Best Indoor and Outdoor Wedding Venues in Maryland:
Woo~!
Having celebrated and photographed 35+ weddings in 2019, a majority of them took place in Maryland!
I wanted to create a round up of the best venues I was able to photograph.
This list includes both indoor and outdoor venues.
I’ve also included the month the wedding took place since Maryland weather has some of the most inconsistent – hope that helps~!
To try and keep things short and sweet, I tried to minimize posting photos since it would take forever to read and take up a lot of space.
If you would like to see more photos, please feel free to contact me to see the galleries.
I’ll do my best to blog these weddings – but in the meantime – hope this works.
These Wedding Venues in Maryland will be highlighted in this article:
Clicking the name will send you to that specific venue – sweet~!
Footnote:
To make this experience visually easier, I’ve shared a Google Maps of each of the wedding venues here:
Google Maps (Shared) – Best Wedding Venues In Maryland | Cute and Scenic Locations In Maryland
Main Street Ballroom
Wedding Venue – Ellicott City – Howard County, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
“Rustic meets industrial chic right on historic Main Street Ellicott City. Main Street Ballroom is a blank slate with character that you can customize to create your unique vision for your wedding day. We are a space to celebrate— not stress! From our flexible indoor/outdoor floorplan to our unprecedented rental window of 8am-midnight, our policies are designed to add value to your special event by giving you the freedom and creativity to create a truly customized celebration.
Nestled right on historic Main Street in Ellicott City, this 100 year old stone warehouse has been converted into a 10,000 square foot indoor/outdoor event space. Couples may host up to 300 people for their celebration. There is also a 3,000 square foot brick patio that can be used as an outdoor space for ceremonies or cocktail hour. Parking is free in Ellicott City and the venue has three reserved spaces for clients to use as they wish for their guests.”
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in January.
The ceremony was at a nearby church and the reception took place here.
Part of the prep took place here as well.
It was extremely convenient since everyone in the bridal party was able to leave their belongings at the venue while we went to the ceremony.
The venue allowed for some set up that same morning for DIY details.
Old Ellicott City has some beautiful little shops on Main Street making it easy to take lovely portraits around town.
Also, the venue had a good amount of space for dancing – always a plus~!
Side note:
In these past few years, Old Ellicott City has been damaged from 2 floods.
Please support local businesses when possible.
Mount Vernon Magnolia
Mount Vernon – Baltimore, Maryland
Reason why I like this Maryland Cute Place:
These photos were taken at the end of March, early April.
It was around the same time as the Cherry Blossoms season.
I initially thought the trees were Cherry Blossoms, but when we visited, they were Magnolias~!
I’d say this is a very unique and cute spot – definitely a highlight of Baltimore during the spring season.
The wedding and reception took place in the Mt. Vernon area, but this was walking distance to from the church.
This area provided for some lovely bridal party, family, and couples photos.
Spring weather during this time was abnormally warm so it worked in our favor~!
If you’re visiting Baltimore, it’s next to The Washington Monument, The Walters Art Museum, and the George Peabody Library!
Strong Mansion
Dickerson – Frederick County, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
The Strong Mansion is located 15 minutes from historic Frederick, Maryland, and one hour from Baltimore, and one hour from both Virginia and DC.
The amenities of this romantic site include a spacious ballroom, seven bedrooms, six bathrooms, air conditioned bridal suite, and handicap accessibility. Many of the original furnishings grace this beautiful home. The grounds offer three ceremony sites, formal gardens, and tented patio that can accommodate up to 175 guests. This area is surrounded by the natural beauty of the views and forest.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in May.
Sighhh – what’s not to love about this venue?
It was raining the majority of the day, but I think the moodiness of the day also enhanced the experience.
It’s a venue that is sort of tucked away in the mountains and woods.
Since I started my photography career in 2013, I’ve wanted to photograph here and I had the perfect couple to work with – thank you for being flexible despite the weather!
A huge plus, the staff was extremely friendly, allowed me to utilize any of the spaces, and arrive earlier.
The ceremony and reception were tented due to the rain.
Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion
Nature Preserve – Chevy Chase, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
Woodend Sanctuary & Mansion is an elegant wedding venue located in Chevy Chase, Maryland. It is conveniently situated just 9 miles from downtown DC on a private 40-acre nature sanctuary. Environmentally conscious couples might enjoy this venue’s commitment to nature and wildlife preservation.
Nature-loving couples can celebrate the most important day of their lives surrounded by nature in the stunning Audubon Society’s Woodend Sanctuary and Mansion. You can say your vows in charming Hemlock Grove or choose your favorite scenic spot anywhere else on the property. If the weather is less than perfect, your ceremony can be held in the Great Hall or the tented terrace. Summer receptions can be indoor/outdoor affairs, while winter receptions are warm and cozy in the Great Hall. You are allowed to supply your own wine without a corkage fee and you may also choose your own caterer from an approved vendor list.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in June.
The ceremony space is surrounded by tall trees.
The groom decided that he and his groomsmen would enter through the path behind the ceremony space.
This outdoor space is literally the dream.
It’s a little walk from the mansion which hosts the reception space.
Overall, a unique venue tucked right outside the bustling DC area.
See more photos, cost, and venue information from this wedding:
Woodend Sanctuary Wedding – Chevy Chase, Maryland
Black Ankle Vineyards
Winery – Mt. Airy, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
Black Ankle Vineyard is set in the rolling hills of Frederick County, our tasting room combines two things that are a must for a special event today: aesthetic beauty and environmentally-friendly practices.
The tasting room, which can accommodate 100 people (up to 250 with addition of tent), features sweeping views of the vineyards and was built using a multitude of materials grown or gathered on the farm, including wood, stone, straw, and clay.
The facility also features a delightful covered porch furnished with rocking chairs. The exterior of the tasting room includes a living roof, solar paneling, and easily accessible parking.
Perfect for an intimate or small-sized event, Black Ankle Vineyards’ tasting room is an exceptional venue that will create a memorable occasion for those with discerning tastes.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in August.
This couple opted to only do their formal family photos, portraits, and reception at the venue.
They had already married earlier in the year and wanted to celebrate with a smaller group of friends.
We visited the area prior to do a location scout and I recall the vineyard doing a little mini-concert outside.
It was super casual – totally vibing with what the couple was looking for.
I remember hearing was it was child friendly and also dog friendly. Huge plus!
You are able to get some gorgeous sunset photos since the space allows for exploring.
The vineyards sits on some hills providing for an epic sunset.
The Shrine at St.Anthony
Roman Catholic Shrine – Ellicott City – Howard County, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
Located in scenic Howard County, Maryland, just 30 miles west of Baltimore, the Shrine of St. Anthony has been home to the Franciscan Friars for over 70 years. In its long life, the Shrine has been home to many friars and has served as a student residence, a house of philosophy, and a novitiate. Since 1991, the Shrine has been home to the Companions of St. Anthony ministries.
The Library of the Shrine of St. Anthony is truly a work of art. Three walls are paneled in gum wood shelving and the fourth is adorned with a large fireplace. The library shelves contain thousands of spiritual and theological books. A second level to the library houses ancient theological works, specifically works on Franciscan topics. The Library is available for use by pilgrims and visiting groups and is a cozy place to hold meetings. The capacity is 25 people.
The jewel of the Shrine, and its most important room, is the Chapel.
With its beautifully carved gumwood choir stalls, its mosaic Stations of the Cross, and its coffered ceiling, the Chapel is a gem of the early Renaissance.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in September.
The staff were very friendly here.
The chapel is different and doesn’t have your typical set up with pews so it was a bit tricky.
I asked if I could roam during the ceremony / if that would cause any disturbance – they were completely okay with it!
This is rare – especially at a church!
I recall it being a hot September day so we opted to take photos inside.
We had some beautiful daylight coming through the shrine~!
PS: I left one of my lights here and was allowed to pick it up the next day without any issues.
A big thank you to the staff for being accommodating!
Belvedere Hotel
Banquet Hall -Baltimore, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
Towering in Baltimore, MD, the Belvedere & Co. Events center provides a historic wedding venue teeming with grace and charm. With an assortment of rooms to choose from, couples can find a space that best reflects the size and look of their dream wedding. At its heart, this location has a feeling of a storybook romance for an ‘I do’ fit for a novel.
In 1903, the Belvedere was built as Baltimore’s first luxury hotel. Historically it was the go-to location for society elite and to this day stands as an alluring location. It’s largest room is able to seat up to 300 guests, perfect for large affairs. Smaller rooms, such as the Owl Bar and Palm Ballroom can host up to 90 people for a more intimate setting. The Owl Bar features the same historic elegance found throughout the rest of the hotel, but with a slightly more casual twist.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
This wedding took place at the end of September.
This is the classic and iconic Baltimore venue.
I’ve photographed here a few times and it never gets old.
The grand ballroom on the top floor is something else – you definitely feel like you’re going back in time.
Baltimore gets a bad reputation; and those who never consider visiting, you miss out on gems like these.
Royal Sonesta Harbor Court Baltimore
Wedding Venue – Baltimore, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
A timeless wedding venue in Baltimore, Maryland, Royal Sonesta Harbor Court offers newly engaged couples the best in classic elegance. Royal Sonesta Harbor Court’s picturesque waterfront views craft a one-of-a kind experience you and your guests won’t forget!
The hotel offers couples and their guests the option of choosing from 203 stylishly designed guest rooms and suites. Royal Sonesta Harbor Court is conveniently located in the heart of the historic Inner Harbor. The venue is just steps from the area’s most popular attractions, such as The Maryland Zoo in Baltimore and the National Aquarium.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in October.
The couple had 3 rooms available for them (and the after party lounge / bar was in the same area).
Being able to separate your prep, ceremony, cocktail, and reception makes life easier and flipping rooms is sometimes a nightmare to work with.
The ample indoor space was a luxury – which can be difficult to find in cities.
For those that like to party, this was easy to work with.
It is safest for guests since the venue serves as a hotel as well.
Given the space is close to the inner harbor it also made it easy to go outside to do a first look and the bridal party photos.
Antrim 1844
Wedding Venue – Taneytown, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
Engaged couples love this boutique hotel in central Maryland for its 24 acres of gorgeous grounds, five-star menu, and historic mansion (it’s on the National Register of Historic Places!). For your garden vows, choose between the rose-lined Formal Gardens and the Secret Garden, a slightly more organic setting on the edge of the property. After, you can continue the party al fresco in a tent on the croquet lawn or head into the Glass Atrium for dinner and dancing (for up to 225 people).
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in October.
The location is absolutely wonderful to work with – there is plenty of outdoor space as well as indoor space.
Essentially the venue is split up into 4 different sections; the main building, ceremony space, reception space, and hotel space for guests.
There are countless spots to take photos around the area.
Ceresville Mansion
Wedding Venue – Discovery-Spring Garden, Maryland (Frederick)
From the Wedding Venue:
The historic 1888 Ceresville Mansion is an ideal venue for an elegant indoor/outdoor weddings. The mansion is surrounded by 25 acres of beautiful riverside property featuring mature trees and gardens and a beautiful pavilion, which are ideal for outdoor wedding ceremonies. Ceresville Mansion offers a full-service wedding package so that you do not have to worry about the details. Their wedding packages include the service of a very enthusiastic and experienced event planner to ensure that every aspect of your big day runs like clockwork.
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
The wedding took place in November.
Location is a bit more remote and great for smaller groups.
The staff were very friendly and the venue rooms were quaint.
The day was quite cold in the morning so the couple decided to hold their wedding indoors.
Throughout the day, the weather got a bit better so we decided to go outside to take photos prior to their departure.
Rawlings Conservatory
Botanical Garden in Baltimore, Maryland
From the Wedding Venue:
The historic Rawlings Conservatory & Garden is ideal for weddings, parties, charity events, and meetings — whether you want an indoor or outdoor setting. The unique space can accommodate everything from cozy receptions, to large cocktail parties, to elegant tented affairs.
The outdoor venue is lush with flowers, and the gardens feature colorful perennials and annuals throughout the spring and summer seasons. Indoors, there are five distinctive greenhouse settings, including the original Palm House from 1888, the Orchid Room, Mediterranean House, Tropical House, and Desert House. All are complete with walkways and secluded benches, and provide a picturesque setting for photographs of your event.
Two display pavilions, each with a seating capacity of 48 guests, are perfect for receptions. Our spacious lawns are available for tenting. You can choose which setting is best suited for your wedding ceremony.
Rental rates information here. *All pricing and rates are subject to change.*
Reason why I like this Maryland Wedding Venue:
These photos were taken in December.
The wedding ceremony did not take place here.
We were in a bit of a pickle since the forecast had predicted rain the whole day.
We were looking for a space to stay dry and warm and the Rawlings Conservatory was a solid find.
We ended up doing the first look, bridal party, and couples photos here.
Given our luck, the sun came out~!
Honestly, if I were to get married anywhere, this might be the spot.
So much greenery; it practically decorates itself!