The Top Wedding Venues, According to the Pros

Marta Block

Contributor

Traditionally in wedding planning, finding a venue is one of the very first things you do. After all, you can't pick a date, or hire any other vendors until you know where you're going to have the wedding. But wouldn't it be nice if you could pick that place with a little input from people in the know, the people who will be working at the venue? We asked a few of our favorite wedding professionals for their picks of the best wedding venues in their area, and here's what they said.

Jim of Out of Touch, the Best of Rock-N-Soul (Ridgefield, CT):

Gotta give it to Heritage Trail Vineyard in Jewett City, CT, out by the casinos. They do everything right. Chef Harry is unmatched, and the beauty of the vineyard is exquisite. Helpful staff, incredibly accommodating, and they really enjoy the entire wedding day. Plus, they love Out Of Touch!

Hannah of El Real Chamber Players (Placentia, CA):

For us it would be the Newport Beach Plaza Hotel at 19th street and Newport Blvd in Costa Mesa, Ca. Very vendor friendly, with ample room for all, great loading in accommodations and good ambience.

Tara Buzash, jazz and classical pianist (Hopewell, NJ):

I like the Westmount in Woodland Park, NJ for its cool and different decor, almost futuristic. And I love the piano at the James Ward Mansion in Westfield, NJ. Truly a superior instrument. And, Green-Wood Chapel in Brooklyn took my breath away. It is inside a cemetery, but the chapel itself stands head and shoulders above any other chapel in terms of structure, beauty, history, and sense of awe.

Annalisa Ewald, classical guitarist (Westport, CT):

Woodwinds in Branford was outstanding. The Copper Beech Inn in Ivoryton, and Saltwater Farm. All are lovely settings with superior staffs that make sure it all happens.

Anthony Robinson, Midwest DJ Entertainment of Indy (Indianapolis, IN):

My all time favorite is the Omni Severin in downtown Indianapolis. Absolutely the best venue with the most helpful staff, beautiful facilities, simply the best!

DJ Rick Gold of Black Tie Entertainment (Hickory, NC):

Lake Lure in Lure, North Carolina

What do you think? Did we miss any great venues?