January 26, 2021
There are so many wedding venues in Virginia that offer amazing amenities and beautiful ballrooms, ceiling and chandeliers. I have seen quite a few but still have a lot more on my list to visit! I have had many opportunities to experience indoor and outdoor wedding venues in the last 7 years. In the current state of the world, many brides are choosing to book venues that have the option to have all of or the majority of their wedding, outdoors. I started my business by doing primarily outdoor weddings which has given me an advantage when it comes to unexpected hiccups such as weather, mud, animals, open water, and more! Today, I want to tell you about my top favorite outdoor wedding venues.
Seven Springs in Manquin, VA will always be one of my favorites outdoor wedding venues for a few reasons. One being that it was the venue of the very first wedding of Hannah Marie Events. A wonderful bride trusted me, knowing her wedding would be my first solo wedding of my career. One of the ceremony locations over a large space of grass with two historic magnolia trees to say your vows under. The reception space is a beautiful, open pavilion that allow for cool breezes under shelter. There are many areas for getting ready, pictures, and one of the biggest attributes- guest rooms for the weekend.
Upper Shirley Vineyard is another favorite of mine. This was a bucket list venue for me when I started my business after going on a tour my first year. The following year I booked my first wedding there and was elated! The second year, I booked more than I could have imagined and in 2020 I was supposed to have half of my weddings there. Upper Shirley is located next to the James River and on 9 acres of land. There is plenty of space to spread out, including a covered porch to enjoy dinner, cocktails, and more. At Upper Shirley, not only do you get a gorgeous venue but also, catering, wine, and impeccable staff!
Big Spring Farms will always be near and dear to my heart. When I started getting into the wedding planning world, I was fortunate enough to work with another planner who had most of her weddings at the farm. I was able to experience and learn so much here and will always say yes (if I’m available!) to a wedding at BSF! The rolling hills, beautiful reception barn, large pond, incredible views and sometimes farm animals, but don’t worry they won’t be attending your wedding! Recently, they have added more exciting amenities, you’ll have to visit their platform to learn more! This outdoor wedding venue has endless options!
Alturia Farms is a gorgeous venue that was built specifically for weddings and large events. There is a beautiful white reception barn, many ceremony locations to choose from! One of my favorite options, and the newest is the covered chapel pavilion. There are many amenities included at Alturia Farms as well, such as the Sugar Shack! The cherry on top? Horses. Yes, you read that right, you can have horses in your photos and for an additional fee, a horse drawn carriage!
Dover Hall is last not my list but don’t let that fool you, this venue is spectacular. Yes, the inside is beautiful and the ballroom is something to be amazed by, but there are also beautiful grounds! Two of the most popular ceremony locations are the Blue Stone Terrace and the Reflecting pool, both are outside with incredible views! The venue also added a large permanent tent in 2019 to accommodate more guests. The options are truly endless! Using the inside of the mansion is the most ideal option, but at the least, having it for photographers truly makes any photograph a dream.
Amanda and Christian at Dover Hall
Katie and Sam at Big Spring Farm
Julie and Trent at Seven Springs
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