When you become engaged, you enter into a whirlwind of decisions. With untraditional couples opting for donuts instead of cake, motorcycles instead of getaway cars, and sparklers instead of rice, the one thing that remains necessary for all couples is choosing a venue. Whether you dream of eloping on a mountaintop above the city lights of Portland, or in the company of fine works of art at a local museum, your wedding venue will set the stage for your day.
As a Portland wedding photographer, I have visited many of this city’s most memorable traditional and nontraditional wedding venues. Drawing from my own experience, I’m eager to help you find your perfect Portland wedding venue.
(This article was updated in October 2023)
WHAT DOES YOUR DREAM WEDDING LOOK LIKE?
The search for the perfect venue begins by answering a few important questions.
SMALL vs. LARGE
Do you want to include just your close friends and family in an intimate celebration or include your extended community in a big wedding?
Based on your budgetary constraints and your idea of the perfect wedding day, determine the size of your wedding before you shop for a venue. This will save you the headache of touring (and falling in love with) venues that are simply unrealistic. Start by estimating the size of your guest list, then research venues that can comfortably accommodate you.
I am a big believer that there is as much magic in an intimate Pacific Northwest wedding as there is in a huge wedding. The only thing that matters is that you base your decision on what will make you and your fiancé most happy on your wedding day.
INDOOR vs. OUTDOOR
The viability of an outdoor wedding is entirely dependent on your wedding location, wedding date, and your willingness to accept risk. It’s no secret that Portland boasts a long and dramatic rainy season; if you plan your outdoor Portland wedding anytime between October and May, expect rain.
That said, if you dream of an outdoor wedding in the smack dab middle of fall, I fully support you. If this is your dream I encourage you to do your research, consider the comfort of your guests, and plan for the weather.
INDUSTRIAL vs. NATURAL
Do you feel most comfortable in a field of wildflowers or in the shelter of an architectural masterpiece?
While there are dozens of wedding venue types, most venues largely fit into one of these two categories: Industrial or Natural.
Industrial: Industrial venues are the perfect setting for couples with an affinity for minimalistic décor and gorgeous architecture.
Industrial venues are man-made, brick and mortar locations. They often feature weathered wood, exposed brick, ironwork, and minimalistic décor. From warehouses, to historic buildings, to art lofts, there are plenty of picturesque venue options available to you if you choose to host your wedding at an industrial venue in Portland.
Natural: These gorgeous venues are the preferred choice for dreamy couples that want a nature-inspired wedding
Natural venues are garden-esque settings such as parks, meadows, and farms. These venues often feature organic, earthy elements such as pretty blooms, weathered wooden structures, and natural landscape features. In the gorgeous Pacific Northwest, there are plenty of locations available if you choose to host your wedding at a natural venue in Portland.
FORMAL vs. CASUAL
What mood do you want to set for your guests? What are your non-negotiables?
If you want a setting that inspires your guests to kick up their heels in wild abandon or gracefully mingle in formal wear worthy of a James Bond cocktail hour, search for the venue that will naturally set the mood. Consider the vibe of each venue and your ‘non-negotiables’ (i.e. a big dance floor or an in-house gourmet caterer) as you search for the perfect venue.
A FEW OF MY FAVE VENUES
As a Pacific Northwest wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of attending weddings at some of the most incredible venues in Portland. Here are a few of my favorites
Portland’s Best Outdoor Wedding Venues
Portland’s Best Indoor Wedding Venues
Columbia River Gorge Wedding Venues
Whether your dream wedding venue is big or small, natural or industrial, formal or casual, indoor or outdoor, or anything in between, I hope this guide helps you find a Portland wedding venue that truly makes your heart sing.
Can’t find what you’re looking for on this list? Describe your dream wedding venue in the comment section below and I’d be happy to send you a custom recommendation!
