Unconventional Venues to Say 'I Do'
Image caption: Mohican Grand Barn in Knox County, Ohio. Image courtesy Jason Thomas Crocker.
Before you can decide they variety of flowers you’ll be carrying down the aisle or what kind of wedding cake you’ll be cutting into, you first need to determine where you’ll be getting hitched. While hotels and places of worship remain popular choices, an increasing number of couples are looking to tie the knot outside of the box.
According to The Knot 2017 Real Weddings Survey, weddings held in religious institutions have declined from 41 percent in 2009 to 22 percent in 2017. Banquet halls and hotels/resorts have also fallen out of favor, down from 10 percent and 6 percent respectively from 2009 rates.
Unconventional venues, on the other hand, are definitely trending. Rural locales, such as farms, barns and ranches, have increased from just 2 percent in 2009 to 15 percent in 2017.
What’s behind this increased popularity in alternative wedding locations? “Today's couples realize that they can still keep traditional aspects at the same time they are trying new things and having fun!” says Aimee Espitia, general manager of Mohican Grand Barn, a rustic barn venue in Knox County, Ohio.
Unique spaces often come with a wide range of advantages, including built-in décor, breathtaking views and fun experiences for your guests. Some may even be less expensive than more traditional options. However, it’s important to ensure the venue comes with some of the wedding must-haves.
“Couples really need to watch what is included with a venue! My best friend got married at a ‘low low price’ venue. Then ended up paying way more because everything was an add on! So, what is included? Tables, chairs, fire pit, back up space in case of rain?” advises Espitia.
Want to walk down a less orthodox aisle? Here are a few ideas for types of unusual wedding venues.
1. Museums, Aquariums and Planetariums
These buildings dedicated to knowledge and learning are also often available for private events. So, whether you want to get married amongst the stars, under the sea or beside T-Rex bones, you’re sure to have an awe-inspiring wedding.
2. Historic Venues
Why not get married somewhere with a story behind it? Historic homes accounted for 14 percent of venues according to the aforementioned survey from The Knot. Plus, you can’t ever go wrong with vintage architecture and antique décor.
3. Barns and Cabins
Nothing says rustic chic like a wedding in a barn. Whether you’re more bohemian or country, these types of venues are ideal for a casual, yet elegant event. Mohican Grand Barn, for example, offers a cabin-like feel with multiple levels and outdoors spaces so the ceremony and reception can be hosted in a single location. Plus, newlyweds can even spend the night in one of their cozy treehouses.
4. Rooftops with a View
For couples with more urban tastes, a venue with a skyline view is the perfect match. Rooftops, terraces and skyscraper spaces are all great options for those that want a backdrop of city lights.
5. Breweries
One of the best parts of a wedding are the drinks, so why not make it a centerpiece by hosting it at a brewery? These types of venues range from pastoral farms to brick tap houses, so there’s something for every wedding style. Of course, the biggest draw is the in-house alcohol supply, which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
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