Estate wedding venues are next-level gorgeous! They’ve got history, elegance, and that effortlessly romantic vibe that makes you feel like you just stepped into a movie. When Michelle & Zach chose Wrigley Mansion for their wedding, I knew it was going to be something SO special. From the historic architecture to the vibrant florals, every little detail of their day was beyond stunning.

If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels intimate, elegant, and completely unique, an estate wedding might be for you! Let’s dive into why these venues are the ultimate dream and how Michelle & Zach made Wrigley Mansion their own.

Why Choose an Estate Wedding?

Estate weddings aren’t just stunning, they bring a level of charm, elegance, and exclusivity that you just can’t get from a standard venue. There’s something about them that takes your wedding day from "nice" to "out-of-this-world unforgettable." If you’ve ever daydreamed about saying "I do" in a place that feels like something straight out of a movie (minus the drama, of course), then an estate venue is exactly what you need. Let me tell you why they’re such a hit for couples looking for that perfect blend of charm, elegance, and exclusivity.

Timeless Elegance

Let’s be real, estates have a vibe that no other venue can compete with. We’re talking about stunning architecture, grand staircases, and lush gardens that look like they belong in a fairytale. You don’t have to go overboard with decor because the venue itself already has all the elegance and charm you could ever want. Seriously, with an estate, it’s like the venue is already doing half the work for you! You can let the natural beauty of the place speak for itself, and trust me, it’s going to make every single shot look like it’s straight out of a bridal magazine.

Ultimate Exclusivity

One of my absolute favorite things about estate weddings is how private and intimate they are. You won’t be sharing your special day with a dozen other couples like you would at a standard venue. It’s your space, your people, and your celebration, without any distractions.

Endless Photo Ops

Can we talk about photo opportunities? Because estates are made for jaw-dropping wedding photos. Everywhere you look, there’s a new backdrop waiting to be captured. Whether it’s grand staircases, sweeping balconies, or those sun-drenched gardens, there’s no shortage of places to snap stunning portraits that will have you and your guests saying, “Wow, is this a magazine shoot?!” If you love the idea of editorial-style portraits that have that timeless, luxurious feel, an estate venue is going to be your absolute dream come true. As a photographer, I’m literally spoiled for choice with all the beautiful settings at my fingertips. It’s a photographer’s paradise, and trust me, you’ll be living for the photos you get to look back on for the rest of your life.

Make It Uniquely Yours

Estate weddings ooze personality because they already have so much character. Whether it’s customizing your floral design, bringing in meaningful decor, or incorporating unique details like Michelle’s handmade ceramic butterflies (which she hand-crafted for each place setting!!), these venues provide the perfect setting to make your wedding deeply personal and so YOU.

If you’re thinking about an estate wedding, trust me, it’s one of the best ways to create a celebration that’s elegant, one-of-a-kind, and totally unforgettable.

Michelle & Zach’s Vibrant Wrigley Mansion Wedding

Let’s talk about this iconic wedding! First off, Wrigley Mansion is an absolute DREAM, perched on a hill with insane views, jaw-dropping architecture, and the perfect mix of history and romance. But what really made Michelle & Zach’s wedding stand out? Their bold use of color and the thoughtful, personal touches woven throughout the day! Michelle went ALL IN on color, and I was completely obsessed with her bouquet and the floral installation at the ceremony it was one of the most unique setups I’ve ever seen, vibrant and totally unexpected in the best way. And then, there were Michelle’s personal touches, this girl is a ceramic artist and HANDMADE the ceramic butterflies for every table setting (yes, you read that right!). She even gifted me one, and I nearly cried! The creativity and intention behind it were unreal. And of course, Wrigley Mansion itself brought all the timeless elegance with its grand staircases, intimate candlelit dinner setup, and sweeping views. Everything about this wedding was classy, stylish, and uniquely THEM, scroll through the photos, and you’ll see exactly what I mean!

Planning Tips for Estate Weddings

Estate weddings are amazing but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure your day goes off without a hitch. If you’re dreaming of saying "I do" in a grand historic mansion, or a romantic garden estate, here’s what you need to know!

Consider the Logistics

Estate wedding venues are often historic properties, which means they may have specific rules around guest count, vendor policies, noise restrictions, or even parking limitations. Some may require you to use in-house catering, while others might have early curfews for amplified music. It’s always best to ask these questions early so there are no surprises down the line!

Maximize the Built-In Beauty

One of the best things about estate venues? They already have insane character and charm so you don’t need to overdo it with decor! Instead of filling the space with extra details, lean into the venue’s natural aesthetic. Choose florals and table settings that enhance the existing beauty rather than compete with it. Michelle & Zach’s wedding at Wrigley Mansion was the perfect example; her colorful floral installation complemented the venue’s elegance rather than overpowering it.

Work with a Planner

Estate wedding venues aren’t your typical ballroom or hotel wedding space, which means planning can come with a few extra layers of complexity. Having a wedding planner to navigate logistics, coordinate vendors, and create a seamless timeline will make ALL the difference. Michelle & Zach had an amazing planner who made the day flow effortlessly, and trust me, it was a game-changer!

Find the Best Photo Locations

Estate weddings have endless stunning backdrops, from grand staircases and manicured gardens to intricate archways and sun-drenched balconies. As your destination wedding photographer, I always scout out the best spots ahead of time so we can capture that timeless, editorial feel in your portraits. If you love the romantic, European-inspired vibe of estate weddings, trust me, you’re going to want a destination wedding photographer who knows how to make the most of every single detail.

Estate weddings are iconic, elegant, and SO much fun, and I’m all about capturing them in a way that feels intentional, stylish, and effortlessly beautiful. If you’re planning an estate wedding, let’s chat! I’d love to help bring your vision to life while making sure every stunning moment is captured.

Top Estate Wedding Venues You’ll Love

If you’re feeling inspired by Michelle & Zach’s wedding at Wrigley Mansion, here are some other amazing estate venues to consider

Oheka Castle (New York)

If you’ve ever dreamed of a real-life fairytale wedding, this grand French-style château on Long Island is the one. With its sprawling gardens, ornate ballrooms, and castle-like exterior, Oheka Castle is the perfect estate wedding venue!

San Ysidro Ranch (California)

A romantic, garden-filled estate in Santa Barbara that feels like a hidden paradise. With cozy cottages, intimate courtyards, and dreamy floral gardens, this venue is all about warmth and charm, making it a favorite for celebrity weddings and elopements.

The Biltmore Estate (North Carolina)

One of the most iconic and luxurious estate wedding venues in the U.S., this grand property features European-inspired architecture, breathtaking mountain views, and endless scenic backdrops for wedding portraits. If you want a venue that feels like a royal destination without leaving the country, this is it!

Kestrel Park (California)

Think European countryside meets California charm. With its rolling hills, perfectly manicured gardens, and stone-clad estate, Kestrel Park feels like something straight out of a romantic period film. It’s an ideal venue for couples looking for an intimate, timeless setting!

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (Florida)

A stunning waterfront estate in Miami, featuring Italian Renaissance-inspired gardens, intricate architecture, and historic charm. This venue is perfect for couples who want elegance with a tropical touch!

The Scott Estate (Arizona)

A private, Spanish-style estate in the heart of the Arizona desert. This venue is all about chic, modern desert vibes mixed with the intimacy of a private estate wedding!

Cairnwood Estate (Pennsylvania)

A hidden gem on the East Coast, this Gilded Age mansion offers a grand yet intimate setting with stunning gardens, rich history, and elegant interiors. Perfect for vintage and classic wedding aesthetics!

Whether you’re looking for coastal elegance, desert luxury, or a classic European-inspired estate, these venues offer breathtaking settings, timeless beauty, and unforgettable wedding day experiences. If you’re dreaming of an estate wedding, I’d love to be there to capture all the magic! Let’s make it happen!

How to Choose the Right Estate Wedding Venue

Not all estate wedding venues are the same! Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic garden estate or an architectural showstopper, here are some things to consider when selecting the perfect one:

Historical vs. Modern Estates

Historic Estates (like Wrigley Mansion) bring that old-world charm and timeless elegance. They often feature intricate architecture, antique details, and classic decor that don’t require much additional styling.
Modern Estates tend to have sleek designs, large windows, and minimalistic, open-concept spaces. Perfect for a contemporary aesthetic.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Spaces

Estate wedding venues often offer a mix of stunning indoor ballrooms and lush outdoor gardens. If you’re dreaming of an outdoor ceremony with a view, check if the venue has a backup space in case of bad weather.

Iconic Photo Opportunities

As a destination wedding photographer, one of my top priorities when scouting a venue is making sure there are epic photo locations! Look for:

Grand staircases for dramatic portraits
Lush gardens or tree-lined paths for dreamy outdoor shots
Historic facades or unique architecture for elegant, timeless backdrops

Wrigley Mansion is a perfect example, it has multiple levels, sweeping views, and the most elegant architectural details, making it a dream venue for couples who love history and romance.

Considering booking an Estate Wedding Venue? Book me as your destination wedding photographer!

Michelle & Zach’s wedding at Wrigley Mansion was proof that estate weddings are in a league of their own. Between the stunning location, bold florals, and sentimental details, this day was something truly special.

If you’re dreaming of an elegant, intimate wedding at an estate venue, let’s make it happen! I’d love to capture all the editorial, joyful, and completely YOU moments of your day. I’d love to be a part of your special day as your destination wedding photographer! See more of my work on Pinterest and reach out to me here!

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