There’s nothing more chic than a modern city wedding, complete with a sleek, industrial venue, sophisticated minimalist decor and a bold, elegant bridal look to match.
Of course, each city neighborhood has its own style, so an old Hollywood glamour-style wedding is also totally doable in a big city. Look out for neighborhoods filled with vintage hotels, retro street cars and old world architecture.
Still not convinced? Here are five reasons to get married in a big city:
One-of-a-Kind Experiences:
While strolling down the city streets on your wedding day, be open to unplanned moments such as ponies walking down the street, buskers serenading passerby, maybe even a celebrity encounter. You just never know what you might find in a big city!
Quentin and Huan, who eloped in Chicago, shared details on one of their best wedding day memories: “While we were taking pictures by the river, a construction worker saw Huan and starting singing for her! It was such a sweet and enchanting moment.”
Quentin and Huan’s Chicago City Hall Elopement // Photography: Nicole Jansma Photography
Epic Photo Ops:
When you tie the knot in the big city, turn your wedding portrait time into an adventure. Every big city is filled with epic locations perfect for wedding photos, from vintage carousels to graffiti-filled alleys to whimsical gardens – the list goes on! Chances are, your photographer knows the area well and will advise you on photo op locations. Also, be sure to scope out the area on the web to find interesting, under-the-radar locations (we suggest using Atlas Obscura!).
Greta and Caleb’s San Francisco City Hall Elopement // Photography: Kyle Loves Tori Photography
Choices, Choices, Choices:
Getting married in a big city means you’ll have loads of options for the wedding venue and vendors. Looking for a quaint loft with an amazing view of the city skyline? Or maybe a historic, restored 19th century factory filled with rustic industrial elements? You’ll find it. Plus, with so many photographers, florists etc. to choose from, you can find vendors who perfectly match your style (and hopefully your budget!).
Pittsburgh Studio Styled Shoot // Photography: Lindsey Zern Photography
Convenience:
With ample accommodation options, and easy-accessible transit, city weddings tend to be more convenient for guests than their country counterparts, especially for those from out-of-town.
Traveling from the ceremony venue to reception venue is often a breeze in the city. Guests can commute together using public transit, or even walk. One couple featured on IW tied the knot in a park minutes from their San Diego home, and following the ceremony the guests walked back the the couple’s home for cake and cocktails.
Katie and Ethan’s California Garden Wedding // Photography: Kaitie Brainerd Photography
Party It Up:
There’s no party like an after-party- after all, the true celebration doesn’t begin until after the last dance is over with. If your wedding is outside the city, chances are the after-party will have to be held at the reception venue. With a city wedding, the after-party options are endless, from modern rooftop lounges to fun bars filled with retro video games.
Justine and Kyle’s Enchanting Restaurant Wedding in Philadelphia // Photography: Peach Plum Pear Photo
