Big or small; grand or intimate; wedding venues come in all shapes and sizes. But if you think you've seen them all, think again.
From fairytale chapels in the woods to majestic palaces fit for royalty, feast your eyes on some of the world’s most jaw-dropping, awe-inspiring wedding venues to get hitched.
Wayfarers Chapel
Nestled amongst the towering redwood trees of Rancho Palos Verdes, Wayfarers Chapel is where nature and architecture come together in one awe-inspiring space. Lloyd Wright (son of the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright) was the genius behind this stunning masterpiece: a veritable forest sanctuary, which features towering floor-to-ceiling glass windows to allow the surrounding natural landscape and a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean to shine through. Not surprisingly, it has been the site of several star-studded weddings – most notably, the nuptials of actress Jayne Mansfield and Mickey Hargitay in 1958.
New York Public Library
Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw may have been left at the altar at this landmark, but the New York Public Library is easily one of the most sought-after wedding venues in NYC. And it’s easy to see why: cavernous marble interiors, dramatic ceilings, and oodles of history all make it one helluva place to say ‘I do’ – whether or not you’re a bookworm. Celebrations are usually held the breath-taking grandeur of Astor Hall or Celeste Bartos Forum (which features a 30 foot-high glass dome ceiling) but take note: the Library only allows civil wedding ceremonies and it’ll set you back a hefty US$50,000.
Tirtha Chapel Uluwatu
What better place to say ‘I do’ than on the Island of the Gods? Bali is home to some of the most stunning wedding venues on Earth. Case in point: the ever-popular Tirtha Chapel Uluwatu. Perched atop the southernmost cliff tops of Bali, the minimalist-style pavilion boasts sweeping views of the Indian Ocean that can only be described in one word – magical. Apart from the scenic surroundings, couples can also enlist the help of wedding specialists Tirtha Bridal to ensure that their special day goes off without a hitch.
Thorncrown Chapel
Brides to be: prepare to be dazzled by the majestic splendour that is Thorncrown Chapel. Tucked away in the fairy tale–like woodland settings of Eureka Springs, Arkansas, this magnificent space was designed by world renowned architect E. Fay Jones and is truly a sight to behold: it rises 48 feet into the sky and features over 6,000 square feet of glass, 425 windows, and intricate diamond-shaped trusses to stunning effect. It’s no wonder then why Thorncrown is dubbed one of the “50 Most Extraordinary Churches Of The World”.
620 Loft & Garden
There’s an undeniable glamour and romance to New York – especially when you’re 67 floors above the bustling city. If you want to feel on top of the world on your wedding day, 620 Loft & Garden at Rockefeller Centre is the place to be. The beautifully manicured outdoor lawn boasts one of the best views of Manhattan, overlooking Fifth Avenue and the imposing St. Patrick’s Cathedral – what more could you ask for? Post-ceremony, you can carry on the festivities indoors in the light-flooded Soho-style loft, which can accommodate up to 120 guests for a seated meal.
Kensington Palace
Yes, believe or not, it is possible to get married in the royal residence of Prince William and Kate Middleton. While we can’t guarantee their attendance, this stately venue in the heart of London is sure to wow every one of your wedding guests. Couples can say ‘I do’ in The Orangery: built in 1704, it was originally intended to store Queen Anne’s orange trees during winter. These days, the palatial space plays host to lavish celebrations and can hold up to 300 guests. Prices start from £12,500, not including catering.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Venture West to Jophur, Rajasthan, where one of India’s most opulent desert palaces awaits. Trust us when we say that Umaid Bhawan Palace is a wedding venue like no other: sprawled out across 26 acres of manicured gardens, the majestic sandstone monument boasts lavish interiors, Beaux Arts-style Indo-Deco architecture, and a truly regal backdrop for your celebrations. From elaborate 4,500 square foot banquet halls to grand pavilions, and outdoor lawns, the palace’s plethora of wedding venues (plus a traditional elephant welcome) will make you feel like a Maharaja and Maharani for a day – if you can afford the $380,000 price tag, that is.