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I'm Courtney

Indianapolis Wedding Photographer

I'm a light and airy wedding photographer passionate about capturing love stories. Based in Indianapolis, but serving couples wherever their love story takes them!

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US wedding venues I'd love to photograph

My Dream US Wedding Venues


Being in the wedding industry means I’m constantly surrounded by inspiration, and I wouldn’t have it any other way! Whether I’m scrolling Reels, saving TikToks, or flipping through Pinterest, there’s never a shortage of stunning venues and creative ideas to swoon over. One of my favorite things is seeing fellow creatives bring their visions to life in beautiful, unique spaces. Honestly, half the venues I’ve fallen in love with, I only discovered thanks to social media!

They say if you have big dreams, you’ve got to speak them into existence—so here I am, putting it out into the universe. ✨ I’m sharing a list of wedding venues that are at the top of my dream shoot list. These spaces are full of charm, elegance, and character, and I’d love the opportunity to capture love stories in every one of them someday!

Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards | North Garden, VA

If you’ve spent even a few minutes browsing vineyard wedding inspiration, chances are you’ve come across the breathtaking Pippin Hill Farm & Vineyards. Nestled in the heart of Virginia wine country just outside of Charlottesville, this venue is the perfect blend of rustic charm and refined elegance.

Pippin Hill offers an elevated twist on the classic barn wedding. Its stunning event barn is full of natural light, featuring high vaulted ceilings, exposed beams, and elegant finishes that feel both warm and sophisticated. The indoor spaces are thoughtfully designed with weddings in mind, creating a seamless flow from ceremony to reception without ever losing that wow factor.

But the real showstopper? The panoramic views. The rolling lawn overlooks the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for a ceremony or cocktail hour that feels like something out of a dream. Between the manicured gardens, the romantic vineyard rows, and the mountain views that stretch for miles, it’s hard to imagine a more photogenic spot.

This venue is truly a photographer’s dream, and it’s high on my wish list for a reason. The light, the landscape, the elegance—it has it all!

 Haiku Mill | Maui, HI

If you’re dreaming of a Hawaiian destination wedding but want something a little different than the typical beachfront setting, Haiku Mill is pure magic. Tucked away on Maui’s North Shore, this historic venue is a hidden gem that blends old-world European charm with the lush, tropical beauty of Hawaii.

The venue feels like stepping into a secret garden. The restored ruins of the mill are wrapped in vines, accented with crystal chandeliers, antique furniture, and hand-picked vintage details that give the space an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The open-air courtyard is surrounded by stone walls and draped in greenery, creating an intimate setting that feels both timeless and romantic.

Haiku Mill is perfect for couples who want the island feel without the sand between their toes. It’s elegant, unique, and absolutely breathtaking in every direction. Every corner of the venue is dripping with character, and it photographs like a dream. This one has been on my bucket list for years, and I’d be over the moon to capture a love story here one day.

The White Sparrow | Union Valley, TX

The White Sparrow Barn is a true Southern gem and an absolute dream for photographers. Located just outside of Dallas in Union Valley, Texas, this venue is known for its iconic all-white interior and timeless charm.

From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by soaring ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and rows of tall, elegant windows that flood the space with soft, natural light. The crisp white walls create the perfect clean canvas for any wedding style, from romantic and rustic to modern and minimal. Every detail is thoughtfully designed to feel airy, welcoming, and effortlessly beautiful.

Outside, the surrounding property offers even more photo opportunities with open fields, mature trees, and a quaint garden area. Whether it’s a cozy indoor ceremony or a golden hour portrait session out in the fields, The White Sparrow delivers a picture-perfect setting at every turn.

This venue has been high on my dream list for years. It’s the kind of space where the light just dances, and every corner feels ready to tell a beautiful love story.

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens | Miami, FL

Take me back to Italy—without ever leaving the States! Vizcaya Museum & Gardens is a little slice of Europe tucked right into the heart of Miami, and it’s nothing short of breathtaking. With its grand architecture, lush gardens, and views of Biscayne Bay, it’s the perfect venue for couples dreaming of a romantic, old-world wedding without having to hop on a plane.

Originally built in the early 1900s as a private estate, Vizcaya was designed to echo the charm and elegance of an Italian villa. From the ornate stone staircases and ivy-covered walls to the intricate fountains and sculptures scattered throughout the grounds, every detail feels like it was pulled from a postcard in Tuscany. The gardens are sprawling and serene, with hidden pathways, arched gates, and quiet corners that are perfect for dreamy portraits.

The main house, with its European-style terraces and waterfront views, provides a stunning setting for both ceremonies and receptions. The golden hour light here is unreal, and the blend of nature and architecture creates a one-of-a-kind backdrop that feels straight out of a fairytale.

Vizcaya is the kind of place that transports you the moment you arrive. It’s beautiful, peaceful, and full of history—definitely one of my top dream venues to photograph!

Greencrest Manor | Battle Creek, MI

If you’ve ever dreamed of hosting a wedding in the French countryside but want to keep it closer to home, Greencrest Manor is your venue. Nestled in the quiet beauty of southwest Michigan, this historic French chateau-inspired estate feels like stepping into a romantic European fairytale.

Greencrest Manor is known for its ivy-covered stone exterior, manicured gardens, and the sense of timeless elegance that surrounds the entire property. It offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. The estate’s grounds are filled with lush greenery, winding stone paths, and intimate garden corners that feel both grand and inviting.

Inside, you’ll find warm, thoughtfully curated spaces that reflect the manor’s historic roots while offering a beautiful setting for getting ready or cozy indoor portraits. Every detail, from the classic architecture to the floral-covered trellises, feels designed with romance and storytelling in mind.

It’s one of those rare venues that feels truly transportive. Greencrest Manor is high on my dream list not just because it’s stunning (though it absolutely is), but because it offers such a rich atmosphere for heartfelt, story-driven wedding photography. Plus it’s practically in my backyard!

Ivy Rose Barn | Rocky Mount, VA

Tucked into the rolling hills of Virginia, Ivy Rose Barn is a modern-meets-rustic venue that’s full of charm, elegance, and natural beauty. With its stunning whitewashed barn, serene pond, and surrounding forest views, it’s the kind of place where wedding dreams come to life and where every corner looks like it belongs in a magazine.

The barn itself is light, airy, and thoughtfully designed with both couples and photographers in mind. Clean white walls, tall ceilings, and large windows let in tons of soft, natural light, creating the dreamiest backdrop for portraits and ceremonies alike. Whether your style is modern, romantic, boho, or classic, this space adapts beautifully.

But what truly sets Ivy Rose Barn apart is the feeling of peace and intentionality throughout the property. There’s a private greenhouse, open fields, and cozy getting-ready spaces all designed to make your day feel effortless and connected to nature. The venue is also rooted in sustainability and meaningful experiences, which makes it even more special.

This venue has been on my wish list since the moment I first saw it. The blend of simplicity, nature, and quiet luxury makes Ivy Rose Barn a perfect canvas for heartfelt, joy-filled wedding photography.

L’Auberge de Sedona | Sedona, AZ

For couples dreaming of a wedding that feels peaceful, luxurious, and deeply connected to nature, L’Auberge de Sedona is an absolute gem. Nestled along Oak Creek and surrounded by Sedona’s iconic red rock formations, this venue offers a breathtaking backdrop that feels both intimate and awe-inspiring.

L’Auberge blends rustic elegance with desert beauty. Ceremonies can be held under towering sycamore trees with the soft sounds of the creek nearby, or up on the SpiritSong Terrace with panoramic views of the red rocks at golden hour. Whether you’re saying your vows beneath a canopy of green or against the dramatic desert sky, it’s impossible to go wrong here.

The property also features luxury cottages, serene garden pathways, and cozy, upscale amenities that make it feel like a private retreat. It’s the kind of place where guests can fully relax and soak in the beauty of the surroundings—and where every photo feels infused with light, emotion, and a sense of place.

L’Auberge de Sedona has long been a dream venue of mine. It’s peaceful, romantic, and full of the kind of natural magic that makes wedding days unforgettable—and photos that much more meaningful.

The Venue At Birchwood | Spring Hill, TN

The Venue at Birchwood is a Southern wedding dream come to life. Tucked away in the countryside just outside of Nashville, this elegant all-white venue offers the perfect mix of classic charm and modern sophistication. With sweeping views of open fields, mature trees, and beautiful natural light at every turn, it’s a setting that feels warm, welcoming, and completely serene.

The heart of the property is the stunning white barn, bright, airy, and designed with a clean, minimalist aesthetic that works beautifully with any wedding style. Inside, you’ll find tall ceilings, polished concrete floors, and large windows that allow light to pour in throughout the day. The blank canvas feel of the space means couples can truly make it their own, whether they lean into rustic elegance, romantic florals, or sleek modern touches.

The grounds are just as gorgeous, offering peaceful backdrops for portraits, golden hour ceremonies, or twinkle-lit receptions under the stars. The venue also has thoughtful getting-ready spaces and easy flow from ceremony to reception, making the whole day feel effortless and beautifully cohesive.

The Venue at Birchwood is high on my wish list for its timeless look, attention to detail, and the relaxed luxury it brings to every wedding day. It’s the kind of place where heartfelt moments and stunning visuals naturally come together.

Inn by the Sea | Cape Elizabeth, ME

If you’re dreaming of a coastal wedding with classic New England charm, Inn by the Sea in Cape Elizabeth, Maine, is an absolute treasure. Nestled along the rocky shoreline just minutes from Portland, this luxury seaside resort offers a peaceful, picturesque setting with ocean views that stretch for miles.

The venue combines the coziness of a boutique inn with the elegance of a high-end resort. Couples can exchange vows in a garden ceremony surrounded by wildflowers and sea breezes, or walk down the aisle with the Atlantic as their backdrop. Receptions can be held in their tented lawn space or inside the intimate, beautifully designed event rooms that feel coastal yet refined.

With boardwalk beach access, lush native landscaping, and the natural serenity of the Maine coast, every corner of this venue is a photographer’s dream. It’s perfect for couples who want a relaxed, nature-filled celebration with a touch of coastal sophistication. Inn by the Sea is at the top of my bucket list for its peaceful beauty, timeless charm, and the opportunity to capture a love story by the sea.

The Olana | Dallas, TX

The Olana is the definition of show-stopping grandeur. Inspired by French baroque architecture and nestled on over 40 acres just outside of Dallas, this private estate looks like it was plucked straight from the French countryside and dropped into Texas.

From its dramatic stone façade to its soaring ceilings, sweeping staircases, and crystal chandeliers, The Olana is all about elegance and opulence. The indoor spaces are jaw-droppingly beautiful, offering endless backdrops for portraits—think marble floors, ornate fireplaces, a ballroom with sky-high windows, and even a gold-plated elevator. Yes, really.

Outside, the manicured gardens, expansive terraces, and serene pond create a fairytale atmosphere perfect for romantic ceremonies and golden hour photos. The scale and detail of this venue make it ideal for couples looking to make a grand statement with their celebration.

The Olana has been one of my dream venues since I did a styled shoot there in 2022. It offers endless possibilities for creativity and storytelling, and every inch of the property is pure luxury. Photographing a wedding here would be an absolute honor.

Cliff House Maine | Cape Neddick, ME

Perched dramatically on the rocky coastline of southern Maine, Cliff House offers one of the most breathtaking oceanfront wedding settings in New England. Located in Cape Neddick, this luxury resort blends coastal charm with modern sophistication—and it’s impossible not to fall in love with its sweeping views of the Atlantic and iconic Maine cliffs.

Weddings at Cliff House feel like an escape. Couples can say “I do” with the sound of waves crashing below, surrounded by panoramic ocean views and salty sea air. The resort offers a variety of ceremony and reception locations, from scenic outdoor terraces to elegant ballrooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the view front and center.

With its fresh, coastal design and elevated details throughout, Cliff House brings a sense of peaceful luxury to every celebration. It’s the kind of venue where guests can truly relax and soak in the moment, and where every photo is filled with natural beauty and emotion. Whether you’re chasing golden hour on the cliffs or cozying up for portraits against the rugged shoreline, the scenery is unforgettable.

Cliff House Maine is high on my dream list for its unmatched coastal setting and the opportunity to document a wedding that feels both timeless and wildly romantic.

Malibu Rocky Oaks | Malibu, CA

Talk about a view! Malibu Rocky Oaks is one of the most iconic wedding venues in California, and it’s not hard to see why. Perched high in the Santa Monica Mountains, this private vineyard estate offers an absolutely jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the surrounding peaks and valleys. When you’re up there, it truly feels like you’re floating above the clouds.

The ceremony space is set on a stone helipad at the edge of the estate, surrounded by rolling vineyards and endless sky. It’s dramatic, romantic, and unlike any venue you’ve ever seen. Just imagine saying your vows as the sun dips behind the mountains and the golden California light wraps everything in magic.

The Tuscan-inspired villa adds even more charm with its rustic stone walls, wrought-iron details, and warm, earthy tones that photograph beautifully. The interior offers elegant spaces for getting ready, while the vineyard-lined paths and scenic overlooks give couples plenty of dreamy portrait locations without ever leaving the property.

Malibu Rocky Oaks is the ultimate venue for couples who want a wedding that feels exclusive, adventurous, and absolutely unforgettable. It’s been on my dream list for years, and one look at the view will tell you why.

And there you have it—some of the top wedding venues I’d love to photograph one day! Each one has its own unique charm, stunning views, and allll the potential for capturing the most unforgettable love stories.

Do you know of a gorgeous wedding venue that should be on my radar? I’m always on the hunt for hidden gems and new favorites. Drop your suggestions in the comments below—I’d love to hear where you think I should add to the list!

 

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Wedding Tips

wedding tips

Personal

FAMILIES

weddings

Categories

Welcome

I'm Courtney

Indianapolis Wedding Photographer

I'm a light and airy wedding photographer passionate about capturing love stories. Based in Indianapolis, but serving couples wherever their love story takes them!

Search the blog

Engagements

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