A beautiful Carolina Inn wedding by Michelle Elyse Photography
Raleigh Wedding Venues for Every Type of Couple
If you’ve started planning your wedding, you’ve probably noticed that the amount of information out there is overwhelming! To simplify things and help you get started, I’ve listed out the top raleigh wedding venues in each category: historic, urban, sophisticated, outdoor, European, classic, and garden. I hope this helps you in planning your dream wedding!
As always, please feel free to email with any questions! I’m always happy to help my couples with finding vendors and selecting a timeline for the best lighting of the day.
Happy research!
–Michelle Elyse, owner, & wedding photographer of Michelle Elyse Photography
Fearrington House Inn By Michelle Elyse Photography
Wedding Venues for Classic Lovers:
Located in Chapel Hill, the Carolina Inn is the quintessential classic venue. It features beautiful classic architecture, and a ballroom with black and white checkered floors and chandeliers. The outdoor ceremony space on the lawn is absolutely breathtaking.
A classic spot to get married. There are several ballrooms to accommodate weddings of almost infinite sizes. Who doesn’t love feeling spoiled at the Washington Duke?
Fearrington is a classic inn featuring bucolic fields, gardens, and an event space. There are also rooms and cottages for rent through the Inn where you can get ready. Ceremonies in the garden are gorgeous. Then receptions at the Garden Terrace are idyllic. All within a peaceful countryside setting.
Carolina Inn Ballroom By Michelle Elyse Photography
Wedding Venues for Garden Lovers:
Raleigh’s Hidden Gem. The Raleigh Rose Garden is a little oasis behind the Raleigh Little Theater. Lined with roses of all colors, with a lawn area big enough for a tent. Ceremonies can be held in the garden or amphitheater.
A wonderful mix of garden and classical. Wander around taking photos throughout the garden, have your ceremony overlooking the beautiful and idyllic reflection pond, then have your reception under the stars on the patio, or inside the Doris P. Duke Center. Conveniently located just up the road from Duke Chapel.
A twilight cocktail hour at the Raleigh Municipal Rose Garden by Michelle Elyse Photography
Wedding Venues for Europe Lovers:
A gorgeous estate situated on peaceful countryside land. The european inspired house is full of bright beautiful light. The outdoor tiled lawn is so elegant. And their indoor reception area is bright and spacious.
This beautiful venue was converted from a historic church. It features a charming outdoor garden patio. Its perfect for smaller weddings. Imagine dining al fresco under string lights and candles, or celebrating inside the chapel.
Elegant Reception Decor by Michelle Elyse Photography
A Raleigh Wedding Venue For Sophisticated Lovers:
I will freely admit that I am a huge fan of the Umstead. Living in Cary, I come here for all occasions: drinks, dinner, spa days, etc. Its such an elegant venue with a sophisticated mix of nature and fine art. Walk down the tiled lawn to say your vows looking over the pond. Then celebrate in one of their beautiful ballrooms. You can even finish your night by just walking up to your hotel room.
A festive streamer sendoff by Michelle Elyse Photography
Raleigh Wedding Venues For History Lovers:
Merrimon Wynne is one of Raleigh’s most popular venues. Here we have a gorgeous blend of history, airy indoor spaces, a gorgeous lawn, and spacious reception hall. Many weddings happen here, so if you are interested in having your wedding here, I recommend contacting them asap.
Heights House is in the fun Boylan district of Raleigh. The building features gorgeous historic features mixed with modern, artistic amenities. There is also a nice yard for a tented reception.
The outside of the Heights House Hotel by Michelle Elyse Photography
A Raleigh Wedding Venue For City Lovers:
A hidden urban heaven. Jiddi Space is an open courtyard in the heart of downtown raleigh. It features attractive brick backdrops, open air, string lights, and amazing food!
An urban candlelit reception by Michelle Elyse Photography
A Raleigh Wedding Venue for Outdoor Lovers:
The Meadows is one of my very frequented venues. It features sweeping, wide open meadows and an eclectic selection of venues to celebrate in. The Airy house is, as it’s called, a bright and airy place to get ready. The meadow makes an awesome spot for an outdoor wedding. Then their Heron Hall makes for a more modern/rustic reception space with indoor/outdoor capabilities.
The Meadows ceremony location at sunset by Michelle Elyse Photography
The Meadows Heron Hall Reception Space by Michelle Elyse Photography
Hope you found this post helpful! If you’re also looking for your wedding photographer, feel free to contact me HERE about my availability. I can’t wait to learn all about your vision for your day!!!
Michelle Elyse