Whether you’re pining for a glamorous wedding day, a low-key party or a total rager, every engaged couple hopes for a ceremony and reception that’s uniquely theirs, something to carry with them forever.
Finding the perfect venue can be one of the trickiest parts of wedding planning — the vibe (and the price point) have to be just right. It can be difficult to find something in that sweet spot that has more personality than a hotel ballroom, but a friendlier price tag than those posh downtown event spaces. Here are some of our favorite wedding venues in Philadelphia and Central Pennsylvania that have style for miles, but they’re still a bit under-the-radar (you can thank us with an invite to the party!):
Philadelphia Distilling
If you imagine your wedding spent among friends, family and fermentation tanks, Philadelphia Distilling is calling your name. It hosts wedding ceremonies in its dreamy 4th floor space, and receptions in its main bar space. The cost to use the spaces also includes use of the patio, a complete bar package — you know those cocktails will be on point — and all of the beautiful furniture Philly Distilling has on site. If you have a specific, must-have caterer in mind, you’re welcome to bring them in to complete your day. Hosting your wedding at the distillery means you don’t have to sweat the small stuff, as your package cost includes two coordinators: One to work with on details and wedding timeline a few months before your wedding, as well as a day-of coordinator. So, whether you’re planning a small wedding (30-50 people) or a larger wedding (120-150 guests), get down in the distillery for an unforgettable wedding day! 25 E. Allen St., Philadelphia; (215) 671-0346
Greensgrow Farms
Why limit yourself to a few floral bouquets when you could fully surround yourself with flowers and greenery at a unique oasis in the middle of Philadelphia? If you’re interested in a wedding at Greensgrow Farms, know that every celebration is a custom creation that reflects you and your other half’s unique vision. The urban farm in Kensington is available for rent from July through November, and because the farm changes throughout those months, you will be surrounded by a beautiful, natural backdrop of the season’s finest flowers and foliage. Greensgrow has a wide range of caterers to choose from, as well as a DIY option if you’re into that sort of thing (other wedding vendors are your choice and don’t require Greensgrow approval). What’s even better, you and your guests will be supporting the mission of Greensgrow, a socially-focused, community-oriented nonprofit that provides fresh food and plant access to neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia. 2501 E., Cumberland St., Philadelphia; (267) 579-2845
Lancaster Central Market
Central Market, the country’s oldest farmers market, is a pillar of Lancaster City, with more than 3,000 people visiting each week. The historic building is beautiful, both inside and out. If you’re craving a unique wedding in the city, the alley outside of market is the place to be. For just around $100 for the permit, you can reserve the entire space for your ceremony. Yes, we said $100! This is a perfect option for the DIY-minded couple. Bring in rented chairs and tables, couches, etc.; create your own backdrop in the doorway — we’re still not tired of letter balloons — and even set up a cocktail hour in the adjacent alleyway. Keep the ceremony simple, or deck out the space. A backup plan is recommended in case of bad weather, but we’ll be doing an anti-rain dance for you on your special day. 23 N. Market St., Lancaster; (717) 735-6890
SUPPLY
If you haven’t seen SUPPLY‘s space yet, be prepared to fall in love. It’s beautifully lit, incredibly modern with white walls and lines, and artfully decorated year round. The space is designed for unlimited potential. The studio is perfectly staged for your ceremony, with space for all of your friends and family to sit and enjoy the marriage unfolding in front of them. Your wedding dreams can really come to life in this space as you can bring in any backdrop or decorations you’d like. Keep it clean by adding some greenery, or go to town with glitz and glamour. It’s a blank canvas waiting to be made yours, and same thing goes for the reception space. Design your dinner and dancing space with room for 200 guests. Your wedding guests can even spill out onto the rooftop, which features hardwood floors and a very cozy, intimate feel. 280 S. Oak St., Manheim; [email protected]
Welkinweir
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Break free of the traditional wedding spaces and have the outdoor ceremony and reception of your dreams in the privacy of Welkinweir, a 55-acre arboretum and historic estate house. During your ceremony, you’ll be surrounded by natural beauty and spectacular views on the water of the Rodebaugh Dam. When the sun sets, you’ll have the elegant stone house as the backdrop of the evening. And your reception will continue outdoors in a tented area that can accommodate up to 150 guests. The photo opportunities are endless, as the barn ruins, walled garden, mature trees, vibrant blossoms and gorgeous gardens occupy the 162-acre property. 1368 Prizer Rd., Pottstown; (610) 469-7543
- Photos in Order:: Philadelphia Distilling, Alison Dunn Photography, Mike Miville, Marisa Albrecht
- Feature photo: Alison Dunn Photography
