Working as a Maryland wedding photographer means I get to go into DC and photograph weddings at some of the most iconic and beautiful locations. And of all the Washington DC wedding venues, these are the best! And depending on the vibe you are going for, you will want to add them to your list to tour.
War Memorial
As a Baltimore wedding photographer, I was impressed with this intimate DC War Memorial Wedding on the National Mall. It was simple, personal, and absolutely breathtaking. So, if you are looking to have a very small party or even an elopement, this DC spot is the place to go! It is about an hour’s drive southwest of downtown Baltimore, and the surrounding tall trees and verdant lawns of the National Mall create a special feeling of peace. I was surprised by how private it was there, despite being public grounds!
Riggs Hotel
This is another DC venue on my “favorite wedding venues in Baltimore” list- for good reason! Riggs Hotel in Washington, DC, is the epitome of elegance. The hotel is actually located inside the historic Riggs Bank, originally constructed around the turn of the century. Surely, the bank’s white marble and Art Deco features combine with colorful upgrades to create cutting-edge wedding spaces. This beauty is in the heart of downtown, across the street from the National Portrait Gallery.
Riggs Hotel offers amazing amenities to help you host a luxury wedding. When you select a wedding package, each package offers valet services, preferred room blocks, tables and china, waitstaff, and the support of seasoned wedding specialists. This venue is well-known for its restaurant, Cafe Riggs! Therefore, they offer a range of customized catering options for your wedding event, including hot and cold canapes, a plated three- or four-course meal, and a five-hour open bar.
What impressed me most about the Riggs Hotel DC was the modern luxury of the venue. For example, the wood floors and contemporary, clean décor made it the perfect “blank slate” for wedding decor. Not to mention, the guests loved getting a bit of fresh air during cocktails. As the sun set, the city vista from the rooftop terrace was exquisite!
Belmont Country Club
When I tell you that a Belmont Country Club wedding was one of the most photogenic venues I’ve ever photographed. I mean it! The Belmont Country Club and Golf Course is located in Ashburn, Virginia, which is about an hour and forty minutes drive from Baltimore and forty minutes from downtown Washington D.C. I know, this one may be a stretch for wedding venues in Baltimore, but it is too good not to mention in my favorites list!
The mansion is traditional red brick and white columns, surrounded by manicured gardens, fountains, and the golf course. It’s beautiful in any season, but the orange and red fall leaves were picture-perfect when I was there! Then, the interior is classically decorated with exposed stonework, carved wooden furniture, rich colors, and heavy drapery. Chandeliers and vintage mirrors add sparkle to the scene. From the inside out I was impressed with this venue.
You will have access to the Flora Lee Bridal Suite (and that fantastic clawfoot tub!!), the Billiards Room for grooms and groomsmen, an open ceremony on the grounds, and a reception in the Grand Ballroom. With a maximum capacity of 250 guests, you will have plenty of room for all your favorite people. As well, the venue has in-house dinner catering, and options for the meal change depending on the season! You can have up to five hours for your wedding and have full access to amenities like white padded chairs for the ceremony; gold Chiavari chairs, floor-length linens, and gold chargers for the reception; a dance floor and a staging area; and a four hour open bar. Fun fact: with your reservation, you’ll also get a twosome of golf!
Washington DC Wedding Venues
When considering what Washington DC wedding venues to visit and consider for your big day, there is a lot to consider! I hope this article helped you narrow it down a bit. As always, reach out if you want wedding photography in the DC area, as well as if you need some expert knowledge.
