How to Choose a Wedding Venue That Reflects Your Style
Looking for a wedding venue that fits your style? Choosing a wedding venue is one of the first and biggest decisions you’ll make in your planning to do list—and it’s a big one. Your venue sets the tone for the entire day. Whether you're dreaming of something romantic and whimsical, modern and chic, or wild and adventurous, the right venue should feel like an extension of you as a couple.
As a wedding photographer who’s traveled all across the Pacific Northwest and beyond—capturing elevated weddings in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho—I’ve seen just how much the right venue can enhance not only your photos, but your entire experience.
Here are 7 tips to help you choose a wedding venue that reflects your style:
1. Define Your Wedding Vision First
Before venue tours or Pinterest deep dives, take a moment to sit down and dream together.
Do you picture a candlelit dinner under the stars or an elegant ballroom soirée?
Is your dream day intimate and serene, or high-energy and celebratory?
What are your non-negotiables—outdoor space, mountain views, or lots of natural light?
Start with the feel you want your wedding to have, then look for venues that naturally support that atmosphere.
2. Consider the Setting That Inspires You
Your environment shapes your day. Are you nature lovers who want to say “I do” with Mt. Rainier in the background? Maybe you love the elegance of wine country in California or the coastal cliffs in Oregon?
The PNW is filled with stunning backdrops:
Forest elopements in Washington
Vineyard weddings in Northern California
Gorge views at The Griffin House in Oregon
Mountain escapes in Idaho
Pick a location that already feels like you before you even decorate it.
3. Pay Attention to the Architecture and Interior Style
The bones of the venue matter more than you think. If you're drawn to modern, minimalist designs, a rustic barn might feel out of place. Likewise, if you're boho and earthy, a formal ballroom may feel too stiff. This couple above loved the history behind Thornewood Castle, located in Washington state. They chose it for it’s rich character and charm and build the rest of their day around it.
Look for venues with natural design elements that already align with your style—so you’re enhancing what’s there, not working against it.
4. Think About the Guest Experience
Your venue isn’t just a backdrop—it’s the place where your favorite people will gather to celebrate with you.
Is the space inviting and comfortable?
Will guests easily transition from ceremony to cocktail hour?
Are there rain backup plans if you're planning outdoors?
Chateau Lill shown above has beautiful spaces for both indoor and outdoor offerings, as well as plenty of places to catch shade on hot summer days and stay warm on cooler days.
When the space flows well, the day feels effortless—and it always shows in the photos.
5. Ask Your Photographer What Works Best on Camera
Not every beautiful venue photographs beautifully. Harsh lighting, awkward layouts, or cluttered backdrops can make things more complicated than they need to be.
Ask your photographer (hi, it’s me 👋) about how well a space translates through the lens. I’m always happy to share insight about where the best light hits or which venues photograph like a dream.
This ceremony shown below was actually at sunset. We purposefully chose her ceremony time based on the lighting it would receive, we adjusted her entire day for both guest comfort and ligthing and it was really fun!
6. Don’t Forget the Practical Details
Yes, style matters—but so do logistics. Be sure to consider:
Guest capacity
Parking and accessibility
On-site getting ready spaces (natural light is a game-changer!)
Venue rules (some restrict décor, timing, or photography options)
A beautiful venue that’s hard to work with can add stress you don’t need on your day.
7. Trust Your Gut (and Your Photographer!)
At the end of the day, the venue should feel right. You’ll know it when you walk into the space and can already see yourself there. And if you’re still unsure, ask your wedding photographer for feedback. We see venues in a unique way—through the lens of storytelling, lighting, and connection.
Final Thoughts: Style + Meaning > Just Pretty
A wedding that reflects your style is one that feels true to you. When your venue matches your vibe, everything flows better—from the florals to the outfits to the overall energy of the day.
And if you’re still in the research phase? Browse my portfolio or inquire here to chat more about what venues could be the perfect fit for your dream day. I’m always down to location scout or help you uncover a hidden gem.