Selecting your venue style is one of the most important decisions in the wedding planning process. Once you have chosen your venue, then you can decide on your color palette, food, etc. Before you start your search for the perfect place to say “I do,” make sure you have an idea of the style of venue you think is best for you.

1. The Glamorous Ballroom

The glitz and the glam of a classic ballroom wedding is still a popular trend. However, it is important to choose your space wisely. One of the selling points of a ballroom venue is its enormous square footage and in-house amenities. Most ballrooms come equipped with a large dance floor space, AV equipment, caterers, etc. This is an enticing venue choice for those with large families, who might not have time to coordinate multiple vendors necessary for another venue. The venue featured above and below is the Westin Paris – Vendôme with photos by The Mou Studio.

2. The Rustic Hideout

With large, cozy barns and outdoor spaces you can revel in, it’s easy to see why rustic wedding venues are a hot trend. Usually offering both an indoor and outdoor ceremony/reception space, these venues are pretty flexible and offer “Plan B” options in case inclement weather threatens your big day. The venue featured above and below is Dunton Hot Springs with photos by Chowen Photography.

3. The Casual Beach-side

Always a favorite for the adventurous couple, a beach wedding offers the intimacy of a small space and alongside the classic beauty of the ocean. For the couple looking for a relaxing wedding day, saying “I do” on a beach sets your event up for a carefree, easy vibe. The venue featured above and below is Pierre’s Restaurant with photography by Chris Glenn.

4. The Outdoor Garden

Having an outdoor wedding with a tent for your reception is perfect for the spring and summer months. With lush florals surrounding outdoor garden venues, there isn’t much to do in terms of decorating. For the couple that admires the earthly elegant look, an outdoor garden venue provides the prime atmosphere. The venue above is Shepstone Gardens with photos by Adam Alex and features an unorthodox “tent” with a glass ceiling and large columns. How gorgeous is this set up?!

The venue below is Venue: Castle House & Garden with photos by Sun + Life Photography

Of course, there is a 5th option for those looking to do something truly unique and memorable…

5. The Elopement

The location above is Playa de las Catedrales in Spain with photo is by Ed Peers.

With so many beautiful destinations in the world, finding the perfect spot on the map for your wedding shouldn’t be too difficult, although, if you need more inspiration, check out How to Choose Your Reception Site.