Over the last two decades I have photographed hundreds of weddings all across the United States. I’ve seen wedding venues that go above and beyond for their couples, do whatever it takes to make their day amazing, and so I’ve decided to round up a few lists of some of these incredible venues that deserve some praise.
This week I am going to start with venues in the Cleveland, Ohio / Northeast Ohio market because this is where I call home. While I consider myself a destination and traveling photographer, I would say I shoot at least 50% of my yearly weddings in Ohio. Cleveland truly has some incredible places to get married! The following are in no particular order, I love them all equally and for different reasons.
- Crown Point Ecology Center – Bath, Ohio
As an environmentalist and lover of the outdoors I will always have a soft spot for Crown Point Ecology Center. Not only are their grounds beautiful (mature trees, wide open field, greenhouse), but they do incredible work. They are a living laboratory of ecology and sustainability. At their core they believe in doing work that helps our environment and creates a sustainable way of living for future generations. I think it is really neat when a business can have such incredible depth and give back to their communities. Crowne Point is definitely a place to check out if you love the outdoors and are interested in how your wedding can contribute to a greater good.
2. Shangri-La Event Center – Garrettsville, Ohio
Imagine getting married on your own private island. In Ohio. Near Cleveland. Doesn’t seem real, but it is. No matter where you stand on Shangri-La’s massive property you have beautiful views of their thirty-six acre lake. Did I mention you can arrive to your reception by boat? In the Fall the lake is surrounded by mature trees that are a kaleidoscope of reds, greens, and oranges. An added bonus is their on-site overnight accommodations so you never have to leave the property. The owners are also super accommodating to all of their couples and you will have a five star experience.
3. Georgetown Vosh – Lakewood, Ohio
If you are looking for a space that values attention to details, incredible food, and specializes in more intimate weddings WITH indoor and outdoor access then make sure you explore Georgetown Vosh. In the middle of a city, yet the outdoor space is stunning with trees and ivy and greenery everywhere. They have meticulously designed the space to be functional while also being a beautiful backdrop to a wedding. My meals here have always been over the top amazing- maybe the best I’ve ever had as a wedding photographer.
4. Peacock Ridge – North Lawrence, Ohio
They have a pig. Full stop. And peacocks. And a whole slew of other farm animals that make up part of this venue and farm. What really made me fall in love with this space was the sunset, though. As the sun went down over the field and lake I was instantly in love. The outdoors is decorated incredibly and you would not need to bring in anything to add to the space. Wooden pews are set up in the ceremony area and that along with the lake makes it a really magical place to get married.
5. Mapleside Farms – Brunswick, Ohio
Give me a good sunset and I am a happy woman. Add water, a huge valley, multiple options for ceremony and reception spaces and I am sold. There are quite literally no bad views here which makes my job a lot easier. They really utilize the huge valley they are built upon and have put balconies and ceremony spaces that look over these beautiful backdrops. Mapleside exclusively uses Taste of Excellence catering which I have had the pleasure of eating a handful of times. The food has consistently been good, their communication is great, and they accommodate for my allergies which is a big deal for me. It’s also nice to have a caterer that is familiar with a venue- it means less work for the couple which is always a plus.
6. Screw Factory / Lake Erie Building – Lakewood, Ohio
Industrial venues are always refreshing to shoot in. They offer big spaces and a minimalist approach with decor. I love the blank canvases they offer for photography. The Screw Factory / Lake Erie Building in Cleveland not only offers great vibes inside of their venue, but outside there are endless spaces for photographs. And because it was once a factory, the windows are massive and old and there are a ton of them. The natural light you get inside of here is stunning. If you are looking for a unique venue that has a city feel this one is a really great option.
7. Crowne Plaza at Playhouse Square – Cleveland, Ohio
The views. The getting ready space. OMG. And centrally located. And people can stay overnight where you are getting married. I’m not sure it gets more convenient than this. Plus you can take photos around downtown which has become a personal favorite of mine in any city because it fun and makes for interesting / unique photos. They also have built in staff for everything so you don’t have to bring in a lot of outside help unless you want it. Their wedding planner/coordinator is superb and when I tell you I got the most delicious meal when I shot here I mean it.
8. Westin Cleveland Downtown – Cleveland, Ohio
The views. The getting ready space. OMG. Just like the above, this hotel knocks both out of the park big time. And let me tell you, you want this space getting ready on your wedding day. You can spread out, have room for food, your hair and makeup people have ample room, and there is even space for photography. The lobby is so beautifully decorated we ended up using it as the first look space and for some portraits. Here you are close to Public Square which has been totally redone and is an amazing spot for photography.
