This article was published in November 2024. Please check with the individual venues to find up-to-date offerings.
From Skyline views to barn vibes, chic warehouses to spaces that surprise, today’s brides and grooms are focused on creating memories. But memorable can also mean turnkey.
“Definitely the one-stop shop is very popular so couples can knock off as many items on the wedding planning list as possible, and unique spaces are appealing, too,” says Allie Hippler, senior sales manager at Metropolitan at The 9, who is seeing guest lists more in the 170 range versus 250 several years ago.
After a rush to schedule belated nuptials that were put on hold during the pandemic, couples are slowing down.
“They are spending more time planning their wedding and want venues they want rather than the quick turnaround,” Hippler says. “Also, we are seeing a move toward heavy hors d’oeuvre receptions and casual talking, than the formal sit-down meals.”
Here’s a look at the range of venues available in Northeast Ohio, whether you’re looking for something barn chic, an elegant historic site, a high-energy environment or views, views, views.
(Photo courtesy RH Imagery)
Cleveland Botanical Garden
It’s a natural fit for the wedding day — with formal landscaped settings, blooming gardens and lush indoor gathering spaces. Cleveland Botanical Garden provides custom menus from Marigold Catering. Hold the ceremony onsite in the Japanese or Sunken gardens, or indoor in Clark Hall. Reception venues accommodate up to 220 guests. 11030 East Blvd., Cleveland, 216-721-1600, holdenfg.org/cleveland-botanical-garden
(Photo courtesy Collision Bend Brewing Company)
The iconic Holy Ghost Byzantine Catholic Church in Tremont offers 10,000 square feet of refurbished space underneath barrel-vaulted ceilings and chandeliers. Ballrooms can seat up to 200. Service include bars, planning, rentals and valet. 1415 Kenilworth Ave., Cleveland, 216-200-8506, theelliotcle.com
(Photo courtesy K Photography)
Gish Barn
More than 100 acres of farmland offer a relaxed, natural setting at this 1820s Germanic-style bank barn with a combination of woods, manicured lawns and gardens. Since it was renovated (with a mind to retain its original character), modern amenities accommodate vendors including catering and audiovisual. The 200-person capacity venue includes covered outdoor spaces and indoor event spaces such as a ceremony area. 530 Gish Road, Rittman, 330-441-9974, gishbarn.com
If a classic touch is your taste, consider an elegant wedding in this French gothic mansion circa 1910. You'll feel like vintage royalty at this spot on Case Western Reserve University's campus in University Circle. The venue can accommodate guests overnight in 60 boutique hotel suites. Outstanding gardens, an outdoor gazebo for unique ceremonies and indoor event spaces can host up to 150 for a romantic affair. 1901 Ford Drive, Cleveland, 216-231-8900, gliddenhouse.com
READ MORE: The Glidden House Glistens with Cleveland History
The Lantern Room
The downtown views from this rooftop venue situated at the Church + State building offer a vintage-vogue vibe for an intimate celebration of up to 150 sit-down guests. It’s all about the surroundings here, plus it’s available seven days a week and has some high-tech features like a high-end sound system. Take advantage of services including catering, bar, rental and staff. 2818 Church Ave., Cleveland, 216-307-1190, lanternroomcle.com
A rooftop eatery with authentic Tuscan cuisine, Casa La Luna offers spaces for intimate celebrations, yet can host over 100 guests with indoor and outdoor spaces. Located on Cleveland’s Superior Viaduct, guests can take in skyline views. A patio converts into an enclosed veranda with floor-to-ceiling windows. 2100 Superior Viaduct, Cleveland, 216-440-6511, lalunacleveland.com
We still think Ohio's wine country doesn't get enough love. Imagine wedding photos among the vines; wining, dining and celebrating in the Grand River Valley at a family-owned boutique winery with rolling views. Add access to the indoor, vaulted-ceiling barn, and it's enough to fulfill the wildest wedding dreams. 6193 S. River Road W., Geneva, 440-361-4104, mcellars.com
Mapleside Farms
If country close to the city is what you’re after, Mapleside Farms delivers and accommodates parties of more than 300, offering indoor and outdoor spaces, a reception area and a slew of settings: ballroom, barn, farm and ranch, beach, waterfront, historic venue, loft, tented, vineyard. You can also access its catering along with planning and rentals, making this farm venue a turnkey experience. 294 Pearl Road, Brunswick, 440-845-0800, mapleside.com
Metropolitan at The 9
Swanky, luxurious and cosmopolitan: If this suits your theme, Metropolitan at The 9 is a fit. Exchange vows on the rooftop lounge with views of the city skyline, or plan an intimate gathering in the speakeasy. The Mint Ballroom, with its golden walls and crystal chandeliers, accommodates up to 250 guests. Amenities include full-service food, beverage, planning, rentals, equipment and staff. 2017 E. Ninth St., Cleveland, 216-239-1200, metropolitancleveland.com
Mooreland Mansion
Say “I do” in a neoclassical mansion among picturesque gardens. Centered on Lakeland Community College's campus, the venue’s amenities include a dressing room, full catering, rentals and staffing. It hosts up to 150 guests. 7800 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, 440-525-7306, lakelandcc.edu
(Photo courtesy Maria Sharp Photography)
This Flats West Bank venue offers three customizable wedding packages and a choice of spaces: the supper club, private dining room and mezzanine, rooftop or concert hall. Amenities include premium bar service, cuisine from Chef Dennis Devies, along with the tech and furnishings you need to host a memorable affair. 1148 Main Ave., Cleveland, 216-242-1250, musicboxcle.com
READ MORE: How Cleveland Wedding Planners Can Help Save The Day
Take to the lake! There may be nothing more Cleveland than cruising, dancing, dining and celebrating with guests on Lake Erie. With three enclosed decks, an open-air space and full entertainment packages, the private charter ship can accommodate up to 250 guests — or keep it to a close-knit crew. 1153 Main Ave., Cleveland, 216-696-8888, ladycaroline.com
(Photo courtesy Red Space)
Red Space
If you’re looking for a modern, blank canvas, Cleveland’s Red Space includes an 8,000 square-foot Grand Warehouse with 15-foot ceilings that can accommodate up to 450 seated guests. Settings include a ballroom, historic venue, industrial warehouse space, rooftop and loft. Plus, it provides a bar and catering. 2400 Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-223-7731, redspaceevents.com
Go rustic at this 562-acre park with a covered bridge and The Great Heron Lodge. While there is no kitchen, you can invite in an approved caterer — and bring your own bar. Amenities include tables, chairs, setup and cleanup. Affordability is a highlight, charging only a $100 fee for a ceremony and reception with 17 hours of rental time if you’re not a county resident. 10110 Cedar Road, Munson Township, 440-286-9516, geaugaparkdistrict.org
(Photo courtesy Cleveland Metroparks)
This historic venue in North Chagrin Reservation is a gatehouse from the 1890s. It includes expansive green space for outdoor celebrations, along with indoor spaces. 2844 River Road, Willoughby, 440-473-3370, clevelandmetroparks.com
(Photo courtesy J+N Photography)
Tenk West Bank
It was a machine and tool factory; now it’s a character-rich warehouse with two event spaces featuring exposed brick, metal beams and expansive windows. North Bay can accommodate 350-450 at ceremonies or receptions, and the more intimate Atrium seats 80. Some extras: a bridal suite and Tenk’s mahogany chairs and tables. A dedicated planner, Marigold Catering & Events, makes this a full-service venue. 2111 Center St., Cleveland, 216-566-5400, marigoldcatering.com
READ MORE: Cleveland Photographer Ignites Viral Kalahari Wedding Sensation
If elevated rustic is your vision and a country venue suits your taste, White Rose Barn on Dalton Fox Lake in North Lawrence is less than an hour south of Cleveland, close to Canton. Natural light pours from the high barn ceilings into the space, setting the stage for stunning photography. The site lends itself to couples who are going for bold, boho or even farmhouse glam. Keep your party to less than 250 guests, and take advantage of the planning, rentals, equipment and tent services. 4499 Dalton Fox Lake, North Lawrence, 216-299-5662, whiterosebarn.com
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