Choosing where to get married in Richmond VA can be a daunting task — there are just far too many options that all shout “dream wedding!” Luckily, tracking down the best Richmond VA wedding venues is my thing — whether that’s a historic manor, a sprawling estate, a rustic chapel or a riverside terrace. Fortunately for you, I’m also terrible at keeping secrets – so read on for my best wedding venues in Richmond VA!
1. Virginia House
If you’ve ever dreamed of an English destination wedding, cast your eyes over Virginia House. This historic wedding venue in Richmond VA is built quite literally from the materials of an English manor house dating back to the 1500s. Your wedding photos will have people asking if you really flew all the way across the Atlantic to tie the knot!
Enveloped in eight acres of beautifully maintained grounds, the manor overlooks the James River. While it features incredible preserved woodwork and antiques, couples will still benefit from all the modern amenities, and the venue can accommodate up to 150 guests for an outdoor wedding in its stunning traditional gardens.
2. Dover Hall
If Tudor grandeur is more your thing, head to Dover Hall — a 55-acre estate crowned with a grand house within easy access to Richmond, Charlottesville, and Maryland.
Exploring the spaces is a thrill in itself – from the light-filled bridal suite in its own private wing and the trophy room-style Billiards Room to the Two-Tiered Gardens and the reflective pool — the photo possibilities are endless!
The real draw, however, is Dover Hall — an exquisite, cavernous ballroom with a giant fireplace and antique chandeliers, for a statement reception that your guests will rave about for years to come.
3. The Estate at River Run
The Estate at River Run is equally as luxurious — but the neutral decor allows couples to put more of their own stamp on their special day. I adore the setting — as the name suggests, it sits right on the river, and you can say your vows right on the bank, surrounded by seated guests and verdant foliage!
Other options include the oak arbor, the sweeping front lawn, or the classic ballroom to make you feel like royalty. Ballrooms are something that River Run specializes in — there are three to choose from for your dinner, cocktails, and dances! If you just can’t take your eyes off the river views, the multiple terraces can be set up for dining, too — garden wedding venues in Richmond VA don’t come much more diverse than this.
If you’re planning a smaller wedding and this all sounds rather overwhelming, the Estate offers intimate-sized packages as well — so just let them know what you have in mind.
4. Mankin Mansion
Mankin Mansion offers comfort, class and convenience — all within 15 minutes of downtown Richmond, and close to the airport. But don’t picture an urban vibe — this cozy mansion is surrounded by beautifully landscaped Italian gardens, just dreamy for alfresco ceremonies and dancing under the stars!
Indoors, the European Gallery really shows off the brickwork architecture, its fireplace centerpiece framed with glass chandeliers. The bridal party can get prepped in the Summer Parlor — where gold and crystal detailing make for some wonderfully glitzy behind-the-scenes shots.
Evenings at Mankin are made for fun, with string light-draped trees and even a garden maze — making this one of the best outdoor wedding venues in Richmond VA.
5. Hidden Oaks
If you’re planning a fall wedding in Richmond, Virginia, you’ll be treated to every autumnal shade of foliage at Hidden Oaks.
This private, 55-acre estate really shows off its grounds, with the walk down the “aisle” taking place along a bridge — and a greenhouse reception hall to make the most of the leafy views.
String-lit patios, firepits and heat lamps mean you can continue the celebrations outside long after the sun has retreated. The venue can accommodate up to 350 guests, while the log-beamed Bridal Cottage sleeps eight.
6. Salem Chapel
Follow in ancient footsteps with a historic chapel wedding in Richmond, Virginia. Salem Chapel is an intimate and rustic venue an hour’s drive from the city, that can host weddings and receptions for up to 120 guests.
Dating back to the 1880s, this cute chapel still has its original pews and is a truly peaceful and intimate space for couples to make their lifelong commitments to each other, surrounded by their loved ones.
The characterful wooden floors and whitewashed walls ensure a simple, quiet space — you’ll need nothing more than floral arrangements to make this small wedding venue in Richmond VA your own.
7. Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden
This is certainly a Richmond wedding venue with a difference! Green-fingered, nature-loving couples will be excited to know that they can tie the knot in a botanical garden.
The site is particularly suited to elopements, with semi-private corners of the garden available for up to 25 guests. There are three separate indoor reception venues, each with their own outdoor ceremony spaces available for use in spring, summer and fall.
One of the loveliest things about a garden venue is that no two weddings will look the same! In spring, you can make the most of the blossom, which might even provide its own natural confetti! In summer, you and your guests can shelter from the heat under the ornamental tree canopies. In fall, warm-toned leaves provide an atmospheric backdrop for your ceremony and your photos.
Throughout the 50-acre gardens, sundials, gazebos, arbors and belvederes add plenty of character and quirky charm.
Meet Your Richmond Wedding Photographer!
As a Virginia native, I’d love to document your Richmond wedding. If you’ve got your eye on any of these wedding locations in Richmond VA — or if you’ve found another you think I should know about! — drop me a message and I’d be delighted to help you plan your special day, whether for 30 guests or 300.
