We’ve been exploring the world of wedding venues with our new three-part series, What Can I Get For… After tackling $5,000 and $10,000 venues around the country, we’re closing out this series with the show-stopper $20,000 venues that you need to see to believe. We’re just covering site fees, aka the price you pay a venue before food and beverage minimums or table and chair rentals. We checked with wedding experts from Koru Wedding, Bustle Events, Alicia K Designs and Shay Brown Events to bring you a list of what $20,000 can get you in any part of the United States. So if you’re looking for a venue that will wow everyone you know, check out these four stunners.
East Coast
1. The Ashford Estate, Allentown, NJ: This estate is the epitome of European elegance. With hundreds of acres of land surrounding the breathtaking estate, carefully manicured gardens and beautiful fountains, the Ashford Estate is perfection defined. The site fee starts at $20,000, which includes the use of the ballroom for the reception and chapel for the ceremony, along with table and chair rental. Have a large guest list? Not a problem! The ballroom can accommodate up to 275 guests. The Ashford Estate also has an in-house caterer that has catered to past presidents, so you know your guests will dine in style. (Photo via John Arcara Photography)
West Coast
2. Kunde Family Estate, Kenwood, CA: In the heart of California wine country, Kunde Family Estate offers various sites for ceremonies and receptions on its 1,850-acre property — all with rustic charm and history. The Dunfillan Ruins site fee (pictured above) is $20,000 and can hold up to 250 guests. You’ll need to bring in everything (including generators and restrooms) to this venue, but it’s worth it for the tranquility and beauty of the setting. (Photo via Jessamyn Harris)
South
3. Rockwood Lodge at Old Edwards Inn, Highlands, NC: This gorgeous and amazing estate sits on top of one of the highest peaks in the Highlands, with 360-degree views of never-ending mountains. Decked out in beautiful wood and stone interior design, this lodge is a mansion in the woods. From the lawn area, you’ll have a spectacular view of the mountains and rolling hills. This venue holds up to 200 guests and the site fee starts at $15,000. There is also a minimum stay of three nights in addition to the site rental. (Photo via Old Edwards Inn and Spa)
Destination
4. San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara, CA: This Santa Barbara beauty provides breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the Channel Islands (famous honeymooners include JFK and Jackie O + Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin). With several indoor and outdoor options, site fees range from $12,500-$20,000 and can accommodate a maximum of 200 guests. (Photo via Elizabeth Messina Photography)
Getting married at one of these venues? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below. Have another venue favorite around $20,000? Fill us in!