Calling all engaged couples! You’ve got the ring, your future bride/groom picked out, the perfect wedding photographer (me, obviously ;)) and now you need to nail down the location to say your “I do”s! There’s a lot to consider when it comes to making this decision, such as indoor and outdoor spaces, number of wedding guests, budget, the season and weather, reception options, etc. And if you have a particular way you want your wedding images to look and feel, there’s a few more things to consider as well. In this post I’m going to break down some of my absolute favorite local places for weddings in and around Washington, NC!

River Forest Manor and Marina | Belhaven, NC

This gorgeous property is an all around amazing choice for a wedding! Outside is jaw dropping – the front lawn is a pristine, elegant backdrop for your wedding ceremony. The large front porch is both beautiful and a weather-proof option for couples, first-looks, and wedding party photos. The stunning interior is full of both history and well cared for architectural details. There are sunsets and views galore, as they have a huge back lawn on the water, with access to their pier (a perfect spot for golden hour portraits), and a large side deck.  Bonus –  if having brightly-lit getting ready photos is important to you (it is to me!) – you MUST see their bridal suite! 

Stokes Family Farm | Greenville, NC

If you’re looking for a venue that is tasteful, spacious, modern, and bright, Stokes Farm might just be your perfect fit! This venue boasts 3 barns, the largest being all white inside and out, with exposed beams and chandeliers. The barn also has huge side porches, the perfect spot for cocktail hours and wedding receptions. Whether you have your wedding indoors or outside, you won’t be disappointed with your surroundings! Stokes Farm also has plenty of room for everyone to get ready, with one suite in the main barn itself, and the other a short walking distance away. And bonus (because you know I care!) both getting-ready suites are flooded with natural light and fitted with comfy but attractive decor. 

Washington Civic Center | Washington, NC

One of my personal favorites on this list is the Washington Civic Center in downtown Washington, NC! I love this venue for a few different reasons – the first being the main interior itself. The walls are exposed brick, lined with plenty of windows, and the extra-tall ceiling is made up of exposed beams. There’s also a raised stage for your band or DJ, and plenty of space for your reception tables and a dancefloor! Not to mention, this sought-after venue is right downtown, which means you have quite a few options outdoors for your wedding portraits! You can take your wedding party photos right outside in the green area, or next door in front of the gorgeous First Presbyterian Church, or even across the street on the waterfront. So many reasons to love this wedding venue in Washington, NC!

Southern Acres | Bath, NC

Southern Acres is one of my more popular wedding venues I’ve been booked for, and with good reason! They have a large property with beautiful options for both indoor and outdoor events. Right when you pull in, you’ll see this gorgeous modern barn is huge, with plenty of parking. A perfect spot to host your wedding, as well as having a giant reception to celebrate! Their outdoor wedding site is surrounded by trees, giving a romantic, intimate, vibe for ceremonies. This pretty wooded area gets flooded with sunlight most days, making for the glowiest wedding portraits. If a dreamy ceremony in the woods, followed by a stunning, indoor reception sounds like what you’re hoping for, be sure to check out Southern Acres in Bath, NC!

Waterfront Homes | Washington, NC

Okay so this “venue” is obviously not actually a venue, but hear me out! If you’re from Washington, NC or a surrounding town, there’s a decent chance you have a relative, a friend, or a friend-of-a-friend with waterfront property. Try and visualize if that’s somewhere that you could get married and host your wedding! Some of my most favorite weddings have been in the yard of regular family homes. Being on the water, at a place that’s special to my couples for any type of reason, instantly adds to the intimacy and romance of the location and day. 

Whitehurst Lake House | Washington, NC

Hidden down a long, picture-perfect tree lined lane in Washington, NC, this private venue is a beautiful location for a wedding. Whitehurst Lake boasts some of the best sunset views around! The expansive deck is a unique place for your ceremony, with marvelous views while you say your vows. Just up the steps from the deck is the large porch area, which gives your reception protection from weather, while keeping the lake view intact. If being surrounded by pretty scenery is important to you, definitely look into this charming local venue!

Fox Hollow Farm | Washington, NC

Set in the country of Washington, NC, this venue is both upscale and rustic! Originally an equestrian boarding space, this wedding venue has been completely renovated and boasts immaculate, sun-drenched indoor space, as well as gorgeous outdoor options as well. Outside, there’s picturesque fence-lined dirt roads that lead to multiple ceremony site options, such as the one set on the edge of the woods, or another in front of a gazebo. You’ll love the stylish details, like the outdoor patio (complete with a stunning fireplace). A venue like this has plenty of indoor and outdoor space for you to curate your dream wedding, along with the most perfect reception!

Planning a wedding can be daunting, but having the right vendor team can help ease your worries! While I can’t pick your venue for you, as your photographer, I will absolutely do my part to make your wedding day the best day of your life. Once you’ve booked with me, I’ll make your customized wedding day timeline, starting with getting ready photos, through your big exit. I’ll work closely with your wedding coordinator to make your day as smooth as possible! I can give input on where you take each of your wedding day portraits, or I can make the selections completely myself and let that be one more thing off your plate. And you can trust that I will pick places based on what will be most flattering, will help you remember how beautiful you felt on your wedding day, and showcase how gorgeous all of your hand-picked details come together! If you’re not already booked with me, reach out on my website and let’s chat! I’d love the opportunity to be your wedding photographer!

XO,

Alice