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MY FAVORITE OUTDOOR WEDDING VENUES IN OHIO

YOU DON'T HAVE TO GET MARRIED IN A DARK STUFFY ROOM,
LET'S GET YOU MARRIED OUTSIDE!

BY KATELYNN PHOTOGRAPHY

MY FAVORITE OUTDOOR WEDDING VENUES IN OHIO

BY KATELYNN'S PHOTOGRAPHY

Ohio Outdoor Wedding Photographer

Have you always dreamed of an outdoor wedding, but feel like you can't because you live in Ohio?

When I was a bride, I thought this too. Now that I am an outdoor wedding photographer in Ohio, I have found so many beautiful locations that are perfect for an outdoor wedding. Despite Ohio's lack of towering mountains, the Buckeye State boasts a plethora of stunning outdoor wedding venues. From charming gardens to rustic pavilions, there's a venue to suit every couple's vision. Here are six of my favorite outdoor wedding venues in Ohio, each offering its own unique blend of beauty and charm: The Brook, Whetstone Park of Roses, Cedar Springs Pavilion, North Bank Park Pavilion, Beverly Mansion and a classic Backyard Wedding.

1. The Brook

 

Location: Marengo, Ohio


Description: Nestled amidst the scenic countryside, The Brook offers a picturesque setting for outdoor weddings. With lush greenery, towering trees, and a tranquil brook running through the property, it's the perfect backdrop for a romantic celebration amidst nature's beauty. You have the option of your ceremony taking place at a number of beautiful locations on the property, the outdoor Chapel or Brookside. This venue is GORGEOUS during the fall.

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Can you tell this is my favorite venue?

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VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Rustic Charm: The Brook exudes rustic charm, natural beauty and the feeling of nostalgia. Couples can exchange vows in a variety of picturesque outdoor settings, from under a canopy of trees to beside the babbling brook.

  • Intimate Ceremony Spaces: Whether you're dreaming of a cozy woodland ceremony or a romantic waterside affair, The Brook offers a variety of intimate ceremony spaces to suit your vision. 

  • Picturesque Photo Opportunities: From enchanting forest clearings to a babbling brook, The Brook provides endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos. 

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • Brookside Ceremonies: Couples can exchange vows beside the tranquil brook, with the gentle sound of running water adding an extra touch of romance to the ceremony.

  • Getting Ready Spaces:  Both the Bridal Suite & The Social Hall are thoughtfully put together for both the bride and the groom to enjoy a relaxing morning while preparing for the day ahead. The Bridal Suite comes with hair and make up stations, a wet bar and plenty of space to spread out this space is perfect for capturing all of those intimate and special moments as the day begins. The groom and his guys won't be disappointed with The Social Hall. It comes with a wet bar, multiple TVs for watching the game, a pool table, foosball, lounge couches and two full bathrooms with showers. This space is perfect for hanging with the guys!

  • Woodland Receptions: Host a rustic reception beneath the pavilion or in the comfort of the modern Woodward Hall. 

  • Onsite Lodging: This venue also has special feature like onsite lodging. There's no hassle with hotels or Ubering home. You can even book a room for the entire weekend! I've also heard you can use the onsite swimming pool.

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With its idyllic setting, rustic charm, and intimate atmosphere, The Brook is the perfect venue for couples seeking a romantic outdoor wedding in the heart of nature. Start planning your dream wedding at this enchanting venue and create memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Park of Roses

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Location: Columbus, Ohio


Description: Located in the heart of Columbus, Whetstone Park of Roses is a gem for outdoor weddings. With over 13 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and over 12,000 roses in bloom, it provides a stunning backdrop for couples looking to say "I do" surrounded by natural beauty.

 

VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Rose Garden Ceremonies: Exchange vows amidst the vibrant hues and intoxicating scents of the park's rose gardens, with blooming bushes and winding pathways creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere.

  • Pondside Receptions: Host a reception beside one of the park's tranquil pond fountains, with the serene waters and lush greenery providing a picturesque backdrop for your celebration. 

  • Scenic Photo Spots: With its picturesque gardens, charming gazebos, and scenic pathways, Whetstone Park of Roses offers endless opportunities for stunning wedding photos. Capture the beauty of your special day amidst the natural splendor of the park, with each photo telling a story of love and romance.

  • Shelter House: After basking in the sun at one of the three ceremony locations (Fountain, Wedding Trellis or Brick Gazebo), the shelter house is lined with windows overlooking the beautiful gardens and allowing sunlight to trail in. 

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • Rose Petal Aisles: Create a fairy-tale atmosphere for your ceremony with rose lined aisles, leading to a garden trellis where you'll exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of nature.

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This location does not provide separate getting ready spaces, however there is always the option to rent a nearby AirBnB.

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With its stunning gardens, serene ponds, and romantic atmosphere, Whetstone Park of Roses is the perfect venue for couples seeking a picturesque outdoor wedding in Columbus. Start planning your dream wedding at this enchanting park and create memories that will last a lifetime.

3. Cedar Springs Pavilion

 

Location: Tipp City, Ohio


Description: Situated on 17 acres of rolling hills and wooded terrain, Cedar Springs Pavilion offers a rustic yet elegant setting for outdoor weddings. With a charming pavilion, lush gardens, crystal lakes and scenic views, it's the perfect venue for couples seeking a blend of natural charm and modern amenities including a bridal getting ready room and a butterfly garden for fairytale like photos.

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VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Pavilion: Cedar Springs Pavilion is an open air, Italian style venue where elegance and nature collide.  The Pavilion provides panoramic views of the surrounding countryside creating a warm and inviting atmosphere for your ceremony.

  • Garden Receptions: Host a reception amidst the venue's lush gardens, with manicured lawns, blooming flower beds, and winding pathways providing a picturesque backdrop for your celebration. Dine al fresco beneath the stars and dance the night away in this idyllic outdoor setting.

  • Ceremony Spaces: There are so many different locations to host your ceremony all around the property. From in front of the pond to under the pavilion, there are so many options to create the perfect setting to say "I do."

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • Beautiful Photogenic Scenery: From ponds, to woodlands, to butterfly gardens, Cedar Springs has many breathtaking locations to capture romantic and gorgeous images.

 

Just a heads up, there is not a Groomsmen suite onsite, but there are available options for near by getting ready spaces. 

4. Beverly Mansion

 

Location: Grand Rapids, Ohio


Description: Steeped in history and surrounded by acres of manicured gardens, Beverly Mansion offers a timeless backdrop for outdoor weddings. Exchange vows amidst the grandeur of the mansion's architecture, under the grandeur tree and celebrate your love in style at this elegant estate. This venue truly gives the feeling of stepping into a Jane Austen novel. Following the outdoor ceremony, relax and enjoy the reception in either the elegant sun room or the gorgeous dining hall. 

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This venue includes all of the necessary items to make your wedding perfect such as chairs, tables, getting ready suites and in house delicious catering.  

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VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Mansion: Step back in time at Beverly Mansion, a historic style estate. With its regal mansion, flowering gardens, and ornate ballroom, it exudes old-world charm and sophistication, providing a stunning backdrop for your wedding day.

  • Gardens and Grounds: Explore the estate's extensive gardens and grounds, which feature lush lawns, blooming flower beds, and tranquil ponds. From intimate garden ceremonies to grand outdoor receptions, there are endless possibilities for creating the wedding of your dreams amidst the natural beauty of Beverly Mansion.

  • Indoor and Outdoor Spaces: Whether you prefer an alfresco ceremony in the gardens or a formal reception in the mansion's grand ballroom, Beverly Mansion offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces to suit your vision. With its versatile event spaces and flexible accommodations, it's the perfect venue for couples seeking elegance and sophistication.

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • Garden Ceremonies: Exchange vows amidst the beauty of the estate's gardens, with blooming flowers, towering trees, and picturesque fountains creating a romantic and enchanting atmosphere for your ceremony.

  • Historic Details: Incorporate the mansion's historic details into your wedding decor, with vintage-inspired touches such as antique furniture, candelabras, and chandeliers. Infuse your wedding day with the timeless elegance of Beverly Mansion and create a celebration that's as memorable as it is magical.

 

With its historic charm, picturesque gardens, and elegant surroundings, Beverly Mansion is the perfect venue for couples seeking a timeless and romantic outdoor wedding. Start planning your dream wedding at this historic estate and create memories that will last a lifetime.

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5. Backyard Weddings

 

Description: Don't overlook the beauty and intimacy of a backyard wedding! Whether it's your own backyard or that of a friend or family member, backyard weddings offer a unique opportunity to create a personalized and meaningful celebration. With the right decor and planning, your backyard can be transformed into the wedding venue of your dreams. There are so many companies that will rent to you all of the necessary components such as tents, chairs and even trolly service to your car to make the day perfect!

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VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Personalized Settings: Your backyard wedding can be tailored to reflect your unique style and personality, with endless possibilities for decor, layout, and ambiance. From casual and laid-back to formal and elegant, the options are limited only by your imagination.

  • Intimate Atmosphere: Host your ceremony and reception in the comfort and familiarity of your own backyard, surrounded by the love and support of family and friends. Create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that puts everyone at ease and allows you to truly savor every moment of your special day.

  • Cost-Effective Option: Backyard weddings are often more budget-friendly than traditional venue options, allowing you to allocate your resources towards the elements that matter most to you. With fewer venue-related expenses, you'll have more flexibility to splurge on other aspects of your wedding day or save for your future together.

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • DIY Decor: Get creative with DIY decor projects that add a personal touch to your backyard wedding. From handmade centerpieces to custom signage and photo displays, infuse your wedding day with personality and charm.

  • Family Heirlooms: Incorporate family heirlooms and sentimental touches into your backyard wedding decor, such as vintage furniture, heirloom china, and cherished family photos. These meaningful details will not only enhance the ambiance of your celebration but also create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.

  • Al Fresco Dining: Treat your guests to a memorable dining experience with an al fresco reception in your backyard. Set up long banquet tables adorned with elegant linens and fresh flowers, and serve a delicious feast of seasonal dishes inspired by your favorite flavors and cuisines.

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​With its personalized settings, intimate atmosphere, and budget-friendly options, a backyard wedding is the perfect choice for couples seeking a unique and meaningful celebration of their love.

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6. North Bank Park Pavilion

 

Location: Columbus, Ohio


Description: Perched on the banks of the Scioto River, North Bank Park Pavilion offers stunning views of downtown Columbus and the riverfront. With its open-air pavilion and lush green space, it's the perfect venue for couples seeking an urban oasis for their outdoor wedding.

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VENUE FEATURES:

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  • Open-Air Pavilion: The pavilion provides a versatile space for ceremonies and receptions, with its open-air design allowing guests to enjoy the beauty of the outdoors while still providing shelter from the elements.

  • Scenic Green Space: Surrounding the pavilion is lush green space, perfect for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail hours, and photo opportunities. The manicured lawns and riverside pathways offer endless possibilities for capturing stunning wedding photos.

  • Riverfront Views: Say "I do" with the scenic backdrop of the Scioto River, as the tranquil waters flow gently by. The riverfront views create a serene and romantic atmosphere, perfect for exchanging vows and celebrating love.

  • Urban Setting: Located just steps away from downtown Columbus, North Bank Park Pavilion offers the convenience of an urban location with the tranquility of a natural setting. Guests can easily access nearby hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it convenient for out-of-town visitors.

 

UNIQUE TOUCHES:

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  • ​Cityscape Backdrop: The stunning skyline of downtown Columbus provides a dramatic backdrop for wedding ceremonies and receptions, creating a unique and unforgettable setting for your special day.

  • Riverside Ceremonies: Couples can exchange vows overlooking the river, with the soothing sounds of flowing water adding an extra touch of romance to the ceremony.

  • Photo Opportunities: From the iconic Columbus skyline to the picturesque riverfront, North Bank Park Pavilion offers endless opportunities for capturing beautiful wedding photos that will be cherished for a lifetime.

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The only downfalls of this venue are onsite parking and a getting ready space. There are near by parking garages and hotels that provide the perfect accommodations. 

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With its breathtaking views, versatile event space, and convenient urban location, North Bank Park Pavilion is the perfect choice for couples seeking a unique and memorable outdoor wedding experience in Columbus. Start planning your dream wedding at this picturesque venue and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Now you can see there are so many options for an outdoor wedding even here in Ohio. Many of these locations also provide shelter from bad weather. Out of all of these venues, which one is your favorite? Be sure to join my mailing list to follow along for all things outdoor weddings and exclusive offers!

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