Probably the absolute BIGGEST decision you’ll have to make when it comes to your wedding is the venue. Photography is a close second in my biased (and professional) opinion, but obviously without a place to celebrate there can’t be a celebration! And Richmond venues have so much to offer.
I have photographed at many gorgeous venues in Virginia and beyond, but Richmond is such a pocket of hidden gems!! Whether you’re a fan of the cityscapes or prefer a luxurious private estate, you’ll be able to find it here in Richmond.
When choosing a wedding venue, you have to think about budget, number of guests, season & weather, and the overall vibe and experience you hope to have. There are so many factors to nail down prior to touring venues, but I truly don’t feel that you can go wrong with any of the Richmond venues I’m about to share with you!
The Common House is a fairly new venue in the heart of Richmond. With multiple floors of eclectic space, your hippie heart will not be disappointed. Complete with a naturally-lit main floor perfect for entertaining, an outdoor courtyard, and a rooftop pool, you can host the party of the year. I was so overwhelmed touring Common House for the first time and could not believe how gorgeous each floor was designed. It is a multi-functional space with offices for rent, a restaurant, bar, library, and so much more- but I have to say that it is just the dopest place for a wedding!
Another absolutely gorgeous and modern Richmond venue! Nestled right on the water overlooking the James River, you’ll have spectacular views of the city during your reception. Thanks to the many windows in the reception space (which is also a restaurant when not booked for events), you’ll get plenty of natural light. The location is stellar, the portrait opportunity is convenient and gorgeous, and the building itself is so elegantly modern. The Boathouse is perfect for the classy, traditional wedding with a twist. I’ve only second shot at this venue, and it was a while back- so I had to really dig for this photo!! That’s changing this year, though- woot woot!
If you are into the barn wedding trend- look no further than The Barns of Kanak. There is SO much value to this venue. With two gorgeous suites for the bride & groom, a modern high ceiling, air-conditioned barn for the reception, wide open fields, and multiple options for indoor & outdoor ceremony locations, you have everything you need. There are so many barn venues in the area, but for me, this one takes the cake. Aesthetically, it’s the most modern and classic take on a barn wedding, and the staff has done an amazing job keeping it stunning. See Brooke & Zach’s blog post, here.
Another new venue to the Richmond area, Oakdale offers that bright, white, airy space a lot of us look for when searching for a wedding venue! While it is also a barn venue, it has a few more modern elements that make it feel more upscale and less “farmy” than other Richmond venues like it. That being said, there ARE animals on the property and I believe they even bring them out for their couples for photo ops! I love the rolling hills and lake Oakdale’s property has to offer for outdoor ceremonies and 360 degrees of portrait opportunities. Also complete with the cutest bridal suite and a massive fireplace for entertaining.
Dover Hall is for you extravagant couples searching for a unique and luxury experience. With more rooms than I can even count, Dover Hall Estate is just simply the experience of a lifetime. Offering everything you could possibly need with more than ample space, you will feel like an actual king and queen. I personally love the masculine touches in the grooms suite and the many perfectly placed nooks styled throughout the venue. Envision yourself entering your reception for your first dance as husband & wife walking down a massive staircase. Just amazing!
These are only a tiny handful of the wedding venues that Richmond has to offer, but I KNOW you can’t go wrong!! Depending on your style, you can find something you love here.
What would you add to this list? Comment below, I’d love to hear from you!
March 8, 2022
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