As a wedding photographer who frequently works with East Coast couples while maintaining deep roots in the Midwest, I’ve had the unique privilege of capturing love stories against vastly different backdrops. Whether you’re choosing between regions or looking to blend both styles, this guide will help you understand the distinct character each location brings to your wedding day.
Bride & Groom at Greencrest Manor in Michigan
East Coast Elegance
The East Coast wedding scene is defined by its timeless sophistication and rich historical context. Historic estates dot the countryside from Maine to Virginia, offering couples centuries-old architecture and meticulously maintained grounds. These venues tell stories through their weathered brick walls and grand staircases, creating powerful backdrops for wedding photography.
Coastal venues along the Atlantic seaboard bring their own magic. From the Hamptons to the Outer Banks, oceanfront properties combine natural beauty with refined luxury. The interplay of light on water creates stunning photographic opportunities, especially during golden hour ceremonies.
Urban sophistication reaches its peak in East Coast cities, like a modern rooftop venue in New York. These spaces shine in both daytime celebrations and dramatic nighttime events where city lights become part of your wedding story.
Garden parties take on special significance here, where old-world influenced landscapes provide intimate settings. Boxwood mazes, rose gardens, and centuries-old trees create natural frames for unforgettable moments.
Midwest Magic
Midwestern weddings carry their own distinct charm, centered around warmth and genuine hospitality. The venues here often feel like extensions of home, even at their grandest. Historic hotels in cities like Chicago, Cleveland, and Detroit blend architectural splendor with a welcoming atmosphere that puts guests at ease.
Private estates in the Midwest tend to emphasize comfort alongside elegance. Rather than formal gardens, you’ll find rolling landscapes and natural woodland settings that create a more relaxed atmosphere. These spaces allow for creative photography that captures both the grandeur of the occasion and intimate moments between couples.
Garden venues here celebrate the region’s natural beauty, incorporating native wildflowers and tall grasses. The changing seasons provide dramatic backdrops, from spring blooms to autumn’s rich palette.
Blending Both Worlds
Many of my clients now living on the East Coast carry their Midwestern roots close to their hearts. The key to successfully blending these styles lies in understanding what makes each special. Consider incorporating Midwestern hospitality touches into a formal East Coast setting, or bringing coastal sophistication to a rustic barn venue.
Some of my clients have chosen to do their engagement photos in a another city/state that hold meaning to them. These contrasts create visual interest in photographs while telling a meaningful story about the couple’s journey.
Making Your Choice
Location decisions often come down to practical considerations. Consider your guest list’s travel requirements and plan accordingly. If many guests will be traveling from the Midwest to an East Coast venue, consider creating a weekend experience that introduces them to the area’s character.
For East Coast couples choosing Midwest venues, embrace the opportunity to show guests a different pace of life. Consider arranging group activities that highlight local culture and charm. As your photographer, I can help capture not just the wedding day, but the entire celebration of two worlds coming together.
Some practical tips to consider:
– Book venue visits during the season you plan to wed to understand lighting and weather conditions
– Consider sunrise/sunset times for your chosen location when planning ceremony timing
– Think about indoor backup options that maintain your desired aesthetic
– Plan for weather typical to your chosen region during your wedding season
Whether you choose East Coast grandeur, Midwest charm, or a creative blend of both, the key is selecting a venue that reflects your story. As your photographer, I’m committed to capturing the unique character of your chosen setting while focusing on the moments that make your celebration uniquely yours.
Remember, there’s no wrong choice when it comes to selecting your wedding venue – there’s only what feels right for you as a couple. Both regions offer incredible opportunities for creating lasting memories, and I’m here to help you capture every special moment, regardless of which setting you choose.
