KBP’s Dream Venues

Every photographer has a list of dream venues on their bucket list. Here's my lineup, a mix of eclectic and stunning destinations that truly blow my mind when I see them. These are in no particular order, except by general location. Let’s dive in, baby!

The Beekman Hotel, NYC

A historical gem in the heart of Manhattan, The Beekman Hotel is a blend of old-world charm and modern luxury. Couples can immerse themselves in the vibrancy of New York City while celebrating their love in style. Take a gander and tell me you wouldn’t be silent-screaming the whole time.

620 Loft and Garden, NYC

Above the streets of New York City, 620 Loft and Garden offers a rooftop escape for couples seeking an urban fairy tale. With views of iconic landmarks (hint: a legendary cathedral), it's an intimate space that still feels luxurious. I’m thinking an oyster bar and champagne tower has to happen here.

Sure Thing Chapel, Las Vegas, Nevada

I’ve been a fan of this place since the MINUTE I stumbled upon them on Instagram. Nestled in the heart of Las Vegas, this chapel isn't just about quick vows; it's an immersion into the vibrancy and excitement of the city's iconic strip. Neon lights, quick "I dos," and an undeniable energy make it a top pick for those craving an unconventional love affair. Did I mention you can choose Elvis or a show girl to officiate?! I’m obsessed.

Willard InterContinental, Washington, D.C.

When I lived in Baltimore I could never really appreciate the beauty of DC. I was living on a musician’s paycheck and a prayer. But now I can dream! In the heart of the nation's capital, the Willard InterContinental is a blend of historic charm and modern luxury. A perfect choice for couples wanting to celebrate amidst the iconic landmarks and rich history of Washington, D.C. Portraits in the Natural History Museum, anyone??

Dover Hall, Richmond, VA

This historic Richmond venue is a masterpiece of classic elegance and timeless charm. Its sprawling estate with manicured gardens and regal interiors provides a sophisticated canvas for couples seeking a touch of grandeur in their love story. Fancy, right? What a dream.

The Branch Museum, Richmond, VA

Richmond's architectural gem, The Branch Museum, is an ode to history and art. From its intricate details to the sprawling gardens, it provides a picturesque setting for couples who appreciate the fusion of timeless beauty and contemporary love. Honestly, the idea of getting married in a museum is exciting in and of itself!

The Poe Museum, Richmond, VA

For those with a taste for the mysterious and poetic, The Poe Museum in Richmond is a great choice. Just think… you could recite Annabel Lee in your vows and everyone would know you were the coolest couple ever. And there are endless opportunities for the dreamiest portraits!!

The Market at Grelen, Somerset, VA

Nature's canvas comes alive at The Market at Grelen. With its rolling hills and scenic landscapes, this venue is perfect for couples who envision their love story unfolding in a place where nature's beauty is as prominent as their commitment. [Insert winking here] If you’re having a Christmas wedding, look here!! And book me, hehe!

Wild Love Chapel, Joshua Tree

The Wild Love Chapel in Joshua Tree is fresh, new, and so exciting. If you’re a fan of the old school Vegas vibe but don’t want to get out to Vegas, this is a fantastic option. I’m so stoked to see what they do!

The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, Scotland

In the heart of Edinburgh, The Royal College of Physicians combines Scottish charm with historic grandeur. Dark academia vibes, fancy Outlander vibes, count me allllllll the way in.

The Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

My first trip to Ireland involved a quick stop at the Cliffs. I dangled my feet off the edge and had to fight back tears. Yes, it’s a bit touristy. Yes, it’s tried and true for Ireland’s most-known places. But come on! The Cliffs of Moher provide a breathtaking setting and will blow you away, I promise. Just, not literally. Don’t fall off, please.

Loughcrew Estate, County Meath, Ireland

Dating back to the 17th century (woah, dude), the Loughcrew Estate has a stunning medieval motte, family church, beautiful lawns and terraces, and so much more. There’s even a Fairy Garden and a coffee shop. Ugh! Amazing!

Dunluce Castle, County Antrim, Ireland

Dunluce Castle offers a view that cannot be beat. There’s even evidence of a settlement from the first millenium. CRAZY. The castle ruins date from the 16th-17th centuries and there’s some piping hot tea history from the feuding McQuillan and MacDonnel clans. I love historical tea!

Castle Leslie, County Monaghan, Ireland

Spread across 1,000 acres of the beautiful Irish countryside, Castle Leslie Estate stands today as one of the few Irish estates still held by its original family. Acquired in the 16th Century by the Leslie Family, it is now managed by Sammy Leslie and overseen by the Castle Leslie Preservation Trust. The estate, located in Glaslough, County Monaghan, has undergone extensive restoration, offering a range of accommodations, dining experiences, and on/off-site activities. You don’t have to leave, and I know I wouldn’t want to!

Belleek Castle, County Mayo, Ireland

Belleek Castle stands as a testament to Ireland's rich history. It was built between 1825 and 1831 and is an incredible Neo-Gothic style. The Irish Victorian architect, John Keanes really put his all into this. There are turrets, vaulted ceilings, the most amazing wood panelling, and a mix of medieval and Victorian features. Seriously, you have to look through their gallery.

Dromoland Castle, County Clare, Ireland

Dromoland Castle is not just a venue, but also practically an all-inclusive resort vacation for your guests. It’s also surprisingly affordable for intimate weddings! Imaging sitting around a table with your closest friends and family, and there are armor stands and REALLY old books and stone all around you. Feels like being transported straight into my favorite fantasy novels! There’s a spa, activities like archery and a fairy trail (loving these fairy trails), AND they’re dog-friendly. I’m about to talk myself into a vacation here!

Villa Oliviero, Positano, Italy

Perched on the cliffs of Positano, Villa Oliviero is a slice of Italian paradise. With panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it's a stunning and intimate setting against the backdrop of the Amalfi Coast's legendary landscapes. Imagine the film photos from a wedding here! Omfg I’m already swooning. This could be straight out of a romance novel, I’m tellin’ ya!

Villa Treville, Positano, Italy

Also in Positano, Villa Treville is a sanctuary of luxury and romance. With its panoramic views of the Tyrrhenian Sea, it's going to wow your guests (if you even choose to have any guests!) and definitely live ad-free in your head forever. Their suites are nearly half the size of my house, so you’re also setting yourself up for a built-in honeymoon. Did I mention it’s a 5-star hotel? Of course there’s a spa, but there’s also a farm that supplies their farm-to-table restaurant. We love that.

La Cervara, Portofino, Italy

Nestled in the lush vegetation between Santa Margherita and Portofino, the historic La Cervara, dating back to 1361, rises from the Mediterranean scrub. Overlooking the Gulf of Tigullio, this Benedictine monastery, once visited by luminaries like Petrarch and Saint Catherine of Siena, holds centuries of history, including the imprisonment of Francis I of France. The fifteenth and sixteenth centuries marked its zenith, reflected in the architectural marvels of the church and the cloister. Now a National Monument, it has been meticulously restored since 1990, preserving its original charm and purpose as a private residence. They’ll even let you stay in the private suites!

Villa Balbiano, Lake Como, Italy

Nestled on the shores of Lake Como, Villa Balbiano, a historical residence with roots tracing back to Cardinal Tolomeo Gallio in the late 16th century, and later enhanced by Cardinal Angelo Maria Durini, stands today as the lake's largest private estate. It features expansive gardens, an outdoor pool, a private pier, and a boathouse. Its interiors are adorned with art and furniture sourced from major auctions, and the walls proudly display frescoes painted by the Recchi brothers and Agostino Silva, creating an alluring fusion of grandeur and natural beauty.

Villa Sola Cabiati, Lake Como, Italy

Villa Sola Cabiati is an artistic masterpiece embodying the hedonism of the Belle Époque. It welcomes you to a bygone era with its elaborate halls featuring stuccoes, frescoes by renowned artists, and priceless collections, offering an extravagant experience amidst the flowering Italian garden, scented park, and outdoor pool, inviting you to relive the decadent history of the Lake. It’s just a few minutes from the Grand Hotel Tremezzo (where you can enjoy a spa with an unbeatable view), so there’s access to tons of luxury amenities, and there’s 24 hour butler service in the villa. Talk. About. An. Experience.

Villa Cimbrone, Ravello, Italy

This is a 12th century residence and the caretakers have preserved and protected the original architectural and decorative features! The Majolica floors, the frescoed ceilings, man oh man, I’m in love! AND there’s a killer view. The pool and solarium are a dream, there’s a private helipad (someone tell my husband he needs to get his heli license), and a boat tour of the Amalfi coast! Maybe I’ll learn how to swim just for that…

Castello di Vicarello, Tuscany

Surrounded by Tuscany’s Maremma countryside, this 900-year old CASTLE (yes, castle) is situated between Rome and Florence and is surrounded by 40 hectares (400,000 square meters) of organic vineyards, olive groves, and farmland. It has managed to offer total seclusion and award-winning accommodations while also giving you top-notch contemporary luxury. Please note that this is definitely a high-end price point kinda place. If you want to have more than 20 people at your wedding, they require a villa booking for exclusive use with a minimum three night stay and a budget starting at €140,000. But they do include everything, including flowers and music! But you’ll need a photographer, so… heyyy!

Villa Cetinale, Siena, Italy

This one is just straight. up. romantic. I’m a sucker for a 60s romance art house film, and this is g.i.v.i.n.g. me life. One portion of it reminds me of 8 1/2 (great film btw), and then they have this STUNNING striped tents that make me want to don a bathing dress and sip a limoncello by the ocean. Which, to be fair, is more of a southern Italy thing but STILL. The striped tent alone makes me want to shoot here. Or live here. Maybe both. Definitely both.

Villa Medicia di Lilliano, South of Florence, Italy

They clearly know how to throw a party for out-of-towners who want an incredible destination wedding in Italy. With a classic Medici look and surrounded by vineyards and olive groves, you’re definitely going to want to frolic. It’s just 20 minutes from Florence, and they’ve curated relationships with the nearby town to house your guests and give them the best experience possible. Don’t want to do a full wedding? They offer a 2-person elopement package with a 2-night stay, including breakfast.

Aman Hotel, Venice, Italy

And wrapping us up is the gorgeous Aman Hotel in Venice. Aman is one of the city’s eight monumental palazzos on the Grand Canal, and the interior is just *chefs kiss*. The exterior makes me want to make a Wes Anderson-inspired video, and then every single room inside makes me want to sob tears of awe. The ballroom?! Wheel me out on a stretcher, I might not make it out alive. I’ll get your photos edited though, don’t worry.

There are SO many more, but this is just a start and the ones dominating my mood boards this year. So if you’re looking at those places and you’re also looking for a photographer… hit a girl up.

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