DC has a decadent history and so, too, do the countless Washington DC wedding venues. From ballrooms to concert halls and historic mansions, most settings are steeped in history. My suggestion? Pay attention to the stories, architecture, and color tones — does your vision line up or become more real when imagining it in one of these DC wedding locations?
Willard InterContinental Hotel
An ornate and elegant property that feels like it could be in any destination city, this DC wedding venue was named one of Washington, DC’s “Very Best Wedding Vendors” by Washingtonian Bride & Groom. Conveniently located in the heart of the capital (with the White House as a neighbor), enjoy on-site accommodations, renowned culinary options, and plenty of room for dinner and dancing in the ballrooms that host up to 280 guests. If you request a tour, take some time to observe the hand-painted landscape in the Grand Ballroom at the Willard InterContinental.
DAR Constitution Hall
Filled with as much history as one might expect from a 1929 concert hall (built by the Daughters of the American Revolution), DAR is a landmark for social gatherings. Ideal hotels are just down the street, making this your destination for the ceremony, reception, and dancing. Imagine an alfresco cocktail hour on the stately portico or invite guests to visit in the library. The Rotunda is the perfect place for an outdoor ceremony with protection from the rain. You can even make a toast over the balcony, as recommended by Bellwether Events.
Meridian House
A historic mansion built in 1920, Meridian House boasts manicured gardens and the iconic architectural handiwork of John Russell Pope, the designer of the Jefferson Memorial, National Gallery of Art, and the National Archives building. Naturally, this DC wedding venue is on the National Register of Historic Places. While the French urban architecture is memorable, the formal garden and grove of European linden trees are mesmerizing. There’s also a marble fountain from Italy. Here, you’ll feel as if elegance, history, and intimacy are right at your fingertips.
Anderson House
Also called the Larz Anderson House after the American diplomat, previous guest lists at this DC wedding location include none other than Winston Churchill. For your event, though, wedding guests will be welcomed by two floors of artwork with a garden that serves as a lush oasis — walled and full of greenery with a reflection pool in the middle of the city. Their marble staircase makes for a striking entrance as well.
The Hay-Adams
Described as a “sanctuary steeped in history,” the Hay-Adams has an incomparable view of the White House and the rest of the city. Choose from multiple ceremony and reception locations on site, starting with the tip-top choice, their highest floor. There, you and up to 200 guests can enjoy the wrap-around balcony, trellis lights, and delicious cuisine from the on-site catering staff. The Concorde Room is another worthy mention, accommodating intimate dinner parties and weddings of up to 50 guests. Their namesake, though, the Hay-Adams Room features decadent wood paneling, evoking a warm feel and with ample space for up to 175 guests. Learn more about their spaces.
St Regis
Another iconic hotel wedding venue, DC’s St. Regis is filled with ornate luxury, from the two-tiered crystal chandeliers to the butler service and Mediterranean cuisine. They boast 8 event rooms for up to 250 guests in the largest space. When it comes to a wedding weekend, imagine staying and welcoming guests here — an extension of your home with concierge service. Cocktail hour on the terrace, dancing in the ballroom… it’s everything and it’s easily tailored to your vision.
Cosmos Club
Founded and currently active as a private social club, wedding couples need to be members or sponsored by a member to host an event at the Cosmos Club. The options here are unique with settings fit for everything from a string quartet to a live piano player thanks to their connections with some of DC’s best musicians. As a historic landmark dating back to 1878, the prestige of a wedding at this DC venue is without parallel.
Perry Belmont House
Designed to host dignitaries from around the world and with the signature style of an architect who knew how to play with light, space, and statement-setting staircases, the Perry Belmont Hotel is a masterpiece with a Gilded Age style. Much of the decor you’ll see throughout the mansion was brought in from around the world with Italian marble, German wood, and metal fixtures from France. The whole setting is a work of art, and one you can make your own for a beautiful wedding.
National Museum of Women in the Arts
It’s important to know that this DC wedding venue is the first museum to focus solely on women in the arts. The interior matches this head-turning commitment with stunning, defining features. The most noticeable is a double staircase that leads to a wrap-around interior balcony where guests can mingle (or your photographer can grab an immersive overhead photo). The space is grand with room for up to 450 guests to enjoy a seated dinner. Here at the NMWA, your celebration has the chance to be unforgettable while contributing to an inspiring cause.
The Mayflower Hotel
The Mayflower Hotel opened its doors in 1925 and has since been host to decades of weddings and inaugural balls. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, you, too, can be part of the rich history. This DC venue makes it easier than most to look through the options with an interactive map of floorplans and public menu of packages and cuisine options.
DC Wedding Venue Insights
Browse my DC wedding photography Instagram for inspiration and get in touch with me here to chat about what might be best for your wedding.
