5 Reasons DC Couples Are Choosing Baltimore For Their Wedding Weekend
More and more Washington, DC couples are getting married in Baltimore for these 5 main reasons (or at least this is what a lot of recent couples have told me!)…
Baltimore is a vibrant (and underrated!) city, full of rich history, character, and quirky charm. It is quickly becoming a top destination for couples looking for an East Coast city since it offers an amazing guest experience, ease of travel (here is a list of my 5 favorite hotels for you and your guests to stay in once you’ve arrived at BWI) and some of the tastiest, unique restaurant / bar options.
Here are the main reasons Baltimore might just be the perfect location for your wedding weekend, especially if you live in DC:
1. Get More Bang for Your Buck
Weddings in DC can come with a hefty price tag. In comparison, Baltimore offers a wider range of venues and vendors at a more affordable price point. Couples can stretch their budget further in Baltimore, without sacrificing elegance and sophistication on their big day. From industrial warehouses to waterfront venues, your dollar goes a lot further in Baltimore.
2. Unique Industrial and Historic Venues
Baltimore’s wedding venues stand out from the typical hotel ballrooms often found in DC. So many couples have told me the style of venue they’re looking for is more easily found in Baltimore; most Urban Row couples love the texture of exposed brick walls and natural light flooding in from skylights above. Whether you’re envisioning an industrial-chic vibe in a renovated mill building or a sophisticated setting at a historic estate, Baltimore has so many venues that will allow your wedding to stand out from all the other weddings your guests have been to.
3. More Options for Larger Weddings
If you’re planning a large celebration, you’ll find venues that can accommodate larger guest lists without compromising style. There are also venues that have multiple rooms that come with your rental, to allow your guests to spread out during the reception and stay in quieter areas if they’re elderly or in need of a break from the dance floor.
Some of my favorites are:
- Accelerator Space
- Mt. Washington Dye House
- The Butterfly Room
- Belvedere and Co.
- The Winslow
- Frederick Douglass Maritime Park
4. Easy Travel for Guests
One of Baltimore’s biggest advantages is its central location on the East Coast, making it a convenient choice for many of your guests. Right between DC and Philly, it’s perfect for family and friends driving in from Maryland, Pennsylvania, Delaware and the tri-state area. The proximity of BWI airport to downtown Baltimore makes flying super easy, avoiding more complicated travel routes and road closures that DC weddings often have to contend with. This alone reduces guest stress and ensures your loved ones arrive on time and ready to party!
5. Effortless Wedding Weekend Festivities
Most venues in Baltimore are close to so many beautiful green spaces, waterfront views, cobblestoned main streets, fun murals and photogenic backdrops for portraits (for yours and your guests!). But if I’m being honest, Baltimore’s options for rehearsal dinners, welcome parties, brunch after the big party and places your guests should check out while they are here, are so numerous you’re going to have to make a Top 10 list! And when it’s time for the after-party, there are dive bars, chic Harbor East spots and everything in-between, a few steps away from most venues and hotels.
Some of my favorites:
- Johnny’s in Roland Park
- Gunther & Co. in Brewer’s Hill
- Clavel (and WC Harlan, their speakeasy bar with really yummy drinks is basically next door)
- Barcocina in Fells Point
- Woodberry Kitchen in Clipper Mill
- Mt. Washington Tavern
Choosing Baltimore as the city for your wedding opens up possibilities that Washington, DC can’t always offer. From more affordable venues to easier travel for guests, a variety of unique settings, and fun spots for a variety of activities, Baltimore provides everything you need for an unforgettable wedding weekend celebration.
If you’re considering hosting your wedding at a Baltimore venue, I’ve photographed at most of them more than once and would love to hear from you — reach out here!
