So you're getting married…
Where are you saying "I do"? Because the venue will make or break your wedding day.
Your venue is your foundation. It sets the scene for those photo shoot poses. Gives your guests somewhere incredible to stay while you're celebrating. Honestly… where you get married is the dream factor.
But—
Hold up. Dream factor doesn't mean crappy service or sky-high prices. And it sure as heck doesn't mean tiny venues with restricted guest lists.
Luxury wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. You just need to know what you're looking for.
Here's what you'll learn:
Why You Should Care About Wedding Venues Right Now
The Best Wedding Destinations for Every Couple
Tips for Finding the Premier Wedding Venues
How to Pick the Right Venue
Why You Should Care About Wedding Venues Right Now
Wedding venues are booming.
According to Grand View Research, the global wedding services market hit $899.64 billion USD in 2024 alone. That number is expected to grow 12.7% every year up until 2030.
Why the growth?
There's higher demand than ever for premium venues. Couples are looking for destinations that go above and beyond to make their day special. Think castles, vineyards, beach houses, luxury resorts—you name it.
Couples today want to create breathtaking experiences for their guests that they'll remember forever. And Instagram scrolling doesn't hurt either. Seeing photos of dreamy venues gives everyone destination wedding ideas.
Braxholm Park in Scotland is leading the way as one of the most sought-after venues for couples worldwide. This gorgeous luxury estate has everything you could dream of in a wedding venue. Elegant gardens, spacious halls, conference facilities… you name it. Check out their online gallery to see what makes it special.
Popular Wedding Destination Ideas for Couples
Think about your favourite wedding venues. Now think about how often those places are in North America.
They probably don't stay at home when they get married. And neither are most couples these days.
Approximately 25% of all weddings are now celebrated at destination venues worldwide. That's right. Couples are travelling to famous spots for their big day more than ever before.
Here are some of the top spots around the globe:
Europe
Italy, France, and Greece are up there. But when talking about top of the line venues with unrivalled scenery…
Scotland has some of the best wedding venues around.
Take Braxholm Park Estate for example. You can literally plan your whole wedding there. Ceremony location, dining options, lodging for your guests — it's all taken care of.
The Scottish Highlands offer epic backdrops for photos. Castle weddings overlooking valleys shrouded in mist. Plus ancient stone estates lined with sprawling gardens.
Indoor wedding venues are beautiful too. Grand halls with towering windows and fireplaces that create the perfect ambiance.
The Caribbean
Jamaica, the Bahamas, Puerto Rico, Aruba, Bermuda — these islands typically offer all-inclusive wedding packages. Which means the resort you book will coordinate your entire celebration.
Sun-kissed beaches. Flawless turquoise water. This might be the most popular wedding venue idea…
Asia
Bali has taken Asia by storm. Known for its exotic temples and junglescape mountains, Balinese venues are everywhere.
Thailand is another top Asian destination. But you won't be paying Bali prices!
The Maldives completes the list of islands. Sure they might not be Asia, but they're close. And wedding venues over there are absolute miracles.
Luxury villas on private islands provide guests with unbelievable ocean views. Don't say you weren't warned.
Tips for Searching Through Luxury Wedding Venues
Before you start sending in inquiries, know what you want.
What Amenities Do Luxury Venues Provide?
First. Lodging.
The best luxury venues offer accommodations for wedding parties and guests. Since everything is in one spot. You don't have to worry about transportation.
Second. Catering.
Food & beverages are usually your biggest expense. Look for venues providing amazing cuisine with customizable menus for dietary restrictions.
Third. Service.
Does your venue provide wedding planners? The best ones do. Make sure your wedding coordinator comes equipped with an event manager, on-site catering team, decor team, and flower shop.
Fourth. Privacy.
Full venue booking is your goal. You don't want to share your special day with another event.
Fifth. Atmosphere.
Castles, vineyards, forests, beaches: make sure your venue suits your style. Photography is huge these days. And if your venue looks bad — your photos will too.
How to Find the Dream Wedding Venue
Know your guest list.
Luxury venues range from tiny (50 person capacity) to extra large (think castle levels of extra large). Have a realistic head count before visiting venues.
Research accessibility.
Some places are harder to get to than others. Will guests fly into a nearby airport? Is there lodging close by? How far is the venue from major cities?
Ask about the whole experience.
Crazy beautiful venue but they didn't offer wedding planning services? That doesn't work.
The best venues provide full experiences. From welcome dinners to morning-after brunches. Hire them to plan activities for guests during the day.
When is the wedding season?
Summer months in Europe and winter months in Southeast Asia are going to be more expensive. If you're trying to watch costs — schedule your celebration during the off season.
Don't be afraid to ask for referrals.
If a venue won't give you references from past weddings — move on. Find out what other couples have really experienced when working with them.
Why Marriage Costs So Damn Much
Couples spend roughly 40% of their budget on their wedding venue.
That number will shock some people. But when you really think about it, it makes sense.
Your venue is the basis of your entire wedding day. It dictates floral choices, decorations, clothing… everything.
If you want premium services for your big day. You have to pay premium prices.
Wrapping Up: Finding a Luxury Wedding Venue
Wedding venues are where it's at these days. No wonder the industry is worth nearly 1 trillion dollars!
From France to Scotland to Thailand — there are dreamy venues all over the world.
Follow these tips and you can find the best wedding venue for your special day.
Tips for Finding Your Perfect Wedding Venue:
Plan as far in advance as possible. Seriously. Couples should book a year out just for venues to consider them.
Be clear on your priorities. Know what matters most to you (and your fiancé). Is it photography? Privacy? Activities for guests? Let your wedding venue know what you want.
Visit in person. If you have the chance to see a venue before booking, take it. Majority of venues offer virtual tours but there's nothing like seeing it in person!
Inquire about packages and hidden fees. Everything should be included in your quote. If your venue tries to slip on extra charges later, walk.
Trust your gut. You'll know when something feels off about a venue. Don't ignore that instinct.
One more time for the people in the back.
You want a memorable wedding.
That means securing a photo ready venue with professional services.
Finding the right wedding venue sets the stage for the rest of your wedding planning journey. Make sure you've got a solid foundation before hiring photographers, videographers, caterers, or florists.
Because here's the truth. If you nail your venue — the rest will fall into place.
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