21 minute read
Finding the Perfect Venue
Finding the Perfect Local Wedding Venue
The venue you choose will have a huge impact on your wedding day. It can aff ect everything from the mood to how many guests you can invite (yes, big bashes are back!) to the amenities that will be available to you. That’s why it’s so important to consider your wedding venue carefully. One of the wedding trends for 2023 are venues that are naturally beautiful and do not require much décor – whatever type of location appeals to you. The most popular types of wedding venues right now are estates, modern spaces such as art galleries, industrial warehouses, and historic buildings, and backyard/outdoor venues such as farms with barns and gardens. If you choose an outdoor space, make sure you have access to a tent or sheltered areas in case the weather doesn’t cooperate!
Before you sit down to review your venue options, it’s a good idea to make a list of your needs and priorities so you can quickly eliminate venues that will not meet them. To start with, the venue is a big part of the wedding budget so you need to decide how much you can comfortably aff ord to spend. Next, decide what you want out of a venue – are you hoping to bring in all of your own vendors and alcohol or do you want an all-inclusive style package? Are you looking for a venue that can accommodate both your ceremony and reception or just a reception? Do you want access to both indoor and outdoor spaces? Are you looking for a modern or vintage style building? How many people will the venue need to accommodate? Once you have written down this information, search for options that could meet your needs. Call ahead to confi rm that the space is available for your preferred wedding date and schedule a tour. When you are touring venues, try to envision how each room or space could be used and decorated for your wedding.
Once you have found two to three good options, it’s time to get practical. Find out exactly what comes with the rental fee and get a list of any “extras” that you will be expected to pay for. Some venues allow outside hiring of caterers and bartenders, for example, while others may require you to use their in-house catering or other exclusive vendors, which could add to your costs. Make a spreadsheet with everything that’s included at each venue and weigh the diff erences in cost as a total package, not just the basic rental
fee. Remember, though, that price isn’t everything; going with the least expensive option may be good for your budget but it doesn’t do any good if it doesn’t meet your other needs.
Single site wedding and reception venues are a great way to go; if you decide to use separate locations it is a good idea to pick places that are close in proximity to avoid losing some guests. If you are looking for a venue that can accommodate a wedding weekend, you may want to look into campgrounds, farms, or estates that can rent the space to you and your guests for a few days. Keep in mind that you can often save money by having your wedding on a weekday or in the off -season. Being fl exible with your wedding date can also put you in a position to save money.
Wedding venues tend to book up quickly during popular times of the year. If you are planning to get married during the height of the Pacifi c Northwest wedding season (June through September), we encourage you to book your venue at least a year in advance and be prepared with a backup choice. You will typically be asked to make a deposit and sign a contract before the space is offi cially reserved. Pay attention to cancellation policies and other aspects of your contract that can aff ect you if you need to reschedule. Is there any fl exibility built into the contract?
We know you will fi nd the perfect space for your wedding celebration in Skagit, Stanwood, or Camano Island. Best wishes for a beautiful wedding. Skagit County
Wedding Venues
Couples choose Skagit County for their wedding for a variety of reasons including its natural beauty, stunning venues, attractive prices, and proximity to large cities. Conveniently located between Vancouver, B.C. and Seattle, WA, Skagit County has the heart of a small community with the conveniences of a big city.
Here are some of the beautiful wedding venues located in Skagit County:
The Anacortes Ship Harbor
Wedding Venues Inn Anacortes, 360-293-5177 Inn www.shipharborinn.com/ www.shipharborinn.com/ weddings/ weddings/ The Anacortes Ship Harbor Inn is perfect for a small wedding and reception or rehearsal dinner. This hidden treasure is nestled among six acres of towering trees and boasts water views from all rooms and a northerly view from their lawn event space. Sleeping accommodations are available for out-of-town guests. The experienced hospitality staff can assist you in planning every detail of your event for up to 175 people.
Beau Lodge
Beau Lodge is a very popular wedding venue featuring 70 acres of grounds with a pond and wooden bridges for outdoor settings. Wood cabins are used for indoor receptions. There is a banquet room that includes the use of tables, chairs and dishes, a kitchen, two large covered deck areas, and a gazebo. The average capacity for a winter party is 75 to 100 people and 150 to 200 people for a summer party.
Bertelsen Winery
Mount Vernon, sarah. bertelsenwinery@gmail.com bertelsenwinery@gmail.com https://bertelsenwinery.com/ https://bertelsenwinery.com/ the-vine/ the-vine/
Bertelsen Winery’s event center, “The Vine” is a great indoor space for weddings of up to 175 people. The dazzling crystal chandeliers and views of the beautiful vineyard through open or closed glass garage doors give the space a romantic touch. The Vine Event Center rental includes tables, chairs, serving tables, and bar tops. There is also an outdoor patio area north of The Vine (weather dependent), bartenders, mic and sound system, overhead digital projector, drop down screen, and parking attendants, if needed. Wine and beer are purchased through the winery and guests can bring their own prepared food or choose from preferred caterers.
Best Western Plus Skagit Valley Inn & Convention Center Valley Inn & Convention Center
Mount Vernon, 360-848-7553 www.skagitvalleyinn.com/ www.skagitvalleyinn.com/ skagit-valley-convention-center/ skagit-valley-convention-center/
The Best Western banquet room is a full-service facility for 50-300 guests. It off ers in-house catering with customizable menus, tables, chairs, linens, dishes, event staff , and clean-up. Convenient for out-of-town guests; group room reservations are available.
Eagle Haven Winery
Sedro-Woolley, 360-856-6248 http://www.eaglehavenwinery. http://www.eaglehavenwinery. com/venue-rentals.html com/venue-rentals.html
Located near Sedro-Woolley in the Upper Skagit Valley, Eagle Haven Winery showcases a beautiful vineyard, orchard, cask room, cooperage room, and wine garden. The Eagle Haven Winery off ers rustic, country charm with seating for up to 100 people in its event spaces.
Christianson’s Nursery & Greenhouse Greenhouse
Mount Vernon, 360-466-3821 www.christiansonsnursery. www.christiansonsnursery. com/weddings-gardencom/weddings-gardenweddings-schoolhouseweddings-schoolhouseweddings-vinery-weddings/ weddings-vinery-weddings/
Located in the heart of the beautiful Skagit Valley, the on-site historic 1888 Meadow Schoolhouse or The Vinery building and lovely rose gardens provide a charming venue for an intimate wedding celebration and reception. Kitchen facilities and bridal room available.
Croatian Cultural Center
The Croatian Cultural Center is a great place for your wedding or reception of up to 134 people. The site features a main auditorium with hardwood fl oor, great acoustics, a gallery entryway, large commercial kitchen, and private indoor, and outdoor courtyards.
Fidalgo Bay Resort
The Fidalgo Bay Resort convention center off ers a banquet room that can seat up to 250; the room can be divided into four sections as needed. There is a full kitchen available and a wide hallway that can be used for a buff et line.
Guemes Island Resort
A classic Pacifi c Northwest wedding venue; Guemes Island Resort is a beachfront retreat where the forest meets the sea. Make a memorable wedding with mountain and island views, onsite accommodations and catering, then pamper yourself in the woodfi red sauna and saltwater hot tub.
Hillcrest Lodge
Mount Vernon, 360-336-6215 www.mountvernonwa.gov/ www.mountvernonwa.gov/ facilities/Facility/Details/4 facilities/Facility/Details/4
Owned by the City of Mount Vernon, Hillcrest Lodge is a large log cabin located at Hillcrest Park in Mount Vernon. The lodge features
an open fl oor plan, open ceilings with exposed beams, a fi replace, a large kitchen, and a gated Japanese garden.
Lincoln Theatre
Mount Vernon, 360-419-7129 www.lincolntheatre.org/specialwww.lincolntheatre.org/specialevents events www.majesticinnandspa.com/ weddings.php www.maplehurstweddings.com www.mcintyrehall.org/facilityrentals/ www.moon-mountain-lodge.com www.portofanacortes.com/ rental-properties/ gmail.com www.santuccifarm.com
The historic Lincoln Theatre is a spectacular site for weddings. This fully restored space has character with that “certain something” and plenty of room for your celebration, all in a great location. The front rows of seating can be removed to allow for a thrust stage to be installed or to make room for tables, displays, or other activities.
Lodge at Cedar Springs
Set on 50 rural acres with Day Creek running through it, the Lodge at Cedar Springs is a unique farm-wedding venue. It features original 1903 farm structures that have been repurposed for both large and intimate events. The venue accommodates up to 150 guests and features two on-site locations. The Lodge off ers a large industrial kitchen, dining room and living room plus nine bedrooms and fi ve baths for up to 25 guests, and an 1800 square-foot multipurpose Big Room with sound system. Tent and RV sites are also available.
Majestic Inn & Spa
The beautifully restored Majestic Inn & Spa is located in the heart of downtown Anacortes. Its wedding venues include the Majestic Ballroom, the Rooftop Lounge, and the Garden Courtyard. The Majestic houses the Apothecary Day Spa, which allows for on-site hair and makeup for you and your bridal party. The rental fee includes set-up and clean-up, a consultation with their professional event specialist, event staff , bartender, linens, tables, and dishes. Coordination services available.
Maplehurst Farm
Maplehurst Farm sits alongside the picturesque Skagit River in south Mount Vernon. The farm’s six acres feature a view of Mount Baker. There is a historic mansion and arbor built in 1903, a 5,000 square foot event barn, gardens, trees, and a large grass fi eld with a beautiful tree lined drive leading up to the venue. The farm rental includes a full kitchen and bridal suite. This event space can accommodate up to 200 guests.
McIntyre Hall
McIntyre Hall showcases an elegant grand lobby, dramatic high-ceilings, and sophisticated architecture. Every aspect of your wedding will be tailored to your needs and budget. This venue off ers in-house catering and can seat up to 600 guests.
Moon Mountain Lodge
Moon Mountain Lodge off ers a casual wedding venue nestled in 20-acres of beautiful forest and open garden areas. There is a Cozy Cabin for the gals to get ready and then later, the honeymoon suite. The lodge has a prep kitchen with tables and an upstairs apartment for the guys. There is a central lawn area surrounded by gardens, a covered stage, dance fl oor, and a colorful bar area. Camping spots available for your guests.
Port of Anacortes Buildings
The Transit Shed is ideal for large weddings and receptions with a maximum capacity of 350. Site rental includes tables, chairs, a dance fl oor, two diff erent stages, and a PA system.
The Seafarers’ Memorial Park Building seats up to 125 and includes tables and chairs.
Santucci Farm
Santucci Farm is a beautiful blank canvas, ready to host your one-of-a-kind event. Rich in agricultural history dating back to the original homestead of 1883, the charming, historic barn and grounds can accommodate up to 125 guests. The venue rental includes natural wood folding chairs, cocktail tables, banquet
Skagit Casino Resort
The Skagit Casino Resort off ers full-service events featuring catering with specialized menus, luxurious accommodations, and the fun of a Las Vegas style casino. Very large to small, intimate parties are easily accommodated.
Stepping Stones Garden
This 1920s era country garden setting showcases masterfully planted gardens with fresh lavender and fl owers, extensive lawns, ponds, lit white tents, and functional amenities. The site can host up to 200 guests and rental includes tables, chairs, tents, a fi re pit, changing rooms, and more.
The Conway Muse
Located just fi ve minutes from Mount Vernon, the Conway Muse features beautiful gardens that house a majestic willow tree, a sanctuary, a large outdoor wood fi re grill, and a fi replace. This is a full-service facility and includes catering, liquor license, offi ciant, entertainers, musicians, DJs, event staffi ng, and high-quality audio and lighting equipment. The venue has three rooms that can accommodate any size party, ranging from 10-500.
The Grand Willow Inn
The Grand Willow Inn accommodates up to 200 guests in their outdoor or indoor ceremony spaces. There are tiny wedding and all-inclusive packages that include in-house catering to take the work out of creating your special day. Choose a picturesque outdoor wedding in one of the beautiful garden gazebos or an indoor event in the stunning Grand Room. The Grand Room features 18- foothigh ceilings and six sets of double French doors that look out onto the front and back courtyard gardens.
The Saltbox Barn on Fir Island
The Saltbox Barn on Fir Island is located just fi ve minutes from the I-5. It off ers a rural feel inspired by the beautiful farmlands of the Skagit Valley. The venue accommodates 150 guests in the event barn and features a bridal suite and groom’s room, a preparation area for the caterer, a custom fi re pit, and onsite parking. The 60-acre property features three barns spread over two acres and one-acre of grass with options for the ceremony and reception. Couples have access to a high-quality sound system, folding wood chairs, banquet tables, and decorative props such as a vintage Airstream.
Thousand Trails Campgrounds
Bow, 1-888-481-6348 http://www.thousandtrails. http://www.thousandtrails. com/washington/mountcom/washington/mountvernon-rv-campground/events vernon-rv-campground/events
Thousand Trails off ers a large, casual lodge nestled in a beautiful setting with mountains and rivers as your backdrop. A full kitchen, tables, chairs, and other amenities are on site. Camping, cabins, and RV hookups are available for your wedding party and out-of-town guests.
Town of La Conner Facilities
La Conner, 360-466-3125 http://www.townoflaconner. http://www.townoflaconner. org/facilities org/facilities
La Conner Civic Garden Club is a vintage La Conner landmark originally built as a Grange Hall in 1875; it is listed on the National Historic Register. The building is located in the heart of La Conner on South Second Street and can accommodate approximately 75 guests.
Overlooking the channel, Maple Hall and Maple Center is a beautiful, modern facility located in the heart of historic downtown La Conner. This venue accommodates up to 200 guests banquet style or 300 reception style and has excellent acoustics for music.
Pioneer Park is located on a wooded hill overlooking the Swinomish Channel. The park has cooking facilities and a covered eating area with tables, benches, and restroom facilities. The park also features a bandstand located in a natural amphitheater.
Tree Farm Weddings
Tree Farm Weddings is located at Big Lake Trees, a 20-acre Christmas tree farm located in south Skagit County, near the south end of Big Lake, and just 15 minutes from downtown Mount Vernon. The venue is an LGBTQ
and transgender safe space. The farm features an outdoor space on a level, grassy fi eld with a rustic arbor backing up to a small pond and surrounded by Christmas trees and woodland. There is room for a large tent but there are not currently any indoor areas for a reception or ceremony. There is a canvas “glamping style” tent that can be used for dressing and two small covered areas, adjacent to beautiful outbuildings. This space is ideal for smaller weddings, with a site capacity of 50 people.
Vanderveen Farm
Vanderveenfarm Vanderveenfarm
Vanderveen Farm is a 100-yearold renovated Dairy Farm located right off of Memorial Highway in the midst of the fl at plains and farm land in Mount Vernon. The event venue is surrounded by crop fi elds, beautiful gardens, and a collection of surrounding barns perfect for photography. The barn holds 200-250 guests with an indoor/outdoor ceremony option and a reception area downstairs. There are bride and groom “get ready” rooms, a deck perfect for cocktail hour or dancing, and some décor pieces, including two wood bars and wine barrels.
Weddings & Special Events Center at Swinomish Casino & Center at Swinomish Casino & Lodge Lodge
Anacortes, 360-588-3705 www.swinomishcasinoandlodge. www.swinomishcasinoandlodge. com/meetings/weddings com/meetings/weddings
The 9,000 square foot event center inside the Swinomish Casino & Lodge features vaulted ceilings, breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and Padilla Bay and an inviting atmosphere that will accommodate 10 to 500 guests with a variety of fl oor plans. This unique venue is all inclusive; with Las Vegas style gaming, 94 luxury rooms, four spacious suites, and a hospitality suite perfect for bridal party preparation. experiences with or without a canopy and there is ample parking for parties as large as 200 people.
Stanwood & Camano Island Wedding Island Wedding Venues Venues
Whispering Firs Bed & Breakfast and Lodge Breakfast and Lodge
Mount Vernon, 360-428-1990 www.whisperingfirs.com/ www.whisperingfirs.com/ weddings/ weddings/
Wooded seclusion, ponds, streams, fl owers, and breathtaking views of the San Juan Islands and Olympic Mountains make for a beautiful wedding backdrop. The 3,000 square foot deck is a popular choice for outdoor ceremonies with seating for 150 plus guests. The lodge, with its massive stone fi replace, seats up to 125 guests and is ideal for cold weather weddings or as a backup on a rainy day. The full rental package includes everything you need for your event.
Wisteria Gardens
Anacortes, 360-399-8237 www.wisteriagardensllc. www.wisteriagardensllc. com/our-services/weddingscom/our-services/weddingsreceptions/ receptions/
Wisteria Gardens (formerly Greenfi eld Farm and Gardens) is a rustic venue located just east of Anacortes with gardens, a 5,000 square foot barn for indoor receptions plus a bridal dressing room and a log cabin for the guys. Your guests will experience unforgettable hospitality, the chicken house bustling with hens, the funky greenhouse, and the grain bin turned beverage bar. The generous grounds lend themselves to several beautiful outdoor
With easy access from Seattle, both Stanwood and Camano Island off er special wedding venues sure to match a variety of wedding styles and budgets. Located in Snohomish County between Everett and Seattle, Stanwood has a small town feel and is known for its quiet neighborhoods and walkability. Camano Island is a large island in the Puget Sound, nestled between Whidbey Island and the mainland. Residents and tourists come to enjoy the stunning ocean views of Saratoga Passage and the natural beauty and calm of island life.
Here are some of the beautiful wedding venues located in Stanwood and Camano Island:
Camano Center
Weddings at the Camano Center accommodate up to 200 guests. Rental includes event staff , tables and chairs, lit private parking for your guests, and more. Camano Center Catering off ers customized, full-service catering.
Camano Country Club
With views of Port Susan Bay and Mt. Baker, the Camano Country Club off ers a waterfront
banquet hall ideal for weddings and receptions. The venue accommodates up to 200 guests and includes setup and teardown, a built-in stereo system, tables, chairs, dishes, and silverware. Bring in your own caterer or prepare food yourself in the event kitchen.
Camano Island Inn
Camano Island, 360-387-0783 www.camanoislandinn.com/ www.camanoislandinn.com/ weddings-and-more weddings-and-more
Breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and groomed gardens provide a beautiful backdrop for your wedding. The Camano Island Inn off ers an intimate, tranquil setting perfect for a romantic day. In colder months, indoor weddings are available next to the beach stone fi replace. The inn off ers nine rooms for overnight guests. Inhouse catering required. https://www.sahs-fncc. org/?page_id=4 www.happyhollowfarm.org/ weddings theclubhouseat7lakes.org https://theclubhouseat7lakes. org/club-rental/ or 360-629-6500 425-244-5390 https://odd-fellows.org/ programs/camps-and-parks/ (scroll down to Washington)
Floyd Norgaard Cultural Center
Renting “The Floyd” for your wedding includes access to the fi rst fl oor of a rehabilitated 110-year-old historic “western false front” public hall. The building has an attached service annex with restrooms and an equipped serving kitchen. The room features beautiful hardwood fl oors and can seat up to 160 guests in banquet style.
Four Springs House
Nestled in a 50-acre nature preserve on Camano Island, Four Springs House off ers a beautiful, peaceful retreat setting for your wedding and reception. Larger parties can be accommodated outside by the lake, while more intimate weddings may be held indoors in the Main House or Meadow Room. Rental includes tables and chairs for up to 135 guests.
Happy Hollow Farm
Happy Hollow Farm is an intimate and beautiful venue located in the hills of western Washington. There is an outdoor space for the ceremony and reception that can fi t up to around 150 people and an indoor barn space that can fi t up to 40 people. It is strongly recommended to rent a tent. There are spacious gardens for photos, and tables and seating for up to 120 guests. A bridal suite is included and a wedding coordinator is required.
Kristoferson Farm
Kristoferson Farm is a familyowned farm on Camano Island. Acquired in 1912, the farm has been an active agricultural enterprise for over 100 years. It has been passed down through six generations of the Kristoferson family with a focus on sustainable and organic farming practices. Host your wedding in the Kristoferson Farm’s 100-year-old barn.
Lake Goodwin Community Center
Nested in the heart of beautiful Seven Lakes, The Clubhouse is a fully renovated 60×100 facility that will seat 230 with a total capacity of 300. There is an outside covered barbecue area with a portable barbecue, ample paved parking, a wood burning rock fi replace, a portable bar, and a fully equipped kitchen. Rental includes tables and chairs and access to a private upstairs lounge area.
Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon
Host your wedding and/or reception at Loco Billy’s Wild Moon Saloon in Stanwood. A full commercial kitchen is available for use by you or a caterer for an extra charge. Rental price varies according to your desired day and time and whether you will use the DJ sound system, stage, etc.
Odd Fellows Park & Hall
Odd Fellows Park & Hall features a two-story hall with a large kitchen and full bathrooms in a park-like setting for indoor or outdoor ceremonies and celebrations. There are 50 additional parking spaces and 16 R/V hook-ups (water & electricity only) that are a practical option for out-of-town guests.
Silvana Viking Hall
Located in the small town of Silvana, just south of Stanwood, the Silvana Viking Hall is available for weddings and receptions. Event rental includes a large dance fl oor, raised stage area with lights, sound system, private changing room, and large kitchen facility. www.grange.org/ stillaguamishwa1058/rentals/ www.thefineryoncamano.com/ contact www.thefineryoncamano.com/ weddings theladyflorence.com/contact-us www.theladyflorence.com/ weddings https://thesecretgardenestate. com/
Stillaguamish Grange Hall
This community hall fi ts up to 200 guests in banquet style seating and is very aff ordably priced. The venue includes ample guest parking, a full kitchen, tables and chairs, a hardwood auditorium with stage, and a back room for bridal dressing. and groom suites. Parties of up to 200 people can be accommodated. Facilities rental includes 200 white chairs, tables, a prep kitchen, and a full bar area with kegerator.
The Lady Florence
The Lady Florence is a 30-acre family estate with picturesque farm fi elds and rolling gardens and views of Port Susan Bay/ Camano Island. This venue has multiple ceremony spaces for up to 300 people. The historically restored 1912 site has a 6,000 square foot home and property, situated alongside the Stillaguamish River, south of town. Package rentals include a bridal suite and groom lounge, an outdoor covered kitchen with sink and full wood-fi red pizza oven, and a lit white tent.
The Secret Garden
The Secret Garden is a stunning outdoor venue and event space in Stanwood’s Lake Goodwin area, sitting on fi ve scenic acres of magical trees and nature. There is a gorgeous arch and bridge for the ceremony. For the reception, a tent, tables and chairs, and a cedar bar/cocktail area are provided, along with parking attendants and groom and bridal suites. This wedding venue can host parties with up to 125 people.
The Finery
The Finery off ers an intimate outdoor wedding venue nestled on a secluded fi ve-acres, perfect for elopements or small weddings. The rental fee includes bridal suite, groom house, tables, chairs, patio heaters, covered bar, lounge and reception areas, a huge fi re pit, and outdoor music system.
The Hitching Post
Located in Stanwood, the Hitching Post off ers picturesque ceremony areas, stunning reception space, and large bridal
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7thandCommercialinAnacortesWashington•888-293-6469 Open10:30-5:00Tuesday-Saturday REGISTEREDJEWELER AMERICANGEMSOCIETY
