Maryland is a great state to find a unique venue. I am going to show you six, but there are so many more! So, lets get going. We have a lot of road to travel today.
Corradetti Glassblowing Studio is a place I know. Its nestled in the center of a restored industrial corner of Baltimore. And, its a perfect spot for you artsy couples. Originally built, in 1789, as a cotton mill to weave cotton duck into sails for clipper ships, it is now a glassblowing studio that creates beautiful art pieces. You will be surrounded by the beautiful art pieces that are made here, while enjoying the warm and cozy setting of the studio- kilns and all. There is a stage for the ceremony or the sweetheart table. There is a built in bar and you won't need much in the way of decor- its all around you. After the reception, you can all spill out into the courtyard or next door to the Woodbury Kitchen to keep the party going. The food and the atmosphere are amazing. My couple got fabulous pictures in the courtyard. A definite "must see" for a Baltimore wedding.
Staying in Baltimore and with the industrial chic, The Mt Washington Mill Dye House is another beautiful venue. Authentic wood beams, exposed brick, multi-pane windows and distressed concrete floors make this a dream location for the modern couple. There are indoor and outdoor spaces for up to 200 guests. And, your wedding photos will be amazing.
Moving to a much grander environment, the George Peabody Library, on the grounds of Johns Hopkins University, couldn't be much grander. Opening its doors in 1878, it is called the Cathedral of Books. Your wedding will take place surrounded by the six tiers of cast iron columns and ornate railings, decorated in gold leaf and the vast collections and exhibits, giving your guests an opportunity to meander during the evening. The library comfortably holds up to 200 guests. This is a great venue for history buffs or alumni of the university. It is a WOW!
Ever dream of being in a real life fairy tale? Well, here is your chance. the Castle at Maryvale is just that, a castle! Fashioned after Warwick Castle in England, this medieval recreation was completed in 1912 as a private estate. It is now the home of a private, parochial prep school. But, it could be your Cinderella castle for the day. You will make a grand entrance from the winding stair and spend the evening in all the splendor of a medieval castle. Antiques abound and arched windows, huge fireplaces and perfectly manicured gardens are everywhere. There is a solarium, a wedding chapel, plenty of terraces to capture your photos on and much more. If you have always dreamed of being a princess on your wedding day, The Castle at Maryvale is the venue of your dreams.
The Engineer's Club, actually the largest townhouse in Baltimore, this turn of the century mansion is the pride of the Golden Age. Elegance and opulence abound here. Gilded mirrors, huge fireplaces, ornate ceilings and all the trappings of the wealthiest of society at the time, will surround you and your guests. Take your wedding back to a time of lush parties and grand living.
Lets go to the beach. Chesapeake Bay Beach Club is our final stop in Maryland before we travel north to Delaware. Weddings here are a vacation for you and your guests. The inn has beautifully appointed rooms and plenty of dining choices. And, from your waterfront ceremony to your reception in one of the four ballrooms, there is something for everyone. The Eastern Shore is a relaxing and beautiful destination. And, who doesn't like a wedding at the shore. North to Delaware and the Brandywine Valley. this takes us mostly from Wilmington to the border with Pennsylvania.
The Hotel DuPont, a stately and elegant landmark in the center of Wilmington is a step back into the Gilded Age. From the jaw-dropping lobby with its ornate brass railing on the stairs, marble floors and ornate ceiling to the two gorgeous ballrooms, your wedding will be the talk of the town. This venue I have worked
and I can tell you, you will be treated like royalty. The staff is professional and the service and food are impeccable.
The dramatic Gold Ballroom with its glittering chandeliers and gilded rosettes is a splendid room for your large wedding of up to 500. The du Barry Ballroom is a Federal style room with white pillars, parquet floors and a magnificent chandelier in the center of the room.
Since 1913, the Hotel Dupont has been lavishing attention to detail on its guests. And, you will not be any different. You will absolutely be thrilled with the choice to host your wedding in this landmark setting.
As this area of Delaware is home to the DuPont family for generations, what better than to make our next stop the Winterthur Estate. Set amid the forests and rolling hills of Wilmington, this 1837 Greek Revival home is now home to a wonderful museum and wedding venue. If your vision is one of the Gatsby Era or Art Deco, this is the place for you. Its one of my favorite venues, visually. But, one word of advice- hire a planner. You will need someone to navigate the property and your guests. This elegant old home is sure to please the history buff.
I have to add this charming little Inn, as it is the perfect spot to stay if you are getting married in the Brandywine Valley. My last Winterthur bride used the Inn at Montchanin as her base and everyone had a wonderful time. If you are planning a small wedding of 60 guests or less, you can also be married in this quaint and charming hideaway. The rooms are all unique and beautifully furnished. There is dining on site- its delicious. The photo ops are unlimited- even in the snow. There is a spa on site. There is a common area that can be used for greeting your out of town guests- just like you were gathering in your living room. This is a historic property, dating back to 1799 and the DuPonts ( this was once part of Winterthur). It is a charming little village.
Over the border into Pa are two venues that need mention. The first is The Gables at Chadds Ford. This charming spot in the heart of the Brandywine Valley boasts incredible cuisine, beautiful gardens and the 1897 bank barn for your special day. There is a beautiful terrace for your ceremony and cocktail hour and you will love the open and bright barn for dinner and dancing.
Terrain is a magical place. Located in Glen Mills, this horticultural landmark, with farm to table menus and in house floral design makes a beautiful and intimate place for you to say your I Do's. There is a Garden Shed, a Mushroom House- used for the bride and her maids to dress and a restored barn. There is also a wedding temple for your ceremony. This may also be a great place to host your rehearsal dinner, if your wedding is in a nearby venue.
Two states and 11 venues- only a scratch of the surface. There are others. These are just some of my favorites. Hope you can make one of them your favorite too.
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