As a Maryland wedding photographer, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most breathtaking DC wedding venues. Choosing your wedding venue is often the biggest decision you will make in the wedding planning process. It sets the tone for everything from design to guest experience. I’m here to help make that decision a little easier!
No matter what you’re looking for, we can find a DC wedding venue that is perfect for you. Below, I’ve highlighted five of my absolute favorite wedding venues in DC. Each is unique and gives you the chance to create a wedding that reflects you and your vision.
As a Baltimore wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of working in some of the most striking DC wedding venues. The right venue does more than provide a backdrop. It shapes the mood of your celebration and gives your guests an unforgettable experience. Whether you love historic architecture, modern design, or a space filled with city energy, these five venues in Washington, DC offer settings that are as memorable as the moments they’ll hold.
My Favorite Wedding Venues in DC
The Larz Anderson House | Historic DC Wedding Venue
The Larz Anderson House is a literal Gilded Age Mansion, straight out of a fairytale. Think grand marble staircases, crystal chandeliers, and rich wood paneling. If you’re looking for a high-end space with a focus on historical architecture, an elegant interior, and overall grandeur, I highly recommend Larz Anderson House. You can very easily host an intimate ceremony in one of the beautiful smaller spaces or a grand reception in the main ballroom.
However, because the Larz Anderson House is in a residential neighborhood, there is a noise ordinance. Amplified music is not allowed outside, so any outdoor events will need to be accompanied by soft, acoustic music. That said, music inside is completely unrestricted, and the reception must wrap up by 10 p.m. Despite these restrictions, this is one of my favorite wedding venues in DC and nothing can compete with its historic luxury.
Stepping inside Larz Anderson House feels like walking into another era. This Gilded Age mansion features grand staircases, marble floors, and ornate chandeliers that create a refined setting for a formal wedding. Couples who love historic architecture will find endless opportunities for portraits in its stately interiors and lush outdoor courtyard
District Winery | Modern Waterfront DC Wedding Venue
District Winery is in a league of its own. This venue is perfect for couples who would love to get married at a winery but don’t want to host their reception in a barn. This waterfront venue in Navy Yard blends contemporary elegance with a warm, inviting atmosphere, all while offering stunning views of the Potomac River.
District Winery includes a restaurant that is open to the public, but weddings take place in a private space upstairs.
It’s modern, stylish, and effortlessly cool, and ideal for couples looking for a sophisticated yet relaxed DC wedding venue. I’ve photographed weddings here before, and the combination of floor-to-ceiling windows, warm wood interiors, and the scenic waterfront make for truly stunning wedding portraits.
District Winery combines sleek, contemporary design with views of the Anacostia River. The glass walls, open terraces, and urban skyline backdrop make it a favorite for couples who want a modern DC wedding venue that still feels warm and inviting. With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it transitions beautifully from ceremony to reception.
Looking for inspiration? Check out this Christine & Alex District Winery wedding!
Eastern Market | Unique Capitol Hill DC Wedding Venue
Eastern Market is perhaps the most “authentically DC” venue on this list. It is ideal for couples who want something one-of-a-kind and steeped in local history and culture. Eastern Market offers indoor and outdoor spaces that can be decorated according to your personal style. Located in the heart of Capitol Hill and known for its vibrant market atmosphere, Eastern Market is perfect for couples who want a special, community-centered celebration.
While there isn’t a designated getting-ready space, many couples opt to prepare at home or in a nearby hotel. It’s truly one of the most unique wedding venues in the DC area.
For couples who want their celebration to capture the energy of the city, Eastern Market offers a lively and distinctive setting. Its historic brick halls and colorful market atmosphere give weddings here a character you won’t find anywhere else in DC. It’s ideal for those who love bold design and want their wedding to feel rooted in Washington’s local culture.
Want to see what a wedding at Eastern Market looks like? Check out Nicola & Andrew’s wedding I captured!
Potamic View Terrace | DC Wedding Venue with Upscale Views
Potamic View Terrace is perfect for couples who want to tie the knot with some of DC’s most iconic landmarks as their backdrop. With its sophisticated, modern design and sleek, open-air layout, the venue exudes elegance while providing a relaxed, airy atmosphere. I highly recommend this venue to those who want to dance the night away under the stars and have the Washington Monument in the background. I guarantee it will make for an unforgettable night for everyone.
The Potomac View Terrace offers stunning panoramic views of the National Mall, Washington Monument, and White House. It truly feels upscale and exclusive. The only thing to look out for is the complications around getting married in a government building. Be prepared to navigate some red tape, or, better yet, hire a wedding planner with experience working with the building’s staff! Nothing beats this iconic DC wedding venue.
Located just steps from the National Mall, Potomac View Terrace is one of the most striking rooftops in the city. Couples who want a wedding with sweeping views and city energy will love how the terrace overlooks the monuments and skyline. The mix of open-air ceremony space and modern event facilities makes it both memorable and practical.
The Willard Intercontinental Hotel | Iconic DC Wedding Venue
I recommend The Willard for couples who want their wedding day to feel majestic, with the added benefit of a rich DC legacy. Perfect for couples who love classic elegance and a touch of grandeur, the Willard Intercontinental is a historic landmark that exudes opulence and classy luxury. I mean, they don’t call it the “The Residence of Presidents” for nothing! This hotel has hosted countless dignitaries and celebrities over the years. Having photographed a wedding here before, I can personally attest to the impeccable service and attention to detail.
This DC wedding venue is perfect for couples wanting an indoor wedding. There are many rooms for the different parts of your wedding, and you can avoid the stress of unpredictable DC weather. Though if you want any outdoor portraits we can always take a field trip to a nearby park! I’m always for an excuse to visit The Willard, and my experience comes in handy when navigating around hotel guests and helping your wedding day run smoothly.
Known as the “Residence of Presidents,” The Willard InterContinental is a landmark of historic elegance in Washington, DC. Its ballrooms are adorned with gilded details, chandeliers, and soaring ceilings that set the stage for black-tie weddings. If you dream of a wedding steeped in history and grandeur, the Willard delivers an unforgettable experience.
My Favorite Wedding Venues in DC
From the historic elegance of the Larz Anderson House to the eclectic energy of the Eastern Market, there is a perfect DC wedding venue for everyone. I’ve worked closely with couples at each of these venues and know how to work around the crowds and capture photos that feel authentically you. Contact me today to book your DC wedding photography experience!
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Whether you imagine your day surrounded by historic architecture, set against a modern skyline, or infused with the energy of the city, these DC wedding venues offer something for every couple. From the grandeur of Larz Anderson House to the contemporary vibe of District Winery, each space has its own personality. If you are planning a wedding in Washington, DC and want a photographer who knows these venues and how to capture them beautifully, I would love to hear your story.
Vendors
Larz Anderson House
Photography: Haley Day Photography
Venue: Larz Anderson House
Workshop Host: AMV Rentals
Wedding Planner + Styling/Design: AMV Rentals
Educators: Sophie Kay Photography, Kir Tuben, Michelle Harris Studios
Florist: Love Blooms Floral Studio
Furniture/Tabletop Rentals: White Glove Rentals
Hair & Makeup: By Madeline Eleanor
Dresses: Carine’s Bridal, Reem Acra, Monique Lhuillier, Mira Zwilinger, Lela Rose Bridal, Ines Di Santo, and Olga Martinez
Accessories: Erin Rhyne
Cakes: Two Teaspoons Bakery and Cake Studio
Stationary: Studio Wren & Co
Groom’s Attire: Bucco Couture
Linens: Nuage Designs
Shoes: Bella Belle Shoes, Something Bleu, and Jimmy Choo
Rings: Andria Barbone Jewelry
Styling Boards: Chasing Stone
Flat Lay Styling: Sophie Kay Photography
Ring Boxes: The Styling Reserve Harp: Nadia Pessoa
District Winery
Photography: Haley Day Photography
Videography: Abidoodle Productions
Venue: District Winery
Beauty: Georgetown Bride
Dress: Garnish Boutique
Florals: Tierra Events
DJ: DJ Ricardo
Hanging & Lighting of Disco Ball: Dan Goldman Events
Disco Rental: Libby Living Colorfully
Jeweler: Boone and Sons Jewelers
Eastern Market
Photography: Haley Day Photography
Wedding Planner: The Coordinated Collective
Venue: Eastern Market
Caterer: Eat and Smile Catering
Entertainment: Dan Goldman Events
Florist: Modern Foliage
Bakery: Buttercream Bake Shop
Dress: Anthropologie Weddings
Hair: Rose and Sparrow Salon
Potomac View Terrace
Taken while second shooting for Alexandria Kent Photography
Venue: Potomac View Terrace
The Willard International Hotel
Taken while second shooting for Alexandria Kent Photography
Venue: The Willard Intercontinental Hotel
