist for the Bride"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Engagement photos tend to all look the same. Stand out and take photos that feel unique to you with our guide to taking authentic engagement photos.","title":"How to Take Authentic-Looking Engagement Photos","slug":"how-to-take-authentic-engagement-photos","topic":"Getting engaged","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4Nl5od8BdY275rrxxoENZW/f9a8e573c33fb275b5a1f4c0b991f9c4/How-to-Take-Authentic-looking-engagement-Photos.jpg","altText":"engaged couple takes unique engagement photos"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for inspiration for your boho themed wedding? Check out these rustic aisle runner ideas to add an extra flair to your wedding.","title":"Rustic Aisle Runner Decoration for a Boho Wedding","slug":"rustic-aisle-runner-decoration-for-a-boho-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/z9cLg7dVENPZwh6moe4j7/da5d8197490f75dc24fa7ffb1eb3677f/hero_unsplash.jpg","altText":"Rustic Aisle Runner Decoration for a Boho Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:05.402Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"the-top-35-minority-owned-voc-venues-in-nyc","title":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC","excerpt":"Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you. ","author":"Anni Irish","publishedAt":"2022-11-14T16:07:36.928Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37AtYy73sCzbUhC2ACYOMC/6bbee0af098db310e70a49b5cd505248/Vivian_Pang_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events"},"heroCredit":"Vivian Pang","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- We're bringing you a list of our favorite Black, Asian, Latinx, and LGBTQ-owned businesses in NYC from all major sectors of the wedding industry.\n- From chosing your planners, photographers and videographers, makeup artists and florists, bakers and caterers, and venues and entertainment, there are a lot of moving parts to consider when putting your dream wedding together.\n- To make wedding planning a lot easier, check out some of the most talented people in the wedding industry who are [available to book via Zola today](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors).\n","body":"Supporting local, minority-owned businesses is incredibly important in today's world. In a city as diverse as New York City that also means there are an overwhelming number of options to choose from when it comes to finding venues and vendors for your wedding. If you’re in the process of planning your wedding, but don't know where to start, don't worry. \n\nWhen putting together your wedding dream team, being thoughtful about whom you want to work with is important. Choosing to work with wedding professionals that [align with you and your partner](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-find-wedding-vendors-who-align-with-your-values) can also be a really empowering way to start your new life together.\n\nTo help make the process easier, we put together a list of some of the best known people in the industry, across different sectors ranging from wedding planners, makeup artists, florists, DJs, photographers, and more. Each of these wedding professionals represent a diverse group, and include wedding businesses that are Black-owned, Asian-owned, Hispanic or Latinx-owned, LGBTQ-owned, Native American-owned, and female-owned, too. \n\n\n## Planners \n\n[Wedding planners](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners) are the linchpin when it comes to putting together your big day. Often, they have working and pre-existing relationships with many people in the wedding industry, and thus can make the process of organizing your wedding go as smoothly as possible. Here are several wedding planners from across NYC who represent a number of communities:\n\n### 1. [pearl lee Creative](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/pearl-lee-creative) (Asian and Black-owned)\n\n![pearl lee Creative](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3z79VDtqlEWI1iydOPyIHg/c2e0daab652ef60fe05f925998430060/Pearl_Lee_Events_The_Top_35_Minority_Owned_VoC_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [pearl lee Creative](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/pearl-lee-creative)'s listing*\n\npearl lee Creative is a female, Asian and Black-owned business that is composed of two friends Pearl and Kayla. Using their years of expertise in party planning, they want to help you plan the wedding of your dreams in the best and most affordable way possible. Contact pearl lee Creative and get started today.\n\n### 2. [Events by Sheavonne](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/events-by-sheavonne) (Black-owned)\n\n![Events by Sheavonne](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/XrKs7weeRag3cM1Zpner2/16b75ee47b8b1cfa500e83d7adc524f6/Events_by_Sheavonne_The_Top_35_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Events by Sheavonne](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/events-by-sheavonne)'s listing*\n\nWith nearly two decades of party and wedding planning experience, Events by Sheavonne is a go-to professional in the industry. Sheavonne's eagle eye attention to detail, exclusive network of vendors that she has cultivated over the years, and her desire to bring each couple's dream wedding to life makes her one of the best in the industry. Learn more about Events by Sheavonne and consider working with her as you start the next chapter of your life together.\n\n### 3. [Nomade Weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/nomade-weddings) (Latinx-owned) \n\n![Nomade Weddings](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3AZ7Y70BEUyTTtkgun8ZPV/c5b140e4de57493b928f33925f95f19d/Nomade_Weddings_The_Top_35_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Nomade Weddings](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/nomade-weddings)'s listing*\n\nLocated in Jersey City, Nomade Weddings is a primer planning service that is Latinx owned. The team at Nomade Weddings pays meticulous attention to detail, and they have the ability to help craft a wedding from either the most specific plans or from the ground up (if you don't know where to start). They pride themselves on working closely with your and your partner to make your big day special.\n\n### 4. [One 15 Events](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/one-15-events) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![One 15 Events](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5GWWCL5lLQq5SS2DuTia8x/cbf229bf3c80260ef39aa5e8deb847f4/One_15_Events_The_Top_35_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [One 15 Events](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-planners/one-15-events)'s listing*\n\nErica and Alana Crasner, co-owners of One 15 Events, know just what special elements go into planning a momentous event. With almost 16 years of wedding planning between them, Erica and Alana plan every event as if it’s their own. Their ability to make the most unique elements of a couple shine on their wedding, while infusing special touches that only they can provide make them a popular choice. Learn more about [One 15 Events](https://www.one15events.com/) and consider booking with them today.\n\n## Photographers and Videographers \n\nCapturing the once in a lifetime moments at your wedding is vital. That's why hiring [photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers) and [videographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers) that are on board with your vision and can perfectly capture every second of your big day, while making you look great in the process, is everything. \n\n### 1. [Mike Zhu Films](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/mike-zhu-films) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Mike Zhu Films](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5aZWXtkWpBub61dVigULeu/77ad133ca997723c08d7fd476e46f5f8/Mike_Zhu_Films_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Mike Zhu Films](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/mike-zhu-films)'s listing*\n\nMark and Daphne Zhu are an NYC-based videographer and photographer company. When it comes to documenting your wedding, the Zhus knows how important it is to capture the special moments that will become the ones that you will cherish for the rest of your life. With both video and photography options, Zhu Films has got you covered for all the big moments that you want to make sure that you’ll remember for the rest of your life.\n\n### 2. [Impressenshi](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/impressenshi) (Asian-owned)\n\n![Impressenshi](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/b9E5PsIhUj5lacUaLrRXW/bb73f512f76feec84334940265d8bf25/Impressenshi_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Impressenshi](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/impressenshi)'s listing*\n\nOriginally from Malaysia, Senshi, the owner of Impressenshi, is a NYC-based wedding photographer. Inclusivity is the key to how Senshi approaches taking photographs, and she goes out of her way to make sure that everyone involved in your special day feels included. Impressenshi goes above and beyond to get the shots that you will cherish for the rest of your life.\n\n### 3. [The Acquahs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/the-acquahs) (Black-owned) \n\n![The Acquahs](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3fiYJbwDBDku795Ce1QsDt/4ad907ec593488cb04ac62654bff5fff/The_Acquahs_The_Top_35_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Acquahs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/the-acquahs)'s listing*\n\nJones and Dashana Acquah are the owners and masterminds behind The Acquahs, a Brooklyn-based video production company. This husband and wife duo strive to bring you the best when it comes to capturing the moments that you will want to have forever. Having been through the wedding process themselves, and having worked with many wedded couples, they know exactly what to do to get the shots that matter most, and they are prepared to cover all your wedding-based events.\n\n### 4. [Just a Love Story](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/just-a-love-story) (Black-owned) \n\n![Just A Love Story](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1gsoKnhB7MLjB3WDBw4q7o/e016d667e9ce5e13356b63afe519db53/Just_A_Love_Story_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Just a Love Story](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/just-a-love-story)'s listing*\n\nTori-Ann Taylor is the owner and photographer behind the camera at Just a Love Story. Taylor goes above and beyond to get to know her clients, to make them feel comfortable, and to get the perfect shots on their big day. With seven years of photography experience, you know that you're in good hands.\n\n### 5. [Luis Zepeda Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/luis-zepeda-photography) (Latinx-owned) \n\n![Luis Zepeda Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2LvBI4W2eP946Q4VWXmGxV/9e22774a7f018ac5e73d1da4e34d709b/Luis_Zepeda_Photography_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Luis Zepeda Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/luis-zepeda-photography)'s listing*\n\nLuis Zepeda brings over eight years of photography and editorial experience. And, when it comes to capturing the perfect shots for your wedding, his trained eye and keen attention to detail have made him a cut above the rest. Zepeda's friendly demeanor and his ability to put people at ease also translates into the photographs he takes that will last a lifetime.\n\n### 6. [East of Eden](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/east-of-eden) (Latinx-owned) \n\n![East of Eden](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1O2gFsTJlihcysR4h0JdRe/76f01afcff6e35dd417ef806cdce968c/East_of_Eden_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.png)\n*Photo from [East of Eden](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-videographers/east-of-eden)'s listing*\n\nBenjamin Doughty and Christina Rosado are the the owners and videographers behind East of Eden, an NYC-based company. They are looking to tell your unique story, and, with their help and expertise, they capture all the gorgeous moments of your wedding.Through their creative and cinematic approach, you will want to revisit your wedding video for the rest of your life.\n\n### 7. [Justin McCallum Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/justin-mccallum-photography) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Justin McCallum Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/11Cqu8I3RfooTtK0WXANww/3fd515914dc1faa07acddbb0e08340d3/Justin_McCallum_Photography_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Justin McCallum Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/justin-mccallum-photography) 's listing*\n\nJustin McCallum is a photographer that places the stories of the people he is working with in all the images that he takes. Whether you want to capture those tender, loving moments between you and your partner on your wedding day, or cut loose on the dance floor with your friends and family, McCallum's easygoing nature helps him get every shot you want, so that you can look back on them forever.\n\n### 8. [Marilyn Lamanna Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/marilyn-lamanna-photography) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Marillyn Lamanna Photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6bWNBPVrwgozkeeflzfy6b/86d3ec6b6af7a034822c7c992fb3b1cb/Marillyn_Lamanna_Photography_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Marilyn Lamanna Photography](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/marilyn-lamanna-photography)'s listing*\n\nMarilyn Lamanna's love of photography comes through in every image that she captures. Her zest for life and desire to capture the stories of those around her is evident in the photographs she takes of couples and the wedding celebration. Her artistic eye and creative approach will produce beautiful photographs of your big day.\n\n### 9. [Shelby Philips](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/shelby-phillips-photography) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Shelby Philips](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1nowvhI0jNJ8NB9odDIL8p/8edf18a2d8c8fdc114fe9276460476d6/Shelby_Philips_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Shelby Philips](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-photographers/shelby-phillips-photography)'s listing*\n\nShelby Phillips is an NYC-based photographer that prioritizes her relationship with each client. This means that she gets to know you and your partner, as well as the kinds of photos that you are after, so that she can then put a plan into action. Phillips will go above and beyond to capture every moment of your wedding day, and you will love the end result.\n\n## Beauty Artists and Florists \n\nSome of the most important wedding details come down to beauty and flowers. Flowers can set a tone and help to enhance your big day. And, ranging from hair to makeup, feeling good and looking great are all vital things that you need for your big day. \n\n### 1. [Juju Glamour](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/juju-glamour) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Juju Glamour](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/42uXNKMyhPT3mviP9X5Pyn/f8f56fc3af30932de918dd261547fa9e/Juju_Glamour_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.webp)\n*Photo from [Juju Glamour](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/juju-glamour)'s listing*\n\nJuju Glamour, owned and operated by Judy Chung, is a world-class makeup artist who wants to make you and your wedding party look and feel your best. Chung brings over a decade of beauty and wedding industry experience, and her work has been featured in a number of national and international campaigns. With Juju Glamor you know that you’re in great hands, as she will make sure that the look you have in mind is delivered flawlessly.\n\n### 2. [Truly Happy Beauty](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/truly-happy-beauty-llc) (Latinx-owned)\n\n![Truly Happy Beauty](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1i7SWeTbT07TGpLGAnd4tW/83b8b7c167e689a667ba762342fc2665/Truly_Happy_Beauty_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Truly Happy Beauty](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/truly-happy-beauty-llc)'s listing*\n\nMargie Bresciani, owner of Truly Happy Beauty, brings over a decade of commercial beauty industry combined with bridal experience. This resume has resulted in Bresciani helping to make wedding parties look gorgeous for over a decade in the Metro NYC area and beyond. Her capable team specializes in makeup and hair styling services, so no matter the look that you have in mind, the Truly Happy Beauty team will work with you to make it a reality.\n\n### 3. [Tanaya J Makeup](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/tanaya-j-makeup) (Black-owned)\n\n![Tanaya J Makeup](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4AmsdG1sJopqcbctagQEIN/c3c8aed467b39d8d419a5bcc6fe9e886/Tanaya_J_Makeup_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Tanaya J Makeup](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/tanaya-j-makeup)'s listing*\n\nTanaya J has over 15 years of experience in the beauty industry, and her results are the best reflection of her expertise. She has worked on wedding day, editorial, fashion, beauty, and television/film makeup, so you can be assured that Tanya J Makeup will produce a stunning look for your walk down the aisle.\n\n### 4. [Henna by Naty](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/henna-by-naty) (Latinx-owned) \n\n![Henna by Naty](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dta4yKn12SgGVP8jFWvP0/4e0b34934b0e095d1a26b02443a6cbf7/Henna_by_Naty_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Henna by Naty](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-hair-makeup/henna-by-naty)'s listing*\n\nHenna is a beautiful art form that has been around for centuries, and if you’re looking for a practitioner for your wedding, Henna by Naty is it. With a background in fine arts and graphic design, plus over 10 years of experience, Natalie (aka Naty) wants to connect and empower people through the henna that she creates for them. Naty wants to bridge cultural gaps and educate people about this practice, while also creating beautiful henna designs for your wedding and other special events.\n\n### 5. [Koat Floral](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/koat-floral) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Koat Floral](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ypYkpnIex3o9VPNxCvnk4/e6ffe4df4aac905123689ae7f86b3df3/Koat_Floral_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Koat Floral](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/koat-floral)'s listing*\n\nThis NYC-based floral design studio specializes in creating one-of-a-kind floral decorations. Using natural and textured florals and plates, Koat Floral approaches each wedding with your vision in mind while helping bring it to life.\n\n### 6. [Alexis Denise Floral Design](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/alexis-denise-floral-design) (Black-owned) \n\n![Alexis Denise Floral Design](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5ZvriYb2dDS1PHxriMin4X/c7ce6b82d69f35da3882c70a99337f37/Alexis_Denise_Floral_Design_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Alexis Denise Floral Design](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/alexis-denise-floral-design)'s listing*\n\nAlexis Denise Floral Design works hard on behalf of their clients to create truly stunning and unique floral arrangements for weddings and beyond. Owner and Designer Alexis Denise prides herself on being able to bring a couple's floral ideas to life, while also getting to know you in the process. She is committed to giving you everything you want in florals for your big day, and making it a great experience in the process.\n\n### 7. [PlanterRob](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/planterrob) (Black-owned) \n\n![PlanterRob](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/sSpaAHuTf9257g4LQEutd/f51a92dd93b8ba3d9e21127ea7e8a3a8/PlanterRob_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n\n*Photo from [PlanterRob](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/planterrob)'s listing*\n\nPlanterRob, aka Robert Jefferies, works to cultivate and create anti-racist messaging through the floral designs that he creates. Using his larger social justice cause, PlanterRob wants to create beautiful arrangements for you, as well as empower you through his larger approach to plants and the floral industry on your wedding day.\n\n### 8. [Andy and Cynthia](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/andy-and-cynthia) (Black/Latinx/LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Andy & Cynthia](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/uE5eYkqSqCLQ66Cg413aR/0eeff43cec559181d7da187f10f60409/Andy___Cynthia_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Andy and Cynthia](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/andy-and-cynthia)'s listing*\n\nWith over a decade of experience in the fashion industry, Andy approaches the way he creates his floral arrangements much like a fashion shoot. Focusing on his client's vision, Andy and Cynthia want your imagination to run wild with your wedding day dreams, and they will help to make it a reality.\n\n### 9. [By Yena Designs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/by-yena-designs) (Asian-owned) \n\n![By Yena Designs](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3dcGq5B4IvbXxKvIuAsNb/5e3a55d7fd4b7eebed288c9f10e9b158/By_Yena_Designs_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [By Yena Designs](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-florists/by-yena-designs)'s listing*\n\nYena Jung is the creative director and founder of Yena Designs. Jung and her team help couples create beautiful floral arrangements for their wedding events in a creative and fun way. Jung's meticulous attention to detail and keen eye for both color and style will be a huge asset to planning the floral arrangements for your big day.\n\n## Cakes, Desserts, and Caterers \n\nFood plays a huge role in any wedding, and it’s essential to find both the right caterer to wow your guests’ taste buds, as well as a delicious cake to end the event on a sweet note.\n\n### 1. [Brent Bakes](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/brent-bakes) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Brent Bakes](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4ZUzD4BVtOOAE50mK7pjf2/0fac6035c401667282669219a90eb421/Brent_Bakes_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n\n*Photo from [Brent Bakes](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/brent-bakes)'s listing*\n\nBrent Bakes is an Asian-owned, small business located in Staten Island that specializes in desserts and baked goods for all occasions. If you’re looking for beautiful, delicious cakes and treats for your wedding, book a consultation with Brent Bakes to find out more.\n\n### 2. [The Black Cake Company](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/the-black-cake-company) (Black-owned) \n\n![The Black Cake Company](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6DnORY3XvQz1K1JRbvZN5J/d3c3da4aeeb41ce86fda78f3ad6b1c86/The_Black_Cake_Company_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.png)\n*Photo from [The Black Cake Company](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/the-black-cake-company)'s listing*\n\nAngela Price is the owner of The Black Cake Company. With over 35 years of experience producing the rich heritage of the black cake tradition, she is a go-to person when it comes to catering desserts. Specializing in black and rum cakes, the best part is that Price's cakes are made to order and can be shipped worldwide.\n\n### 3. [Daniel Colonel LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/bocconi-foods) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Daniel Colonel LLC](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6E4PEWKj7A08XbN2glgbui/be6d8b638def1c382eae9764ec0f3eb2/Daniel_Colonel_LLC_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Daniel Colonel LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-cakes-desserts/bocconi-foods)'s listing*\n\nDaniel Colonel LLC is a NYC-based pastry chef that developed a love for the sweet things in life early on. This passion for food has culminated in his business where he truly wants to tell a story through handmade desserts that he creates. Your unique love story can come to life through one of Colonel’s creations.\n\n### 4. [Paisley Restaurant](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering/paisley-restaurant) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Paisley Restaurant](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2eWZgOY0M7napTOxlcFfTE/95b8d2e97f947edbd96cd9059ea715f9/Paisley_Restaurant_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Paisley Restaurant](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering/paisley-restaurant)'s listing*\n\nCheck Beck has earned his rank in the culinary community. Previously working as the executive chef at Tamarind, which earned him a prestigious Michilen Star, he now mans the kitchen at Paisley where his take on Indian cuisine comes to life. Specializing in a variety of regional dishes that come from across India, Chef Beck and his team will take the time to develop a menu for your wedding that will be truly delicious and unique.\n\n### 5. [Kinky Taco](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering/kinky-taco) (Black-owned) \n\n![Kinky Taco](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4fZ7TF46ysaaQqBa6BHlIl/0349ce8a67935ff9060c66dc48b789b2/Kinky_Taco_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Kinky Taco](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-catering/kinky-taco)'s listing*\n\nKinky Taco is a Black-owned food truck and caterer that can create a special food experience for couples who are looking for an out-of-the-box food experience. Utilizing African American flavors that blend Cajun and other influences, their menu was developed by chef Airis Johnson, a Food Network “Chopped” Champion. This is a truly next level taco experience, and Johnson's training and unique take gives it an even more elevated spin.\n\n## Bands, DJs, and Venues \n\n### 1. [Red Rooster Harlem/Ginny’s Supper Club](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/red-rooster-harlem-ginny-s-supper-club) (Black-owned) \n\n![Red Rooster Harlem/Ginny’s Supper Club](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4UdvwV7nqACiLSwACfgHU9/57cee73e10ce6a8b2e7ab1c10966d13d/Red_Rooster_Harlem_Ginny___s_Supper_Club_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Red Rooster Harlem/Ginny’s Supper Club](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/red-rooster-harlem-ginny-s-supper-club)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the iconic Harlem neighborhood of Manhattan, Red Rooster has a reputation that truly precedes itself. Named after the speakeasy that attracted many prominent artists, musicians, and politicians to it over the years, Co-Creators Andrew Chapman and Marcus Samuelsson, have created a space that wants to celebrate the community, while also paying homage to its cultural and culinary contributions. Red Rooster is the perfect wedding venue for couples who are looking for a space that will inject their special day with joy, delicious food, and great drinks.\n\n### 2. [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82) (Black-owned) \n\n![Atrium82](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5r6vLlGiyhRXzoodrGHTDa/71ed4958d2b4237b90ee0756dd5cfcac/Atrium82_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the heart of Park Slope in Brooklyn, Atrium 82 is a community-owned space that wants to uplift those around them. This unique and luxurious space offers clients an affordable option to hold their wedding at, while also letting them run wild with their creativity in terms of how they want to transform it. It’s conveniently located to downtown Brooklyn, Prospect Park, and other buzz-worthy areas, plus it offers a number of great perks, such as Tiffany stained glass, gorgeous hardwood floors, and exposed brick.\n\n### 3. [Marcus Ho DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/marcus-ho-dj) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Marcus Ho](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/uKJHiZGSFeWocvoDh0U6Q/024d2647d75a76ecc1ab8c7371e3338e/Marcus_Ho_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Marcus Ho DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/marcus-ho-dj)'s listing*\n\nMarcus Ho is a DJ with over 16 years in the entertainment industry. Music has always played a huge role in Ho's life, and he wants to create exciting and memorable events for the people he works with. From classic hits and slow jams, to the latest in EDM and techno, Ho works closely with couples to curate a musical experience that you will remember.\n\n### 4. [Dhoom Events - Indian Wedding DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/dhoom-events-indian-wedding-dj) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Dhoom Events - Indian Wedding DJ](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1ZvORD4XT3o2JYs7JvteIL/0bf1e70ee571b2900b1390c590816784/Dhoom_Events_-_Indian_Wedding_DJ_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Dhoom Events - Indian Wedding DJ](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/dhoom-events-indian-wedding-dj)'s listing*\n\nDhoom Events prides itself on specializing in South East Asian weddings; however, they can seamlessly create a musical experience for any event you may have. When it comes to wedding DJs, Dhoom Events knows first hand how important it is to take the lead from the couple that they are working with. Their motto is “Your event, your way,” and Dhoom Events seeks to make your wedding as memorable as possible by giving you the experience you will love.\n\n### 5. [Remixologists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/remixologists) (Asian-owned) \n\n![Remixologists](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/YqRRIs65oWgbEpXD7S8WE/5ec08871346b9d856d8ffb9162c67d9b/Remixologists_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Remixologists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/remixologists)'s listing*\n\nRemixologists is a team of skilled DJs in the metro NYC area that want to bring the dance party to your wedding. With their client-focused approach, ability to get the crowd on their feet, and desire to keep you and your guests dancing all night, they are guaranteed to give you a musical experience of a lifetime.\n\n### 6. [Finer Touch Entertainment](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/finer-touch-entertainment) (Black-owned) \n\n![Finer Touch Entertainment](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7xacNUnL68o7SYWu4A5DNL/4e3ee53843e7416ebef639118ea732ca/Finer_Touch_Entertainment_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Finer Touch Entertainment](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/finer-touch-entertainment)'s listing*\n\nWith over 25 years in the DJ and entertainment industry, Finer Touch Entertainment’s team of skilled DJs, MCs, bands, and entertainers works closely with each couple to help deliver the music you want for your wedding. Their team offers a full range of services, and with their diverse background you can rest assured that you and your guests will have a night to remember.\n\n### 7. [DJ Avera](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/dj-avera) (Latinx-owned)\n\n![DJ Avera](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4iFhwqBL0YkUc2AWzVySuO/2bf174cdc3072005ee41e6baf4f245eb/DJ_Avera_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [DJ Avera](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-bands-djs/dj-avera)'s listing*\n\nDJ Avera's energetic style and vast musical knowledge is everything you could want in a wedding DJ. Whether you want to rock out to the classics, or slow it down, DJ Avera has all of your musical bases covered. She works closely with couples to develop a musical program to ensure that it's perfect for you and your guests.\n\n### 8. [Bottino](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bottino) (LGBTQ-owned) \n\n![Bottino_NYC Minority-Owned VoC Venues](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4gSf9ZSAYHWcvGN4bfCijD/a7de8071120ceadbd9fe8febf99b2229/Bottino_NYC_Minority-Owned_VoC_Venues.jpg)\n*Photo from [Bottino](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bottino)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the heart of Chelsea, Bottino is an Italian restaurant with much more than meets the eye. With its stunning backyard space with exposed brick that is able to be used year round, friendly and skilled staff, and delicious food, it's the perfect spot to host your wedding ceremony, reception, and other bridal events.\n\n## Zola: Build Your Dream Wedding Team\n\nZola is the place to [discover the venue and vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that are perfect for your wedding. With our extensive database of wedding vendors, we have got you covered so that you can start planning the wedding of your dreams today. Whether you live in New York City or want to plan a destination wedding, use Zola to find your wedding professionals. Find vendors all over the country and book through our website today to make your wedding planning a sinch.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.","title":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC","slug":"the-15-best-small-wedding-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/2a3ca7dca443aab6967df71536a6cf48/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg","altText":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We've curated a list of NYC wedding vendors with the help of ratings given by our Zola couples.","title":"Zola Couples Share Their Favorite NYC Wedding Vendors","slug":"zola-couples-share-their-favorite-nyc-wedding-vendors","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1SfW00oR8W77DkKtaexp5M/e78d8d052ab9acb358e3cb63ad0f1240/Stems_Brooklyn_Couple___s_Choice.jpg","altText":"The Ultimate List of Vetted NYC Wedding Vendors: Couple’s Choice, Stems Brooklyn"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here's our list of top NYC women-owned wedding vendors—from planners and caterers to florists and DJs—in NYC to help pull off your dream day.\n","title":"The Top Women-Owned Wedding Vendors in NYC","slug":"the-top-women-owned-wedding-vendors-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gblVXlOx3XBIlD8DuB8px/6a37eb71c6a3b639248612dd73cd3ae1/Two_Sisters_Events_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"New York City Women-Owned Wedding Vendors, Two Sisters Events"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"The “Bridgerton” series has quickly become a source of wedding inspiration, so here are 15 beautifully styled NYC venues that are fit for a royal event.","title":"15 NYC Wedding Venues If You Love Bridgerton","slug":"15-nyc-wedding-venues-if-you-love-bridgerton","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1FmLJ4UmOHamHddYOLAYm0/3d2c18f37861d494ebe1d712e73414d8/Nanina_s_in_the_Park_NYC_Wedding_Venues_If_You_Love_Bridgerton.jpg","altText":"Fabulous NYC Wedding Venues If You Love Bridgerton, Smithsonian Design Museum"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:04.289Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"unique-wedding-venues-in-north-jersey","title":"Unique Wedding Venues in North Jersey","excerpt":"Dance, camp, or lounge in style on your big day with these truly unique North Jersey wedding venues.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-12-30T07:44:21.465Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6XfVT7fJqZXsahRSSjGP2M/a8e2f2596c3936072090bbcc7ffcc2fa/Hero_ClassicWinterWeddingatTheRylandInn_BriJohnsonWeddings.jpg","altText":"Unique Wedding Venues in North Jersey"},"heroCredit":"Bri Johnson Weddings","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- As part of the tri-state region, North Jersey natives have access to top-notch venues within the state’s robust cities and other major metropolises.\n- Modern couples will love noshing on Jersey-style pies under Porta Pizza’s industrial ceilings.\n- For a taste of luxury, opt for grand venues like the Legacy Castle. \n- History lovers and classic tastemakers will adore ancient venues like The Ryland Inn, and the Morven Museum and Garden. \n- Care for an outdoor celebration? Soak in the stunning gardens and ample space at the Ground for Sculpture.\n.","body":"North Jersey is the perfect blend of urban chic and jaw-dropping nature. When planning their nuptials, couples have their choice between the region’s gorgeous forests, serene waterfront views, and bustling cities like Newark and Hoboken. \n\nSeeking a truly special celebration in the tri-state area? Read on to discover Zola’s selection of the best unique [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) North Jersey has to offer. \n\n## North Jersey Venues You Should Know About \nOut of all the North Jersey venues, we love these stylish settings. The area’s intimate restaurants, charming inns, and glamorous mansions will turn your wedding from sweet to stunning. For the on-trend couple, you can’t beat these top-tier choices.\n\n### Porta Pizza \n\n![Porta](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3Tmp6f6y0hEkZXphnKIxWP/b8e961ec9e2ca86b892094534d7b9713/fb951b47-7ecc-4d4c-819d-842ba5a5da42.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Porta's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/porta)*\n\nWhat’s a Jersey celebration without a few slices? Porta Pizza is the best venue for couples seeking a cozy yet modern vibe, as well as some tasty pies. You can get multiple rooms, an excellent catering package, and premium amenities for a bargain price at this North Jersey eatery. \n\n- __Price Range:__ Porta Pizza’s pricing is flexible, starting at a $400 base fee. The price can increase based on your chosen space, food needs, and hours used.\n\n- __Services:__ All of your wedding bases are covered at Porta, from audio systems to tableware. Just remember that no outside catering or drinks are allowed (but with pizza this good, you won’t even think of that).\n\n- __Decor:__ Industrial-chic meets cozy bistro vibes under Porta’s roof. The mix of wood and metal textures perfectly straddles the old and the new, while twinkly lights add romance. \n\n- __Spaces:__ Porta offers three main indoor rooms. The Abbott Room is the centerpiece reception area, with 20-foot ceilings, dance floor, and a full bar. For more intimate celebrations, choose between the main dining room’s communal tables or Monk Room’s wood-walled bar area.\n\n- __Capacity:__ Porta Pizza can hold up to 145 seated guests and 200 standing guests.\n\n### The Ryland Inn\n\n![The Ryland Inn](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4tsBrHOquSWIh2gMzAEXu5/bc4ea82598547695c01ea1657c45bdc6/9d032913-82d6-4c2a-896c-e65c03c6c0e0.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Ryland Inn's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-ryland-inn)*\n\nRefined luxury is the best way to describe the Ryland Inn. This 18th-century stagecoach house makes for a sophisticated setting with its historic design and delicious gourmet catering. Say “I do” under the Grand Ballroom chandeliers or lush outdoor vines for a truly unforgettable wedding in Whitehouse Station, NJ. \n\n- __Price Range:__ The Ryland Inn prices its events by packages, with no site or starting fee. Depending on the event date, packages can range from $155 to $225 per person.\n\n- __Services:__ This is a one-stop venue for all wedding needs. Besides basic services, the Ryland offers locally-sourced catering, an onsite event coordinator, and event accommodations for up to 13 guests. \n\n- __Decor:__ The Ryland Inn blends colonial architecture and modern elegance, filled with chandeliers, porcelain floors, and fire pits. The Georgian design and beautiful grounds make for eye-catching photos, with plenty of room for natural light.\n\n- __Spaces:__ Between all of its spaces, the Ryland can match any celebration’s needs. For large or dance-friendly events, couples can book the spacious Grand Ballroom or Coach House. Meanwhile, the cozier Essex Room and Hunterdon Room can host cocktail hours or rehearsal dinners. \n\n- __Capacity:__ The inn’s largest indoor space (the Grand Ballroom) can seat 225 guests, while the outdoor grounds can hold more standing guests.\n\n### Ground for Sculpture \n\n![Grounds For Sculpture & Rat's Restaurant](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/T2P3iAmsVbVkU4hS7heIC/3fe7808adc59280dfa4c2be73d0a3f8e/566297e4-d89a-4714-8287-4362d5fe7d61.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Grounds For Sculpture & Rat's Restaurant's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/grounds-for-sculpture-rat-s-restaurant)*\n\nIdiosyncratic and modern, Ground for Sculpture offers two whimsical indoor venues alongside its jaw-dropping sculpture garden grounds. For creative couples, there’s no place as fitting or whimsical. And with such a gorgeous space and delicious food, your guests are sure to have an unforgettable night.\n\n- __Price Range:__ To rent both spaces, Ground for Sculpture charges $20,500 during off-peak season (November to March) and $35,800 during peak season (April to October). Individual space rentals will vary, starting at around $1,000.\n\n- __Services:__ Services depend on your event package with Ground for Sculpture. If you rent both spaces, you will likely receive full services—everything from cleanup, to staffing, to tent rentals. And with the delicious nouveau-French food at Rat’s, you’re sure to love the catering options.\n\n- __Decor:__ These grounds make for some truly unique wedding photos, with 20-foot sculptures and lush, pristinely-kept gardens. Between the whimsical indoor spaces and fairytale botanicals, this venue speaks to the contemporary and creative soul.\n\n- __Spaces:__ Ground for Sculpture offers multiple venue spaces for individual or collective rental. For an outdoor ceremony, you can pick between the stone-filled Nine Muses Ceremony Garden, intimate Amphitheater Ceremony Garden, or tranquil Water Garden. Indoor reception areas include the warm, orb-lit Rat’s Restaurant and spacious Gallery Rooms, filled with 270-plus works.\n\n- __Capacity:__ With a full buy-out, Ground for Sculpture can host 375 seated guests and 600 standing guests.\n\n### The Legacy Castle \n\n![The Legacy Castle](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/31dzgjq80RyvQm8jQm6Z5P/449b0d4c24e8815543192389840b5113/b558adba-274f-4692-87f4-6e90102840f5.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Legacy Castle's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-legacy-castle)*\n\nWant to feel like a king or queen on your big day? Book the Legacy Castle, a literal palace in the middle of Pequannock. Between its fairytale-esque design, massive space, and lakefront views, this is one of the most luxurious and large venues you’ll find anywhere, let alone in New Jersey. \n\n- __Price Range:__ This isn’t a penny-pinching venue. During the peak months between April and October, the Legacy Castle charges $300 per guest. Total costs can climb up to $500,000 for one night.\n\n- __Services:__ You name it, the Legacy Castle has it. Every service from lighting and audio to catering and staffing is available in this palace. All renting couples must purchase a food and drinks package (no outdoor catering allowed). \n\n- __Decor:__ This majestic estate looks straight out of a Disney film, with a dual floating staircase, 55-foot ceilings, and gold embellishments. To top it off, there’s a swan-filled freshwater lake surrounding the castle. \n\n- __Spaces:__ Occupying more than 200,000 square feet, the Legacy Castle has plenty of rooms to fit your celebration. The spacious Grand Legacy Ballroom is for the biggest events, setting up to 1,0000 guests. For outdoors, hundreds of guests can roam the Legacy Peninsula by the lake or relax on the Legacy Terrace for a cocktail hour.\n\n- __Capacity:__ Across all of its spaces, the Legacy castle can seat up to 1,200 guests. If planning such a grand celebration, Zola’s easy-to-use [Guest List](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) is the best way to track your RSVPs.\n\n### Prallsville Mills\n\n![ Prallsville Mills](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/48l1crQx8FsUUpmRZlgwEI/88fda89b1523ff9135891a6fa2041776/565dce4f-cd08-4ad8-b3ae-55d8312aa596.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Prallsville Mills' Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/prallsville-mills)*\n\nOn your wedding day, feel at one with North Jersey’s natural beauty on Prallsville Mills. This preserved historic village channels a simpler, romantic time, with its gorgeous Delaware River views and stone architecture. For an intimate wedding, it doesn’t get any cozier or breathtaking. \n\n- __Price Range:__ Reception rental fees range between $4,500 and $5,500 at Prallsville Mills, with extra charges for more than 6 hours. \n\n- __Services:__ At Prallsville Mills, all services are handled by the masterful event designer Cynthia Manchester. She can help arrange all of your equipment, flatware, catering, and other rental needs.\n\n- __Decor:__ There’s a transcendental quality to this old town. Rustic stone buildings, simple wood beams, and roaming green forests complete the Industrial-Age aesthetic. \n\n- __Spaces:__ While a smaller venue, Prallsville Mills still offers plenty of spaces. The large Grist Mill can hold up to 260 standing guests under its wood-beam ceilings. The Prall House is perfect for a more intimate bridal brunch or reception dinner, while the Saw Mill’s river views fit a laid-back cocktail hour.\n\n- __Capacity:__ At the most, Prallsville Mills can fit up to 260 standing guests and 130 seated guests.\n\n### Brick Farm Tavern\n\n![Brick Farm Tavern](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2u86xtBKoBOqZCeXbddyYi/28a7ef1cd46b41791796d472fa7e6034/fd381e0b-8111-4ea7-ae9f-a21e0dcca2ac.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Brick Farm Tavern's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/brick-farm-tavern)*\n\nCalling all North Jersey foodies—Brick Farm Tavern is your number one wedding venue. This restaurant prizes its pasture-to-table menu, creating the most delicious dishes from local ingredients. And when inside this cozy 19th-century farmhouse, there’s no such thing as a bad party.\n\n- __Price Range:__ Brick Farm Tavern charges between $650 and $1,500 for renting individual rooms (including food and beverage). Prices can increase with larger menus, more guests, or longer rental hours. \n\n- __Services:__ The Tavern offers most basic wedding services, with an emphasis on its exquisite catering. To help your planning process, the staff’s bridal specialists can lend a hand.\n\n- __Decor:__ As a renovated farmhouse, the Tavern mixes rustic looks with sleek bistro style. Candles and dark-stained wood give a romantic air to the dining rooms.\n\n- __Spaces:__ You can choose between several intimate rooms at Brick Farm Tavern. The Wine Room is the most elegant, with stone walls and wooden beams overhanging a gorgeous round table. The Chef’s Table makes for a lovely dinner celebration with close friends, while the wood-paneled Library is perfect for a small reception or cocktail hour. \n\n- Capacity: In its largest room, the Brick Farm Tavern can hold up to 48 guests. Across the entire grounds, it can hold up to 200 standing guests.\n\n### Morven Museum and Garden \n\n![Morven Museum & Garden](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2CJ5JPC1kXaCbMNLp96u6y/26b844836c8cf82a62c792c3613377cc/42da9d37-0e0c-49fc-9f7a-bf3679773fc9.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Morven Museum & Garden's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/morven-museum-garden)*\n\nRoaming fields, beautiful florals, and a pristine Neoclassical mansion make this National Historic Landmark stand out from other venues. Right by Princetown, the Morven Museum and Garden offer sophisticated indoor and outdoor spaces for a large wedding full of romance. It’s the botanical-filled backdrop of your Secret Garden dreams.\n\n- __Price Range:__ To rent for both your ceremony and reception, the Morven costs anywhere from $7,000 to $12,000. Ceremony-only events start at $2,500.\n\n- __Services:__ This is the spot for crafting your own wedding services. The Morven allows couples to bring their own caterers, drinks, designers, and more to the estate. If you’d like, an onsite event coordinator can provide assistance.\n\n- __Decor:__ Think elegant colonial style at the Morven. The grounds are simple and well-kept, with rose bushes and lined paths. Inside the house, you’ll find wooden floors and plenty of windows for sunlight.\n\n- __Spaces:__ The Colonial Revival Garden and the Great Lawn, the estate’s largest spaces, can be open-air or tented for your pleasure. Indoors, the Stockton Education Center has floor-to-ceiling windows for a gorgeous view, while the museum’s exhibit-lined first floor is ideal for smaller events like brunches or cocktails.\n\n- __Capacity:__ The Morven can fit up to 450 seated guests and more standing.\n\n### Nanina's in the Park\n\n![Nanina's In The Park](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/MWhl3dRmHV29wUkjM1t8G/42cd3ad39f5199b2e46c45fca8bf0a2b/c842c033-2ff2-447b-801b-33580b879886.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Nanina's In The Park's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/nanina-s-in-the-park)*\n\nUnder Nanina’s cherry blossoms, anyone would say “I do.” This gorgeous park setting has been a go-to Jersey wedding venue for decades—and it’s easy to see why. Charming grounds, the infamous cherry gardens, and a luxurious Italian-style villa just scream romance. Come here for a wedding that’ll charm you and your guests off your feet.\n\n- __Price Range:__ During the peak season of April to November, Nanina’s charges $115 to $225 per person for a five-hour event (additional hours cost $2,500 per hour). There’s an additional setup fee of $800.\n\n- __Services:__ You’ve got all of your normal wedding services here, from bar packages to lighting and sound. Nanina’s also throws in free valet service for all weddings. However, you will have to rent table items like China, glassware, and linens.\n\n- __Decor:__ Warmly elegant, Nanina’s strikes a balance between charming and luxurious. The manicured gardens give a soft romantic feel, while the marbled villa adds some decadence and grandeur. \n\n- __Spaces:__ For receptions, it’s best to dance the night away under the ballroom’s high ceilings and chandeliers. Ceremonies can also be held outside on the garden grounds, weather permitting.\n\n- __Capacity:__ The ballroom can hold up to 400 seated or standing guests.\n\n### Port-O-Call Hotel\n\n![Port-O-Call Hotel](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1uPxkdQJPP808TxIs2t7di/2e408c84cd4b796b8b1702b2730ad4fa/61795066-d459-4251-8cbf-3742afe2498b.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Port-O-Call Hotel's Zola listing](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/port-o-call-hotel)*\n\nNot every wedding has to be a royal ball. In fact, a casual setting with amazing hospitality will put your guests at ease—enter the Port-O-Call Hotel. This Ocean City venue has beachside views and amazing food to make any low-key wedding feel luxurious. Come for the ocean, stay for the amazing service.\n\n- __Price Range:__ Event packages range from $105 to $135 per person packages (with zero rental fees).\n\n- __Services:__ To keep things simple, Port-O-Call offers minimal services. While you must use the Adalene Restaurant’s food, you can bring your own drinks, entertainment, and decor. Accommodations are also available for overnight guests.\n\n- __Decor:__ Beachy semiformal is the mood at this boardwalk hotel. Inside the restaurant space, smooth wood floors and modern furniture create a chic atmosphere that’s never stuffy.\n\n- __Spaces:__ For indoor space, the Port-O-Hotel offers the Adalene Restaurant with its oceanfront views, warm lighting, and beach-inspired decor. And of course, you can hold your ceremony on the Ocean City beach for some unforgettable pictures.\n\n- __Capacity:__ The Port-O-Hotel can host up to 70 seated guests and 100 standing guests.\n\n## Find Your North Jersey Wedding Venue With Zola\nWhether your style is classic romance or modern luxury, there’s a North Jersey venue to match. The area’s rich history and incredible versatility make for countless top-notch party spaces, including our favorites above. \n\nWant to keep exploring your options? Scroll through Zola’s [vendor database](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) for the best local stylists, musicians, and more. All of our vendors are prescreened for quality—no sketchy deals or unlisted fees. Start with Zola, and your North Jersey wedding dreams will be on their way to becoming reality.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Affordable wedding venues can give your budget some breathing room and still be gorgeous. Learn more with Zola's guide to finding affordable wedding venues!","title":"How to Find an Affordable Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-find-an-affordable-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7cdjOuzhiXWEUnKhMMZQS/0ed720c5b759cf82df0f403d3cce9dc3/How-to-Find-an-Affordable-Wedding-Venue.jpg","altText":"Phone screen showing venue search on Zola"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Planning a Philadelphia wedding? This guide covers everything you should know—from venue ideas to how to obtain a marriage license and more.","title":"Philadelphia Weddings: Venue Ideas, Marriage License Tips, and More","slug":"philadelphia-weddings","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UU6Z32WEVmakPgcHHDOER/d81e1d36987b18ac13e0d51d3df66b1c/bride-and-groom-running-though-city-street.jpg","altText":"bride-and-groom-running-through-city-street"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"An East Coast beach wedding can be wonderful. Here are seven things to consider when planning an East Coast beach wedding.","title":"7 Things to Consider When Planning an East Coast Beach Wedding","slug":"things-to-consider-when-planning-an-east-coast-beach-wedding","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4o8zu5B4Gt1vWdY23EWdG9/12ef4995cd9a0cd76e87c66adfbbafe8/Hero_IntimateSeasideNuptialsinKeyWest_FreasPhotography.jpg","altText":"7 Things to Consider When Planning an East Coast Beach Wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Seeking hair inspiration for your wedding day? With DIY tips from expert stylists, check out 50 diverse wedding hairstyles for every hair length, shape, and texture.","title":"50 Wedding Hairstyles for All Hair Types","slug":"wedding-hairstyles","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2f9iW5rW6QbHvSLgfTrzC2/4c2cc54d348e9806b17a283139d2fa01/wedding-hairstyles-hero.jpg","altText":"bride adding a flower to her hair"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Letting your bridesmaids pick their own dresses for your wedding day means confident bridesmaids and less stress for you. Here are the do’s and don'ts of letting your bridesmaids pick out their own dress. ","title":"The Complete Guide to Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses","slug":"let-bridesmaids-choose-own-dresses","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6kKYuHOeeUvE5sqbavfpLI/a5b85a5d99beac71432d942beadfd696/katelyn-macmillan-5VhSc5jCA2g-unsplash.jpg","altText":"groom with bridesmaids in different dresses"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking for the best bachelor party destinations? Zola experts are here to help! Here is a list of great bachelor party destinations to help you kick-start your celebration planning.","title":"Best Bachelor Party Destinations","slug":"best-bachelor-party-destinations","topic":"Parties & events","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6MripAZHUjL2xDT0IQW0lu/9a9374aeb1e5ffdc831ace7c4464d758/Hero_Zola__35_.jpg","altText":"Best Bachelor Party Destinations"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Craft a seamless wedding ceremony with our guide to the perfect order. From vows to procession, plan every moment for a meaningful celebration.","title":"Wedding Ceremony Order & Outline ","slug":"a-guide-to-the-wedding-ceremony-order-of-events","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/HTCJzkwGxgG5Hy57XQS36/482af2e143a61f738ed94985db82bb9d/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"Couple running down the aisle "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Learn the how-to's of wedding invitation wording, plus formal and casual wedding invitation examples from the experts.","title":"Wedding Invitation Wording: A Complete How-To Guide","slug":"how-to-word-wedding-invitations","topic":"Invites & paper","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5rENN5B7RPAn14pYP75HgH/d457816cdf42b12cc74b3e7d88b73513/Wedding_Invitaion_Wording_Etiquette.jpg","altText":"green and white wedding invitation on green background"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:03.458Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"where-to-get-married-in-big-sur","title":"Where to Get Married in Big Sur","excerpt":"Big Sur is a jewel of the California coast. If you’re planning a wedding in Big Sur, here’s where you should start your search: Zola.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-11-28T03:24:26.909Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/35OpfORzBLgsinp3MJuZoI/544fbfa1f7d367493a6b076f4c12c827/Hero_RomanticandIntimateWeddingattheOldWhalingStation_WhitneyJustesenPhotography.jpg","altText":"Where to Get Married in Big Sur"},"heroCredit":"Whitney Justesen Photography","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- If you’re considering a Big Sur wedding, there are plenty of places to choose from. Cities like Carmel-by-the-Sea and Pacific Grove offer coastal small town charm, while Paso Robles boasts vineyards and a little Wild West flair. \n- Big Sur park areas are also known as the go-to places for elopements. Just be sure you have the permits required to make a little piece of California a part of your romantic moment. \n- Whether you’re throwing a big wedding or a micro-ceremony, the best time to say “I do” in Big Sur is early spring or late fall.\n- Zola has you covered, from [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop) to wedding photo albums for your Big Sur wedding.","body":"Big Sur is one of California’s most well-known destinations. That’s quite an achievement in a state that’s full of famous locations. But from the glam and glitter of Hollywood to the elegant romance of Napa wine country, Big Sur stands out for the diversity of its landscape, its incredible views, and its plethora of options for dining and entertainment.\n\nIt should come as no surprise, then, that Big Sur is also popular among couples looking for a scenic and romantic place to say “I do.” With its unique combination of mountainous terrain, seaside beauty, and idyllic forest settings, the Big Sur region has something for every couple. \n\nIn fact, Big Sur is so rich in world-class wedding locales that anyone thinking of tying the knot there might feel inundated with—and overwhelmed by—all the options. But there’s no need to worry: We’ve done the research and compiled a list of the best places to get married in Big Sur, no matter what kind of wedding you want.\n\n## Places to Get Married in Big Sur\nEach year, couples of all kinds flock to Big Sur for weddings of all types. Located along California’s scenic central coast, Big Sur is bordered on one side by mountains and on the other the Pacific Ocean. Famous redwood forests and rambling highways fill the space between coast and mountain crag, making Big Sur as versatile as it is beautiful. \n\nThis means that from the most intimate of gatherings to the most extravagant of celebrations, from oceanfront vows to mountainside ceremonies, Big Sur has the location that’s right for you. In this guide, we’ll go over:\n\n- The Best Cities to get Married in Big Sur\n- The Best Big Sur Elopement Options\n- All the Tips You Need to plan a Big Sur Wedding\n\n## The Best Wedding Spots in Big Sur\nBig Sur wouldn’t be such a popular wedding destination if not for the wide range of wedding venue options it has to offer. Sure, the scenery is a big draw, but as anyone who’s ever gotten married can tell you, few things are as important to achieving the wedding of your dreams as area selection.\n\nFirst and foremost, you have to figure out where on the 90-mile stretch of ocean you’re going to have your special day. \n\n### Carmel-by-the-Sea\nThough tiny, this seaside town in the northern part of Big Sur is teeming with charm. From adorable Victorian inns to a downtown filled with trendy restaurants and boutiques, every inch of Carmel exudes romance. \n\nCarmel might be perfect for your wedding if:\n\n- You’re looking for a small, intimate vibe\n- You want to be able to see the ocean from the altar\n- You’re a sucker for boardwalk wedding photoshoots\n\n### Monterey\nMonterey is kind of like Carmel’s big California sister. A bigger town with more modern offerings, it still manages to maintain the storybook charm of Carmel, while boasting a bit more variety and amenities. \n\nMonterey might be perfect for your wedding if:\n\n- You want to take advantage of Monterey’s more unique venues like the Monterey Bay Aquarium \n- You want that small-town intimacy, but a few more options for [wedding vendors](https://zola.com/wedding-vendors), especially [wedding catering](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-catering)\n- A resort wedding sounds like heaven to you\n\n### Pacific Grove\nSmall-town charm meets boundless blue sea in Pacific Grove. With its historic buildings, coastal hiking trails, and delicious eats, Pacific Grove draws plenty of couples for various wedding styles. Bonus: It’s also a pit-stop for the West Coast’s monarch butterfly migration. To invite these beautiful guests to your wedding, book a venue for November through February. \n\nPacific Grove might be perfect for your wedding if:\n\n- You wouldn’t mind a morning hike before you head to the altar\n- You’re looking for a venue with a little bit of history to it\n\n### Paso Robles\nWhile a little more inland, Paso Robles offers proximity to Big Sur, plus a vibrant wine scene. A few corners of Paso Robles even have a little Wild West flair with ranch and barn venues. Wineries, scrumptious restaurants, and sprawling estates make a beautiful base for your special day.\n\nPaso Robles might be perfect for your wedding if: \n\n- You want the beach within reach of your vineyard venue\n- You’re looking for a touch of rustic in your wedding atmosphere\n- Local California wine is a must on your wedding day \n\n### San Simeon\nAt the southern end of the Big Sur, San Simeon offers a much-needed rest from the hustle-and-bustle of city life. While the sprawling ocean and hills are a natural stunner, you also have quite a range of venue options, from barns and ranches to lighthouses and literal castles. \n\nSan Simeon might be perfect for your wedding if:\n\n- You’re looking to get away from it all\n- You want to make a statement with your venue\n- You want the scenery to be the biggest decor item on your wedding day \n\n### Morro Bay\nSailboats glide gracefully across the serene blue of Morro Bay. A bustling bayside town, Morrow Bay has drawn nearly-newlyweds for decades. It’s also a hub for watersports, visitors flocking to town to kayak, paddleboard, and surf. The nearby state parks also offer plenty for “land-lubbers,” like hiking and bike rides. Morro Bay offers a variety of venue options, from charming chapels to waterfront restaurants. \n\nMorro Bay might be perfect for your wedding if:\n\n- Seafood is a must for your wedding menu\n- Your guests will be packing their hiking boots and dancing shoes\n- A sailboat send-off has been on your wedding Pinterest board for years \n\nWhen it comes to Big Sur, there are almost too many options to choose from. But did you know that Zola has an extensive database of [pre-screened wedding venues in Big Sur](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/big-sur-ca--wedding-venues)? We take the worry out of booking a wedding venue by connecting you with ones we trust. You can browse these, as well as other fully-vetted vendors, like photographers, caterers, and more—all without ads.\n\n## Big Sur Elopements and Micro-Weddings\nThese days, more and more couples are forgoing the big weddings and jam-packed guest lists that characterized nuptials past in favor of more intimate and exclusive gatherings known as micro-weddings. Others are skipping the guest list altogether and eloping—and here’s why:\n\n- __It’s Less Expensive:__ If you know anything about weddings, you know they can cost a pretty substantial sum. Eloping or scaling down the size of your wedding can bring the cost down considerably. This is especially attractive to many couples who would rather put the big dollars toward first homes or other investments. \n\n- __It’s More Personal:__ By winnowing down your guest list to only the people you’re closest to—or to just you and your partner—you can really make the occasion about the love between you, without distractions. What’s more, elopements and small weddings can be performed virtually anywhere, making it simpler to create a unique wedding that reflects your point of view.\n\n- __It Can Be Less Stressful:__ Planning a large event takes skill, organization, and know-how—and not everyone is up to the task. Elopements and micro-weddings can take some of the pressure off, so you feel like you’re simply putting together a small gathering of loved ones. \n\nWhether you opt for the micro-wedding route or choose to elope, if you’re in Big Sur, you’re in luck. From forest gatherings to beachside vows, there are plenty of locations for the occasion you want. \n\n### State Park Elopements\nElopements offer a built-in versatility, sense of spontaneity, and personalization you won’t always get from traditional weddings. And for couples who love the outdoors and the rugged wilderness of Big Sur, eloping at one of the region's gorgeous state parks is an enticing and unexpected option. \n\nThe state parks of Big Sur are as varied as the region’s landscapes. Want to solidify your marital commitment under a canopy of Redwood trees? Big Sur has the Redwood Forest Park for that. Always dreamed of having your first kiss as a married couple with the Pacific in the background? There’s a park with ocean views for that, too. \n\n#### *Garrapata State Park*\nFor adventurous couples who want to blend beach views with forest settings for their elopement, Garrapata State Park is the perfect choice. The benefits of eloping here include: \n\n- __Ocean Views:__ Located in Northern Big Sur, Garrapata State Park features incredible views of the Pacific Coast, making elopement ceremonies that are just as momentous as a big wedding.\n\n- __Diverse Landscape:__ After exchanging vows, you and your partner can make use of the park’s diverse settings for the elopement photos of your dreams. Pose along the many rocky, coastline trails, or make the short hike into the forest, where an idyllic creek waits nestled amongst the Redwoods. \n\nEloping at Garrapata State Park does require some planning, however. You’ll need to obtain a Special Use Permit from the park at least 60 days before your elopement, and you may have to plan well in advance.\n\n#### *Andrew Molera State Park*\nFor beachy couples who can’t get enough of the ocean, Andrew Molera State Park can’t be beat. Not only is the beach here known as one of the best surfing spots in the entire state, but it’s also among the most beautiful.\n\nFeaturing panoramic views of Monterey Bay and miles of beach, hillside, and meadow trails, Andrew Molera State Park is best for active couples who like a challenge—and don’t mind a bit of a hike. \n\nThe park also has: \n\n- __Camping Area:__ Outdoorsy couples can tie the knot by day and camp out under the stars by night. \n\n- __Picnic Tables:__ The park allows elopement ceremonies for up to 10 people, so if you have guests, you can celebrate with a small, intimate lunch or dinner.\n\n#### *Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park*\nFor an inland elopement that trades the coast for the ethereal beauty of the forest, consider Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park. \n\nPfeiffer Big Sur State Park offers two options for elopements. Small, hike-in elopements have free-range of the park, which means you can take full advantage of its dazzling, world-famous Redwood groves and romantic forest trails. You can even hike to Pfeiffer Falls for a truly stunning ceremony. \n\nIf you plan on including a few people in your elopement, the park will allow you to accommodate up to 25 people in designated areas of the park.\n\nEven if you’re planning an elopement that includes just the two of you and a few other people, it can be helpful to have a wedding website. This can help you stay organized and make sure everyone involved in your big day is on the same page. A customized wedding website with Zola allows you to:\n\n- Choose from 250 designs, so your website reflects your style.\n- Organize your wedding registry, manage RSVPs, and other details in one place.\n- Match save-the-dates, invites, and other paper goods. \n\n#### *Bonus Tip: Elopement Venues *\nEloping doesn’t have to mean trekking out into the forest to say “I do.” In fact, many couples who choose to elope still opt to do so in more traditional venues.\n\nMany of the Big Sur [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) on this list are also excellent choices for couples who want to elopement, like:\n\n- __Loma Vista Gardens:__ The intimate scale of Loma Vista and the versatility of its outdoor settings combine to make it the perfect elopement location. \n\n- __Ventana Inn:__ The romantic seclusion of this premium resort means you and your partner can spend the first days of your new life as you’re meant to—together. Plus, Ventana Inn’s Sur Vista is small and exclusively for exchanging vows, which is perfect for an elopement ceremony or intimate weddings.\n\n- __Glen Oaks Big Sur:__ With its secluded cottages and cabins, private fire pits, and luxurious bedding and bath products, Glen Oaks Big Sur is the perfect location for couples who want their Big Sur elopement with a heaping side of romantic getaway. \n\n## What’s the Best Time of Year to Get Married in Big Sur? \nWhether you’re having a traditional ceremony, a micro-wedding, or an elopement, there’s a good chance that at least part of your wedding will take place in the great outdoors. That means you need to think about the weather when planning your nuptials.\n\nFortunately, Big Sur is known for its relatively mild climate, which means the weather is pretty moderate year-round. Still, it’s generally agreed that the best time of year is between April and November, with the summer months being prime. If you’re hoping for a private function, consider avoiding those prime summer months, opting for either early spring or late fall for your wedding. \n\nAlso, keep in mind that Northern California is known for unpredictable weather that can change on a whim. If you’re planning an outdoor wedding in Big Sur, be prepared to adjust and go where the wind takes you.\n\n## Zola: Everything You Need to Say I Do\nWhen it comes to planning your wedding, organization is key. From finding a venue, to finalizing your guest list, to setting up your wedding registry, there are a million things to do—and precious little time to do it.\n\nThat’s where Zola comes in. As a premier wedding planning website, we’re here to help you pull off the wedding of your dreams—without pulling out your hair. Among the many tools and resources we offer are:\n\n- __Custom Wedding Websites:__ With Zola, you can craft a [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) that matches your aesthetic. Our websites are simple to use and easy to build. Just choose a design from over 250 options, personalize it with your own details, photos, and stories, and share the URL with your guests. Easy!\n\n- __Pre-Screened Wedding Vendors:__ Browse our ad-free database of fully-vetted, pre-screened wedding venues, caterers, photographers, and more. It’s the best way to avoid any unpleasant surprises on your wedding day. \n\n- __Guest List Manager:__ With Zola, you can manage every aspect of your guest list right from your website. Add guests, organize mailing addresses, create seating charges, and manage RSVPs all in one place.\n\n- __Custom Wedding Albums:__ Zola offers an easy and convenient way to keep your most treasured wedding memories in one place with our customizable [wedding album](https://www.zola.com/wedding-albums/shop) options. You can choose from our Classic, Premier, and Deluxe templates, and add and arrange photos for a truly magnificent keepsake to commemorate your big day. \n\nZola believes that everyone deserves the wedding of their dreams. We’re here to help you make those dreams a reality.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:02.670Z"}],"pagination":{"currentPage":3,"total":74},"subtopic":{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"wedding-vendor-insurance-what-you-need-to-know","title":"Wedding Vendor Insurance: What You Need to Know","excerpt":"Whether you’re the one getting married or you’re a vendor playing an important role in the process, prepare for emergencies, mistakes, and accidents with wedding vendor insurance. \n","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-08T00:24:25.342Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Hk4JQWBJvVyXdjSZLJcr9/ef1679110aad6c2fc8af0a4f800b2222/HERO_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg","altText":"Large wedding venue with white flowers"},"heroCredit":"Ed & Aileen Photography","body":"Thinking about what can go wrong on the wedding day is the least fun part of wedding planning. Whether you’re the one getting married or you’re a vendor playing a role in the process, it’s important to consider the what-ifs, and, more importantly, plan for them. The best way to prepare for emergencies, mistakes, and accidents is to purchase wedding vendor insurance. Make sure that you, your partners, or your vendors are insured, so that no one finds themselves lost at sea without a paddle, or, worse, financially responsible if something goes wrong. \n\n## What Is Wedding Vendor Insurance?\nAlthough we wish we could, we can’t guarantee that the wedding day will go off without a hitch. So, it’s best to be prepared in the event that “a hitch” is something major like a bodily injury or property damage. Whether you’re a wedding vendor yourself or the bride-to-be, you need to know what kind of insurance is expected of you, and why you should care. \n\nVendor insurance is referring to vendor liability insurance. If a vendor is held liable for any injuries or property damage at a wedding or event, a liability policy ensures that they are protected and pays out any damages resulting from lawsuits.\n\n## What Is Covered?\nKnowing exactly what vendor liability [insurance covers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-is-wedding-insurance) will help justify why you need it and what you should be looking for in a plan.\n\n### Personal Injury\nIf, heaven forbid, someone is injured at the hand of you or your services or equipment, eg. someone trips over your tripod or the hanging floral arrangement comes loose and hits someone in the head, a liability insurance policy will cover medical expenses or any other damages that result from the injury and lawsuit. \n\n### Property Damage\nIf you cause damage to the property while conducting your services, eg. the food spills and stains an antique rug or other unforeseen circumstances, a liability insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs. If you happen to be sued due to the damage, your plan will cover the cost of defense and any damages you have to pay out up to the limit of coverage you have obtained. \n\n![Wedding Vendor Insurance](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/stAqkkgm94RNNPH1xcEzz/60a2024bfee2f6ea17429a46c98110bd/INLINE2_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits //* Ed & Aileen Photography\n\n### Employees\nYep, your employees are covered, too! Anyone employed by you, the vendor, to work the wedding or special event on the business’s behalf is covered under a vendor liability policy.\n\n### Equipment\nIf you are a vendor shopping for an insurance plan, and you use expensive equipment to conduct your services, you should look for a plan that includes equipment coverage or offers it at an additional expense. Although you will likely have to pay a deductible, this option will pay out funds for the replacement cost of any lost or damaged equipment, which can be substantial if you’re a videographer, photographer, or musician.\n\n### Type of Vendors Covered\nMost wedding vendors are eligible for a vendor insurance policy. These include [wedding planners](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-wedding-planner-insurance-and-do-you-need-it \"Wedding Planner Insurance\"), [caterers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues \"Wedding Venues | Zola\"), [florists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-florists \"Wedding Florists | Zola\"), [photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers \"Wedding Photographers | Zola\"), [videographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-videographers \"Wedding Videographers | Zola\"), musicians, DJs, and bands, in addition to specialty vendors, such as stylists, food stand owners, photo booth operators, etc. Any vendors serving alcoholic beverages are not covered under most traditional vendor liability policies. \n\n## Why You Need Vendor Insurance\nPart of being a professional means that you carry your own insurance. It’s not only risky not to be covered, but you may also lose your business down the line if a future client’s venue requires it. If you’re hiring a vendor, asking for proof of insurance not only protects you in worse case scenarios, but it is also a good way to vet the seasoned pros from vendors who are just starting out (and may not know what they’re doing). \n\n### If You’re a Wedding Vendor\nAs a vendor, you don’t want to be held financially responsible if something goes wrong on the wedding day. Even if you take every precaution possible when fulfilling your services, there is a lot you won’t have control over. What if the wind tips over the candles you set up, or a shattered glass falls into the drinks you were mixing? You can use your imagination about other scenarios, but the outcome of any of these chain of events isn’t pretty. And the consequence could be a staggering lawsuit. A lawsuit could not only cost you a lot of money, but, worst-case scenario, could also cost you your business.\n\nAny professional knows that you can’t predict what will happen on any given wedding day. Sure, the possibility you yourself will cause an accident that hurts someone or damages the venue is super low, but it’s better not to leave it up to chance. Having insurance is crucial in the one-off case where you do get sued. \n\nWhether you’re a caterer, a florist, or a mom-and-pop bakery, you need vendor insurance. The one exception is for venues. Wedding venues will have larger insurance policies, and they can also be added to a couple’s liability insurance plan for each individual wedding. In fact, it’s often required.\n\n### If You’re Hiring a Wedding Vendor\nAs the host, you’re ultimately responsible for anything that goes wrong at your wedding. And, while we’re sure yours will be positively perfect, it’s important to be prepared. Secure the right wedding insurance plan for you—these can cover everything from a misplaced gift to a golf cart crash—so that you don’t have to worry about what you can’t control. It’s not only important that you are insured, but that your vendors are, too. \n\nIf you’re working with a reputable venue, they probably require that you not only have a host liability insurance policy, but also that the venue is listed on the policy as an additional insured party. Whether you've booked a [wedding venue in Cincinnati, OH](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/cincinnati-oh--wedding-venues) or Los Angeles, CA, your venue may also require all on-site vendors to have individual insurance policies as well, and may even ask you for proof. Whether or not your venue requires it, though, it is important that you confirm each of your vendors has their own liability insurance policy. Proof of insurance from your vendors shows that they are both responsible and reputable, and that they are covered if anything goes wrong. \n\nFor larger businesses, vendors will likely already have insurance, but be sure to double-check that they do. For smaller businesses, vendors may not already have insurance, but they can obtain it through a variety of providers that offer event-by-event or short-term coverage. Keep in mind that additional costs for your smaller vendors who have to obtain short-term insurance may fall to you. \n\n### Vendor Red-Flags\nIf your vendor doesn’t have insurance, ask yourself why? Are they just starting out and haven’t yet learned the ropes? Do they not have the business acumen or ample budget to secure insurance? Not having insurance should be a red flag and should make you take a second look at the vendor before booking them. Other indicators that you may want to look elsewhere for services are:\n\n- They have received negative reviews.\n- They don’t have a website.\n- Their pricing seems too good to be true. \n- They ask you to pay in full upfront.\n\nBeing wary of vendors who check any or all of these boxes will protect you in the long run, even if it means you have to restart your search. \n\n## How Much Does Vendor Insurance Cost?\nVendor insurance can range in cost, based on length and features. Most providers offer both single-event coverage, in addition to multiple-month coverage so that you can find the right plan for you. If you’re obtaining insurance on your vendor’s behalf for a one or two-day wedding event, you can easily find a plan that meets your venue’s requirements for $100 to $200. \n\nIf you’re a vendor looking for coverage for multiple events, consider a longer-term plan. The coverage limit will make your premium go up or down the most, so decide how much coverage you actually need and pay attention to the difference in price. Premiums can start as low as $75 per month and go up to $200 per month, which is a small price to pay for the protection of you and your business. \n\n### Before You Buy\nDo your research. It’s important to not only compare the cost of different insurance plans, but also the coverage limits, in addition to finer details, such as who and what exactly is covered. Every vendor’s business is different, so make sure that the plan you choose offers the coverage you need now and as your business grows. You should also make sure the policy is backed by a reputable provider that can pay out promised damages, should the worst occur. Once you have selected a vendor insurance policy, be sure to secure certificates of insurance from the provider for proof when venues ask.\n\nWith a simple vendor liability insurance policy you can protect yourself from situations where you and your business would otherwise be vulnerable, and at hardly any expense. Plus, taking this important step will set you apart as a true wedding professional.\n\n![Wedding Vendor Insurance](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/O3PWpHdkZwMoSUSpk4kMx/9780d6765002c4689af96b4a3a7c9be0/INLINE_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits //* Ed & Aileen Photography","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:20.848Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"courthouse-wedding-checklist","title":"Courthouse Wedding Checklist","excerpt":"If a big reception with all the bells and whistles isn’t your speed, consider this courthouse wedding checklist for a simple yet sweet ceremony.\n","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-05-25T17:11:13.108Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2wk03ESm6lW8eAqUsk5VQA/dd98b26582c24f7d979cb608d6eb834d/Hero_SummerElopement-atKingsCountyCourthouse_DAGIMAGES.jpg","altText":"Courthouse Wedding Checklist"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- If you're planning a courthouse wedding, determine your expectations for the day, get your documents in order, and make the day special.\n- Perform a thorough search of the courthouses in your area. \n- Don’t forget to check your state’s laws when it comes to marriage certificate fees, ceremony fees, and waiting periods.\n- A few personal touches, like special wedding outfits, bouquets, and personal vows can make your more wedding memorable. \n","body":"For some couples, a big reception with bells and whistles doesn’t feel like a true celebration of their love. So instead, they ditch the wedding vendor checklist and extravagant week of the wedding checklist to solidify their union in front of the only people who truly matter: each other (and a few government employees).\n\nIf this sweet and simple ceremony sounds right to you, read on for the ultimate courthouse wedding checklist:\n\n- __After the Engagement:__ Deciding on a Courthouse Wedding\n- __6 to 8 Months Prior:__ Setting a Date\n- __5 Months Prior:__ Planning for What Comes After\n- __3 Months Prior:__ Assembling Your Documents\n- __Day of:__ Last-Minute Details\n\n### Do I Need a Checklist for a Courthouse Wedding? \n\nCourthouse weddings have a reputation for being easy to plan and execute. So, do you really need a checklist?\n\nThe answer is yes *and* no. \n\nYes, courthouse weddings can be easier to plan than more extravagant or even moderately big weddings, but easy doesn’t mean effortless. No matter the size and scope of your wedding ceremony, there are some steps you simply can’t avoid (and won’t want to forget).\n\n__The bottom line:__ All weddings need a checklist, even if you’re planning a no-nonsense courthouse ceremony.\n\n## After the Engagement: Deciding on a Courthouse Ceremony \n\nThe excitement of getting engaged is something to cherish, but it can also stand in the way of planning. Even at this early stage, you’ll need to get on the same page as your fiance and check a few crucial tasks off your courthouse wedding checklist. \n\nWhen discussing the possibility of a courthouse wedding, talk through the factors on this checklist:\n\n1. __Timing:__ The beauty of courthouse weddings is that they’re faster than traditional weddings. If you’re looking to make your union official as soon as possible, then a this is the way to go. Talk to your partner about the wedding day timeline you’re considering, and make sure you’re on the same page when it comes to a date.\n\n2. __The guest list:__ Courthouse weddings are small. Make sure you and your partner agree about keeping the guest list short. Discuss who you want to present if anyone at all. Most states require one or two witnesses to marry two individuals, which means you’ll have to decide whether these witnesses are friends, family, or strictly professional (like a photographer or city hall employee).\n\n3. __How you feel:__ Opting to have your wedding at a local courthouse is a big decision. While some couples couldn’t be happier about their quickie wedding, others may leave with feelings of regret. Before committing to a city hall wedding, make sure both of you are fully confident in your choice.\n\n## 6 to 8 Months Prior: Setting a Date \n\nCourthouse weddings may be quick, but they’re not instant. Even a civil ceremony requires some organization, so let’s break down the steps for your city hall ceremony checklist. \n\n### 1. Pick a Courthouse \n\nNot all [courthouses](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/city-hall-wedding-ideas) are created equal. The size and location of the facility you choose can make a difference in how the day plays out. While larger city halls may be busier, they also offer beautiful architecture for your photos.\n\nSmaller county courthouses, on the other hand, maybe better for a more intimate marriage ceremony. These facilities also tend to have shorter lines, and you might get a more personal experience that isn’t as rushed. Talk through these factors when deciding on a location:\n\n- __Proximity:__ Are you looking to get married close to home, or would you rather make a day trip out of it with an overnight stay in a nearby bed and breakfast? The location of your courthouse will influence your schedule for the day.\n\n- __Guests:__ Each courthouse places a unique limit on guests. If you want a few friends and family to join you on your special day, this is something to consider when selecting a location.\n\n### 2. Adhere to Local and State Laws\n\nEvery state has different laws regarding marriage. Before you choose a location, it’s important to brush up on the local legislature. Make sure you fully understand every item on this checklist and prepare for them in advance:\n\n1. __Marriage Certificate Fees:__ Marriage certificate fees can range from $10 to $115, depending on the area you live in. Prepare for these costs by researching local laws, especially if you’re getting married in a state you don’t live in. Some places (like Delaware) hike up their fee for out-of-state applicants.\n\n2. __Ceremony Fee:__ Some states also charge an additional ceremony fee for city hall marriages, usually around $35. \n\n3. __Premarital Counseling:__ In certain areas of the United States, couples applying for their marriage licenses are required to complete premarital counseling classes. In some cases, completion of these classes can significantly reduce the cost of your marriage certificate fee.\n\n4. __Waiting Period:__ After you obtain your marriage license, you may be subject to a waiting period (somewhere between 24 and 72 hours). There will also be a grace period from the time you receive your marriage certificate until you actually get married. If you wait longer than your local grace period, your marriage license could expire.\n\n### 3. Finding an Available Location\n\nCourthouses are government buildings, and sometimes they’re busy. This can be frustrating, especially for couples looking to [elope](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/planning-an-elopement), but it’s something you’ll need to deal with. \n\nSince city halls have set hours, your courthouse wedding will probably take place on a weekday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. While these hours aren’t ideal for a romantic celebration, couples who organize their event ahead of time will be better off scheduling-wise. \n\nThe last thing you want is to show up at the courthouse—fully dressed and ready to be wed—only to find out they’re booked for the day.\n\n## 5 Months Prior: Planning for What Comes After\n\nOnce your love is fully recognized by the law, you’ll be able to celebrate—don’t forget to plan what that celebration will look like in advance. Plus, after you tie the knot, you’ll still have to tie up a few loose ends. \n\nWhile some couples like to keep their post-wedding plans simple, others may choose to go all out. Wherever your personal taste lies, follow this quick checklist for celebrating the beginning of your new life. \n\n### 4. Honeymoon\n\nSome couples opt for a courthouse wedding to save money for the real celebration—the honeymoon.\n\nThe average price of a wedding in the United States is $33,900, and that’s not including honeymoon costs. Now think about how many hotel rooms, flights, and sightseeing activities you could get for that amount of money (keeping in mind the average honeymoon in the U.S. only costs $4,466). \n\nTo plan a honeymoon that lives up to your expectations, be sure to hit each item on this checklist:\n\n1. Book flights (and consider splurging for a cabin upgrade)\n2. Reserve romantic accommodations \n3. Plan a few special activities in advance \n4. Organize transportation to and from the airport, especially if you’re leaving right after your courthouse ceremony\n5. Put someone in charge of the post-wedding cleanup, so that you don’t have to worry\n\n### 5. After Party\n\nIf you’re interested in a private courthouse ceremony, but still want to celebrate with friends and family, consider hosting an after-party. This celebration can take place at a restaurant, bar, or even in the comfort of your own home after the big day. (Your guests may even meet you outside the courthouse to kick the celebration off early.)\n\nYou can go big or small, just remember to take venue, food and drinks, and transportation into account.\n\n### 6 Send Thank You Cards\n\nA courthouse wedding may help you save money on thank you cards, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo them entirely. Some couples choose to order a handful of cards, just in case. These can be sent out to anyone involved in the ceremony, engagement, or post-wedding celebration. Recipients may include:\n\n- Your witnesses\n- Your family\n- Anyone who sent you gifts\n- Guests who attended your engagement party, wedding shower, or post-wedding celebration\n\nWhile these won’t be mailed out until well after the wedding, you can always get a jump start and order them in advance. Zola lets you design and order five different samples to see in person before ordering the final product, so you can land on a truly magical design that captures the spirit of your special day.\n\nSending out these touching photos can help relatives and friends feel involved in the process, even if they weren’t able to see it in person.\n\n## 3 Months Prior: Assembling Your Documents \n\nVows and kisses are meaningful, but they don’t make a marriage. For a ceremony that’s recognized under the law, it’s crucial to get all your documents together before heading to the courthouse. \n\nThis checklist includes everything couples need to obtain a marriage certificate and complete their civil ceremony.\n\n### 7. Photo ID\n\nIn order to apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide a valid form of photo ID for both parties involved. Examples of valid ID include:\n\n- Passport\n- Driver’s license\n- Government-issued ID\n\n### 8. Previous Marriage Documents\n\nIf you’re applying for a marriage license and you’ve been married before, you’ll be asked to show proof of your previous union’s end date. Usually, this means showing divorce documents or death certificates.\n\n### 9. Birth Certificate\n\nTo obtain a marriage license, both parties will be asked for their birth certificates. Fortunately, a certified copy of a birth certificate will suffice. \n\n### 10. Proof of Residence \n\nIn some states, couples must apply for a marriage license in their county of residence. This isn’t the case in every area of the United States (Las Vegas, for example, has a much more liberal policy), but you should still bring proof of state residence just in case. Luckily, a driver’s license will usually satisfy this requirement, so you can check off two boxes in one. \n\nCertain counties allow out-of-state couples to obtain marriage licenses, but they may be required to complete an additional waiting period.\n\n## Day Of: Last-Minute Details \n\nNow that you’ve filled out enough paperwork for a lifetime, you can put the technical stuff behind you and just enjoy yourselves. Today is all about you, your love, and a few little details. Check these final to-dos off your checklist before you head down to city hall for your special day.\n\n### 11. Choose Your Outfits\n\nWhen it comes to courthouse wedding attire, you’ve got options:\n\n- __Business Casual:__ For a humble ceremony, couples can opt for sophisticated, but comfortable outfits. This may mean a button-up shirt and some slacks, or a nice blouse with dress pants or a skirt. \n\n- __Wedding Attire:__ Even with a courthouse wedding, some couples still go all out with their attire. If you like the idea of a quickie wedding, but don’t want to sacrifice your style, don’t be afraid to dress to the nines. We’re talking a classic wedding dress, a freshly rented tuxedo, formally dressed guests—the whole nine yards.\n\n- __Somewhere in Between:__ Many couples dress somewhere between an all-out formal wedding and just another day at the office—this might mean a white sundress or cocktail dress for the bride and black pants, a white shirt, and a black jacket for the groom, but without the full-length ball gowns and starchy tuxedos. \n\n### 12. Make It Personal\n\nThe courthouse doesn’t mean cookie-cutter. There are plenty of ways couples can add personal touches to their big day, even with the limitations of city hall. To make your ceremony a little more special, check out these ideas:\n\n- __Bouquet:__ Brides can add their favorite flowers to a bouquet for a touch of tradition. Simply bring your bouquet with you and hold it throughout the ceremony—just don’t be surprised when there’s no one there to catch it. You could also hire a professional florist to create gorgeous bouquets and boutonnieres just for the two of you—Zola has a long list of pre-screened florists who specialize in every style. \n\n- __Vows:__ Did you know that courthouses allow you to write your vows? This is a great way to make your city hall wedding unique, and personalized vows will add to the intimacy of the event. A courthouse wedding is all about the couple, so take advantage of this by writing your heartfelt vows to one another. \n\n### 13. Take Photos\n\nYour wedding is a memory you’ll want to cherish—no matter where it takes place. Couples who opt for a courthouse wedding can use the money they saved to hire a professional photographer. Through Zola, you can find qualified local wedding photographers and videographers in your area, including budget-conscious options that fit the bill. \n\nSplurging on this little luxury is a great way to document your special day. Whether you choose to dress up or keep it simple, the photos from your wedding will exude love no matter what.\n\nTry having a fun little photo shoot on the steps of city hall to fully embrace your laidback wedding style. These photos can be hung up in your home or sent out to friends and family who couldn’t make it to the affair. \n\n### 14. Change Your Name\n\nNot all married couples have the same last name, but some do. One way to celebrate your newly-minted nuptials is by heading down to the social security office and making your new surname official.\n\nChanging your name after you get married can be a little complicated, but newlyweds can benefit from sticking to two simple tips:\n\n1. __Get Your Proof Together:__ Before you begin the name change process, make sure you have the right documents in hand. Obtain your original marriage license, along with a few copies, before you start any applications.\n\n2. __Compile a List:__ This process can be lengthy if you aren’t on top of things. Keep an on-going list of the places you’ve changed your name and the places you still need to. For starters: Social security card, ID/drier’s license, vehicle title and registration, passport, voter registration, USPS, bank accounts, and personal accounts.\n\n## Courthouse Weddings: The Bottom Line\n\nThe steps needed for a courthouse wedding are fairly simple, but planning ahead of time never hurts. No matter where or when you choose to get married, the most important thing to remember is this: It’s up to you! The guest list, attire, and date of your wedding are personal choices that make each ceremony special.\n\n## Completing Your Checklist is Easy with Zola\n\nThe only thing easier than a quick courthouse wedding? Using Zola.\n\nZola is your one-stop shop for all things wedding-related. Whether you’re hosting a giant reception or a humble gathering, we’ve got you covered. Zola has hundreds of unique designs for [invitations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-write-on-an-elopement-invitation), wedding programs, and thank you cards. Users can also take advantage of our gift registry service, our reputable vendor list, and our gorgeous (and free) wedding websites.\n\nStop stressing, and start planning your wedding the better way—with Zola.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Seeking hair inspiration for your wedding day? With DIY tips from expert stylists, check out 50 diverse wedding hairstyles for every hair length, shape, and texture.","title":"50 Wedding Hairstyles for All Hair Types","slug":"wedding-hairstyles","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2f9iW5rW6QbHvSLgfTrzC2/4c2cc54d348e9806b17a283139d2fa01/wedding-hairstyles-hero.jpg","altText":"bride adding a flower to her hair"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Zola is here to help you navigate potential pre-wedding fights so that you can stop others from taking over your wedding planning. ","title":"How to Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning","slug":"how-to-stop-others-from-taking-over-your-wedding-planning","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2ZRGvm2yDPIcVn75qEujQY/c160645582f58754297fbed06cde86e0/05.jpeg","altText":"Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Create Your Free Checklist","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_CHECKLIST"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:16.150Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"the-15-best-small-wedding-venues-in-nyc","title":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC","excerpt":"Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.","author":"Anni Irish","publishedAt":"2022-11-14T16:06:44.127Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/2a3ca7dca443aab6967df71536a6cf48/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg","altText":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow "},"heroCredit":"Library Hotel Collection","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- If you’re the kind of couple that knows that throwing a small wedding is right for you, then that is half the battle. \n- With Zola's expansive inventory of wedding venues and vendors, [finding the right venue for you](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) is just a click away. \n- Whether you want to host an intimate wedding of 10 or 50, finding a venue is vital. Here is a list of 15 of our many NYC small wedding venues to help you narrow down the search.","body":"Intimate weddings can be a great option for couples who are looking to share a really unique experience with their guests that they can customize to their taste. There are a lot of advantages to hosting a small wedding, including: having the opportunity to spend more quality time with each guest, personalizing the wedding details more than you could if hosting a larger wedding, and giving you a chance to work with your dream vendors.\n\nIf you’re looking to [host a small wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) in New York City, one of the biggest challenges that you may face is knowing what venue to select. With so many choices it can get overwhelming, but don't worry, at Zola there are [many venues and vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that you can search for and book directly through our site. And, when it comes to planning your dream wedding, Zola's got your back. Take a look at some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day; plus, there are more to check out on our site, so go explore. \n\n## Small Wedding Venues in NYC\n\n### 1. [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow) \n\n![William & Willow](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3YdUSQOUAPJ5XLS03INMpj/bcb9ca4fbb439881cfa0b07bab3bb091/William___Willow_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the bustling Queens neighborhood of Astoria, William & Willow is a great venue option for an intimate wedding. The venue is able to accommodate 30 guests seated and up to 60 standing. And, with its close proximity to Astoria Park, it's the perfect location to get gorgeous photos before hosting a cozy gathering for friends and family at a wonderful local establishment.\n\n### 2. [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)\n\n![The Standard, East Village 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/64a3onvHVEeBX2mFLYLoUg/58e6b305f43d75ca59e2aa6d592afe62/The_Standard__East_Village_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)'s listing*\n\nTucked away in NYC's East Village—one of the most eclectic and lively neighborhoods in the city—and just steps away from Cooper Union, a premier art college, The Standard offers guests a luxurious and unique experience. There are a number of venues in the hotel, ranging from The Garden, which gives guests a tranquil environment from the bustle of the city, the Penthouse, which is the pinnacle of elegance, as well as the Overlook, Cafe Standard, and Narcissa. No matter the season or vibe that you're after, The Standard is able to meet all your needs, and it can accommodate up to 50 guests.\n\n### 3. [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho) \n\n![The Farm Soho Rooftop](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6tWYTwohoGmZnGGcn1KQcY/f4a5278f6e54a7b0c9a6d17202db8180/The_Farm_Soho_Rooftop_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho)'s listing*\n\nSituated in Soho, the Farm Soho Rooftop sits atop a historic building in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in all of New York (it is also home to one of the country's oldest cheese factories). The Farm Soho offers couples a chic and stylish experience that features breathtaking views of downtown Manhattan, Little Italy, the NYC skyline, and more. Boasting 2,300-square feet and an outdoor bar, this perfect venue can accommodate up to 50 guests, and it will offer you the wedding of a lifetime.\n\n### 4. [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince) \n\n![The Lofts At Prince](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3UmUlyLDFKkil9zDuOHjOy/7c0b92c263bec9361fc545110efa99b5/The_Lofts_At_Prince_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince)'s listing*\n\nWhen it comes to an intimate wedding in NYC, one thing that every couple dreams of is hosting their celebration inside a modern and sleek loft space. If that's the vision you have for your wedding, then the Lofts At Prince are for you. With the ability to host up to 45 people, the Lofts At Prince offer breathtaking views of the city, a skilled staff, and even a Penthouse suite that has an exclusive rooftop and fireplaces. Whatever vision you have for your wedding, the staff can help you make it a reality for your big day.\n\n### 5. [The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn) \n\n![The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7zkydPmWyvxODK9gkG3Cn2/1059c0dff44a56c92838a128a7a050de/The_Love_Shack_-_A_Little_Palace_in_Brooklyn.jpeg)\n\n*Photo from [The Love Shack](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the vibrant Bushwick community in Brooklyn, the Love Shack was an experiment that came out of a raw industrial space and was transformed into two live-in dollhouses. If you and your partner are looking for a bold and truly unique wedding experience, then look no further than The Love Shack. It can hold up to 22 seated guests, and is truly a venue where your imagination can run wild.\n\n### 6. [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown) \n\n![Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MNjbykLkg76d1isgkpB5F/79e28cee591059ecd0ed82d8abfb8b5e/Hampton_Inn_Brooklyn_Downtown_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown)'s listing*\n\nIf you’re after a Brooklyn vibe that is centrally located to many locales and has a gorgeous view of Manhattan, then the Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown is the perfect choice. Offering all the amenities of a hotel in an elegant and dynamic space, this venue can offer you and up to 32 guests a wide range of wedding experiences. Working with their skilled staff, you and your partner can plan the intimate wedding of your dreams.\n\n### 7. [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)\n\n![Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/d7f56db07e90d1b3ae211af014949c85/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)'s listing*\n\nThe Library Hotel offers the convenience of midtown Manhattan in a luxurious and chic space. With breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace of the NYC skyline, the New York Public Library, and more, The Library Hotel can provide the perfect backdrop for your day or night wedding, no matter the season. The Poetry Garden and outdoor terrace offer gorgeous glimpses of the city while giving you and your guests an elegant and memorable experience. The Writer's Den encapsulates the best of the Library Hotel's private club for you and up to 30 guests to enjoy during your wedding.\n\n### 8. [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel) \n\n![SIXTY LES Hotel 2 Small venue](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7pr7PcRi9w4HYriuPHcFtV/44d8bfff48d2b7d2f109c156c47f8459/eea82c70-c405-477f-bc81-07d574898672.jpeg)\n*Photo from [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel)'s listing*\n\nKnown for being one of the hippest neighborhoods in all of NYC, the Lower East Side definitely has a reputation that precedes it. SIXTY LES is definitely for the couple who is after a vibrant, festive party vibe for their wedding. With an outdoor terrace that offers both fantastic views of the city's skyline, as well as the perfect place to serve your guests al fresco, and a spacious, sleek indoor space, SIXTY LES has everything. With its ability to host up to 50 guests seated, there is so much versatility in this event space, so make it yours.\n\n### 9. [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc) \n\n![Maison Sun LLC 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5M95nYrmcGNoaDzm61S0Qj/a776844b0ea1afed30681da8e8f930b6/Maison_Sun_LLC_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the heart of Soho, Maison Sun features a luxury penthouse with a private rooftop that provides 360 degree views of the city. And, with their speakeasy exclusive dining room, nothing says luxury quite like having an intimate dinner for up to 50 guests in one of the most gorgeous spaces in Manhattan. Catering is provided by Executive Chef Conner Updegrave, who formerly worked as the former head chef of Blanca, a two-Michelin starred restaurant, so you know that the food will be delectable. Let the staff at Maison Sun help you plan your dream wedding.\n\n### 10. [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren) \n\n![The Wren Small venues NYC](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3im81mKeWLpqds88N8XIlW/e78e5404f246563aae673518aa2186a4/The_Wren_Small_venues_NYC.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren)'s listing*\n\nOffering dark wood interiors and a speakeasy vibe, The Wren is the perfect spot for couples who are looking to host an intimate wedding on the Bowery. A hidden gem in an otherwise bustling neighborhood, your guests will enter through the main entrance, then get whisked away downstairs into their own beautiful and sleek room. With its warm and cozy atmosphere, it's a gorgeous venue to host up to 20 guests. The staff at Wren are adept in helping you plan every step of the wedding you want, so start dreaming big.\n\n### 11. [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips) \n\n![PIPS](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3vXt44cC0jddNyOznl4tqY/5b27aa04f12e46857364e01edc892990/PIPS_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips)'s listing*\n\nIf you're seeking a venue that is inspired by the coastal region of Italy, plus offers a natural wine selection, then look no further than Pips.This venue offers the best of Italy, but is located In downtown Brooklyn. The staff at Pips, along with Executive Chef Jared Braithwaite, will work closely with you to develop a menu and wedding plan for up to 20 guests in a gorgeous and intimate space.\n\n### 12. [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog) \n\n![AKC Museum of the Dog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/69Up7eeFQfiCSy33cMMj0A/1e2d9787aa25dc568efbacb176e9adaa/AKC_Museum_of_the_Dog_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog)'s listing*\n\nFor dog lovers, and couples who are after a truly unique wedding experience in Manhattan, the AKC Museum of the Dog is for you. Located on luxurious Madison Avenue in midtown Manhattan, the Museum of the Dog wants to capture your heart with their stunning fine art collection, which offers an array of exhibits throughout the year in the Kalikow building. With two floors of its own, plus a mezzanine, it's the perfect location for up to 40 guests. If you want to celebrate your love for one another—and for man's best friend—the AKC Museum of the Dog is perfect for you.\n\n### 13. [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82) \n\n![Atrium82](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7chobjZBHpPcTuW2Nz0oEu/b444ce06b41e4e1f1ca9f110acecd3a6/Atrium82_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82)'s listing*\n\nFor couples who are looking for a dynamic venue that offers a stunning atmosphere, Atrium 82 may be right up your alley. Located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, Atrium82 is a female, Black-owned venue that seeks to empower the community. Underneath Tiffany stained glass, exposed brick, and gorgeous hardwood floors, this unique and intimate studio is a raw space that can be created into the wedding of your dreams for up to 30 people. Located only a short walk from Prospect Park, this intimate space can be transformed for any vision that you have for your big day.\n\n### 14. [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)\n\n![Bat Haus](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7s6iJ3GLdccGyLaQWbyncr/b133a855720f61cc5cef78c9d5c3126a/Bat_Haus_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)'s listing*\n\nBat Haus is another venue that is also active within the community that it's located in, and it provides a wide range of services, including serving as a wedding venue. It has the advantage of being able to offer you and your guests both inside and outside options with its gorgeous backyard, tons of natural sunlight, and beautiful hardwood floors. \n\nLocated in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Bat Haus captures the spirit of this area, while offering couples a number of wonderful options when it comes to hosting a wedding in a unique setting. And, with its ability to hold up to 45 guests, this extremely versatile venue is bursting with creativity, thus making it just the place to celebrate your wedding.\n\n### 15. [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2) \n\n![Maman Bryant Park 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2YZitGeWnTYiByl5sg2aMP/d5bd641e64bfca1f9be321b9155a96b0/Maman_Bryant_Park_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2)'s listing*\n\nIf you are looking for the best of what the French lifestyle brand Maman has to offer in the gorgeous location of Bryant Park, then their most recent project is for you. Utilizing the elegance and best of what their cafes have to offer with a French twist, Maman’s Bryan Park location is an elegant option for up to 34 of your closest friends and family. Be sure to request their famous chocolate chip cookies as a tasty dessert option that your guests will enjoy.\n\n## Zola: Discover Venues of All Shapes and Sizes\n\nNew York City has no shortage of small wedding venues, but, by using [Zola’s vetted vendors database](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), you’re getting access to some of the best in the wedding industry to help you plan your big day. There are a lot of options to choose from, so, when you’re planning your small wedding, remember to let what is most important to you and your partner help guide the process.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We've curated a list of NYC wedding vendors with the help of ratings given by our Zola couples.","title":"Zola Couples Share Their Favorite NYC Wedding Vendors","slug":"zola-couples-share-their-favorite-nyc-wedding-vendors","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1SfW00oR8W77DkKtaexp5M/e78d8d052ab9acb358e3cb63ad0f1240/Stems_Brooklyn_Couple___s_Choice.jpg","altText":"The Ultimate List of Vetted NYC Wedding Vendors: Couple’s Choice, Stems Brooklyn"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here’s our guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues, from rooftops and gardens to parks and cemeteries.","title":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day","slug":"the-best-outdoor-nyc-wedding-venues-for-your-big-day","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ld6U3BmDByPQNNxDq1j5M/8dfb69ab83fd3bd6987cb86c8d7bd4e4/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Atrium_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day, The Sanctuary RI"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here's our list of top NYC women-owned wedding vendors—from planners and caterers to florists and DJs—in NYC to help pull off your dream day.\n","title":"The Top Women-Owned Wedding Vendors in NYC","slug":"the-top-women-owned-wedding-vendors-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gblVXlOx3XBIlD8DuB8px/6a37eb71c6a3b639248612dd73cd3ae1/Two_Sisters_Events_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"New York City Women-Owned Wedding Vendors, Two Sisters Events"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you. ","title":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC","slug":"the-top-35-minority-owned-voc-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37AtYy73sCzbUhC2ACYOMC/6bbee0af098db310e70a49b5cd505248/Vivian_Pang_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:09.579Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"getting-married-in-another-country","title":"Getting Married in Another Country: Everything You Need to Know","excerpt":"The ins and outs of getting married in another country.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-12-20T05:46:08.286Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Vx26UidDFJlGaiinDpbsV/be1e874284bce3eebc6dbca288bac656/Hero_Zola__27_.jpg","altText":"Getting Married in Another Country: Everything You Need to Know"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Make sure to research the requirements to legally say your “I do’s” in your country of choice (and give yourself enough time to fulfill those requirements).\n- When you get married in another country, you also need to figure out how to throw a wedding there. Give yourself plenty of time for wedding planning.\n- Generally, if you get legally married abroad, that marriage will be recognized in the US, but not always, so make sure to check with your state’s attorney general’s office.","body":"There are an infinite number of places to [say your “I do’s](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows).” There are as many wedding venues and destinations as there are ideas about what a “perfect wedding” looks like. For many couples, the perfect wedding involves getting on a plane and traveling to another country.\n\n[Destination weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-checklist) can be an adventurous way to celebrate your marriage. However, if you’re planning on getting married in another country, there are things you need to know to ensure that the entire process goes smoothly (and legally).\n\nSo, what exactly do you need to know about tying the knot in a foreign country—and what do you need to prepare before your international nuptials? Let’s take a look at the ins and outs of getting married in another country:\n\n## Choose a Country\n\n“Getting married in another country” is a broad term. Getting married in Italy is going to be a completely different process from getting married in Mexico, Greece, Canada, or Portugal. So, if you’re thinking about getting married in another country, the very first step in the process is choosing which country you want to get married in.\n\nNarrowing down the country where you want to host your wedding will help guide the rest of the process—and will make sure that the information you gather is accurate.\n\n## Do Your Research About the Country’s Marriage Requirements \n\nOnce you’ve figured out the country you want to get married in, the next step of the process is to research what, exactly, is required to get married in that country.\n\nMarriage requirements vary widely from country to country, so you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to research the requirements of the country where you’re hosting your wedding—and to fulfill those requirements before your big day.\n\nAs mentioned, the marriage requirements will depend on the country, but some requirements you may need to fulfill include:\n\n- Completing blood work and/or medical tests\n- Proof of identity (for example, a birth certificate and/or copy of your passport)\n- Age requirements (and, if couples don’t meet the age requirements, proof of parental consent)\n- Residency requirements \n- Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry (this document doesn’t exist in the United States, but, if necessary, Americans marrying abroad can typically secure an Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry at a US embassy or consulate in the country where they’re getting married)\n\nResearching the requirements to get married in your country of choice—and researching those requirements well before your actual wedding day—will ensure that you know everything that you need to do to prepare for your destination wedding and have plenty of time to make those preparations.\n\n## Do Any Necessary Research for Your Actual Wedding \n\nWhen you’re getting married in another country, you’ll want to do your research to ensure that you’re prepared with everything you need to easily (and legally!) wed your soon-to-be-spouse.\n\nBut the research doesn’t end there! Once you’ve figured out how to legally get married in another country, you need to also figure out [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)—and how to host a wedding in another country.\n\nMake sure to give yourself plenty of time to research [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), [wedding caterers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer), [wedding florists](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/finding-an-affordable-wedding-florist), and any other vendors that you’ll need to work with. (If you’re getting married in a country where you don’t speak the language, you may want to consider [hiring a wedding coordinator](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-planner) to manage all the details for you.)\n\nIf you’re planning a destination wedding with guests, you’ll also want to research any travel information that your wedding attendees will need to know to make the trip. This can include local lodging, popular things to do in the area, and any medical tests or vaccinations that your guests will need to get before they travel.\n\n## If You Get Married Abroad, Is It Legally Recognized in the US? \n\nDestination weddings are fun and exciting, but when you get married in another country, you need to ensure that your marriage will be recognized in the country that you actually live in.\n\nSo, the question is, is that the case in the United States? Or, in other words, when you get married in another country, is that marriage legally recognized in the US?\n\nIn most cases, as long as you were legally married in the country where you held your wedding—and had a valid [marriage license](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-marriage-licenses)—that marriage will also be legally recognized in the United States.\n\nBut, there are certainly circumstances where that is not the case, so don’t assume that your international wedding is legally binding in the US. The [United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/while-abroad/marriage-abroad.html) recommends reaching out to your state’s attorney general’s office to get clarification on whether your international marriage will be recognized in the US—and if there’s anything you need to do on your end (for example, provide proof of marriage) in order to gain that recognition. According to their website, “If you get married abroad and need to know if your marriage will be recognized in the United States and what documentation may be needed, contact the Office of the Attorney General of your state of residence in the United States.”\n\n## When in Doubt, Reach Out\n\nIf you have any questions or concerns about getting married in another country, get in touch with either your embassy or the country’s tourism bureau. Generally, they’ll have more information about exactly what you need to say your “I do’s” in that country—and how to ensure that those “I do’s” are legal.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Choosing your wedding month and date is a crucial first step in the wedding planning process. Here's how to decide on the best time of the year to get married. ","title":"How to Choose The Best Wedding Month ","slug":"choosing-your-wedding-month","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/71pkqiAypqFZ7CL8KRWGIr/4f34666823e73a80647f762866ec1bd0/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"best month for wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Getting married in a special place guarantees spectacular memories. See the best destination wedding locations around the globe to find your special place.","title":"Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. and Abroad","slug":"what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JyyfK4TYb7znx1R7IPm5k/404773d01587da2b2225d4293f7a1b69/Hero_Zola__17_.jpg","altText":"Graphic image of a passport cover with passport pages sticking out"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Instead of creating a traditional wedding registry, a honeymoon fund is a great alternative. Read on to learn more.","title":"4 Best Honeymoon Funds + How to Set up a Honeymoon Fund Registry","slug":"honeymoon-fund-101","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1gXHBVb8SvxZFICKUbCPQe/b7d7e7771714a30999fdb2f685e95ef5/Honeymoons-Travel-and-COVID-19_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Honeymoon Fund 101"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:48:58.763Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"hotel-wedding-pros-and-cons","title":"Hotel Wedding Pros and Cons","excerpt":"Hotel wedding venues have been popular for decades. This expert guide will break down the benefits and downsides of a hotel wedding.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-06-21T19:53:50.999Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UgX7r08SGDJJzXU3oaC1p/e005a3debddcaf664117d11b481484a6/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Hotel Wedding Pros and Cons"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Pros of hosting your wedding at a hotel include: the convenience, amenities, and price that come along with this type of venue. \n- Hotel venues are a common choice for destination weddings.Getting married at a hotel means that your guests have a place to stay the night, and it also cuts down on transportation costs. \n- Couples may have concerns about privacy, time limits, and creative choices when it comes to a hotel wedding. If you’re dead set on a certain style of decor, then a hotel wedding may not be your best bet.\n- A hotel wedding may work perfectly for some couples, and not at all for others. This decision depends on your personal style, your budget, and your guest list—among other things.","body":"Many people imagine their dream wedding for years before the big day arrives. From the decorations to the first dance song, there are tons of decisions that must be made in the planning phase. One of the most important choices that couples have to make is their ideal venue.\n\nHotel [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) have been popular for decades. With plenty of space, amenities, and experienced staff, there’s a reason why hotel weddings never go out of style.\n\nIn this guide, we’ll be covering [how to choose a wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), plus all the different aspects of getting married in a hotel. In particular, you’ll gain an understanding of the pros and cons that come along with this [popular wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you):\n\n- What Makes Hotel Weddings Unique\n- Hotel Wedding Pros\n- Hotel Wedding Cons\n- Hotels vs. Other Wedding Venues: Which Should I Choose?\n\n## What Makes Hotel Weddings Unique \n\nEvery type of wedding venue is going to offer a distinct experience. While many aspects affect your choice of wedding venue, your [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-start-creating-a-wedding-budget-right-now), guest list, and personal taste are some of the highest priorities to consider. \n\nHotel weddings are no different. If you’re considering a hotel as your ceremony or reception venue, it’s important to understand what this option will provide. Let’s take a look at the basic facts about hotel weddings:\n\n- __You have options:__ Hotels are a popular choice for a wedding reception and ceremony. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many hotels offer services and designated spaces for them. Couples will have plenty of options when searching for a hotel venue, whether they’re staying local or planning a destination wedding.\n- __Timing is crucial:__ Wedding season is typically considered June to September. During this time, you can expect most wedding venues to have scarce availability. Hotels are particularly busy throughout the wedding season, and prices for packages and room rentals may be a bit higher during these months.\n- __Hotels have wedding packages:__ Despite price surges during peak wedding season, hotel weddings are fairly affordable; this is because many hotels have a plethora of wedding packages. These packages include bundled prices for large spaces, reduced rates for rooms, and discounts on in-house vendors (such as caterers, pastry chefs, and florists).\n- __Room blocks are big:__ Speaking of discounts, room blocks are an important part of booking a hotel wedding—and they may save you money in the long run. A room block is when a couple books a large number of rooms or suites for their wedding guests (typically this is done for close family and wedding party members). Not only will hotels offer a discount for booking in bulk, but staying at your venue can also cut down on transportation costs. Fortunately, Zola’s online hotel planner makes it easy to set up room blocks with the click of a button.\n- __You’ll put down a deposit:__ As with most wedding venues, hotels usually require a deposit when you book. This money may or may not be refundable, with a cancellation charge at the very least. This deposit is used to hold the space until the wedding date is closer, and you’ll typically pay the remaining balance around 30 days before.\n- __You’ll also sign a contract:__ Along with a deposit, most wedding venues will also require you to sign a contract. This document should cover payment methods, rescheduling policies, restrictions on the space, and any other important information regarding your booking. Since hotels host weddings on such a regular basis, you can expect this part of the process to be organized and thorough.\n\nHotels are a popular choice for wedding venues, and many of them are prepared (and even eager) to host your big day. Shop around and find a hotel that fits your style, then book the rooms you need, and the rest of the process should be fairly simple.\n\n## Hotel Wedding Pros \n\nNow that you’re familiar with the basics, it’s time to get into the details. Consider these factors for why a hotel wedding venue may be your perfect fit.\n\n### Less Planning\nPlanning a wedding is a lot of work, and not all couples want to worry about every little detail of the ceremony or reception. With a hotel wedding venue, you can take a back seat approach to coordinate your special day.\n\nThis doesn’t mean that you’ll have no say in the planning process, rather couples who choose a hotel venue can still make choices when it comes to:\n\n- Music\n- Food\n- Colors and certain decorations\n- Attire\n\nThe main difference between a hotel and a private venue comes down to the smaller details. For example, when you choose a hotel as your venue, you won’t have to worry about bringing your own:\n\n- Chairs\n- Tables\n- Silverware\n- Glassware\n- Tablecloths\n\nHotel venues take care of the heavy lifting when planning your wedding. \n\nCouples won’t have to worry about filling the space or finding the right decor. The dining area will have everything included, typically at no extra charge. Rather than starting with a blank canvas, a hotel wedding gives you a solid foundation to start with. \n\nHotels also likely provide their in-house vendors. This means that couples won’t have to test out different caterers or florists. These amenities create a more stress-free planning experience and allow couples to spend more time on other parts of the big day—such as dress shopping, drafting a seating chart, and planning out the music.\n\nIf vendors aren’t provided, Zola has you covered. Choose through our [pre-screened wedding vendor marketplace](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to find photographers, cake designers, [affordable wedding florists](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/finding-an-affordable-wedding-florist), and more. You can filter by budget, type of service, and location to match with the perfect one—well, the perfect vendor. Your soon-to-be already has “the perfect one” covered. \n\n### Convenience\nNot only is the planning process more relaxed with a hotel venue, but the actual event may be more convenient, too. Hosting your wedding at a hotel can make several things easier on you and your guests, including:\n\n- __You’ll get a head start on the day:__ Staying at your venue the night before can help condense your schedule and prevent you from forgetting anything important. Family and wedding party members are also likely to stay the night, meaning that they’re there and ready to help first thing in the morning. Rather than trying to transport everything the day of, staying at the hotel helps simplify your entire schedule. \n- __Hotels have ceremony spaces:__ Many couples hold their ceremony and reception at their hotel venue. This significantly reduces transportation costs and allows everyone to relax, without worrying about getting from point A to point B. Most hotels will have separate spaces for your ceremony and reception, allowing for the same change of scenery—without all the hassle.\n- __Guests can stay the night:__ After a long night of celebration, few people will want to be making the trek home—especially out-of-town guests. With a hotel package, you’ll be able to provide lodging for your guests at the end of the wedding. Your loved ones will love you for this.\n- __Transportation services:__ Hotels often have a list of services that make your life easier. Guests can typically get easy transportation through the hotel’s car or [wedding limo services](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-transportation-101), and these locations also tend to be hot spots for Uber or Lyft. Couples will have no trouble finding a ride to the airport following the big day, so the honeymoon relaxation can begin a little early. Guests who do decide to drive themselves will have no trouble finding parking at a hotel venue either.\n- __Dressing rooms:__ If you’re not planning to stay the night before your wedding, hotels also have ample space for people to get dressed. The couple, wedding party, and family members will be given rooms where they can get ready privately. This is also a great place to stage wedding photos, such as the first look or wedding party group shots. \n- __Rehearsal dinner:__ Since most hotels have on-site restaurants, couples can also host their rehearsal dinner at this location. This may be included in the wedding package you choose, which can further reduce your overall wedding costs. \n\nNot only will your planning process be easier with a hotel venue, but the big day will be less stressful, too. Just be sure to check with the hotel’s wedding package to find the perfect option for you.\n\n### Cost\nCost is another factor that greatly affects your choice of venue. While some hotels can be pretty pricey, this type of venue generally comes with a lower price tag than private locations. Things to consider when weighing the price of a hotel venue include:\n\n- __Package options:__ Wedding packages aren’t one-size-fits-all. Many hotels offer a variety of different deals, depending on the services you’re looking for, as well as the size and scope of your wedding. Hotels typically offer discounts on rooms for their wedding packages, including wedding suites and honeymoon deals. If you want to get a total upfront, without having to crunch any numbers, a hotel venue is a great option.\n- __No rentals:__ In addition to setting up your tables and chairs, you’ll also save money on renting these pieces. Couples who choose a private venue may be paying hundreds or even thousands more for chair, table, and silverware rentals. When you get married at a hotel, they’ll have this set up already at no additional cost to you. \n\nA hotel venue may cost a lot up front, but consider what you’re getting for your money. When rooms, tables, and multiple event spaces are included in this total, you’ll quickly realize just how much you’re saving with a hotel venue.\n\n### Spacious\nNot only are hotel weddings easy, but they’re also incredibly spacious. When you book a private venue, you run the risk of limited space depending on the location. Hotels, on the other hand? They’re made for large gatherings.\n\nWith a hotel venue, you’ll likely have separate rooms for different parts of the day. This includes:\n\n- A ceremony space\n- A cocktail hour area\n- A formal dining room\n- Outdoor photography spots\n- A stage and dance floor\n\nSo, if you want a venue with plenty of room, a hotel is the way to go. From formal dining areas to full-size dance floors, hotels are designed to comfortably accommodate large events.\n\n## Hotel Wedding Cons \n\nThe list of pros with a hotel wedding venue can be pretty enticing, but no location is perfect. Hotel weddings won’t work for every couple, and it’s important to understand the challenges that you may face when considering this type of venue.\n\n### Less Flexibility \nWith the benefit of convenience comes a lack of flexibility. When you choose a hotel as your wedding venue, you forgo the freedom of selecting the decor.\n\nHotels offer beautiful architecture and quality decor, but this can still feel limiting for creative couples. From the ceremony’s altar to the reception’s table settings, hotels tend to use their own set of decorations when they host weddings. The reason for this is because it’s easier for everyone. \n\nHotel venues have certain protocols that they must follow, and staff is trained to set up the decor they typically use. Some hotels may also have deals with certain catering companies and other vendors, making it difficult for couples to personalize their experience. \n\nSome hotels allow outside decor or vendors, but they’ll often charge an additional fee for it. While this can work for some couples’ budgets, others may prefer a venue with a little more flexibility.\n\nThe bottom line? If you want a say in your choice of decor and vendors, a hotel wedding won’t be ideal for you. Some hotels may allow these changes, but fees will typically be charged for any outside furniture, decorations, and food. \n\n### Restrictions\nSimilar to the planning process, your actual wedding day may be subject to certain restrictions put in place by the venue. Hotels tend to have time limits on their spaces, and couples who are planning a late-night celebration may be disappointed with these constraints. \n\nSome hotels also require guests to book a stay in their rooms, as part of the wedding package. This is done so that the hotel can get their money’s worth from hosting the event. Booking room blocks also helps avoid issues with privacy, although the event will rarely be fully private (unless you rent out the entire building). \n\nAlthough some guests won’t mind staying the night, this rule can be inconvenient for others. Attending the wedding without staying at the hotel can also lead to additional charges for these guests, which is something you don’t want to spring on your loved ones at the last minute.\n\n### Not Private\nThe final issue you may have with a hotel wedding venue is a lack of privacy. Unlike other venues, hotels are typically not reserved for a singular event. \n\nNot only do you run the risk of bumping into other guests, but larger hotels can have other weddings occurring at the same time as yours. While this won’t affect your reception space, this can lead to awkward situations around the location. The lack of privacy can prove to be particularly tricky when it comes time to take photos. After all, nobody wants a bunch of strangers photo-bombing their wedding pictures.\n\nIf privacy is a big concern for you and your fiance, then a hotel venue won’t be your best option.\n\n## Hotels vs. Other Wedding Venues: Which Should I Choose? \n\nAt the end of the day, the perfect venue will depend on the couple choosing it. In addition to hotels, there are several other venue options available, including: \n\n- The beach\n- Country club\n- Place of worship\n- Banquet hall\n- Restaurant or museum\n- Backyard\n\nUnlike outdoor venues, hotels are reliable regardless of the weather. Many hotels also provide outdoor spaces for a hybrid approach, but couples can rest easy knowing that there is a clear backup plan if inclement weather occurs. This versatility makes hotels a viable option for all weddings, especially those in rainy climates. \n\nHotels can also accommodate large groups of people, the way many private venues cannot. If your guest list is looking lengthier than expected, a hotel may be your best option for fitting everyone comfortably. \n\nShould you need help managing this extensive guest list, Zola can help. Zola’s [guest list manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) automatically tracks RSVPs, guest mailing addresses, and meal orders, then streamlines this information with your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Plus, when it comes time to arrange the dinner seating, your guest list manager can assist with that too. \n\n## Book Your Hotel Wedding Venue at Zola\nHaving these tips and tricks under your belt is helpful, but using Zola is going to be your ace in the hole. \n\nHere at Zola, we’re all about making [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) easy. Couples can find the perfect hotel venue using our list of pre-screened vendors—with options available in cities all over the country. Our online hotel planner and guest list are just a few other tools that make planning your wedding a walk in the park—or rather, a stroll through the hotel lobby.\n\nYou’ve got enough on your plate. From our free [wedding website builder](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) to designer-friendly [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), simplify all aspects of your wedding planning at Zola.\n","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"All-inclusive wedding venues provide essential services, thus reducing your need to vet and book wedding vendors. Is all-inclusive right for you? Find out here.","title":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons","slug":"all-inclusive-wedding-venues-pros-and-cons","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5eznmjUVFSy09jRw72LyF0/a741e4fd3b17ed5e3a8adba1d52d2be9/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Stay within your wedding budget! See average wedding cost breakdowns by state, guest size, and vendor service, plus money-saving tips from the experts.","title":"How much does the average wedding cost in 2025?","slug":"whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/25FItUWv901zAj6EyEJu4B/fe6ac2437279c146282875bd93e98921/0401_Average_cost_wedding_stats_header.jpg","altText":"How Much Do Weddings Cost in 2025 Graphic"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Affordable wedding venues can give your budget some breathing room and still be gorgeous. Learn more with Zola's guide to finding affordable wedding venues!","title":"How to Find an Affordable Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-find-an-affordable-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7cdjOuzhiXWEUnKhMMZQS/0ed720c5b759cf82df0f403d3cce9dc3/How-to-Find-an-Affordable-Wedding-Venue.jpg","altText":"Phone screen showing venue search on Zola"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:48:32.832Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","author":" Audra Jones","publishedAt":"2019-06-13T20:33:52.006Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"heroCredit":"STUDIO OPiA","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/studio-opia","body":"Arguably one of the most challenging tasks of wedding planning is finding the perfect wedding venue. Researching, visiting, and finally booking just one wedding venue that fits your needs, budget, and vision for your big day is no easy feat. To complicate matters even further, often you have no idea which type of wedding venue would be right for you and your celebration.\n\nAnd while searching for wedding venues is often presented as an easy choice, this isn’t true. Not every couple has been dreaming of their wedding since they began dating and not every couple’s style fits into a nicely wrapped box. So if you’re starting out on your road to “I do” without an inkling of what you want or need in a venue, don’t think you’re alone. We’re here to help.\n\nWe’ll go ahead and say it: we don’t have a magic answer because choosing your wedding venue is a very personal choice. However, we have outlined a few popular types of wedding venues along with general characteristics of couples that might match well with each venue type. If you find yourself nodding in agreement to most or all of the statements for a particular type of venue, then you are headed down the right path.\n\n## The 5 Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues:\n\n- Hotel Wedding Venues\n\n- Barn Wedding Venues\n\n- Modern Wedding Venues\n\n- Estate Wedding Venues\n\n- Backyard Wedding Venues\n\n![meghan-rolfe-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5OwZtTirBPVxGlQt99VlzD/e5638e956ad2404866c415914ba560c6/meghan-rolfe-2.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Meghan Rolfe Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/meghan-rolfe-photography)*\n\n \n\n### Hotel Wedding Venues\n\n[Hotel wedding venues ](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/hotels-inns-resorts)were made for glamorous couples. They often feature floor-to-ceiling luxury, delectable in-house catering, and a staff of helpful, knowledgeable experts who really know how to pull off an event with style. Many hotel venues feature ballrooms and other facilities to host soirées of any size. Hotels provide the perfect backdrop for couples who want it all: beautiful surroundings (hotels, inns, and resorts often have well-manicured grounds), convenient guest accommodations, and in-house rentals, expertise, and event spaces.\n\nIf the statements below speak to you, we’d bet a pretty penny that a hotel, inn, or resort wedding venue is just right for your glamorous, luxury-filled fête.\n\nYou might be a hotel couple if…\n\n- you love modern and/or glamorous wedding decor.\n- you want [wedding catering](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you) done on-site and in-house.\n- you love the idea of having an all-inclusive event.\n- you want to have a wedding that lasts all weekend long.\n- you want to guests to have convenient, on-site accommodations.\n- you are having a really big wedding.\n- you have your heart set on a top-notch, ritzy reception.\n\nCountry clubs are a close cousin to [hotel wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/hotel-wedding-pros-and-cons) (minus the accommodations), so if you just can’t seem to find a hotel that catches your eye, you can’t go wrong with celebrating at a private club. They often have the same amenities—on-site catering, personal coordinators, grand ballrooms—and the rolling hills of a golf course are great for outdoor photos ops, too.\n\n![clane-gessel-3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/74BhIoWxzNmdG20GmRbUIn/46eb8cb421172b2e0736c3e4af23a805/clane-gessel-3.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Clane Gessel Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/clane-gessel-photography--2)*\n\n![clane-gessel-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5JKNmTpuQ03n20YhFxZdxd/5c102a38c70cc82476b93210651fdf8c/clane-gessel-2.jpg)\n\n \n\n### Barn Wedding Venues\n\nUsually set out in spacious, rural areas, barn wedding venues are loved by rustic couples for many reasons. For starters, the views can be amazing and barns gives celebrations a more laid-back feel that many couples enjoy. On top of that, there are many options to choose from: historic, fully-restored barns or newly constructed buildings with amenities such as built-in bars, restrooms, and chandeliers. Similar to barn venues, ranches and farms also make fabulous choices for couples who dream of rustic celebrations tucked away in the quiet countryside.\n\nSo, if you’re a couple who would rather throw on cowboy boots rather than dress shoes any day of the week, then check out this list below.\n\nYou might be a barn couple if…\n\n- you love rustic or shabby-chic wedding decor.\n- you wander “off-the-beaten-path” and appreciate natural environments.\n- you are willing to do whatever is needed to prepare for the weather.\n- you don’t mind maybe having to rent things like bathroom trailers, portable heaters, or fans.\n\n![carley-rehberg-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Tl0qJq05SkDcrmAc5jyhK/d17629c2b29e97b455131e1706de07eb/carley-rehberg-photography.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Carley Rehberg Photography](http://carleyrehberg.com/)*\n\n![jen-fariello-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5LgvaPcpSxFfNuCZy5Gpc5/455efb3dedc1f2fcd2aa4dbcbad00e52/jen-fariello-photography.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Jen Fariello Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/jen-fariello-photography)*\n\n \n\n### Modern Wedding Venues\n\nCouples come in many different packages—some can’t imagine a wedding that lacks glitz while others feel that sparkly decor is meant for someone else. Either way, that’s totally okay. A wedding day is all about honoring love and showing off your personality. [Modern wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/modern) can offer an interesting glimpse into a couple’s unique style. Whether a stunning art gallery in the middle of a bustling city or a converted cotton mill-turned-loft, these wedding venues are great for couples who love pretty-with-an-edge aesthetics, such as exposed brick walls or surrealist sculptures.\n\nIf you’re the sort of couple who likes to decorate your home with quirky objects and original art, then a run-of-the-mill venue probably isn’t right for you. But, if you’re looking for a creative backdrop full of unexpected beauty, then modern wedding venues were made with you in mind.\n\nYou might be a modern couple if…\n\n- you love offbeat, modern, industrial, or funky-chic wedding decor.\n- you would generally rather spend a day in the city than a day in the country.\n- you daydream about wedding photos set against amazing architectural backdrops.\n- you have your heart set on a more unique ceremony and reception setting.\n\n![colin-lyons](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6G1oVacmucmA5NtWLUFCk6/3b1471855408d37b4673dc763f355253/colin-lyons.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Colin Lyons Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/colin-lyons-wedding-photography)*\n\n![eric-kelley](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4X3BZqNY5pQBgldMMKAHki/c844dc085ce2b96e4d613aefa6a0b12e/eric-kelley.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Eric Kelley](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/eric-kelley)*\n\n \n\n### Estate Wedding Venues\n\nGrand, stately homes (often filled with antiques and vintage décor) set amongst acres of vibrant green lawns, gorgeous gardens, and countless picturesque views… sigh. Historic estate wedding venues are truly beautiful places to tie the knot. In the South, estate venues often come in the form of antebellum homes, but elsewhere you’re more likely to find stone castles or Victorian mansions. Either way, estate wedding venues are ideal for couples who love history and as much as they love breathtaking outdoor scenery. And did we mention that they compliment many wedding day styles? Often offering elegant indoor and outdoor spaces, there are plenty of ways to make your vision come to life between the architectural details and the well-kept landscaping.\n\nIf you find yourself smiling, you should probably start booking estate tours today.\n\nYou might be a historic estate couple if…\n\n- you love luxurious, glamorous wedding decor.\n- you want both attractive indoor and outdoor event spaces at your wedding.\n- you adore antiques and historic homes.\n- you appreciate history.\n- you want indoor comforts (bathrooms, a bridal suite) paired with outdoor backdrops.\n\n![aaron-and-jillian](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/0qHDEViy1wy89dpSOQco1/ea78b7305dfb1154403c6b20b00fce7a/aaron-and-jillian.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Aaron and Jillian Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/aaron-and-jillian-photography--2)*\n\n![sean-money-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1zZH2zYRfx4Sta1CzpoL8N/e244d5552603cf862c57884281f761ee/sean-money-1.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/sean-money-elizabeth-fay)*\n\n \n\n### Backyard Wedding Venues\n\nThere’s no better way to personalize to your wedding than by picking a truly one-of-a-kind location—a private backyard. Great for setting an intimate tone that’s all about sharing memories, [backyard weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/backyard) are perfect for couples who want their weddings to be laid-back extensions of themselves. When you host your big day at your home (or the home of a friend or family member), you get the chance to literally open your doors and welcome guests into your lives, your love, and your union. Plus, what could be more relaxing and special than getting ready in your own bedroom, or creating wedding memories in a place that you can revisit all the time?\n\nIf you’re looking for a causal, “we’re-all-family-here”-style wedding, then your (or someone else’s) own backyard is a perfect choice. If you find yourself nodding in agreement to the statements below, then a cozy backyard celebration could be calling your name.\n\nYou might be a backyard couple if…\n\n- you’re dying to DIY.\n- you love the idea of having an intimate, family-oriented wedding day.\n- you are having a small wedding.\n- you are more of a laid-back, casual couple.\n- you love the outdoors.\n- you are okay with renting everything for your celebration, including a tent.\n- you are willing to do whatever is needed to prepare for the weather.\n\n![meghan-rolfe](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/36LOQaFwKFCN46MkjQq6ko/3e5974dc3639184f41d440b41713d893/meghan-rolfe.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Meghan Rolfe Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/meghan-rolfe-photography)*\n\n![leah-marie-photogarphy](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5l0eCY4KhXRD8MhCUzAZ6K/dc60d05100428799fee05cc0a6bc986b/leah-marie-photogarphy.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Leah Marie Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/leah-marie-photography--4)*\n\nOkay, so we’re dying to know: which set of statements really spoke to you? Are you a glamorous couple head over heels for hotel wedding venues? A rustic couple who fawns over barn weddings? Casual backyard wedding lovers? Tell us below, and feel free to share your own experience choosing a wedding venue type that was right for you.\n","tag":"Venues","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Outdoor weddings are beautiful and super common. They also come with their challenges. Take on any issue with our rundown of common outdoor wedding problems and how to fix them all.","title":"How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding: 32 Tips to Avoid Hitches","slug":"10-common-outdoor-wedding-problems-and-how-to-solve-them","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Weyg0vwi76esqFCLLazzy/aa1e8d07be6b3992a70108637221f63c/c92fd4e9-40c0-4b43-b660-73a778e258b2.jpeg","altText":"couple has outdoor wedding "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Need to cut wedding costs? Here are five ways to do so that you might not have thought about. Read up, and get ready to spend smart!","title":"29 Ways to Cut Wedding Costs","slug":"5-ways-cut-wedding-costs","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XUtTaJVTcHtvYZbB5mOWW/9543c7efa84e5c6a4d1d3b58ea0da85a/amy-peppercorn-photography.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom sitting side by side outdoors in wedding attire as the sun sets"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Confused on how much to tip wedding vendors, which vendors to tip, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: explore our guide for tipping wedding vendors.","title":"How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors","slug":"a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oljNU6JIHuglslJ7ouSRO/c09c8646dad52d410abed69adbc51a28/lovesome-photography.webp","altText":"how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Check out our comprehensive guide on how to book hotel rooms for your wedding guests to learn the ins and outs of this sometimes-tricky task.","title":"How to Book Hotel Rooms for Your Wedding Guests","slug":"how-to-book-hotel-rooms-for-your-wedding-guests","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6dPe5c1VPmiPQwNm5pFBAt/992383c5c5fce4eff1cba424ed1d995f/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"hotel room lobby with purple velvet couch, mod chairs, and fireplace and a beautiful lighted chandelier"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come. These questions to ask wedding photographers will help you hire someone whose style you love!","title":"41 Questions to Always Ask Wedding Photographers","slug":"questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/vgfhrVNYXugnG7eH6LqqG/dbb3c765ebf137ed1cb3ffb07b571607/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer shows a couple a photo she captured of them during their photoshoot. "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding vendors make up the majority of a wedding budget. Find out how to negotiate with wedding vendors with our guide.","title":"How to Negotiate With Wedding Vendors","slug":"how-to-negotiate-with-wedding-vendors","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7C9dazl6oSciqDBZXFpaFX/8a452d45a7a306bcc492ef652eaa5456/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding flower vendor"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:26.814Z"}],"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues","description":"Choosing a wedding venue is an imporant part of planning your wedding-- many other decisions can't be made until you know where you'll say \"I do\". If you don't know where to start or are having trouble making a decision we have ideas, inspiration, and advice to help you land on the perfect place."},"topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors","description":"If you need help choosing a wedding venue or hiring your wedding vendors, you've come to the right place. Find advice and tips on wedding photography and videography, catering and food, bar services and drinks, music and more. We guide you as you create your wedding dream team.","subtopics":[{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"wedding-vendor-insurance-what-you-need-to-know","title":"Wedding Vendor Insurance: What You Need to Know","excerpt":"Whether you’re the one getting married or you’re a vendor playing an important role in the process, prepare for emergencies, mistakes, and accidents with wedding vendor insurance. \n","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2020-08-08T00:24:25.342Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Hk4JQWBJvVyXdjSZLJcr9/ef1679110aad6c2fc8af0a4f800b2222/HERO_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg","altText":"Large wedding venue with white flowers"},"heroCredit":"Ed & Aileen Photography","body":"Thinking about what can go wrong on the wedding day is the least fun part of wedding planning. Whether you’re the one getting married or you’re a vendor playing a role in the process, it’s important to consider the what-ifs, and, more importantly, plan for them. The best way to prepare for emergencies, mistakes, and accidents is to purchase wedding vendor insurance. Make sure that you, your partners, or your vendors are insured, so that no one finds themselves lost at sea without a paddle, or, worse, financially responsible if something goes wrong. \n\n## What Is Wedding Vendor Insurance?\nAlthough we wish we could, we can’t guarantee that the wedding day will go off without a hitch. So, it’s best to be prepared in the event that “a hitch” is something major like a bodily injury or property damage. Whether you’re a wedding vendor yourself or the bride-to-be, you need to know what kind of insurance is expected of you, and why you should care. \n\nVendor insurance is referring to vendor liability insurance. If a vendor is held liable for any injuries or property damage at a wedding or event, a liability policy ensures that they are protected and pays out any damages resulting from lawsuits.\n\n## What Is Covered?\nKnowing exactly what vendor liability [insurance covers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-is-wedding-insurance) will help justify why you need it and what you should be looking for in a plan.\n\n### Personal Injury\nIf, heaven forbid, someone is injured at the hand of you or your services or equipment, eg. someone trips over your tripod or the hanging floral arrangement comes loose and hits someone in the head, a liability insurance policy will cover medical expenses or any other damages that result from the injury and lawsuit. \n\n### Property Damage\nIf you cause damage to the property while conducting your services, eg. the food spills and stains an antique rug or other unforeseen circumstances, a liability insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs. If you happen to be sued due to the damage, your plan will cover the cost of defense and any damages you have to pay out up to the limit of coverage you have obtained. \n\n![Wedding Vendor Insurance](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/stAqkkgm94RNNPH1xcEzz/60a2024bfee2f6ea17429a46c98110bd/INLINE2_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits //* Ed & Aileen Photography\n\n### Employees\nYep, your employees are covered, too! Anyone employed by you, the vendor, to work the wedding or special event on the business’s behalf is covered under a vendor liability policy.\n\n### Equipment\nIf you are a vendor shopping for an insurance plan, and you use expensive equipment to conduct your services, you should look for a plan that includes equipment coverage or offers it at an additional expense. Although you will likely have to pay a deductible, this option will pay out funds for the replacement cost of any lost or damaged equipment, which can be substantial if you’re a videographer, photographer, or musician.\n\n### Type of Vendors Covered\nMost wedding vendors are eligible for a vendor insurance policy. These include [wedding planners](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-is-wedding-planner-insurance-and-do-you-need-it \"Wedding Planner Insurance\"), [caterers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues \"Wedding Venues | Zola\"), [florists](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-florists \"Wedding Florists | Zola\"), [photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers \"Wedding Photographers | Zola\"), [videographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-videographers \"Wedding Videographers | Zola\"), musicians, DJs, and bands, in addition to specialty vendors, such as stylists, food stand owners, photo booth operators, etc. Any vendors serving alcoholic beverages are not covered under most traditional vendor liability policies. \n\n## Why You Need Vendor Insurance\nPart of being a professional means that you carry your own insurance. It’s not only risky not to be covered, but you may also lose your business down the line if a future client’s venue requires it. If you’re hiring a vendor, asking for proof of insurance not only protects you in worse case scenarios, but it is also a good way to vet the seasoned pros from vendors who are just starting out (and may not know what they’re doing). \n\n### If You’re a Wedding Vendor\nAs a vendor, you don’t want to be held financially responsible if something goes wrong on the wedding day. Even if you take every precaution possible when fulfilling your services, there is a lot you won’t have control over. What if the wind tips over the candles you set up, or a shattered glass falls into the drinks you were mixing? You can use your imagination about other scenarios, but the outcome of any of these chain of events isn’t pretty. And the consequence could be a staggering lawsuit. A lawsuit could not only cost you a lot of money, but, worst-case scenario, could also cost you your business.\n\nAny professional knows that you can’t predict what will happen on any given wedding day. Sure, the possibility you yourself will cause an accident that hurts someone or damages the venue is super low, but it’s better not to leave it up to chance. Having insurance is crucial in the one-off case where you do get sued. \n\nWhether you’re a caterer, a florist, or a mom-and-pop bakery, you need vendor insurance. The one exception is for venues. Wedding venues will have larger insurance policies, and they can also be added to a couple’s liability insurance plan for each individual wedding. In fact, it’s often required.\n\n### If You’re Hiring a Wedding Vendor\nAs the host, you’re ultimately responsible for anything that goes wrong at your wedding. And, while we’re sure yours will be positively perfect, it’s important to be prepared. Secure the right wedding insurance plan for you—these can cover everything from a misplaced gift to a golf cart crash—so that you don’t have to worry about what you can’t control. It’s not only important that you are insured, but that your vendors are, too. \n\nIf you’re working with a reputable venue, they probably require that you not only have a host liability insurance policy, but also that the venue is listed on the policy as an additional insured party. Whether you've booked a [wedding venue in Cincinnati, OH](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/cincinnati-oh--wedding-venues) or Los Angeles, CA, your venue may also require all on-site vendors to have individual insurance policies as well, and may even ask you for proof. Whether or not your venue requires it, though, it is important that you confirm each of your vendors has their own liability insurance policy. Proof of insurance from your vendors shows that they are both responsible and reputable, and that they are covered if anything goes wrong. \n\nFor larger businesses, vendors will likely already have insurance, but be sure to double-check that they do. For smaller businesses, vendors may not already have insurance, but they can obtain it through a variety of providers that offer event-by-event or short-term coverage. Keep in mind that additional costs for your smaller vendors who have to obtain short-term insurance may fall to you. \n\n### Vendor Red-Flags\nIf your vendor doesn’t have insurance, ask yourself why? Are they just starting out and haven’t yet learned the ropes? Do they not have the business acumen or ample budget to secure insurance? Not having insurance should be a red flag and should make you take a second look at the vendor before booking them. Other indicators that you may want to look elsewhere for services are:\n\n- They have received negative reviews.\n- They don’t have a website.\n- Their pricing seems too good to be true. \n- They ask you to pay in full upfront.\n\nBeing wary of vendors who check any or all of these boxes will protect you in the long run, even if it means you have to restart your search. \n\n## How Much Does Vendor Insurance Cost?\nVendor insurance can range in cost, based on length and features. Most providers offer both single-event coverage, in addition to multiple-month coverage so that you can find the right plan for you. If you’re obtaining insurance on your vendor’s behalf for a one or two-day wedding event, you can easily find a plan that meets your venue’s requirements for $100 to $200. \n\nIf you’re a vendor looking for coverage for multiple events, consider a longer-term plan. The coverage limit will make your premium go up or down the most, so decide how much coverage you actually need and pay attention to the difference in price. Premiums can start as low as $75 per month and go up to $200 per month, which is a small price to pay for the protection of you and your business. \n\n### Before You Buy\nDo your research. It’s important to not only compare the cost of different insurance plans, but also the coverage limits, in addition to finer details, such as who and what exactly is covered. Every vendor’s business is different, so make sure that the plan you choose offers the coverage you need now and as your business grows. You should also make sure the policy is backed by a reputable provider that can pay out promised damages, should the worst occur. Once you have selected a vendor insurance policy, be sure to secure certificates of insurance from the provider for proof when venues ask.\n\nWith a simple vendor liability insurance policy you can protect yourself from situations where you and your business would otherwise be vulnerable, and at hardly any expense. Plus, taking this important step will set you apart as a true wedding professional.\n\n![Wedding Vendor Insurance](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/O3PWpHdkZwMoSUSpk4kMx/9780d6765002c4689af96b4a3a7c9be0/INLINE_WeddingVendorInsuranceResources_Ed_AileenPhotography.jpg)\n*Photo Credits //* Ed & Aileen Photography","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:20.848Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"courthouse-wedding-checklist","title":"Courthouse Wedding Checklist","excerpt":"If a big reception with all the bells and whistles isn’t your speed, consider this courthouse wedding checklist for a simple yet sweet ceremony.\n","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-05-25T17:11:13.108Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2wk03ESm6lW8eAqUsk5VQA/dd98b26582c24f7d979cb608d6eb834d/Hero_SummerElopement-atKingsCountyCourthouse_DAGIMAGES.jpg","altText":"Courthouse Wedding Checklist"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨ \n\n- If you're planning a courthouse wedding, determine your expectations for the day, get your documents in order, and make the day special.\n- Perform a thorough search of the courthouses in your area. \n- Don’t forget to check your state’s laws when it comes to marriage certificate fees, ceremony fees, and waiting periods.\n- A few personal touches, like special wedding outfits, bouquets, and personal vows can make your more wedding memorable. \n","body":"For some couples, a big reception with bells and whistles doesn’t feel like a true celebration of their love. So instead, they ditch the wedding vendor checklist and extravagant week of the wedding checklist to solidify their union in front of the only people who truly matter: each other (and a few government employees).\n\nIf this sweet and simple ceremony sounds right to you, read on for the ultimate courthouse wedding checklist:\n\n- __After the Engagement:__ Deciding on a Courthouse Wedding\n- __6 to 8 Months Prior:__ Setting a Date\n- __5 Months Prior:__ Planning for What Comes After\n- __3 Months Prior:__ Assembling Your Documents\n- __Day of:__ Last-Minute Details\n\n### Do I Need a Checklist for a Courthouse Wedding? \n\nCourthouse weddings have a reputation for being easy to plan and execute. So, do you really need a checklist?\n\nThe answer is yes *and* no. \n\nYes, courthouse weddings can be easier to plan than more extravagant or even moderately big weddings, but easy doesn’t mean effortless. No matter the size and scope of your wedding ceremony, there are some steps you simply can’t avoid (and won’t want to forget).\n\n__The bottom line:__ All weddings need a checklist, even if you’re planning a no-nonsense courthouse ceremony.\n\n## After the Engagement: Deciding on a Courthouse Ceremony \n\nThe excitement of getting engaged is something to cherish, but it can also stand in the way of planning. Even at this early stage, you’ll need to get on the same page as your fiance and check a few crucial tasks off your courthouse wedding checklist. \n\nWhen discussing the possibility of a courthouse wedding, talk through the factors on this checklist:\n\n1. __Timing:__ The beauty of courthouse weddings is that they’re faster than traditional weddings. If you’re looking to make your union official as soon as possible, then a this is the way to go. Talk to your partner about the wedding day timeline you’re considering, and make sure you’re on the same page when it comes to a date.\n\n2. __The guest list:__ Courthouse weddings are small. Make sure you and your partner agree about keeping the guest list short. Discuss who you want to present if anyone at all. Most states require one or two witnesses to marry two individuals, which means you’ll have to decide whether these witnesses are friends, family, or strictly professional (like a photographer or city hall employee).\n\n3. __How you feel:__ Opting to have your wedding at a local courthouse is a big decision. While some couples couldn’t be happier about their quickie wedding, others may leave with feelings of regret. Before committing to a city hall wedding, make sure both of you are fully confident in your choice.\n\n## 6 to 8 Months Prior: Setting a Date \n\nCourthouse weddings may be quick, but they’re not instant. Even a civil ceremony requires some organization, so let’s break down the steps for your city hall ceremony checklist. \n\n### 1. Pick a Courthouse \n\nNot all [courthouses](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/city-hall-wedding-ideas) are created equal. The size and location of the facility you choose can make a difference in how the day plays out. While larger city halls may be busier, they also offer beautiful architecture for your photos.\n\nSmaller county courthouses, on the other hand, maybe better for a more intimate marriage ceremony. These facilities also tend to have shorter lines, and you might get a more personal experience that isn’t as rushed. Talk through these factors when deciding on a location:\n\n- __Proximity:__ Are you looking to get married close to home, or would you rather make a day trip out of it with an overnight stay in a nearby bed and breakfast? The location of your courthouse will influence your schedule for the day.\n\n- __Guests:__ Each courthouse places a unique limit on guests. If you want a few friends and family to join you on your special day, this is something to consider when selecting a location.\n\n### 2. Adhere to Local and State Laws\n\nEvery state has different laws regarding marriage. Before you choose a location, it’s important to brush up on the local legislature. Make sure you fully understand every item on this checklist and prepare for them in advance:\n\n1. __Marriage Certificate Fees:__ Marriage certificate fees can range from $10 to $115, depending on the area you live in. Prepare for these costs by researching local laws, especially if you’re getting married in a state you don’t live in. Some places (like Delaware) hike up their fee for out-of-state applicants.\n\n2. __Ceremony Fee:__ Some states also charge an additional ceremony fee for city hall marriages, usually around $35. \n\n3. __Premarital Counseling:__ In certain areas of the United States, couples applying for their marriage licenses are required to complete premarital counseling classes. In some cases, completion of these classes can significantly reduce the cost of your marriage certificate fee.\n\n4. __Waiting Period:__ After you obtain your marriage license, you may be subject to a waiting period (somewhere between 24 and 72 hours). There will also be a grace period from the time you receive your marriage certificate until you actually get married. If you wait longer than your local grace period, your marriage license could expire.\n\n### 3. Finding an Available Location\n\nCourthouses are government buildings, and sometimes they’re busy. This can be frustrating, especially for couples looking to [elope](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/planning-an-elopement), but it’s something you’ll need to deal with. \n\nSince city halls have set hours, your courthouse wedding will probably take place on a weekday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. While these hours aren’t ideal for a romantic celebration, couples who organize their event ahead of time will be better off scheduling-wise. \n\nThe last thing you want is to show up at the courthouse—fully dressed and ready to be wed—only to find out they’re booked for the day.\n\n## 5 Months Prior: Planning for What Comes After\n\nOnce your love is fully recognized by the law, you’ll be able to celebrate—don’t forget to plan what that celebration will look like in advance. Plus, after you tie the knot, you’ll still have to tie up a few loose ends. \n\nWhile some couples like to keep their post-wedding plans simple, others may choose to go all out. Wherever your personal taste lies, follow this quick checklist for celebrating the beginning of your new life. \n\n### 4. Honeymoon\n\nSome couples opt for a courthouse wedding to save money for the real celebration—the honeymoon.\n\nThe average price of a wedding in the United States is $33,900, and that’s not including honeymoon costs. Now think about how many hotel rooms, flights, and sightseeing activities you could get for that amount of money (keeping in mind the average honeymoon in the U.S. only costs $4,466). \n\nTo plan a honeymoon that lives up to your expectations, be sure to hit each item on this checklist:\n\n1. Book flights (and consider splurging for a cabin upgrade)\n2. Reserve romantic accommodations \n3. Plan a few special activities in advance \n4. Organize transportation to and from the airport, especially if you’re leaving right after your courthouse ceremony\n5. Put someone in charge of the post-wedding cleanup, so that you don’t have to worry\n\n### 5. After Party\n\nIf you’re interested in a private courthouse ceremony, but still want to celebrate with friends and family, consider hosting an after-party. This celebration can take place at a restaurant, bar, or even in the comfort of your own home after the big day. (Your guests may even meet you outside the courthouse to kick the celebration off early.)\n\nYou can go big or small, just remember to take venue, food and drinks, and transportation into account.\n\n### 6 Send Thank You Cards\n\nA courthouse wedding may help you save money on thank you cards, but that doesn’t mean you have to forgo them entirely. Some couples choose to order a handful of cards, just in case. These can be sent out to anyone involved in the ceremony, engagement, or post-wedding celebration. Recipients may include:\n\n- Your witnesses\n- Your family\n- Anyone who sent you gifts\n- Guests who attended your engagement party, wedding shower, or post-wedding celebration\n\nWhile these won’t be mailed out until well after the wedding, you can always get a jump start and order them in advance. Zola lets you design and order five different samples to see in person before ordering the final product, so you can land on a truly magical design that captures the spirit of your special day.\n\nSending out these touching photos can help relatives and friends feel involved in the process, even if they weren’t able to see it in person.\n\n## 3 Months Prior: Assembling Your Documents \n\nVows and kisses are meaningful, but they don’t make a marriage. For a ceremony that’s recognized under the law, it’s crucial to get all your documents together before heading to the courthouse. \n\nThis checklist includes everything couples need to obtain a marriage certificate and complete their civil ceremony.\n\n### 7. Photo ID\n\nIn order to apply for a marriage license, you’ll need to provide a valid form of photo ID for both parties involved. Examples of valid ID include:\n\n- Passport\n- Driver’s license\n- Government-issued ID\n\n### 8. Previous Marriage Documents\n\nIf you’re applying for a marriage license and you’ve been married before, you’ll be asked to show proof of your previous union’s end date. Usually, this means showing divorce documents or death certificates.\n\n### 9. Birth Certificate\n\nTo obtain a marriage license, both parties will be asked for their birth certificates. Fortunately, a certified copy of a birth certificate will suffice. \n\n### 10. Proof of Residence \n\nIn some states, couples must apply for a marriage license in their county of residence. This isn’t the case in every area of the United States (Las Vegas, for example, has a much more liberal policy), but you should still bring proof of state residence just in case. Luckily, a driver’s license will usually satisfy this requirement, so you can check off two boxes in one. \n\nCertain counties allow out-of-state couples to obtain marriage licenses, but they may be required to complete an additional waiting period.\n\n## Day Of: Last-Minute Details \n\nNow that you’ve filled out enough paperwork for a lifetime, you can put the technical stuff behind you and just enjoy yourselves. Today is all about you, your love, and a few little details. Check these final to-dos off your checklist before you head down to city hall for your special day.\n\n### 11. Choose Your Outfits\n\nWhen it comes to courthouse wedding attire, you’ve got options:\n\n- __Business Casual:__ For a humble ceremony, couples can opt for sophisticated, but comfortable outfits. This may mean a button-up shirt and some slacks, or a nice blouse with dress pants or a skirt. \n\n- __Wedding Attire:__ Even with a courthouse wedding, some couples still go all out with their attire. If you like the idea of a quickie wedding, but don’t want to sacrifice your style, don’t be afraid to dress to the nines. We’re talking a classic wedding dress, a freshly rented tuxedo, formally dressed guests—the whole nine yards.\n\n- __Somewhere in Between:__ Many couples dress somewhere between an all-out formal wedding and just another day at the office—this might mean a white sundress or cocktail dress for the bride and black pants, a white shirt, and a black jacket for the groom, but without the full-length ball gowns and starchy tuxedos. \n\n### 12. Make It Personal\n\nThe courthouse doesn’t mean cookie-cutter. There are plenty of ways couples can add personal touches to their big day, even with the limitations of city hall. To make your ceremony a little more special, check out these ideas:\n\n- __Bouquet:__ Brides can add their favorite flowers to a bouquet for a touch of tradition. Simply bring your bouquet with you and hold it throughout the ceremony—just don’t be surprised when there’s no one there to catch it. You could also hire a professional florist to create gorgeous bouquets and boutonnieres just for the two of you—Zola has a long list of pre-screened florists who specialize in every style. \n\n- __Vows:__ Did you know that courthouses allow you to write your vows? This is a great way to make your city hall wedding unique, and personalized vows will add to the intimacy of the event. A courthouse wedding is all about the couple, so take advantage of this by writing your heartfelt vows to one another. \n\n### 13. Take Photos\n\nYour wedding is a memory you’ll want to cherish—no matter where it takes place. Couples who opt for a courthouse wedding can use the money they saved to hire a professional photographer. Through Zola, you can find qualified local wedding photographers and videographers in your area, including budget-conscious options that fit the bill. \n\nSplurging on this little luxury is a great way to document your special day. Whether you choose to dress up or keep it simple, the photos from your wedding will exude love no matter what.\n\nTry having a fun little photo shoot on the steps of city hall to fully embrace your laidback wedding style. These photos can be hung up in your home or sent out to friends and family who couldn’t make it to the affair. \n\n### 14. Change Your Name\n\nNot all married couples have the same last name, but some do. One way to celebrate your newly-minted nuptials is by heading down to the social security office and making your new surname official.\n\nChanging your name after you get married can be a little complicated, but newlyweds can benefit from sticking to two simple tips:\n\n1. __Get Your Proof Together:__ Before you begin the name change process, make sure you have the right documents in hand. Obtain your original marriage license, along with a few copies, before you start any applications.\n\n2. __Compile a List:__ This process can be lengthy if you aren’t on top of things. Keep an on-going list of the places you’ve changed your name and the places you still need to. For starters: Social security card, ID/drier’s license, vehicle title and registration, passport, voter registration, USPS, bank accounts, and personal accounts.\n\n## Courthouse Weddings: The Bottom Line\n\nThe steps needed for a courthouse wedding are fairly simple, but planning ahead of time never hurts. No matter where or when you choose to get married, the most important thing to remember is this: It’s up to you! The guest list, attire, and date of your wedding are personal choices that make each ceremony special.\n\n## Completing Your Checklist is Easy with Zola\n\nThe only thing easier than a quick courthouse wedding? Using Zola.\n\nZola is your one-stop shop for all things wedding-related. Whether you’re hosting a giant reception or a humble gathering, we’ve got you covered. Zola has hundreds of unique designs for [invitations](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/what-to-write-on-an-elopement-invitation), wedding programs, and thank you cards. Users can also take advantage of our gift registry service, our reputable vendor list, and our gorgeous (and free) wedding websites.\n\nStop stressing, and start planning your wedding the better way—with Zola.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Seeking hair inspiration for your wedding day? With DIY tips from expert stylists, check out 50 diverse wedding hairstyles for every hair length, shape, and texture.","title":"50 Wedding Hairstyles for All Hair Types","slug":"wedding-hairstyles","topic":"Fashion & beauty","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2f9iW5rW6QbHvSLgfTrzC2/4c2cc54d348e9806b17a283139d2fa01/wedding-hairstyles-hero.jpg","altText":"bride adding a flower to her hair"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Zola is here to help you navigate potential pre-wedding fights so that you can stop others from taking over your wedding planning. ","title":"How to Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning","slug":"how-to-stop-others-from-taking-over-your-wedding-planning","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2ZRGvm2yDPIcVn75qEujQY/c160645582f58754297fbed06cde86e0/05.jpeg","altText":"Stop Others from Taking Over Your Wedding Planning"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Create Your Free Checklist","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding/onboard?product=WEDDING_CHECKLIST"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:16.150Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"the-15-best-small-wedding-venues-in-nyc","title":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC","excerpt":"Looking for the best venue for your intimate city wedding? Here are some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day.","author":"Anni Irish","publishedAt":"2022-11-14T16:06:44.127Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/2a3ca7dca443aab6967df71536a6cf48/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg","altText":"The 15 Best Small Wedding Venues in NYC, William & Willow "},"heroCredit":"Library Hotel Collection","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- If you’re the kind of couple that knows that throwing a small wedding is right for you, then that is half the battle. \n- With Zola's expansive inventory of wedding venues and vendors, [finding the right venue for you](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) is just a click away. \n- Whether you want to host an intimate wedding of 10 or 50, finding a venue is vital. Here is a list of 15 of our many NYC small wedding venues to help you narrow down the search.","body":"Intimate weddings can be a great option for couples who are looking to share a really unique experience with their guests that they can customize to their taste. There are a lot of advantages to hosting a small wedding, including: having the opportunity to spend more quality time with each guest, personalizing the wedding details more than you could if hosting a larger wedding, and giving you a chance to work with your dream vendors.\n\nIf you’re looking to [host a small wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-plan-a-wedding) in New York City, one of the biggest challenges that you may face is knowing what venue to select. With so many choices it can get overwhelming, but don't worry, at Zola there are [many venues and vendors](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) that you can search for and book directly through our site. And, when it comes to planning your dream wedding, Zola's got your back. Take a look at some of our favorite small wedding venues in NYC to consider for your big day; plus, there are more to check out on our site, so go explore. \n\n## Small Wedding Venues in NYC\n\n### 1. [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow) \n\n![William & Willow](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3YdUSQOUAPJ5XLS03INMpj/bcb9ca4fbb439881cfa0b07bab3bb091/William___Willow_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [William & Willow](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/william-willow)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the bustling Queens neighborhood of Astoria, William & Willow is a great venue option for an intimate wedding. The venue is able to accommodate 30 guests seated and up to 60 standing. And, with its close proximity to Astoria Park, it's the perfect location to get gorgeous photos before hosting a cozy gathering for friends and family at a wonderful local establishment.\n\n### 2. [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)\n\n![The Standard, East Village 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/64a3onvHVEeBX2mFLYLoUg/58e6b305f43d75ca59e2aa6d592afe62/The_Standard__East_Village_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Standard, East Village](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-standard-east-village)'s listing*\n\nTucked away in NYC's East Village—one of the most eclectic and lively neighborhoods in the city—and just steps away from Cooper Union, a premier art college, The Standard offers guests a luxurious and unique experience. There are a number of venues in the hotel, ranging from The Garden, which gives guests a tranquil environment from the bustle of the city, the Penthouse, which is the pinnacle of elegance, as well as the Overlook, Cafe Standard, and Narcissa. No matter the season or vibe that you're after, The Standard is able to meet all your needs, and it can accommodate up to 50 guests.\n\n### 3. [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho) \n\n![The Farm Soho Rooftop](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6tWYTwohoGmZnGGcn1KQcY/f4a5278f6e54a7b0c9a6d17202db8180/The_Farm_Soho_Rooftop_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Farm Soho Rooftop](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-farm-soho)'s listing*\n\nSituated in Soho, the Farm Soho Rooftop sits atop a historic building in one of the most exclusive neighborhoods in all of New York (it is also home to one of the country's oldest cheese factories). The Farm Soho offers couples a chic and stylish experience that features breathtaking views of downtown Manhattan, Little Italy, the NYC skyline, and more. Boasting 2,300-square feet and an outdoor bar, this perfect venue can accommodate up to 50 guests, and it will offer you the wedding of a lifetime.\n\n### 4. [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince) \n\n![The Lofts At Prince](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3UmUlyLDFKkil9zDuOHjOy/7c0b92c263bec9361fc545110efa99b5/The_Lofts_At_Prince_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [The Lofts At Prince](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-lofts-at-prince)'s listing*\n\nWhen it comes to an intimate wedding in NYC, one thing that every couple dreams of is hosting their celebration inside a modern and sleek loft space. If that's the vision you have for your wedding, then the Lofts At Prince are for you. With the ability to host up to 45 people, the Lofts At Prince offer breathtaking views of the city, a skilled staff, and even a Penthouse suite that has an exclusive rooftop and fireplaces. Whatever vision you have for your wedding, the staff can help you make it a reality for your big day.\n\n### 5. [The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn) \n\n![The Love Shack - A Little Palace in Brooklyn 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7zkydPmWyvxODK9gkG3Cn2/1059c0dff44a56c92838a128a7a050de/The_Love_Shack_-_A_Little_Palace_in_Brooklyn.jpeg)\n\n*Photo from [The Love Shack](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-love-shack-a-little-palace-in-brooklyn)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the vibrant Bushwick community in Brooklyn, the Love Shack was an experiment that came out of a raw industrial space and was transformed into two live-in dollhouses. If you and your partner are looking for a bold and truly unique wedding experience, then look no further than The Love Shack. It can hold up to 22 seated guests, and is truly a venue where your imagination can run wild.\n\n### 6. [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown) \n\n![Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2MNjbykLkg76d1isgkpB5F/79e28cee591059ecd0ed82d8abfb8b5e/Hampton_Inn_Brooklyn_Downtown_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/hampton-inn-brooklyn-downtown)'s listing*\n\nIf you’re after a Brooklyn vibe that is centrally located to many locales and has a gorgeous view of Manhattan, then the Hampton Inn Brooklyn Downtown is the perfect choice. Offering all the amenities of a hotel in an elegant and dynamic space, this venue can offer you and up to 32 guests a wide range of wedding experiences. Working with their skilled staff, you and your partner can plan the intimate wedding of your dreams.\n\n### 7. [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)\n\n![Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2McQPXa0Ml5m4SG3nrw6Zj/d7f56db07e90d1b3ae211af014949c85/Library_Hotel_by_Library_Hotel_Collection_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Library Hotel by Library Hotel Collection](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/library-hotel-by-library-hotel-collection)'s listing*\n\nThe Library Hotel offers the convenience of midtown Manhattan in a luxurious and chic space. With breathtaking views from the rooftop terrace of the NYC skyline, the New York Public Library, and more, The Library Hotel can provide the perfect backdrop for your day or night wedding, no matter the season. The Poetry Garden and outdoor terrace offer gorgeous glimpses of the city while giving you and your guests an elegant and memorable experience. The Writer's Den encapsulates the best of the Library Hotel's private club for you and up to 30 guests to enjoy during your wedding.\n\n### 8. [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel) \n\n![SIXTY LES Hotel 2 Small venue](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7pr7PcRi9w4HYriuPHcFtV/44d8bfff48d2b7d2f109c156c47f8459/eea82c70-c405-477f-bc81-07d574898672.jpeg)\n*Photo from [SIXTY LES Hotel](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/sixty-les-hotel)'s listing*\n\nKnown for being one of the hippest neighborhoods in all of NYC, the Lower East Side definitely has a reputation that precedes it. SIXTY LES is definitely for the couple who is after a vibrant, festive party vibe for their wedding. With an outdoor terrace that offers both fantastic views of the city's skyline, as well as the perfect place to serve your guests al fresco, and a spacious, sleek indoor space, SIXTY LES has everything. With its ability to host up to 50 guests seated, there is so much versatility in this event space, so make it yours.\n\n### 9. [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc) \n\n![Maison Sun LLC 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5M95nYrmcGNoaDzm61S0Qj/a776844b0ea1afed30681da8e8f930b6/Maison_Sun_LLC_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maison Sun LLC](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maison-sun-llc)'s listing*\n\nLocated in the heart of Soho, Maison Sun features a luxury penthouse with a private rooftop that provides 360 degree views of the city. And, with their speakeasy exclusive dining room, nothing says luxury quite like having an intimate dinner for up to 50 guests in one of the most gorgeous spaces in Manhattan. Catering is provided by Executive Chef Conner Updegrave, who formerly worked as the former head chef of Blanca, a two-Michelin starred restaurant, so you know that the food will be delectable. Let the staff at Maison Sun help you plan your dream wedding.\n\n### 10. [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren) \n\n![The Wren Small venues NYC](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3im81mKeWLpqds88N8XIlW/e78e5404f246563aae673518aa2186a4/The_Wren_Small_venues_NYC.jpeg)\n*Photo from [The Wren](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/the-wren)'s listing*\n\nOffering dark wood interiors and a speakeasy vibe, The Wren is the perfect spot for couples who are looking to host an intimate wedding on the Bowery. A hidden gem in an otherwise bustling neighborhood, your guests will enter through the main entrance, then get whisked away downstairs into their own beautiful and sleek room. With its warm and cozy atmosphere, it's a gorgeous venue to host up to 20 guests. The staff at Wren are adept in helping you plan every step of the wedding you want, so start dreaming big.\n\n### 11. [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips) \n\n![PIPS](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3vXt44cC0jddNyOznl4tqY/5b27aa04f12e46857364e01edc892990/PIPS_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [PIPS](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/pips)'s listing*\n\nIf you're seeking a venue that is inspired by the coastal region of Italy, plus offers a natural wine selection, then look no further than Pips.This venue offers the best of Italy, but is located In downtown Brooklyn. The staff at Pips, along with Executive Chef Jared Braithwaite, will work closely with you to develop a menu and wedding plan for up to 20 guests in a gorgeous and intimate space.\n\n### 12. [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog) \n\n![AKC Museum of the Dog](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/69Up7eeFQfiCSy33cMMj0A/1e2d9787aa25dc568efbacb176e9adaa/AKC_Museum_of_the_Dog_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [AKC Museum of the Dog](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/akc-museum-of-the-dog)'s listing*\n\nFor dog lovers, and couples who are after a truly unique wedding experience in Manhattan, the AKC Museum of the Dog is for you. Located on luxurious Madison Avenue in midtown Manhattan, the Museum of the Dog wants to capture your heart with their stunning fine art collection, which offers an array of exhibits throughout the year in the Kalikow building. With two floors of its own, plus a mezzanine, it's the perfect location for up to 40 guests. If you want to celebrate your love for one another—and for man's best friend—the AKC Museum of the Dog is perfect for you.\n\n### 13. [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82) \n\n![Atrium82](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7chobjZBHpPcTuW2Nz0oEu/b444ce06b41e4e1f1ca9f110acecd3a6/Atrium82_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Atrium82](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/atrium82)'s listing*\n\nFor couples who are looking for a dynamic venue that offers a stunning atmosphere, Atrium 82 may be right up your alley. Located in the Park Slope neighborhood of Brooklyn, Atrium82 is a female, Black-owned venue that seeks to empower the community. Underneath Tiffany stained glass, exposed brick, and gorgeous hardwood floors, this unique and intimate studio is a raw space that can be created into the wedding of your dreams for up to 30 people. Located only a short walk from Prospect Park, this intimate space can be transformed for any vision that you have for your big day.\n\n### 14. [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)\n\n![Bat Haus](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7s6iJ3GLdccGyLaQWbyncr/b133a855720f61cc5cef78c9d5c3126a/Bat_Haus_The_15_Best_Small_Wedding_Venues_in_NYC.jpg)\n*Photo from [Bat Haus](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/bat-haus)'s listing*\n\nBat Haus is another venue that is also active within the community that it's located in, and it provides a wide range of services, including serving as a wedding venue. It has the advantage of being able to offer you and your guests both inside and outside options with its gorgeous backyard, tons of natural sunlight, and beautiful hardwood floors. \n\nLocated in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn, Bat Haus captures the spirit of this area, while offering couples a number of wonderful options when it comes to hosting a wedding in a unique setting. And, with its ability to hold up to 45 guests, this extremely versatile venue is bursting with creativity, thus making it just the place to celebrate your wedding.\n\n### 15. [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2) \n\n![Maman Bryant Park 2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2YZitGeWnTYiByl5sg2aMP/d5bd641e64bfca1f9be321b9155a96b0/Maman_Bryant_Park_2.jpeg)\n*Photo from [Maman Bryant Park](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/wedding-venues/maman-bryant-park--2)'s listing*\n\nIf you are looking for the best of what the French lifestyle brand Maman has to offer in the gorgeous location of Bryant Park, then their most recent project is for you. Utilizing the elegance and best of what their cafes have to offer with a French twist, Maman’s Bryan Park location is an elegant option for up to 34 of your closest friends and family. Be sure to request their famous chocolate chip cookies as a tasty dessert option that your guests will enjoy.\n\n## Zola: Discover Venues of All Shapes and Sizes\n\nNew York City has no shortage of small wedding venues, but, by using [Zola’s vetted vendors database](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors), you’re getting access to some of the best in the wedding industry to help you plan your big day. There are a lot of options to choose from, so, when you’re planning your small wedding, remember to let what is most important to you and your partner help guide the process.","tag":"List","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"We've curated a list of NYC wedding vendors with the help of ratings given by our Zola couples.","title":"Zola Couples Share Their Favorite NYC Wedding Vendors","slug":"zola-couples-share-their-favorite-nyc-wedding-vendors","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1SfW00oR8W77DkKtaexp5M/e78d8d052ab9acb358e3cb63ad0f1240/Stems_Brooklyn_Couple___s_Choice.jpg","altText":"The Ultimate List of Vetted NYC Wedding Vendors: Couple’s Choice, Stems Brooklyn"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here’s our guide to the best outdoor NYC wedding venues, from rooftops and gardens to parks and cemeteries.","title":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day","slug":"the-best-outdoor-nyc-wedding-venues-for-your-big-day","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/Ld6U3BmDByPQNNxDq1j5M/8dfb69ab83fd3bd6987cb86c8d7bd4e4/Brooklyn_Botanic_Garden_The_Atrium_Best_Outdoor_NYC_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Best Outdoor NYC Wedding Venues for Your Big Day, The Sanctuary RI"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Here's our list of top NYC women-owned wedding vendors—from planners and caterers to florists and DJs—in NYC to help pull off your dream day.\n","title":"The Top Women-Owned Wedding Vendors in NYC","slug":"the-top-women-owned-wedding-vendors-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/gblVXlOx3XBIlD8DuB8px/6a37eb71c6a3b639248612dd73cd3ae1/Two_Sisters_Events_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"New York City Women-Owned Wedding Vendors, Two Sisters Events"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Looking to work with locally-owned, minority business owners for your wedding? Our list of the top 35 minority-owned businesses in NYC is for you. ","title":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC","slug":"the-top-35-minority-owned-voc-venues-in-nyc","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/37AtYy73sCzbUhC2ACYOMC/6bbee0af098db310e70a49b5cd505248/Vivian_Pang_NYC_Women-Owned_Wedding_Venues.jpg","altText":"The Top 35 Minority-Owned/VoC Venues in NYC, Dhoom Events"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:09.579Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"getting-married-in-another-country","title":"Getting Married in Another Country: Everything You Need to Know","excerpt":"The ins and outs of getting married in another country.","author":"Monica Mercuri","publishedAt":"2021-12-20T05:46:08.286Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2Vx26UidDFJlGaiinDpbsV/be1e874284bce3eebc6dbca288bac656/Hero_Zola__27_.jpg","altText":"Getting Married in Another Country: Everything You Need to Know"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Make sure to research the requirements to legally say your “I do’s” in your country of choice (and give yourself enough time to fulfill those requirements).\n- When you get married in another country, you also need to figure out how to throw a wedding there. Give yourself plenty of time for wedding planning.\n- Generally, if you get legally married abroad, that marriage will be recognized in the US, but not always, so make sure to check with your state’s attorney general’s office.","body":"There are an infinite number of places to [say your “I do’s](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-vows).” There are as many wedding venues and destinations as there are ideas about what a “perfect wedding” looks like. For many couples, the perfect wedding involves getting on a plane and traveling to another country.\n\n[Destination weddings](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/destination-wedding-checklist) can be an adventurous way to celebrate your marriage. However, if you’re planning on getting married in another country, there are things you need to know to ensure that the entire process goes smoothly (and legally).\n\nSo, what exactly do you need to know about tying the knot in a foreign country—and what do you need to prepare before your international nuptials? Let’s take a look at the ins and outs of getting married in another country:\n\n## Choose a Country\n\n“Getting married in another country” is a broad term. Getting married in Italy is going to be a completely different process from getting married in Mexico, Greece, Canada, or Portugal. So, if you’re thinking about getting married in another country, the very first step in the process is choosing which country you want to get married in.\n\nNarrowing down the country where you want to host your wedding will help guide the rest of the process—and will make sure that the information you gather is accurate.\n\n## Do Your Research About the Country’s Marriage Requirements \n\nOnce you’ve figured out the country you want to get married in, the next step of the process is to research what, exactly, is required to get married in that country.\n\nMarriage requirements vary widely from country to country, so you’ll want to give yourself plenty of time to research the requirements of the country where you’re hosting your wedding—and to fulfill those requirements before your big day.\n\nAs mentioned, the marriage requirements will depend on the country, but some requirements you may need to fulfill include:\n\n- Completing blood work and/or medical tests\n- Proof of identity (for example, a birth certificate and/or copy of your passport)\n- Age requirements (and, if couples don’t meet the age requirements, proof of parental consent)\n- Residency requirements \n- Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry (this document doesn’t exist in the United States, but, if necessary, Americans marrying abroad can typically secure an Affidavit of Eligibility to Marry at a US embassy or consulate in the country where they’re getting married)\n\nResearching the requirements to get married in your country of choice—and researching those requirements well before your actual wedding day—will ensure that you know everything that you need to do to prepare for your destination wedding and have plenty of time to make those preparations.\n\n## Do Any Necessary Research for Your Actual Wedding \n\nWhen you’re getting married in another country, you’ll want to do your research to ensure that you’re prepared with everything you need to easily (and legally!) wed your soon-to-be-spouse.\n\nBut the research doesn’t end there! Once you’ve figured out how to legally get married in another country, you need to also figure out [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist)—and how to host a wedding in another country.\n\nMake sure to give yourself plenty of time to research [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), [wedding caterers](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-caterer), [wedding florists](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/finding-an-affordable-wedding-florist), and any other vendors that you’ll need to work with. (If you’re getting married in a country where you don’t speak the language, you may want to consider [hiring a wedding coordinator](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-planner) to manage all the details for you.)\n\nIf you’re planning a destination wedding with guests, you’ll also want to research any travel information that your wedding attendees will need to know to make the trip. This can include local lodging, popular things to do in the area, and any medical tests or vaccinations that your guests will need to get before they travel.\n\n## If You Get Married Abroad, Is It Legally Recognized in the US? \n\nDestination weddings are fun and exciting, but when you get married in another country, you need to ensure that your marriage will be recognized in the country that you actually live in.\n\nSo, the question is, is that the case in the United States? Or, in other words, when you get married in another country, is that marriage legally recognized in the US?\n\nIn most cases, as long as you were legally married in the country where you held your wedding—and had a valid [marriage license](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-marriage-licenses)—that marriage will also be legally recognized in the United States.\n\nBut, there are certainly circumstances where that is not the case, so don’t assume that your international wedding is legally binding in the US. The [United States Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/while-abroad/marriage-abroad.html) recommends reaching out to your state’s attorney general’s office to get clarification on whether your international marriage will be recognized in the US—and if there’s anything you need to do on your end (for example, provide proof of marriage) in order to gain that recognition. According to their website, “If you get married abroad and need to know if your marriage will be recognized in the United States and what documentation may be needed, contact the Office of the Attorney General of your state of residence in the United States.”\n\n## When in Doubt, Reach Out\n\nIf you have any questions or concerns about getting married in another country, get in touch with either your embassy or the country’s tourism bureau. Generally, they’ll have more information about exactly what you need to say your “I do’s” in that country—and how to ensure that those “I do’s” are legal.","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Choosing your wedding month and date is a crucial first step in the wedding planning process. Here's how to decide on the best time of the year to get married. ","title":"How to Choose The Best Wedding Month ","slug":"choosing-your-wedding-month","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/71pkqiAypqFZ7CL8KRWGIr/4f34666823e73a80647f762866ec1bd0/Hero_New_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"best month for wedding"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Getting married in a special place guarantees spectacular memories. See the best destination wedding locations around the globe to find your special place.","title":"Best Wedding Destinations in the U.S. and Abroad","slug":"what-are-the-best-wedding-destinations","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"List","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3JyyfK4TYb7znx1R7IPm5k/404773d01587da2b2225d4293f7a1b69/Hero_Zola__17_.jpg","altText":"Graphic image of a passport cover with passport pages sticking out"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Instead of creating a traditional wedding registry, a honeymoon fund is a great alternative. Read on to learn more.","title":"4 Best Honeymoon Funds + How to Set up a Honeymoon Fund Registry","slug":"honeymoon-fund-101","topic":"Honeymoons","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1gXHBVb8SvxZFICKUbCPQe/b7d7e7771714a30999fdb2f685e95ef5/Honeymoons-Travel-and-COVID-19_Unsplash.jpg","altText":"Honeymoon Fund 101"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Discover the best trends in wedding favors for 2024. Explore unique, thoughtful and personalizable gifts to say thank you to your guests.\n","title":"57 Best Wedding Favor Ideas Guests Will Love","slug":"wedding-favor-ideas","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How To","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4htHvgMQ2kudreHw1fqB8n/d78a19bfafdcf0518d029991930d3aa8/close-up-of-wedding-party-favors.jpg","altText":"Wedding favor gift boxes laid out on a white table."},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:48:58.763Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"hotel-wedding-pros-and-cons","title":"Hotel Wedding Pros and Cons","excerpt":"Hotel wedding venues have been popular for decades. This expert guide will break down the benefits and downsides of a hotel wedding.","author":"Emily Forrest","publishedAt":"2021-06-21T19:53:50.999Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1UgX7r08SGDJJzXU3oaC1p/e005a3debddcaf664117d11b481484a6/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"Hotel Wedding Pros and Cons"},"heroCredit":"Zola","tldr":"## The First Look ✨\n\n- Pros of hosting your wedding at a hotel include: the convenience, amenities, and price that come along with this type of venue. \n- Hotel venues are a common choice for destination weddings.Getting married at a hotel means that your guests have a place to stay the night, and it also cuts down on transportation costs. \n- Couples may have concerns about privacy, time limits, and creative choices when it comes to a hotel wedding. If you’re dead set on a certain style of decor, then a hotel wedding may not be your best bet.\n- A hotel wedding may work perfectly for some couples, and not at all for others. This decision depends on your personal style, your budget, and your guest list—among other things.","body":"Many people imagine their dream wedding for years before the big day arrives. From the decorations to the first dance song, there are tons of decisions that must be made in the planning phase. One of the most important choices that couples have to make is their ideal venue.\n\nHotel [wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-venues) have been popular for decades. With plenty of space, amenities, and experienced staff, there’s a reason why hotel weddings never go out of style.\n\nIn this guide, we’ll be covering [how to choose a wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), plus all the different aspects of getting married in a hotel. In particular, you’ll gain an understanding of the pros and cons that come along with this [popular wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you):\n\n- What Makes Hotel Weddings Unique\n- Hotel Wedding Pros\n- Hotel Wedding Cons\n- Hotels vs. Other Wedding Venues: Which Should I Choose?\n\n## What Makes Hotel Weddings Unique \n\nEvery type of wedding venue is going to offer a distinct experience. While many aspects affect your choice of wedding venue, your [wedding budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-start-creating-a-wedding-budget-right-now), guest list, and personal taste are some of the highest priorities to consider. \n\nHotel weddings are no different. If you’re considering a hotel as your ceremony or reception venue, it’s important to understand what this option will provide. Let’s take a look at the basic facts about hotel weddings:\n\n- __You have options:__ Hotels are a popular choice for a wedding reception and ceremony. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many hotels offer services and designated spaces for them. Couples will have plenty of options when searching for a hotel venue, whether they’re staying local or planning a destination wedding.\n- __Timing is crucial:__ Wedding season is typically considered June to September. During this time, you can expect most wedding venues to have scarce availability. Hotels are particularly busy throughout the wedding season, and prices for packages and room rentals may be a bit higher during these months.\n- __Hotels have wedding packages:__ Despite price surges during peak wedding season, hotel weddings are fairly affordable; this is because many hotels have a plethora of wedding packages. These packages include bundled prices for large spaces, reduced rates for rooms, and discounts on in-house vendors (such as caterers, pastry chefs, and florists).\n- __Room blocks are big:__ Speaking of discounts, room blocks are an important part of booking a hotel wedding—and they may save you money in the long run. A room block is when a couple books a large number of rooms or suites for their wedding guests (typically this is done for close family and wedding party members). Not only will hotels offer a discount for booking in bulk, but staying at your venue can also cut down on transportation costs. Fortunately, Zola’s online hotel planner makes it easy to set up room blocks with the click of a button.\n- __You’ll put down a deposit:__ As with most wedding venues, hotels usually require a deposit when you book. This money may or may not be refundable, with a cancellation charge at the very least. This deposit is used to hold the space until the wedding date is closer, and you’ll typically pay the remaining balance around 30 days before.\n- __You’ll also sign a contract:__ Along with a deposit, most wedding venues will also require you to sign a contract. This document should cover payment methods, rescheduling policies, restrictions on the space, and any other important information regarding your booking. Since hotels host weddings on such a regular basis, you can expect this part of the process to be organized and thorough.\n\nHotels are a popular choice for wedding venues, and many of them are prepared (and even eager) to host your big day. Shop around and find a hotel that fits your style, then book the rooms you need, and the rest of the process should be fairly simple.\n\n## Hotel Wedding Pros \n\nNow that you’re familiar with the basics, it’s time to get into the details. Consider these factors for why a hotel wedding venue may be your perfect fit.\n\n### Less Planning\nPlanning a wedding is a lot of work, and not all couples want to worry about every little detail of the ceremony or reception. With a hotel wedding venue, you can take a back seat approach to coordinate your special day.\n\nThis doesn’t mean that you’ll have no say in the planning process, rather couples who choose a hotel venue can still make choices when it comes to:\n\n- Music\n- Food\n- Colors and certain decorations\n- Attire\n\nThe main difference between a hotel and a private venue comes down to the smaller details. For example, when you choose a hotel as your venue, you won’t have to worry about bringing your own:\n\n- Chairs\n- Tables\n- Silverware\n- Glassware\n- Tablecloths\n\nHotel venues take care of the heavy lifting when planning your wedding. \n\nCouples won’t have to worry about filling the space or finding the right decor. The dining area will have everything included, typically at no extra charge. Rather than starting with a blank canvas, a hotel wedding gives you a solid foundation to start with. \n\nHotels also likely provide their in-house vendors. This means that couples won’t have to test out different caterers or florists. These amenities create a more stress-free planning experience and allow couples to spend more time on other parts of the big day—such as dress shopping, drafting a seating chart, and planning out the music.\n\nIf vendors aren’t provided, Zola has you covered. Choose through our [pre-screened wedding vendor marketplace](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to find photographers, cake designers, [affordable wedding florists](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/finding-an-affordable-wedding-florist), and more. You can filter by budget, type of service, and location to match with the perfect one—well, the perfect vendor. Your soon-to-be already has “the perfect one” covered. \n\n### Convenience\nNot only is the planning process more relaxed with a hotel venue, but the actual event may be more convenient, too. Hosting your wedding at a hotel can make several things easier on you and your guests, including:\n\n- __You’ll get a head start on the day:__ Staying at your venue the night before can help condense your schedule and prevent you from forgetting anything important. Family and wedding party members are also likely to stay the night, meaning that they’re there and ready to help first thing in the morning. Rather than trying to transport everything the day of, staying at the hotel helps simplify your entire schedule. \n- __Hotels have ceremony spaces:__ Many couples hold their ceremony and reception at their hotel venue. This significantly reduces transportation costs and allows everyone to relax, without worrying about getting from point A to point B. Most hotels will have separate spaces for your ceremony and reception, allowing for the same change of scenery—without all the hassle.\n- __Guests can stay the night:__ After a long night of celebration, few people will want to be making the trek home—especially out-of-town guests. With a hotel package, you’ll be able to provide lodging for your guests at the end of the wedding. Your loved ones will love you for this.\n- __Transportation services:__ Hotels often have a list of services that make your life easier. Guests can typically get easy transportation through the hotel’s car or [wedding limo services](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-transportation-101), and these locations also tend to be hot spots for Uber or Lyft. Couples will have no trouble finding a ride to the airport following the big day, so the honeymoon relaxation can begin a little early. Guests who do decide to drive themselves will have no trouble finding parking at a hotel venue either.\n- __Dressing rooms:__ If you’re not planning to stay the night before your wedding, hotels also have ample space for people to get dressed. The couple, wedding party, and family members will be given rooms where they can get ready privately. This is also a great place to stage wedding photos, such as the first look or wedding party group shots. \n- __Rehearsal dinner:__ Since most hotels have on-site restaurants, couples can also host their rehearsal dinner at this location. This may be included in the wedding package you choose, which can further reduce your overall wedding costs. \n\nNot only will your planning process be easier with a hotel venue, but the big day will be less stressful, too. Just be sure to check with the hotel’s wedding package to find the perfect option for you.\n\n### Cost\nCost is another factor that greatly affects your choice of venue. While some hotels can be pretty pricey, this type of venue generally comes with a lower price tag than private locations. Things to consider when weighing the price of a hotel venue include:\n\n- __Package options:__ Wedding packages aren’t one-size-fits-all. Many hotels offer a variety of different deals, depending on the services you’re looking for, as well as the size and scope of your wedding. Hotels typically offer discounts on rooms for their wedding packages, including wedding suites and honeymoon deals. If you want to get a total upfront, without having to crunch any numbers, a hotel venue is a great option.\n- __No rentals:__ In addition to setting up your tables and chairs, you’ll also save money on renting these pieces. Couples who choose a private venue may be paying hundreds or even thousands more for chair, table, and silverware rentals. When you get married at a hotel, they’ll have this set up already at no additional cost to you. \n\nA hotel venue may cost a lot up front, but consider what you’re getting for your money. When rooms, tables, and multiple event spaces are included in this total, you’ll quickly realize just how much you’re saving with a hotel venue.\n\n### Spacious\nNot only are hotel weddings easy, but they’re also incredibly spacious. When you book a private venue, you run the risk of limited space depending on the location. Hotels, on the other hand? They’re made for large gatherings.\n\nWith a hotel venue, you’ll likely have separate rooms for different parts of the day. This includes:\n\n- A ceremony space\n- A cocktail hour area\n- A formal dining room\n- Outdoor photography spots\n- A stage and dance floor\n\nSo, if you want a venue with plenty of room, a hotel is the way to go. From formal dining areas to full-size dance floors, hotels are designed to comfortably accommodate large events.\n\n## Hotel Wedding Cons \n\nThe list of pros with a hotel wedding venue can be pretty enticing, but no location is perfect. Hotel weddings won’t work for every couple, and it’s important to understand the challenges that you may face when considering this type of venue.\n\n### Less Flexibility \nWith the benefit of convenience comes a lack of flexibility. When you choose a hotel as your wedding venue, you forgo the freedom of selecting the decor.\n\nHotels offer beautiful architecture and quality decor, but this can still feel limiting for creative couples. From the ceremony’s altar to the reception’s table settings, hotels tend to use their own set of decorations when they host weddings. The reason for this is because it’s easier for everyone. \n\nHotel venues have certain protocols that they must follow, and staff is trained to set up the decor they typically use. Some hotels may also have deals with certain catering companies and other vendors, making it difficult for couples to personalize their experience. \n\nSome hotels allow outside decor or vendors, but they’ll often charge an additional fee for it. While this can work for some couples’ budgets, others may prefer a venue with a little more flexibility.\n\nThe bottom line? If you want a say in your choice of decor and vendors, a hotel wedding won’t be ideal for you. Some hotels may allow these changes, but fees will typically be charged for any outside furniture, decorations, and food. \n\n### Restrictions\nSimilar to the planning process, your actual wedding day may be subject to certain restrictions put in place by the venue. Hotels tend to have time limits on their spaces, and couples who are planning a late-night celebration may be disappointed with these constraints. \n\nSome hotels also require guests to book a stay in their rooms, as part of the wedding package. This is done so that the hotel can get their money’s worth from hosting the event. Booking room blocks also helps avoid issues with privacy, although the event will rarely be fully private (unless you rent out the entire building). \n\nAlthough some guests won’t mind staying the night, this rule can be inconvenient for others. Attending the wedding without staying at the hotel can also lead to additional charges for these guests, which is something you don’t want to spring on your loved ones at the last minute.\n\n### Not Private\nThe final issue you may have with a hotel wedding venue is a lack of privacy. Unlike other venues, hotels are typically not reserved for a singular event. \n\nNot only do you run the risk of bumping into other guests, but larger hotels can have other weddings occurring at the same time as yours. While this won’t affect your reception space, this can lead to awkward situations around the location. The lack of privacy can prove to be particularly tricky when it comes time to take photos. After all, nobody wants a bunch of strangers photo-bombing their wedding pictures.\n\nIf privacy is a big concern for you and your fiance, then a hotel venue won’t be your best option.\n\n## Hotels vs. Other Wedding Venues: Which Should I Choose? \n\nAt the end of the day, the perfect venue will depend on the couple choosing it. In addition to hotels, there are several other venue options available, including: \n\n- The beach\n- Country club\n- Place of worship\n- Banquet hall\n- Restaurant or museum\n- Backyard\n\nUnlike outdoor venues, hotels are reliable regardless of the weather. Many hotels also provide outdoor spaces for a hybrid approach, but couples can rest easy knowing that there is a clear backup plan if inclement weather occurs. This versatility makes hotels a viable option for all weddings, especially those in rainy climates. \n\nHotels can also accommodate large groups of people, the way many private venues cannot. If your guest list is looking lengthier than expected, a hotel may be your best option for fitting everyone comfortably. \n\nShould you need help managing this extensive guest list, Zola can help. Zola’s [guest list manager](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/guests) automatically tracks RSVPs, guest mailing addresses, and meal orders, then streamlines this information with your [wedding website](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website). Plus, when it comes time to arrange the dinner seating, your guest list manager can assist with that too. \n\n## Book Your Hotel Wedding Venue at Zola\nHaving these tips and tricks under your belt is helpful, but using Zola is going to be your ace in the hole. \n\nHere at Zola, we’re all about making [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning) easy. Couples can find the perfect hotel venue using our list of pre-screened vendors—with options available in cities all over the country. Our online hotel planner and guest list are just a few other tools that make planning your wedding a walk in the park—or rather, a stroll through the hotel lobby.\n\nYou’ve got enough on your plate. From our free [wedding website builder](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/website) to designer-friendly [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/save-the-date/shop), simplify all aspects of your wedding planning at Zola.\n","tag":"Advice","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_Masterbrand"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"All-inclusive wedding venues provide essential services, thus reducing your need to vet and book wedding vendors. Is all-inclusive right for you? Find out here.","title":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons","slug":"all-inclusive-wedding-venues-pros-and-cons","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5eznmjUVFSy09jRw72LyF0/a741e4fd3b17ed5e3a8adba1d52d2be9/Hero_Zola.jpg","altText":"All-Inclusive Wedding Venues: Pros and Cons"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"We’ll walk you through the steps of online wedding planning, highlighting all of Zola’s incredibly easy and intuitive online wedding planning tools that’ll make planning for the big day more fun and less frustrating.","title":"How to Plan a Wedding: A Step-by-Step Guide","slug":"how-to-plan-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4dIWp3wUEoOYErrmI2ARMW/7ef19284bfcf930b88487d3c0a562999/How-to-plan-a-Wedding.jpg","altText":"Zola online wedding planning tools as seen on mobile, desktop, and tablet"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Stay within your wedding budget! See average wedding cost breakdowns by state, guest size, and vendor service, plus money-saving tips from the experts.","title":"How much does the average wedding cost in 2025?","slug":"whats-the-average-cost-of-a-wedding","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Advice","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/25FItUWv901zAj6EyEJu4B/fe6ac2437279c146282875bd93e98921/0401_Average_cost_wedding_stats_header.jpg","altText":"How Much Do Weddings Cost in 2025 Graphic"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Affordable wedding venues can give your budget some breathing room and still be gorgeous. Learn more with Zola's guide to finding affordable wedding venues!","title":"How to Find an Affordable Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-find-an-affordable-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7cdjOuzhiXWEUnKhMMZQS/0ed720c5b759cf82df0f403d3cce9dc3/How-to-Find-an-Affordable-Wedding-Venue.jpg","altText":"Phone screen showing venue search on Zola"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Venues","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:48:32.832Z"},{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues"},"slug":"which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you","title":"Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues","excerpt":"Finding the perfect wedding venue can be a challenge. We outlined a few popular types of wedding venues to help you find one that's right for you.","author":" Audra Jones","publishedAt":"2019-06-13T20:33:52.006Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/3mtdq2vFMU7TZgw8uLy33P/0dc5a9f61771d50959e4f2cf9f353d03/4009290.jpg","altText":"types of wedding venues"},"heroCredit":"STUDIO OPiA","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/studio-opia","body":"Arguably one of the most challenging tasks of wedding planning is finding the perfect wedding venue. Researching, visiting, and finally booking just one wedding venue that fits your needs, budget, and vision for your big day is no easy feat. To complicate matters even further, often you have no idea which type of wedding venue would be right for you and your celebration.\n\nAnd while searching for wedding venues is often presented as an easy choice, this isn’t true. Not every couple has been dreaming of their wedding since they began dating and not every couple’s style fits into a nicely wrapped box. So if you’re starting out on your road to “I do” without an inkling of what you want or need in a venue, don’t think you’re alone. We’re here to help.\n\nWe’ll go ahead and say it: we don’t have a magic answer because choosing your wedding venue is a very personal choice. However, we have outlined a few popular types of wedding venues along with general characteristics of couples that might match well with each venue type. If you find yourself nodding in agreement to most or all of the statements for a particular type of venue, then you are headed down the right path.\n\n## The 5 Most Popular Types of Wedding Venues:\n\n- Hotel Wedding Venues\n\n- Barn Wedding Venues\n\n- Modern Wedding Venues\n\n- Estate Wedding Venues\n\n- Backyard Wedding Venues\n\n![meghan-rolfe-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5OwZtTirBPVxGlQt99VlzD/e5638e956ad2404866c415914ba560c6/meghan-rolfe-2.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Meghan Rolfe Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/meghan-rolfe-photography)*\n\n \n\n### Hotel Wedding Venues\n\n[Hotel wedding venues ](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/hotels-inns-resorts)were made for glamorous couples. They often feature floor-to-ceiling luxury, delectable in-house catering, and a staff of helpful, knowledgeable experts who really know how to pull off an event with style. Many hotel venues feature ballrooms and other facilities to host soirées of any size. Hotels provide the perfect backdrop for couples who want it all: beautiful surroundings (hotels, inns, and resorts often have well-manicured grounds), convenient guest accommodations, and in-house rentals, expertise, and event spaces.\n\nIf the statements below speak to you, we’d bet a pretty penny that a hotel, inn, or resort wedding venue is just right for your glamorous, luxury-filled fête.\n\nYou might be a hotel couple if…\n\n- you love modern and/or glamorous wedding decor.\n- you want [wedding catering](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/which-type-of-wedding-venue-is-right-for-you) done on-site and in-house.\n- you love the idea of having an all-inclusive event.\n- you want to have a wedding that lasts all weekend long.\n- you want to guests to have convenient, on-site accommodations.\n- you are having a really big wedding.\n- you have your heart set on a top-notch, ritzy reception.\n\nCountry clubs are a close cousin to [hotel wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/hotel-wedding-pros-and-cons) (minus the accommodations), so if you just can’t seem to find a hotel that catches your eye, you can’t go wrong with celebrating at a private club. They often have the same amenities—on-site catering, personal coordinators, grand ballrooms—and the rolling hills of a golf course are great for outdoor photos ops, too.\n\n![clane-gessel-3](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/74BhIoWxzNmdG20GmRbUIn/46eb8cb421172b2e0736c3e4af23a805/clane-gessel-3.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Clane Gessel Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/clane-gessel-photography--2)*\n\n![clane-gessel-2](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5JKNmTpuQ03n20YhFxZdxd/5c102a38c70cc82476b93210651fdf8c/clane-gessel-2.jpg)\n\n \n\n### Barn Wedding Venues\n\nUsually set out in spacious, rural areas, barn wedding venues are loved by rustic couples for many reasons. For starters, the views can be amazing and barns gives celebrations a more laid-back feel that many couples enjoy. On top of that, there are many options to choose from: historic, fully-restored barns or newly constructed buildings with amenities such as built-in bars, restrooms, and chandeliers. Similar to barn venues, ranches and farms also make fabulous choices for couples who dream of rustic celebrations tucked away in the quiet countryside.\n\nSo, if you’re a couple who would rather throw on cowboy boots rather than dress shoes any day of the week, then check out this list below.\n\nYou might be a barn couple if…\n\n- you love rustic or shabby-chic wedding decor.\n- you wander “off-the-beaten-path” and appreciate natural environments.\n- you are willing to do whatever is needed to prepare for the weather.\n- you don’t mind maybe having to rent things like bathroom trailers, portable heaters, or fans.\n\n![carley-rehberg-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Tl0qJq05SkDcrmAc5jyhK/d17629c2b29e97b455131e1706de07eb/carley-rehberg-photography.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Carley Rehberg Photography](http://carleyrehberg.com/)*\n\n![jen-fariello-photography](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5LgvaPcpSxFfNuCZy5Gpc5/455efb3dedc1f2fcd2aa4dbcbad00e52/jen-fariello-photography.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Jen Fariello Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/jen-fariello-photography)*\n\n \n\n### Modern Wedding Venues\n\nCouples come in many different packages—some can’t imagine a wedding that lacks glitz while others feel that sparkly decor is meant for someone else. Either way, that’s totally okay. A wedding day is all about honoring love and showing off your personality. [Modern wedding venues](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/modern) can offer an interesting glimpse into a couple’s unique style. Whether a stunning art gallery in the middle of a bustling city or a converted cotton mill-turned-loft, these wedding venues are great for couples who love pretty-with-an-edge aesthetics, such as exposed brick walls or surrealist sculptures.\n\nIf you’re the sort of couple who likes to decorate your home with quirky objects and original art, then a run-of-the-mill venue probably isn’t right for you. But, if you’re looking for a creative backdrop full of unexpected beauty, then modern wedding venues were made with you in mind.\n\nYou might be a modern couple if…\n\n- you love offbeat, modern, industrial, or funky-chic wedding decor.\n- you would generally rather spend a day in the city than a day in the country.\n- you daydream about wedding photos set against amazing architectural backdrops.\n- you have your heart set on a more unique ceremony and reception setting.\n\n![colin-lyons](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6G1oVacmucmA5NtWLUFCk6/3b1471855408d37b4673dc763f355253/colin-lyons.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Colin Lyons Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/colin-lyons-wedding-photography)*\n\n![eric-kelley](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4X3BZqNY5pQBgldMMKAHki/c844dc085ce2b96e4d613aefa6a0b12e/eric-kelley.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Eric Kelley](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/eric-kelley)*\n\n \n\n### Estate Wedding Venues\n\nGrand, stately homes (often filled with antiques and vintage décor) set amongst acres of vibrant green lawns, gorgeous gardens, and countless picturesque views… sigh. Historic estate wedding venues are truly beautiful places to tie the knot. In the South, estate venues often come in the form of antebellum homes, but elsewhere you’re more likely to find stone castles or Victorian mansions. Either way, estate wedding venues are ideal for couples who love history and as much as they love breathtaking outdoor scenery. And did we mention that they compliment many wedding day styles? Often offering elegant indoor and outdoor spaces, there are plenty of ways to make your vision come to life between the architectural details and the well-kept landscaping.\n\nIf you find yourself smiling, you should probably start booking estate tours today.\n\nYou might be a historic estate couple if…\n\n- you love luxurious, glamorous wedding decor.\n- you want both attractive indoor and outdoor event spaces at your wedding.\n- you adore antiques and historic homes.\n- you appreciate history.\n- you want indoor comforts (bathrooms, a bridal suite) paired with outdoor backdrops.\n\n![aaron-and-jillian](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/0qHDEViy1wy89dpSOQco1/ea78b7305dfb1154403c6b20b00fce7a/aaron-and-jillian.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Aaron and Jillian Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/aaron-and-jillian-photography--2)*\n\n![sean-money-1](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/1zZH2zYRfx4Sta1CzpoL8N/e244d5552603cf862c57884281f761ee/sean-money-1.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Sean Money + Elizabeth Fay](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/sean-money-elizabeth-fay)*\n\n \n\n### Backyard Wedding Venues\n\nThere’s no better way to personalize to your wedding than by picking a truly one-of-a-kind location—a private backyard. Great for setting an intimate tone that’s all about sharing memories, [backyard weddings](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/real-weddings/backyard) are perfect for couples who want their weddings to be laid-back extensions of themselves. When you host your big day at your home (or the home of a friend or family member), you get the chance to literally open your doors and welcome guests into your lives, your love, and your union. Plus, what could be more relaxing and special than getting ready in your own bedroom, or creating wedding memories in a place that you can revisit all the time?\n\nIf you’re looking for a causal, “we’re-all-family-here”-style wedding, then your (or someone else’s) own backyard is a perfect choice. If you find yourself nodding in agreement to the statements below, then a cozy backyard celebration could be calling your name.\n\nYou might be a backyard couple if…\n\n- you’re dying to DIY.\n- you love the idea of having an intimate, family-oriented wedding day.\n- you are having a small wedding.\n- you are more of a laid-back, casual couple.\n- you love the outdoors.\n- you are okay with renting everything for your celebration, including a tent.\n- you are willing to do whatever is needed to prepare for the weather.\n\n![meghan-rolfe](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/36LOQaFwKFCN46MkjQq6ko/3e5974dc3639184f41d440b41713d893/meghan-rolfe.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Meghan Rolfe Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/meghan-rolfe-photography)*\n\n![leah-marie-photogarphy](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5l0eCY4KhXRD8MhCUzAZ6K/dc60d05100428799fee05cc0a6bc986b/leah-marie-photogarphy.jpg)\n\n*Photo Credit || [Leah Marie Photography](https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/leah-marie-photography--4)*\n\nOkay, so we’re dying to know: which set of statements really spoke to you? Are you a glamorous couple head over heels for hotel wedding venues? A rustic couple who fawns over barn weddings? Casual backyard wedding lovers? Tell us below, and feel free to share your own experience choosing a wedding venue type that was right for you.\n","tag":"Venues","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_InvitesPaper"}},"nextUp":[{"excerpt":"Outdoor weddings are beautiful and super common. They also come with their challenges. Take on any issue with our rundown of common outdoor wedding problems and how to fix them all.","title":"How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding: 32 Tips to Avoid Hitches","slug":"10-common-outdoor-wedding-problems-and-how-to-solve-them","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Weyg0vwi76esqFCLLazzy/aa1e8d07be6b3992a70108637221f63c/c92fd4e9-40c0-4b43-b660-73a778e258b2.jpeg","altText":"couple has outdoor wedding "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Need to cut wedding costs? Here are five ways to do so that you might not have thought about. Read up, and get ready to spend smart!","title":"29 Ways to Cut Wedding Costs","slug":"5-ways-cut-wedding-costs","topic":"Wedding planning 101","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4XUtTaJVTcHtvYZbB5mOWW/9543c7efa84e5c6a4d1d3b58ea0da85a/amy-peppercorn-photography.jpg","altText":"Bride and groom sitting side by side outdoors in wedding attire as the sun sets"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"How does one go about choosing a wedding venue? Here's the rundown on one of the first tasks you’ll need to accomplish after saying “yes!”","title":"10 Tips to Pick the Perfect Wedding Venue","slug":"how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6Dzm0QohK8uai2YouWoMUg/f7db6c6feb0fe4c3d27f9f2a914572ad/EA-revamp_Wedding-planning_How-to-choose-venue.jpg","altText":"Bridge and groom in front of the church"},"type":"articlePage"}],"featured":[{"excerpt":"Confused on how much to tip wedding vendors, which vendors to tip, and when to distribute tips? Fear not: explore our guide for tipping wedding vendors.","title":"How Much To Tip Wedding Vendors","slug":"a-guide-to-tipping-wedding-vendors","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/oljNU6JIHuglslJ7ouSRO/c09c8646dad52d410abed69adbc51a28/lovesome-photography.webp","altText":"how much to tip wedding vendors and venue coordinator"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Check out our comprehensive guide on how to book hotel rooms for your wedding guests to learn the ins and outs of this sometimes-tricky task.","title":"How to Book Hotel Rooms for Your Wedding Guests","slug":"how-to-book-hotel-rooms-for-your-wedding-guests","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6dPe5c1VPmiPQwNm5pFBAt/992383c5c5fce4eff1cba424ed1d995f/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"hotel room lobby with purple velvet couch, mod chairs, and fireplace and a beautiful lighted chandelier"},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come. These questions to ask wedding photographers will help you hire someone whose style you love!","title":"41 Questions to Always Ask Wedding Photographers","slug":"questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer","topic":"Venues & vendors","tag":"Inspiration","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/vgfhrVNYXugnG7eH6LqqG/dbb3c765ebf137ed1cb3ffb07b571607/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer shows a couple a photo she captured of them during their photoshoot. "},"type":"articlePage"},{"excerpt":"Wedding vendors make up the majority of a wedding budget. Find out how to negotiate with wedding vendors with our guide.","title":"How to Negotiate With Wedding Vendors","slug":"how-to-negotiate-with-wedding-vendors","topic":"Wedding planning 101","tag":"How-To ","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/7C9dazl6oSciqDBZXFpaFX/8a452d45a7a306bcc492ef652eaa5456/Hero_New.jpg","altText":"wedding flower vendor"},"type":"articlePage"}],"stickyCta":{"copy":"Explore Wedding Paper","url":"https://www.zola.com/wedding-planning/invitations/shop"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:49:26.814Z"}],"name":"Wedding venues","slug":"wedding-venues","description":"Choosing a wedding venue is an imporant part of planning your wedding-- many other decisions can't be made until you know where you'll say \"I do\". If you don't know where to start or are having trouble making a decision we have ideas, inspiration, and advice to help you land on the perfect place."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Photos & video","slug":"photos-video"},"slug":"questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer","title":"41 Questions to Always Ask Wedding Photographers","excerpt":"You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come. These questions to ask wedding photographers will help you hire someone whose style you love!","publishedAt":"2022-08-02T16:11:33.104Z","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/vgfhrVNYXugnG7eH6LqqG/dbb3c765ebf137ed1cb3ffb07b571607/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-hero.jpg","altText":"A wedding photographer shows a couple a photo she captured of them during their photoshoot. "},"heroCredit":"Zola","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/","body":"For many couples, one of the biggest items on your [wedding planning](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist) checklist is hiring a photographer. You’ll be reminiscing on your wedding photos for years to come, so it’s important to find a photographer whose style—and personality—you love! Finding the right person to capture your special day can feel overwhelming, but interviewing them beforehand is key to ensuring a positive experience.\n\nResearch and browse social media to narrow your decision down to a handful of photographers, then reach out to schedule brief in-person or phone interviews. From there, we’ve compiled this list of essential questions to ask wedding photographers to see if they’re a good fit for your wedding.\n\n![general-questions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/605hsSe0Qn2Fn1QYE6hMrz/7f98e974971eea63f495800c0355b9e2/general-questions.jpg)\n\n## 1. Is My Wedding Date Available?\nYou don’t want to get your hopes up only to find out your dream photographer isn’t even available on your special day. Be sure to check their availability upfront to avoid this.\n\n## 2. How Far in Advance From the Wedding Date Do You Require Bookings?\nSome photographers take last-minute bookings, while others require you to book weeks or months in advance. If you’re still considering other photographers, it’s important to keep this information in the back of your mind.\n\nOnce you’re ready to make a decision, you’ll have an idea of the best time to reach out to secure your date.\n\n## 3. How Many Weddings Have You Photographed?\nWhen it comes to capturing your special day, you’ll want to find a photographer who specializes in weddings. This is because wedding shoots typically require more time, skill, and advanced equipment than other types of sessions.\n\n## 4. Can You Share a Full Gallery of a Recent Wedding You Shot?\nYou can get a taste of a photographer’s work by viewing their social media pages, but you’ll get a clearer picture of their ability by viewing a full gallery of a recent wedding shoot. Not all photographers will be willing to do this, but it can’t hurt to ask.\n\n## 5. Have You Shot At Our Venue Before? If Not, Are You Willing to Check Out the Venue in Advance?\nFinding a photographer who has shot at your venue before is a huge plus, since they’ll already be familiar with the layout, lighting, and other elements that can help them capture the best shots. If they’ve never shot at your [wedding location](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), ask if they’d be willing to visit the venue prior to your wedding date.\n\n## 6. Can You Provide Any References or Client Testimonials?\nAsk if your photographer has any testimonials to get an idea of whether previous clients felt satisfied with the experience and their final photos. \n\nWhile they may capture the most beautiful, eye-catching photos, if your photographer has horrible customer service skills, you might be in for a rough time on your wedding day. Getting references from previous clients can give you peace of mind that your photographer is pleasant to work with and maintains professionalism in their services.\n\n## 7. How Long Have You Been a Wedding Photographer?\nWhen it comes to wedding photography, there are certain skills that can only be learned through time and experience. Asking your photographer how long they’ve been shooting weddings is a good way to gauge their ability and expertise.\n\nHiring a photographer who’s been shooting weddings for years is likely to deliver better results than hiring one who’s just stepping foot in the industry.\n\n## 8. Have You Shot Any Weddings With a Similar Size and Style to Ours?\nHaving a photographer who’s shot similar [wedding styles](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/whats-your-wedding-style) can put you at ease knowing you’ll be happy with the final result. It can also be helpful to know the size of weddings they typically shoot and how it compares to the size of your wedding.\n\n## 9. Do You Have Any Work History With Our Wedding Planner or Videographer?\nYour photographer, wedding planner, and videographer will all be working in tandem to ensure your special day runs smoothly. If they’ve already collaborated together successfully in the past, that’s a big plus.\n\n![style-questions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2YL5tCH8NPrXP0ROTA9ygd/56c9d9d7eaed6e5988234552220871a0/style-questions.jpg)\n\n## 10. What’s Your Working Style on the Wedding Day?\nThis is one of the more fun questions to ask a photographer that can lend some insight into their personality. You’ll be spending the whole day with your photographer, so hiring someone you feel comfortable around can make or break your experience.\n\nAsk them questions like whether they prefer to blend into the background on the big day, or if they prefer more visibility and involvement in order to capture the best shots. Then consider whether their working style aligns with what you’re looking for in a photographer.\n\n## 11. How Would You Describe Your Photography Style?\nMaybe you already have a good idea of what wedding photography styles are your favorite. Before interviewing a photographer, check out their website and social media for a glimpse into their style and see if it matches what you like.\n\nIt’s also a good idea to ask them how they would describe it in their own words. For example, some photographers capture mostly posed portraits, while others prefer a more candid approach.\n\n## 12. What’s Your Editing Style Like?\nYour photographer’s editing style will play a big part in how your final images turn out. Some photographers like to create a bright and airy feel with their edits, while others prefer a warm and moodier tone to their photographs.\n\nIt’s important to make sure you like the photographer’s editing style, especially since many contracts limit or prevent you from re-editing the images on your own.\n\n## 13. Do You Specialize in Indoor or Outdoor Weddings, or Both?\nThe skills and equipment needed to shoot an indoor wedding vs. an [outdoor wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/outdoor-wedding-ideas-for-fall) varies more than you might think! Make sure your photographer has experience shooting in the setting you’ll be in on your wedding day. If you’re having a partially indoor and outdoor wedding, make sure they have experience with both.\n\n## 14. Do You Shoot in Other Formats Like Film?\nIf you want a little extra flair in your wedding gallery, consider asking your photographer if they shoot in other formats like film. Compared to digital photography, color variations in film are more vivid and come together to create a rich and unique result.\n\n## 15. Can We Request Specific Shots?\nYou probably have a handful of dream photos that you want to have in your wedding gallery. It’s a good idea to ask your photographer if it’s possible to recreate these specific shots.\n\nFinding a photographer who is willing to take your unique desires into consideration is key to having your special day documented the way you envisioned.\n\n![pricing-questions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/59JYitmKC0BdeWGLMeQDGg/ed369437f162de3c1a958f0a559c1129/pricing-questions.jpg)\n\n## 16. What’s Included in Your Wedding Packages?\nBefore you book a photographer, get clear on their pricing structures and any packages they offer. Be sure to ask about the specifics included in each package, like the number of hours included, how many final images you’ll receive, and if there are any add-ons available.\n\n## 17. Can Your Packages Be Customized?\nSometimes the wedding packages a photographer offers don’t really fit what you need. If this is the case, ask if they’re willing to customize their packages to align with your unique needs and budget.\n\n## 18. How Many Hours Are Included In Your Packages?\nIf you only want your ceremony and reception photographed, a package offering between four and six hours of shooting will likely be enough. However, if you want the photographer to capture everything from when you start getting ready or you want to set aside time to capture first-look photos, eight or more hours of coverage will likely be needed.\n\n## 19. Can You Also Shoot Pre-Wedding Events like the Rehearsal?\nIf you want to document pre-wedding events like the rehearsal or even bachelor or bachelorette parties, be sure to discuss this with the photographer beforehand. See if the cost is included in the wedding package or if you’ll need to pay extra.\n\n## 20. Do You Require a Deposit?\nOne of the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer is if a deposit payment will be required to secure your wedding date. Be sure to ask how much the deposit costs, when it’s due, and whether or not it’s refundable.\n\n## 21. What Are Your Travel Fees, If Any?\nMany photographers who have to travel a long distance to your [wedding destination](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-have-a-small-destination-wedding) will charge additional fees to cover their travel expenses. If you’re considering hiring an out-of-town or even out-of-state photographer, make sure to discuss this so you aren’t caught by surprise.\n\nAsk whether they charge a travel fee, how much it costs and for what distance, and what the fee covers—such as gas mileage and room and board.\n\n## 22. How Much Do Overtime Hours Cost?\nIf your reception ends up running longer than expected, you want to be sure that your photographer will be there to capture those moments. Don’t forget to discuss pricing for overtime hours so you [don’t go over your budget](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/5-ways-cut-wedding-costs).\n\n## 23. Can We Pay in Installments?\nHiring a professional wedding photographer can get pricey, but you get what you pay for! If paying in full isn’t feasible for you, inquire about whether you can set up installment payments instead. Most photographers are empathetic and understand that paying upfront might be difficult if you’re on a strict budget.\n\n## 24. Do You Provide Corrective Services like Retouching?\nIf you’re interested in retouching services like evening skin complexion or smoothing flyaway hairs, be sure to ask if that’s something the photographer offers (and if there’s an additional charge). Every photographer’s editing philosophy is different. Some photographers offer minor retouching for free but charge extra for any major corrections.\n\n## 25. What Is Your Refund or Cancellation Policy?\nIt’s always a good idea to inquire about refunds and cancellations before signing a contract. Make sure to discuss the cancellation policy and whether or not you’ll be able to get a refund for your deposit and any payment installations.\n\n![deliverable-questions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/5CsQXfrP4g6rSQZjiqA66u/f070a0396b59ec1f91218d2892e694a3/deliverable-questions.jpg)\n\n## 26. What’s the Timeline for Delivering the Wedding Photos?\nDepending on how busy your photographer is and how in demand their services are, you can usually expect to receive your full wedding gallery three to six weeks after your wedding day. Ask your photographer what their typical turnaround time is for galleries so you have a realistic expectation upfront. Some photographers may even allow you to pay a rush fee if you want to get your photos back quicker.\n\n## 27. How Many Final Images Will I Receive?\nDiscuss with your photographer how many images they plan to deliver in your final wedding gallery. Keep in mind that the longer your wedding, the more images you will likely receive.\n\nReceiving 50-100 photos per hour of coverage is usually the norm when it comes to wedding photography. For a standard eight hours of wedding coverage, you should receive between 400 and 800 images, but this can vary between photographers.\n\n## 28. Can You Assist With Selecting Images Once We Receive the Full Gallery?\nIf your photographer allows clients to select their favorite images out of the gallery to download or print, ask if they can assist with this process. They’ll have a better idea of which images will be the best for an album or prints.\n\n## 29. How Do You Share Access to the Photos?\nMost wedding galleries are delivered in a digital format. Your photographer may send your photos through an online service like WeTransfer, Dropbox, or ShootProof. Be sure to ask if there’s a time limit for how long you’re able to download the photos and if there’s a fee to retrieve the images after that date.\n\nYou might also have the option of purchasing a flash drive with your wedding photos already downloaded onto it.\n\n## 30. Will We Have the Rights to the Photos?\nMost photographers will retain the copyright to photos they’ve taken while giving you a license to print and publish the images. However, this license may have some restrictions that prevent any further editing or retouching of the photos.\n\nDiscuss what rights you’ll have to the photos and watch out for language in the contract that states you need permission to use your wedding images.\n\n## 31. Do You Provide Unlimited Downloads of the Final Images?\nDiscuss with your photographer whether they allow unlimited downloads from the final gallery or only a certain number. If you have friends or family members who also want the photos, be sure to ask if multiple people are allowed to download the files.\n\n## 32. Do You Provide the Raw Image Files?\nRaw files are images straight out of the camera with no compression, editing, or retouching applied. It’s standard practice in the industry for photographers not to give out raw image files to clients. There are a couple reasons for this: First, raw image files are very large and can’t be opened without special editing software. Second, since raw files are completely unedited, they may not match the photographer’s style or look as professional as their retouched images.\n\nIf you really want the unedited images, discuss this with your photographer upfront. They may give you access to the raw files for an additional fee.\n\n## 33. Can We Order Prints from You?\nIf you plan to order prints of your wedding images, the process is often easier if you can order them straight from your photographer rather than going through a third party. They’ll be able to walk you through the process from start to finish and suggest the best images for printing.\n\n## 34. Can We Order Albums from You?\nJust like with prints, if you want an album of your wedding gallery, the process is typically smoother if you go through your photographer instead of a third party. Discuss if they offer albums and how much they cost.\n\n## 35. Do You Offer Album Design Assistance?\nIf you can’t order an album through your wedding photographer directly, ask if they offer assistance with designing the album through a third party. Be sure to discuss any fees associated with these services.\n\n![logistical-questions](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4tYmsGTwDabpbXPxm7pWhj/9c832c509a1688122ad3851bfcd084ab/logisitical-questions.jpg)\n\n## 36. When Can We Expect to Receive a Contract?\nFind out when you can expect to receive a contract and when it’s due back with your signature. Make sure this time frame allows you enough time to read the contract thoroughly before signing.\n\nAvoid any photographer who says they don’t send a contract! Having a legal agreement protects both you and the photographer from getting scammed.\n\n## 37. Do You Carry Liability Insurance?\nDiscuss with your photographer whether or not they carry liability insurance, which protects them from lawsuits in the event of injuries or property damage. Many venues require their vendors to carry liability insurance, so this is definitely something you want to consider before signing a contract.\n\n## 38. Will You Have a Backup Plan in Place?\nAsk whether they have a backup plan in place in the event that they’re unable to photograph your wedding due to sickness or another unexpected circumstance. In these situations, many photographers outsource the shooting to another local photographer with a similar style. Then they’ll edit the images to add their special touch to the final product.\n\n## 39. Will You Be the Only One Shooting My Wedding? Do You Have Assistants?\nWant to make sure every moment—both big and small—is captured on your wedding day? Hiring a photographer who will bring along a secondary photographer or photography assistant will ensure that nothing is left undocumented. This also means you’ll get a variety of different shots and angles when you say “I do.”\n\n## 40. Will You Be Shooting Any Other Weddings That Weekend?\nIdeally, you want your photographer to have the entire weekend free to focus on your wedding. That way, they’ll be able to dedicate all of their attention to your big day rather than balancing multiple events. However, it’s not necessarily a deal-breaker if they have another wedding booked if the venues are a reasonable distance from each other.\n\n## 41. Do You Carry Backup Equipment?\nThere’s always the possibility that equipment will fail. The last thing you want is for your photographer to miss out on tons of great shots because their camera broke! This is why having a photographer who’s prepared for these situations is so important.\n\nBefore you start sending out those [save the dates](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/a-guide-to-save-the-dates), you need to hire a photographer—which can be a stressful and time-consuming process. To help, browse our list of [wedding photographers](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-photographers) that you can filter by price, availability, photography style, and photo format.\n\nNow that you’re armed with our list of essential questions to ask wedding photographers, you’re ready to find your perfect match! Once you’ve chosen the perfect person to capture your special day, the next step is to reach out to discuss how to book them. \n\nAnd if you need support finding the rest of your wedding vendors, we’ve got that covered, too—head to our [vendor page](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors) to find local vendors that fit your budget, location and style.\n\n![questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-ig](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/4FnJzeDV8SmlYw5QTcbJQ7/a5c999e7adea358f1bcc01ac7350dd0c/questions-to-ask-wedding-photographer-ig.jpg)","tag":"Inspiration","updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:39:06.706Z"}],"name":"Photos & video","slug":"photos-video","description":"Wedding photography and videography lets you capture the memories for years to come. From engagement photo shoots to choosing the right wedding photographer to social media content curation, find the advice and inspiration you need to document the wedding of your dreams."},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Food & catering","slug":"food-catering","description":"Advice and tips to find the perfect food and drinks to serve at your wedding. Whether you're looking for advice on choosing a wedding caterer, crafting a seasonal offering, or budget friendly options, find the inspiration you need to create the perfect menu!"},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Florists & flowers","slug":"florists-flowers","description":"Your guide to wedding florists and flowers. Find inspiration for the perfect bouquet, flower adornments and everything in between. We help you plan and budget for the wedding blooms of your dreams."},{"featuredArticles":[{"type":"articlePage","topic":{"name":"Venues & vendors","slug":"venues-vendors"},"subtopic":{"name":"Bands, DJs & music","slug":"bands-djs-music"},"slug":"how-to-choose-your-wedding-dj","title":"How to Choose Your Wedding DJ","excerpt":"Music makes the reception, so you need a wedding DJ that can keep the energy all the way up. Narrow down your search with our guide to choosing the perfect DJ for your big day.","publishedAt":"2019-06-24T09:00-04:00","heroImage":{"src":"//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/6V8yIOmS3LBVMBJHp6gWhg/deca065a855a5f9c4618a8d6e1a5e44c/AntonDrummondPhotography_HeroImage_1080x720.jpg","altText":"indian couple dances to wedding dj"},"heroCredit":"Anton Drummond","heroCreditUrl":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/wedding-photographers/anton-drummond-photography","body":"Wedding reception entertainment comes in all shapes and sizes, but a DJ is one of the more modern options available that has become an increasingly popular choice over live music. That said, not all DJs will be suitable for wedding receptions. And the ones that are might not be suitable for your wedding reception. So, let’s break down how to narrow down your wedding DJ options to one—plus, get into the top [questions you should be asking](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/questions-to-ask-wedding-dj). Consider this your [wedding DJ checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/wedding-dj-checklist). \n\n## Reasons to Hire a Wedding DJ\nTypically couples choose between DJs or live entertainment like a band. You can also forgo both options and [DJ your own wedding](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-dj-your-own-wedding) (an ambitious choice!) or figure out some combination of the two. If you’re on the fence, here are some benefits of a wedding DJ.\n\n__- It’s cost effective.__ [Compared to a live band](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-much-does-a-live-wedding-band-cost) (or other live entertainment), DJs typically boast lower rates. This isn’t always true, but generally speaking, DJs require less housekeeping costs. Bands require more man power and potentially more travel costs because of their equipment. \n\n__- Hear your favorite music—the way you remember it.__ Don’t get us wrong: We love a [wedding band](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/choose-wedding-band-or-dj). That said, if you chose Elton John’s “The Way You Look Tonight” as your [first dance song](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/top-10-first-dance-songs) because it conjures a specific romantic moment for you, it’s nice to know it will sound the same way as the time you fell in love with it. The same can be said when it comes to listening to any of your wedding songs post-celebration.\n\n__- DJs can read the crowd.__ All performers should have some ability to read the room, but DJs have the unique ability to be able to shift musical direction with just a few key mixing elements. Bands, on the other hand, will typically have to finish out a song even if the crowd doesn’t seem to enjoy it. Bands also tend to have a set lineup that they stick to for formal events.\n\n![Eli3Photos InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/2eHdVJRJudGGcyodUU3FKJ/b8d78372d59b4795b4fe9d821d39b697/Eli3Photos_InlineImage_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Eli3 Photography\n\n## 30 Questions to Ask Wedding DJs and Bands\nAt this point, you’ve likely already booked your wedding venue, caterer, and perhaps officiant. In that case, we’re sure you’re well-versed in the process of researching and narrowing down your potential vendors to a few options.\n\nOnce you’ve chosen your top three DJ options, contact them to make sure they’re available on your wedding day first. If so, schedule a call, in-person meeting, or even FaceTime appointment to talk. These meetings are your opportunity to get all of the intel you need to choose your wedding DJ. Here is a list of questions you want to ask:\n\n### The Basics\nBefore diving into the details, it’s paramount that you start with the basics. These important questions will inform you of a DJ’s availability and experience, as well as give you an idea of their schedule.\n\n- __Are you available for my wedding date__? As with all wedding vendors, this should be your first question. Ensure that a DJ available for your wedding before taking the time to speak or meet with one-another.\n\n- __How long have you been DJing__? Right away, you want to get an idea of how much experience this vendor has. Make sure this potential DJ is seasoned and prepared to work professionally.\n\n- __How many weddings have you worked__? There’s a difference between DJing at a music venue and for a wedding reception. Inquire about how much wedding experience this DJ has under their belt.\n\n- __How many weddings do you perform at per weekend__? Do you perform at multiple events in one day? Get an idea of how busy (read: potentially overwhelmed or tired) this wedding reception DJ may be on your weeding day or weekend.\n\n- __Will you or someone on your team be the day-of DJ__? Some DJs run their own businesses featuring solely themselves. Other companies have a lineup of DJs available. Ask if the person you’re speaking with would be the one at your wedding and, if not, if you could at at a point get in contact with who will be.\n\n- __How do you get a shy crowd moving__? Not all crowds are quick to rush the dance floor. One major perk of hiring a DJ is that they know how to get (and keep) a party going. Ask how they handle a situation in which the crowd is slow to get started.\n\n- __Do you have references I can reach out to__? The biggest reassurance you can get about a wedding vendor will come from their past clients. Ask if they have references you can reach out to that will recommend them and speak to you about their work.\n\n### Music\nChances are you got a feel for this DJ’s music style via their website or social media. Even so, it’s important that you learn more about their catalogue and style so you aren’t met with any surprises.\n\n- __How would you describe your style?__ House, Top 40, country, classics—plenty of DJs specialize in a specific type of music. Make sure yours aligns with the kind of music you want played on your big day.\n\n- __How often do you update your music catalogue?__ If you’re looking for more current music, it’s crucial to know how often a DJ updates their music collection. You don’t want to run into a situation where you’re looking forward to hearing last month’s hit radio song, only to find out that your DJ’s music library isn’t that up-to-date.\n\n- __Do you use a predetermined set list?__ Many DJs will have a pre-made setlist they can play or that you can build off of.\n\n- __Can we make the playlist?__ Say you know your musical taste—and the taste of your guests—incredibly well. Ask if it’s possible that you and your partner curate a list of songs—as well as a do not play list.\n\n- __Do you have any samples of your work?__ If you can’t find samples on their website, ask if you can be sent some via email.\n\n- __How do you handle song requests?__ Odds are, at least a few of your guests will approach your DJ with song requests. Inquire about how they handle these, if they take them at all.\n\n- __Will you also act as emcee?__ From your wedding party’s entrance, to your father-daughter dance, to toasts, you may have a lot of announcement that need to be made throughout your reception. These are typically made by the DJ, but you’ll need to make sure this is the case.\n\n### Logistics\nThese details might not be as exciting to discuss at the music itself, but they’re equally—if not more—important to your wedding planning.\n\n- __How much equipment do you require?__ Be aware of the DJ equipment they’ll need/will bring on your wedding day to get an idea of the set-up.\n\n- __Would we need to provide any separate equipment?__ It doesn’t happen often, but sometimes there will be a type of equipment that you need to provide, yourself. Ask if they’ll need a microphone, cables, or other tech equipment.\n\n- __How do you handle equipment malfunctions?__ Will you have backup equipment? Ideally, nothing will go wrong during your wedding celebration. However, sometimes things happen. Be aware of what this DJ will do if a piece of their equipment malfunctions mid-reception.\n\n- __Can you provide wireless mics for the wedding ceremony?__ It’s easier for everyone if you stick to one sound system throughout the day. If you don’t need to rent out a microphone from elsewhere, that’s a nice plus.\n\n- __Are you familiar with our reception space?__ Ask if they’ve worked at your reception location before. If not, they may need to show up earlier to figure out how to set-up.\n\n- __Do you plan to use lighting or special effects?__ Strobe lights, video screens, sparklers, projectors—many DJs have special effects set-ups that can be included in a music package.\n\n- __Do you handle set-up and break-down?__ Ensure that the DJ and/or their team will handle the setting up and breaking down of their equipment.\n\n- __What will you wear?__ Wedding themes and formalities varying greatly. For that reason, your DJ should wear something that won’t make them look out of place.\n\n- __If you’re unable to perform on the day of, do you have a backup plan?__ Most wedding vendors have a backup employee or contact they can reach out to in the event that they can’t make it to your wedding last-minute.\n\n- __Can you provide us with a full itinerary for the reception?__ If you have a wedding planner, chances are you’ll create an itinerary with them. If not, however, it may come down to you and your DJ.\n\n### Pricing\nThe bottom line is usually one of the biggest factors when it comes to deciding on wedding music. However, it isn’t as simple as asking what they charge. Discuss all potential fees and every option available to you.\n\n- __What are your rates?__ Do you charge by hours, packages, or both? Inquire about how this DJ charges their clients. They may set prices for different packages or change by the hours that they set-up and are playing music.\n\n- __Do you have packages available?__ What is included? Packages make it easy to see what all a DJ can offer you—and for what price. Ask for a detailed breakdown of each package available.\n\n- __Do you have payment plans?__ Some vendors will allow you to pay in installments, while others will require a down payment, then a final payment.\n\n- __Do you have an overtime fee?__ Often, couples will get to the end of their wedding reception and ask the venue if they can extend their hours. In this event, make sure you’re aware of your DJ’s overtime fees.\n\n- __Will there be additional fees?__ Transportation, parking, etc.? Get an outline of every item you can be potentially charged for or are expected to pay.\n\n- __What is your cancellation policy?__ In the event that you need to cancel or postpone your wedding, don’t get caught with surprise rules. Ask what cancellation, reschedule, and refund policies they have in place.\n\n- __Do you have the required insurance?__ Liability insurance is a must. Be sure that your DJ has it, plus any insurance that is required by your city or venue.\n\n- __When can we expect a quote and/or written contract?__ When you’ve discussed all of the above and are ready to sign on the dotted line, ask when you can expect to receive a full contract.\n\n# How to Choose Your Wedding DJ\n\n## Start your search early.\nWhile choosing your wedding DJ doesn’t have to be the very first thing on your [wedding checklist](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/checklist/your-ultimate-wedding-planning-checklist), it shouldn’t be one of the last either. Once you [choose your wedding venue](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-a-wedding-venue), make wedding entertainment your next focus. Like venues, sought-after DJs book up quickly. So, don’t hesitate to start your search, especially if your top choices are popular in your area. \n\n## Consider your style.\nLike we said, not all DJs are meant to be wedding DJs—it’s a broad title. Wedding DJs are specific experts in how receptions flow and how to choose music that suits many demographics. Be sure to immediately cross off any DJs without wedding-specific experience (unless you’re having an unconventional reception or if you’re asking a friend to DJ, of course).\n\nWedding DJ can still mean a lot of different things. So, it’s important to keep your style and wedding vision top of mind. If you’re more old school and a fan of music from the 60s, 70s, and 80s, for example, pursue a DJ who specializes in music from those decades. If you’re more into rap or pop or other more modern genres, you want to find a DJ who’s well-versed on the top of the charts.\n\n## Ask around for recommendations.\nThe easiest way to narrow down any vendor search: word of mouth recommendations. Ask your family, friends, colleagues, whoever if they hired a DJ they loved. Even if they’re not engaged or married, they may have recently attended a wedding with a DJ that really wowed. \n\nOf course you can also always trust the Internet to help you start your search, too. We recommend starting with a vendor search from a reputable wedding source. We’re biased but Zola makes the [vendor search process](https://www.zola.com/inspire/search) basically seamless. You can read reviews from real couples, find out what services each DJ specifically offers, and more. It’s an easy way to taper your search to at least a handful of options.\n\nAs you conduct your Internet search, pay special attention to any trends you see in reviews. For example, look out for any mentions of tardiness—you don’t want anything to hold up your reception once you’re ready to party. \n\n![PineappleSunrisePhotography InlineImage 1080x720](//images.ctfassets.net/77l22z9el0aa/74IYZz9UxZh1n1HYmuGhKs/e89519c6c36dd3b07d6af70832f6f463/PineappleSunrisePhotography_InlineImage_1080x720.jpg)\n*Photo Credit* // Pineapple Sunrise Photography\n\n## Get everything in writing.\nBefore you solidify your wedding DJ, be sure to get hammer out all of these details in writing. Be sure to include any notes on special requests, including certain song recommendations, exact start and end times, who will actually DJ day-of, etc.\n\nOnce you choose your DJ, you’ll likely be tasked with coming up with a list of must-hear songs, another list of absolutely-do-not-play songs, and a list of nice-to-hear-but-not-necessary songs. After that, your DJ will take it from there.\n\nJust like that, the search for your [wedding DJ](https://www.zola.com/expert-advice/how-to-choose-your-wedding-dj) is on. Now that you’re prepared with the right information and know what to ask a wedding DJ, you’re ready to hire the vendor that’s going to help create the best wedding for you. However, if you do need some help with how to find a wedding DJ, start with our database of [bands, DJ, and musicians](https://www.zola.com/wedding-vendors/search/wedding-bands-djs).","tag":"How-To ","widget1":{"marketingModule":{"tag":"EA_VendorMarketplace"}},"stickyCta":{"copy":"Find Vendors in Your Area","url":"https://www.zola.com/inspiration/onboard?question=intro"},"updatedAt":"2024-02-05T16:56:03.947Z"}],"name":"Bands, DJs & music","slug":"bands-djs-music","description":"Your guide to wedding bands, DJs and music. Find the perfects tunes for every moment of your wedding from entrance songs to the last-dance. Whether you hire a live band or have a family member DJ, we help you get everything in order to dance the night away!"},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Cakes & desserts","slug":"cakes-desserts","description":"Your guide to wedding cake, desserts, and all things sweet. Find advice on choosing the perfect wedding cake, unique wedding dessert table ideas and more tasty inspiration."},{"featuredArticles":[],"name":"Bar & beverages","slug":"bar-beverages","description":"Can't decide between an open bar, cash bar, or no host bar? Maybe you're considerig a dry wedding? Find expert-approved guides to bar services for weddings, signature drink ideas, and everything else libations and drinks."}]}},"userAgent":"Mozilla/5.0 AppleWebKit/537.36 (KHTML, like Gecko; compatible; ClaudeBot/1.0; +claudebot@anthropic.com)","userCtx":{"object_id":"684e79edf0952b90ec919ab4","is_spoof":false,"has_registry":false,"has_wedding_account":false,"has_website":false,"has_guest_list":false,"has_inspiration_account":false,"has_invitation_account":false,"has_marketplace_account":false,"has_completed_onboarding":false,"has_store_account":false,"has_baby_registry":false,"is_inspiration_vendor":false,"is_inspiration_admin":false,"has_board_items":false,"is_guest":true,"user_experiments":{"marketplace-post-inquiry-instant-registry-cross-conversion":{"key":"marketplace-post-inquiry-instant-registry-cross-conversion","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"wedding-website-navigation-redesign":{"key":"wedding-website-navigation-redesign","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"hdyhau-subway":{"key":"hdyhau-subway","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"unbounce-std-onboard-landing":{"key":"unbounce-std-onboard-landing","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"unbounce-design-website-mobile":{"key":"unbounce-design-website-mobile","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"marketplace_featured_vendors_holdout":{"key":"marketplace_featured_vendors_holdout","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos-mweb":{"key":"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos-mweb","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"paper-ulp-optimization-exp-2":{"key":"paper-ulp-optimization-exp-2","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"website-customization-mweb":{"key":"website-customization-mweb","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"improve-mweb-postauth-nav-products-2":{"key":"improve-mweb-postauth-nav-products-2","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"marketplace-hide-boost-listing-link":{"key":"marketplace-hide-boost-listing-link","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"unbounce-design-homepage-mobile":{"key":"unbounce-design-homepage-mobile","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos":{"key":"marketplace-multi-inquiry-photos","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"wedding-website-navigation-redesign-3":{"key":"wedding-website-navigation-redesign-3","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"payment-intent-vendor-upgrade-ramp":{"key":"payment-intent-vendor-upgrade-ramp","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"paper-samples-favorites-remove-customization":{"key":"paper-samples-favorites-remove-customization","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"session-replay-sample-rate":{"key":"session-replay-sample-rate","state":"NOT_IN_TEST","variation_key":"NOT_IN_TEST"},"unbounce-design-homepage-desktop":{"key":"unbounce-design-homepage-desktop","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"marketplace-listing-page-gallery-optimizations":{"key":"marketplace-listing-page-gallery-optimizations","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST-1"},"marketplace-zendesk-chat":{"key":"marketplace-zendesk-chat","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"marketplace-onboarding-reordering":{"key":"marketplace-onboarding-reordering","state":"CONTROL","variation_key":"TEST-0"},"recaptcha-refactor":{"key":"recaptcha-refactor","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"},"marketplace-preauth-srp-pros-and-cons-release-ramp":{"key":"marketplace-preauth-srp-pros-and-cons-release-ramp","state":"TEST","variation_key":"TEST"}}}},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/expert-advice/topic/[slug]/[subtopicSlug]","query":{"page":"3","slug":"venues-vendors","subtopicSlug":"wedding-venues"},"buildId":"web-preauth-348ae07a9fd4633bc09bc95f0b3d4bbd8c87c8d1","assetPrefix":"https://d1tntvpcrzvon2.cloudfront.net/vpassets","runtimeConfig":{"APP_VERSION":"1.3.83","MIXPANEL_PROJECT_TOKEN":"7a536271a9739a74faec2d35adf1748f","SEGMENT_ID":"5uA1DSKtOVYOwQFc8VmVrXWt5PioMQla","UPLOADCARE_PKEY":"bed481ea2bef6baf44de","ZOLA_ENV":"production","FLAGS":{"PAPER_LP_SAMPLE_PACK_SECTION":false,"enableDatadog":true},"BABY_HOST":"https://baby.zola.com"},"isFallback":false,"gssp":true,"customServer":true,"scriptLoader":[]}