Congratulations on your engagement! This is such an exciting time, and one of the first big decisions you’ll make is choosing the perfect wedding venue. Columbus, Ohio, is home to a variety of incredible venues, from rustic barns to sleek downtown spaces, each offering a unique backdrop for your big day. If you’re searching for wedding venues in Columbus, Ohio, this guide is here to help you navigate the process and find a location that matches your vision.
Key Considerations for Choosing Your Wedding Venue
1. Guest Count
Before you start touring venues, have a rough idea of how many guests you’ll be inviting. Columbus has options for every size wedding, from intimate elopements to 300+ guest celebrations. Popular venues like The Exchange at Bridge Park or The Ivory Room can accommodate larger parties, while cozy spaces like Strongwater Food & Spirits are perfect for more intimate gatherings.
2. Venue Style
Think about the vibe you want for your wedding. Do you envision a romantic garden ceremony, a modern industrial-chic reception, or a timeless ballroom celebration? Columbus offers something for everyone, including:
- Rustic Elegance: Jorgensen Farms
- Urban Glamour: The Vue Columbus, Revery
- Outdoor Beauty: Franklin Park Conservatory
3. Budget
Set a budget and prioritize what matters most. Keep in mind that some venues include extras like catering and rentals, while others are blank slates where you’ll need to bring in your own vendors.
4. Location & Accessibility
Columbus is known for its charming neighborhoods and easy-to-navigate layout. Consider a venue that’s convenient for your guests and close to accommodations. Downtown venues like Via Vecchia Winery are perfect for out-of-town visitors.
5. Photographer-Friendly Features
As a Columbus Ohio wedding photographer, I always recommend considering venues with great natural light or stunning architecture for photos. Venues like Scioto Reserve Country Club or The Columbus Museum of Art provide exceptional backdrops for capturing timeless memories.
Questions to Ask When Touring Columbus Wedding Venues
When you tour potential venues, ask these key questions to ensure it’s the right fit:
- Availability: Is your desired date open?
- Amenities: What’s included in the rental fee (tables, chairs, linens, etc.)?
- Vendor Policies: Do they have preferred vendors or restrictions?
- Flexibility: Can the space accommodate your backup plan if the weather doesn’t cooperate?
- Timing: How long will you have access to the venue?
Popular Columbus Wedding Venues Brides Love
Here’s a closer look at some of the most sought-after venues in Columbus:
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens
Known for its lush greenery and elegant spaces, this venue is perfect for nature-loving couples. - The Estate at New Albany
This venue combines modern sophistication with a cozy atmosphere, offering a stunning reception space and beautiful outdoor ceremony sites. - High Line Car House
A historic gem with exposed brick and industrial charm, ideal for couples looking for a chic, urban setting. - Strongwater Food & Spirits
This quirky, artistic venue is perfect for couples who want something out of the ordinary, with an eclectic vibe that photographs beautifully.
Bonus Tip: Book Early!
Columbus is a popular wedding destination, and venues fill up quickly, especially for peak dates in spring, summer, and fall. Once you’ve found your dream venue, book it as soon as possible to secure your date.
Let’s Capture Your Venue in All Its Glory
Once you’ve selected your venue, the next step is finding the right photographer to bring it to life in your wedding photos. As an experienced Columbus Ohio wedding photographer, I know how to showcase your venue’s best features while telling the story of your day.
Visit Asteria Photography to learn more about how I can help document every moment, from your first look to the last dance, with timeless and breathtaking images. Let’s make your wedding day unforgettable!
Caroline Stiers is a Columbus, Ohio wedding photographer, NYC wedding photographer and destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, emotional imagery with an editorial flare.
Ohio + NYC based destination wedding photographer specializing in curating a joyful experience while delivering candid, romantic, editorial imagery. Columbus, Ohio wedding photographers specializing in candid photography.
