5 US wedding venues with a European feel
Destination weddings in incredible locations like Provence and Tuscany are high on the wish list for many brides, yet the logistics, expense and let's be honest, potential cancellation (thanks Covid!) mean that it's just not possible for most couples right now. But that doesn't mean you can't create the vibe of a European wedding right here in the US.
And of course, it all starts with the venue. Fine art wedding photographer Troy Miekle has traveled throughout the country capturing couples at the most beautiful locations and today she shares her favourite venues that give a European feel much closer to home.
Swan House - Atlanta, Georgia
The chateau estate of Swan House is a gorgeously grand wedding venue, complete with gardens, a grand ballroom, outdoor terraces, and a museum with rotating exhibitions. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, noted architect Philip Trammel Shutze designed Swan House and its gardens in 1928. He adapted Italian and English classical styles to accommodate 20th-century living for Swan House, which many consider his finest residential work.
Vizcaya Museum - Miami, Florida
This Spanish Colonial inspired estate is reminiscent of old world Spain, with a unique combination of natural beauty, historic architecture and bayfront views. A National Historic Landmark, Vizcaya is situated on Biscayne Bay surrounded by ten acres of formal gardens, a mangrove shoreline and rockland hammock.
Sunstone Winery - Santa Ynez, California
Located just 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara, Sunstone Winery is an Italian inspired stone villa on a sprawling organic vineyard in the beautiful Santa Ynez Valley. The Provençal French-style courtyards, stone barrel-aging caves and vast picturesque grounds make it the perfect destination for weddings large and small.
Malibu Rocky Oaks - Malibu, California
With its scenic windy road, expansive Tuscan villa, and award-winning wine, Malibu Rocky Oaks is a stunning spot for a wedding. The private vineyard lies in a 37-acre plot with 360-degree views of the Santa Monica mountains and rolling hillsides. Throw a gathering here and you will be enveloped in cool night breezes from the Pacific Ocean while basking in the most glorious sunset from the on-site helipad.
Kestrel Park - Santa Ynez, California
If you're looking to capture that romantic English countryside vibe, Kestrel Park could be the wedding venue for you. The magnificent 100 acre property includes a 19th century style English country house, sprawling gardens and horse stables. With the fairytale stable tower and views of green rolling hills, you could easily mistake this part of California for The Cotswolds.
All images by Troy Meikle.
