I’ve been a wedding photographer for 12 years, and can honestly say that Nashville has some of the most beautiful wedding venues in the country. From historic mansions graced by presidents to elegant farms with picturesque gardens to five-star hotels, there’s a venue to fit everyone’s dream day.
As a professional wedding photographer (and attendee), I’ve decided to share my experience to help narrow your search. I’ve put together a list of the top 20 wedding venues in Nashville and Middle Tennessee. Each has its charm, and hopefully, this will help you find your dream wedding location.
If you need a Nashville wedding photographer with experience at these venues, connect with me for more details about these venues and our services.
In the meantime, keep reading to discover which Nashville venue is your perfect match.
Historic Nashville Wedding Venues
Nashville has a long and rich history. Find your perfect historic mansion or gardens to host a romantic wedding.
Riverwood Mansion
Riverwood Mansion is one of Nashville’s oldest, and most elegant, estates. The historic mansion was built in the late 1790s and has a long history of hosting weddings, lavish parties, and U.S. presidents. Its grounds include lush gardens, towering magnolias, and elegant rooms that whisper tales of the past. But the best part is its convenient location in East Nashville, a mere 10 minutes from downtown Nashville. Riverwood Mansion is secluded enough for a romantic, fairytale wedding yet close enough to offer your guests an easy commute. A full-service venue, Riverwood Mansion also provides coordinators, designers, and in-house catering services to make planning your wedding a piece of cake! Here’s a recent wedding we photographed at Riverwood!
Favorite Feature:
Every corner of Riverwood Mansion radiates love and elegance the way only a southern mansion could. However, the bridal suite brings tears to my eyes each time I photograph a bride getting ready. It’s the most special bridal suite in Nashville and is designed for a queen. I also love the front porch, the gardens, the parlors, the epic magnolia trees, and the ballroom. Yes, I said it, I love every single thing about Riverwood. It’s the best wedding venue for romantic bride and groom photos fit for Southern Bride. See more of this venue.
Cheekwood Botanical Gardens
Amidst sprawling gardens and stunning architecture, Cheekwood Botanical Gardens stands as a testament to Nashville’s natural beauty and human creativity. Here, couples can choose to get married next to the reflecting pool in the gardens, in the perennial gardens, or in the Wisteria Arbor, to name just a few spots. Cheekwood has over 55 acres of serene grounds to host large and small gatherings. With such a large venue with natural beauty surrounding every inch, there’s a perfect spot for anyone looking for an enchanting outdoor wedding.
Favorite Feature:
It’s hard to choose a single corner of the grounds to love best. Each time you visit there’s an ever-changing tapestry of flowers and art installations. Cheekwood hosts one of the most dynamic and vivid backdrops on this list. I really love the Wisteria Arbor – it’s a Romeo and Juliet painting and every hopeless romantic’s dream.
The Hermitage Hotel
If you’re looking for a historic wedding venue with a touch of modern elegance, head over to The Hermitage Hotel in Nashville. I love this location for its opulent interiors and storied history. Every detail gives an air of luxury and sophistication. From the marbled columns to the stained glass ceilings to the intricate trimmings. It’s been a top Nashville venue for over a century. The Hermitage Hotel was Nashville’s “first million-dollar hotel” and in the century since it opened it has maintained the level of service that a moniker like that deserves. Staff, from the concierge to the bellmen, are attentive and omnipresent and will take care of anything you need.
Favorite Feature:
Without hesitation, my favorite feature of The Hermitage Hotel is the veranda. It was designed in an Italian Renaissance style, clad in ornamental white and polychrome terra cotta with arched openings and balconies overlooking the street. The painted clouds on the ceiling transport you to a dream-like destination. However, the bathrooms are world-famous and a must-have photo op! Another fun note: Staff wear uniforms designed by Draper James, the brand from local hometown favorite, Reese Witherspoon.
Belle Meade Historic Site
On the list of United States National Register of Historic Places, the historic site is a tale of centuries of Tennessee agricultural, political, architectural, and social development and change. I’ve photographed several weddings at Belle Meade Mansion, yet it never fails to leave me in awe. The gardens and majestic architecture offer a wedding setting that’s both grand and intimate. It’s a great choice for wine and bourbon lovers, too. Belle Meade has a winery on the property and can recommend pairings that you and your guests can enjoy at the reception.
Favorite Feature:
As you may have guessed, my favorite feature is the Boxwood Garden. It reminds me of an elegant English garden, with its elegant stone walkway and sophisticated shrubbery. I catch myself feeling like I’ve been transported to Europe as I photograph my couples tying the knot. See the garden for yourself.
Downtown Nashville Wedding Venues
Want to be within walking distance of all of the action Nashville has to offer? We have plenty of vibrant, luxury wedding venues right in the heart of downtown Nashville, TN, with city views and music everywhere you turn.
The Bridge Building
It’s true – The Bridge Building has the most stunning cityscapes in Nashville. A marvel of modern architecture on the riverfront, it offers panoramic views that blend downtown Nashville with the natural beauty of the Cumberland River. I can attest that Nashville’s skyline is a breathtaking backdrop for vows or a first dance under the stars.
Favorite Feature:
The rooftop patio is breathtaking at night. It’s perfectly positioned to see the Nashville skyline lit up. When you’re out there, you feel a connection to the city’s rhythm that you can’t get anywhere else. Take the view in
The Four Seasons Nashville
The Four Seasons Nashville is the newest venue on our list and is a blend of modern elegance and breathtaking views. Their ballrooms have an out-of-this-world river view and city view. Their event spaces are defined by 20-ft high ceilings and abundant natural light streaming in through 22-ft high windows, creating an atmosphere of airy sophistication. The modern design, combined with its strategic use of light and space, offers a luxurious backdrop for weddings. From a wedding photographer’s perspective, it allows every moment to be illuminated by the beauty of Nashville’s skyline and Cumberland River.
Favorite Feature:
I love the timeless elegance of The Four Seasons. It’s best for couples who plan to stay well into the night. The real beauty happens after dark, as you’re dining and dancing with Nashville as your background. You will also fall in love with the poolside terrace. It makes for a romantic first-look setting or where you hold your main ceremony. See the ballrooms
The Schermerhorn Symphony
The Schermerhorn Symphony Center is possibly the most luxurious wedding venue in Nashville, TN. The design was inspired by some of the world’s great concert halls, many of which were built in Europe in the late 19th century. With the choice of 11 exquisite event spaces, there’s a perfect match for any couple who desires the finest of spaces. The outdoor garden is a serene oasis amidst downtown Nashville. It features lush landscaping, a vibrant fountain, and charming vintage lamp posts. Their indoor venues put you center stage. The Schermerhorn can host weddings of all sizes. They’ve been known to host large, lavish celebrity weddings and small elopements alike.
Favorite Feature:
I’m a sucker for The Schermerhorn’s opulence – it’s so grand, I feel like I must be in New York or Paris while I’m there, despite it being just a few steps from Broadway. However, my favorite feature is the main hall. Its opulent architecture creates a truly magical wedding ceremony or reception. See all 11 event spaces
The Cordelle
Launched in 2014, The Cordelle is one of Nashville’s most unique luxury wedding venues. The Cordelle is just a few blocks away from Broadway and features three distinctive wedding spaces. The first is its verdant garden, which offers an idyllic setting for outdoor ceremonies. The Victorian-styled room, notable for its textured brick walls and expansive floor-to-ceiling window can be a very romantic setting for a candle-lit ceremony. Lastly, the Great Hall caters to larger gatherings and provides a great reception space for a wedding celebration. They’re all idyllic pieces of the Cordelle.
Favorite Feature:
The loft! The bridal suite upstairs is hands down one of the most beautiful backdrops in Nashville for a bride getting ready. My other favorite feature of The Cordelle is the fairy-tale-worthy garden space. It’s like walking into an urban oasis where greenery and city lights create a romantic and intimate setting for celebrations. It’s even more lovely on a warm summer at night when the twinkling lights are on. Tour The Cordelle
ACME Feed & Seed
ACME Feed & Seed is the perfect venue for the couple who wants to give their guests an authentic Nashville experience. It’s the largest one-level event and music venue on Lower Broadway, offering a unique open concept perfect for a large wedding or reception. Exposed brick walls and rows of tall windows overlooking Broadway and the Cumberland River create a beautiful atmosphere unique to a historic building in downtown Nashville. Acme Feed & Seed is known for its rooftop bar and electric energy that comes with being located in the heart of Music City’s nightlife. It’s the perfect wedding venue for couples seeking an authentic Broadway experience. Click here to see an Acme wedding I photographed a few years ago.
My Favorite Feature:
My favorite feature is the rooftop view overlooking Broadway. Day and night, music and energy are filtering onto the rooftop, and with the views of the city – there’s nothing like it. I love taking my couples out there for a few stolen moments together. The city backdrop is incredible and unique to the location on Lower Broadway, you can see the entire street lit up with neon lights and thousands of people. Giving my couples a few minutes to revel in being newlyweds, while overlooking the entire city is an unforgettable experience. See the space for yourself
Country Music Hall of Fame
The Country Music Hall of Fame is one of Nashville’s most treasured wedding venues. With its iconic architecture and extensive collection of music history, it’s the perfect location for music lovers to tie the knot. The venue itself is elegantly decorated and has space available to host your rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception. Each room is adorned with musical artifacts you won’t find anywhere else.
My Favorite Feature:
My favorite feature is the floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking downtown. At night, the city lights create a beautiful backdrop while you’re dining and dancing. See the views
Wedding Venues Outside the City of Nashville
The area south of Nashville houses the most luxury farm wedding venues in one area. Most are nestled near the historic town of Franklin, TN, perfect for out-of-town guests to stay.
Long Hollow Gardens
Immerse yourself in the enchanting ambiance of Long Hollow Gardens, where lush greenery and blooming florals surround you in a captivating greenhouse setting. Located in the scenic countryside of Gallatin, TN, this unique venue offers not only the charm of a greenhouse but also the sophistication of a winery. Picture saying ‘I do’ amidst vibrant botanicals, followed by a celebration infused with the finest wines, creating an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Favorite Feature:
Plants, plants, and more plants!! If you’re plant-obsessed (like me!), you’ll fall in love with this venue right away and your whimsical greenhouse wedding dreams will become a reality!! The lighting is absolutely perfect inside the greenhouse for a beautiful ceremony. After the ceremony, exploring the grape vines and enjoying some peaceful and private moments alone among the orchards is perfection, especially during golden hour. See one of my Long Hollow Gardens weddings
Diamond Creek Farm
Diamond Creek Farm enchants with its picturesque grounds, beginning with a tree-lined gravel road that leads into the heart of the wedding venue. It’s one of my favorite venues to photograph, because of its unique elements. It’s the only Nashville wedding venue with resident horses and a groom’s room adorned with fun pop culture portraits and a stunning chandelier. Ceremonies can be held on an expansive outdoor patio, offering breathtaking views of the rolling Tennessee hills. Often the hills have a thin layer of fog, adding a touch of magical ambiance to the wedding day. (And some beautiful wedding photos!) If you want to enjoy a fun farm wedding but not miss out on the luxuries of 5-star hotels downtown, Diamond Creek is your perfect venue. You will find the bathrooms dripped in marble from floor to ceiling, which you won’t find at any other farm venue in Nashville.
Favorite Feature:
It’s hard to find something I don’t love about Diamond Creek Farm. It’s one of the top luxury farms in Nashville. If I had to pick, I may say the grounds are what draws me to it the most! I always take my couples along the gravel pathway and along the pond for some private, sweet moments of alone time. The venue has a large grouping of trees where they hang string lights, which creates a stunning and sparkling background for photos. Truly, you can’t go wrong. See more of this venue
The Estate at Cherokee Dock
A lakeside retreat with a famous past, The Estate at Cherokee Dock marries luxury with the charm of Tennessee’s Old Hickory Lake. Reba McIntire’s former estate, Cherokee Dock offers six versatile event spaces, tailored for every aspect of a wedding celebration. For a more intimate and luxurious rustic barn wedding, the Carriage House Stables is ideal. The Serenity Garden, filled with colorful flora, provides a tranquil backdrop and ample outdoor seating space. The Sunset Terrace tent, featuring finished concrete flooring, is perfect for ceremonies or receptions. The Lakeview Event Center has retractable glass doors that bathe the space in natural light and fresh air.
My Favorite Feature:
The mansion is my favorite feature at Cherokee Dock. It embodies southern charm, with its large white columns and beautifully decorated rooms. The tower rooms with the large bay windows overlooking the lake are absolutely picture-perfect for a bride getting ready. The entire venue provides a grand, yet welcoming, setting that never fails to take my breath away. See more of the Estate
Southall Farm & Inn
Southall Farm offers a vast expanse of natural beauty and agricultural richness. The farm spans 325 acres with greenhouses, heritage crops, orchards, and gardens enhancing its landscape. It operates as a working farm and inn, providing guests with dining and spa experiences. The accommodation includes 62 guestrooms and 16 cottages, making it an ideal location for those seeking a serene and immersive countryside Tennessee wedding experience.
My Favorite Feature:
I love the rich wood beams and decor of the main venue. The panoramic views of the Nashville countryside are also a huge draw for me too because they provide a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and photographs. It’s the perfect, rustic farm venue. Tour the Farm
CJ’s off the Square
CJ’s off the Square is an intimate lush garden wedding venue in Franklin, TN. Enveloped in natural beauty, perfect for those who dream of an outdoor wedding with a touch of elegance. It offers all-inclusive wedding packages to simplify the planning process. This venue, known for its enchanting garden and historic home, features specialized spaces like a bridal dressing room, a wine cellar, and an old-fashioned blackjack and billiards room for pre-ceremony gatherings. CJ’s off the Square is ideal for intimate wedding celebrations and is a sought-after location for those desiring a picturesque and hassle-free wedding experience with the convenience of being downtown Franklin.
My Favorite Feature:
My favorite feature of CJ’s is the beautiful gardens and koi ponds. They often tell me it feels like they have found an intimate escape when we walk through the beautiful trees and flowering plants that are so thoughtfully designed. I also love watching children in awe of the fish in the pond. It’s such a classic childhood wonder and great entertainment for the little ones. View the venue
Mint Springs Farm
Mint Springs Farm is a luxury farm venue located just 30 minutes outside of Nashville, Tennessee. It’s set on a picturesque 40-acre property in the rolling hills of Williamson County. This venue features a stunning white-washed bohemian barn with an open-air wall, providing a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies. Situated beside a large pond and embodying southern luxury, Mint Springs Farm offers all-inclusive wedding packages, covering everything but the photographer, dress, and hair/makeup, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a comprehensive, elegant wedding experience.
My Favorite Feature:
I have several favorites: The private lake and dock offer a romantic spot for quiet moments and memorable photos. The porch of the bridal suite has the most beautiful robin’s egg blue painted ceilings that photograph so beautifully with a bride and her bridesmaids. I also love the outdoor patio of the barn with luxury outdoor furnishings, plenty of heaters, and twinkling lights for cocktail hour or a first dance. I also love that fireworks displays are permitted and encouraged!! See the barn
14TENN
14TENN, located in Nashville, is a bright and modern event space spanning 6,000 sq ft. The open-space concept allows you to get as creative as you want, and have your ceremony and reception both within its beautiful floor plan. The main area features exposed white wood-framed walls, vaulted ceilings with open beams, candle chandeliers, and warm wood floors. 14TENN can accommodate up to 275 guests and is just minutes from local hotels and restaurants, making it an easy commute for your friends and family.
My Favorite Feature:
I love the versatility of the space. I’ve seen many couples weave beautiful vines through the chandeliers, creating a suspended floral display over their nuptials. There are so many things you can do with the blank canvas. See the space I was a part of capturing Chris and Lauren Lane’s wedding there (for Victoria Bonvicini), which was featured in People magazine.
Graystone Quarry
Graystone Quarry is a stunning luxury wedding venue nestled just south of Nashville, in Franklin, TN. The property is spread across 138 acres of reclaimed rock quarry and is perfect for couples who love the rich natural beauty of Nashville. Stroll along the property and you’ll find forest and meadow landscapes, pristine streams, and ponds, all beautifully framed by dramatic limestone cliff walls. Inside the ceremony hall, you’ll find cathedral ceilings with exposed beams and elegant chandeliers and a spectacular view of the expansive property. The reception hall was designed to impress! It includes stone archway entrances and a two-story grand fireplace, spiraling staircases, lots of natural light, and an indoor/outdoor stone patio that leads guests out to the beautiful blue pond and waterfall.
My Favorite Feature:
I love taking my couples to the top of the waterfall for an amazing perspective of the venue and all of their loved ones who came to celebrate with them. From there, we can take pictures in the quarry with the unique rock walls as your backdrop. The best thing about Graystone Quarry is that it’s a nature-lover’s dream, without being a barn! If you’re looking for a non-barn luxury wedding venue in the Nashville countryside that will impress your guests and be a truly unique experience, Graystone is perfect. See one of my Graystone Quarry couples
Saddle Woods Farm
If you want to have a wow factor for your guests, and you have a large guest list, Saddle Woods Farm is for you. On the outside, it looks like a large, rustic barn located in Murfreesboro, TN. But when you step inside, it’s like being transported into a fairytale. The entire inside of the barn can be lavishly decorated with drapery, florals, and string lights. Beautiful crystal chandeliers top off the effect.
My Favorite Feature:
Take a small walk on the property and you’ll spot my favorite hidden gem – the horses. They are so beautiful, strong, and a perfect addition to Tennessee wedding portraits. There is also a beautiful swing hanging from a tall tree in a secluded area for a first look or bride and groom photos. It’s a bit of whimsy you can’t find anywhere else. See if you can spot the swing.
Saddle Woods Farm has hosted many Nashville celebrity weddings. I had the honor of photographing the wedding below featured in People Magazine (lead photographer: Victoria Bonvicini). Do you recognize the lovely couple?
Belle Meade Country Club
The Belle Meade Country Club has a rich history in Nashville. Originally started as the Nashville Golf and Country Club in 1901, it eventually relocated to its current location on Belle Meade Boulevard in 1911. The grounds, part of the historic Belle Meade Plantation known for thoroughbred horses, echo this deep heritage. The club’s space is lined with its signature black and white checkered floors, high cathedral ceilings, and manicured grounds. Belle Meade embodies timelessness, reflecting its storied past while providing an elegant backdrop for your wedding.
My Favorite Feature:
The golf course views are stunning in this venue. It creates a green and expansive outdoor setting for ceremonies and photo opportunities. Tour the Greenway However, my favorite feature has to be the opulent ballroom. I love the finer things in life, and this room makes my heart race, it’s so elegant and beautiful.
Nashville’s Luxury Wedding Venues
Exploring Nashville’s top wedding venues reveals a tapestry of history, modern elegance, and natural beauty. With so many to choose from, it can be hard to choose which unique setting is right for your special day. From the historic charm of Riverwood Mansion to the romantic allure of The Bridge Building, and the serene landscapes of Mint Springs Farm – Nashville caters to every couple’s dream.
As you embark on your wedding planning journey, consider these diverse venues to find the perfect backdrop for your love story. When you’re ready, I’ll be happy to join you at any of these locations to capture the authentic and beautiful moments of your wedding day.
