Choosing Your Dream Nashville Wedding Venue: A Photographer's Guide for Nashville Couples (2026/2027)
The Cordelle in Nashville, Tennessee
Congratulations, you're engaged! As you dive into the exciting world of wedding planning, one of the first and most crucial decisions you'll make is choosing your venue. For couples tying the knot in Middle Tennessee in 2026 or 2027, the options are as abundant and stunning as the city itself. As a photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right (or wrong!) venue can impact your wedding day memories, especially in your album.
What to look for (and what to avoid) when choosing your dream wedding venue.
Look for spaciousness: You, your bridal party, hair and makeup artists, and photographers need room to move comfortably. A cramped space can feel chaotic and lead to less-than-ideal getting-ready shots.
Seek out natural light: Again, natural light is key! Large windows in both the bridal suite and groom's room will provide beautiful, soft illumination for detail shots of dresses, accessories, and those candid moments with your loved ones.
Consider the style: While not a deal-breaker, a beautifully decorated, clean, and uncluttered space provides a much more appealing backdrop for your photos than a drab, utilitarian room. Some Nashville venues go above and beyond with luxurious suites!
Pay special attention to the bridal (and groom’s) suites
These spaces are more than just changing rooms; they're where your day truly begins, where laughter and anticipation fill the air, and where some of your most intimate and cherished photos will be captured.Proximity matters: How close are the getting-ready rooms to the ceremony site? This impacts your timeline and allows for quick transitions and last-minute touch-ups without a long trek.
Capacity and Parking: In popular Nashville areas, parking can sometimes be a challenge for guests. Inquire about on-site parking or preferred valet options.
Noise Pollution: For some downtown or urban venues, especially outdoor spaces, reviews occasionally mention potential noise from the city. Always visit at a time similar to your proposed ceremony to gauge this.
Restrictive Vendor Lists: While some venues have open vendor policies, others require you to choose from a curated list. This isn't inherently bad, but ensure their preferred vendors align with your style and budget.
Proximity to your hotel: Choosing a hotel close to your wedding venue reduces travel stress, keeps your timeline running smoothly and allows you (and your guests)to be fully present on your wedding day.
Extra tips to ensure you find the venue that’s best for you
1. Visit at different times of day: If possible, see the venue in both bright daylight and the evening. This will give you a true sense of the light and atmosphere.
2. Ask about backup plans: What happens if it rains? Is there an equally beautiful indoor option for your ceremony and photos?
3. Envision your photos: As you walk through each space, try to picture your ceremony, your first dance, your bridal party photos. Where would your photographer stand? What would the light look like?
4. Trust your gut (and your photographer!): If a venue feels right, it probably is. But don't hesitate to ask your potential photographer for their input once you've narrowed down your choices. We can often offer valuable insights you might not have considered.
Our Favorite Nashville Area Wedding Venues
The Cordelle
venue vibe: chic, modern, downtown
Fall Styled Shoot with SSAA
The Emerald Union
venue vibe: rustic, exposed-brick
Zoie + Will’s Rustic November Wedding
Drakewood Farm
venue vibe: whimsical, farmhouse, vintage
Daniela + Boone’s Intimate Micro Wedding
The Tanglewood House
venue vibe: natural, esteemed, eclectic
Erin + Dawson’s Classic Outdoor Wedding
Gaylord-Opryland Convention Center
venue vibe: modern, natural, historically signifant
Kat + Sam’s Epic Wedding
Touched by Time
venue vibe: whimsical, rustic, vintage,
Alexis + Courtney’s Stunning Vintage Wedding
Choosing your wedding venue is a monumental step, but by keeping these key considerations in mind, you'll be well on your way to selecting a space that not only looks beautiful but also allows your photographer to capture the most stunning, memorable images of your Middle Tennessee wedding day. Happy hunting!