Best Places To Get Married: A Guide for Newly Engaged Couples
You said yes! The engagement ring’s on your finger, and you’re officially stepping into the chapter of planning your wedding. First off, congratulations. Now comes the exciting (and slightly chaotic) part: deciding where to get married.
If you’ve already searched for the best places to get married, you’ve probably realized there are a lot of options: beaches, ballrooms, barns, mountaintops and so much more. Don’t worry. We’ll walk through some of the most popular places to tie the knot, share ideas for unexpected venues and offer a few tips to make planning easier along the way.
Why Where You Get Married Matters
When you think about your wedding day, what do you picture? Maybe it’s a sunset ceremony by the water or a quiet backyard gathering with just you, your partner, your family and your closest friends. Wherever it happens, your wedding setting becomes part of the memories you’ll tell for years.
Choosing where to get married also shapes everything else: your outfit, your guest list, your budget and the kind of rings you’ll be exchanging. For example, a mountaintop ceremony calls for something sleek and simple, while a grand ballroom might inspire a bit more sparkle. The right setting brings your story to life. It’s the foundation of every memory, every photo and every happy tear.
Your dream venue doesn’t have to come with a dream-size price tag, either. When browsing through lists of the best places to get married, it’s easy to focus on fancy destinations, but the best weddings are about the people, not the price. What matters most is how it feels when you say “I do.”
At Modern Gents, we believe your love deserves a venue (and a ring) that feels genuine, not overhyped or overpriced. Our handcrafted wedding ring sets are designed for real couples with real budgets, because love doesn’t need luxury to last.
Best Places to Get Married in the U.S.
The U.S. has no shortage of amazing places to tie the knot, from barefoot beach vows to rustic candlelit receptions. Here are some of the best places to get married in the U.S., no matter your style or budget.
For the Beach Lovers
If you’ve ever dreamed of saying your vows with your toes in the sand and the ocean as your witness, coastal weddings never disappoint.
- Maui offers jaw-dropping sunsets and laid-back aloha energy.
- Key West is known for its pastel charm and golden-hour perfection.
- The Outer Banks in North Carolina delivers natural beauty without the crowds.
Style tip: Lighter metals like men’s silver rings pair beautifully with ocean tones and sun-kissed backdrops.
For the Nature Lovers
If mountains, forests or desert landscapes are more your speed, consider spots like Yosemite National Park, the Smoky Mountains or Sedona. These locations offer incredible views and a relaxed, natural feel.
You don’t need to go overboard with decor. Nature already does most of the work. Just remember that some parks require wedding permits, so check the rules early when planning. If you’re leaning toward a rustic or boho vibe, check out our guide to wedding themes for more inspiration.
For the City Lovers
City weddings bring their own kind of sparkle: rooftop “I dos” with skyline views, elegant lofts in Chicago or even a spontaneous Las Vegas chapel moment. For couples who thrive on energy, movement and modern design, urban venues provide the perfect mix of excitement and elegance.
Cities also offer all-inclusive convenience: world-class catering, nearby hotels and instant nightlife for the afterparty. Just remember to sneak away for a few quiet photos. The best shots usually happen off the beaten path.
For the Backyard Dreamers
There’s something special about a wedding at home: string lights, good food, familiar faces. It’s simple and easy to make your own. Whether it’s your childhood backyard or a friend’s garden, these intimate celebrations can end up being the most meaningful.
The key is focusing on what matters: connection, comfort and the people you love most.
If your wedding day is all about comfort and connection, your engagement ring should be too. Modern Gents creates handcrafted, conflict-free rings designed to celebrate love without the luxury markup.
Shop Classic Gold Engagement Rings
Best International Places to Get Married
Destination weddings are a great way to combine your ceremony and honeymoon into one unforgettable trip. Whether you’re drawn to European charm or a tropical escape, there are plenty of beautiful places to get married abroad without stretching your budget.
The Classic Romantic Getaway
Paris, the Amalfi Coast and Santorini are practically made for wedding vows. Between the cobblestone streets, pastel villas, and sunset views that could make anyone tear up, these spots have “happily ever after” written all over them.
Couples who crave timeless elegance will love these destinations for their effortless beauty and cuisine (let’s be honest, no one’s complaining about an Italian wedding dinner). Just plan ahead for paperwork and travel logistics. Also, a small guest list can make these dream locales surprisingly affordable.
Pro tip: Visit your venue during the off-season if you can. You’ll typically find lower rates, fewer crowds and the same breathtaking views.
The Adventurous Elopement
If you’d rather trade the ballroom for a mountain trail or a hidden waterfall, places like Iceland, New Zealand and Bali offer incredible backdrops for your vows. These locations are perfect for couples who want something small but a little bit spontaneous.
They’re also easier on the wallet than you might think. Many destinations now offer streamlined elopement packages that take care of the details, like permits, flowers, officiants and professional photography. That way, you can relax and enjoy the moment.
The Hidden Gems
Some of the best-kept secrets for couples on a budget are right in places like Mexico’s Riviera Maya, Costa Rica’s rainforests and Portugal’s coastal towns. These spots offer a mix of stunning scenery, warm hospitality and vendors who know how to make planning easy from miles away.
What makes these destinations stand out is how effortlessly they balance beauty and accessibility. You can find boutique resorts that handle everything in one package (from the flowers to the food to the photography), typically for a fraction of what you’d spend in more traditional locations. And with shorter flights and flexible options, your guests can actually afford to join in on the celebration, too.
Unique and Unexpected Wedding Locations
Not everyone dreams of a beach or ballroom wedding, and that’s the beauty of it. The best places to get married don’t always show up on Pinterest’s first page. Sometimes, they’re tucked away in vineyards, art galleries or your favorite hiking trail. Consider some of these ideas if you’re looking for a setting that feels unexpected and completely your own.
National Parks and Forest Lodges
If you and your partner spend weekends exploring hiking trails or chasing waterfalls, a national park wedding might feel like a dream come true. Picture exchanging vows in a redwood grove or under a blanket of stars near the Grand Canyon. Plus, lodges and outdoor venues let nature do the decorating for you, so no floral arch required.
Just remember to check for permits and pack for changing weather. A few layers (and your rings) are must-haves, too.
Vineyards and Barns
Rustic weddings continue to win hearts because they blend elegance with comfort. A vineyard wedding in Napa Valley or a historic barn in Vermont sets the stage for cozy, candlelit celebrations that feel timeless and grounded.
These venues offer a balance between charm and chic, perfect for couples who love warmth and a little bit of vintage flair. Wooden tables, string lights and fresh florals turn these spaces into instant magic.
Modern Minimalist Spaces
Industrial lofts, rooftop gardens and modern event spaces are great for couples who want a clean, contemporary look. These venues are blank canvases, so you can keep things simple or add color and texture to make them stand out.
Minimalist weddings are proof that less really is more. A sleek space highlights what matters most: you, your partner and the promise you’re making.
Tips for Planning a Stress-Free Destination Wedding
You’ve found the best place to get married. Maybe it’s a tropical beach, a mountaintop villa or a centuries-old courtyard halfway around the world. Now comes the tricky part: putting it all together without losing your sanity (or your passport).
Destination weddings are unforgettable, but they do take a little extra planning. Here are a few tips to help you focus on what matters most: celebrating your love and enjoying the trip.
Start Planning Early
Give yourself at least a year if you can. That extra time helps you snag flight deals, secure your dream venue and handle paperwork like travel visas or marriage certificates. Early planning also gives your guests plenty of time to budget, request time off and RSVP.
Know the Legal Details
Every country has its own rules for foreign weddings, from required residency days to document translation. Double-check local laws or work with a planner who knows the process. You don’t want any surprises at customs or, worse, mid-ceremony.
Budget for the Extras
It’s easy to focus on airfare and venue costs, but don’t forget the smaller details that add up, like travel insurance, baggage fees, shipping decor or extra luggage for attire. Build a little cushion into your budget for unexpected costs so you’re not stressed about surprises right before the big day.
Pack Smart (and Sentimental)
Carry your wedding rings, dress and any important accessories in your carry-on. If luggage gets lost, you’ll still have the essentials. Also, add a few practical extras, too. A travel-size stain remover, bandages and a sewing kit can come in handy when you least expect them.
Communicate Clearly with Guests
Destination weddings mean coordinating across time zones, budgets and travel schedules. Create a shared itinerary or wedding website so everyone knows what to expect, including travel tips, dress code and local activities. Keeping guests informed reduces last-minute questions and helps everyone relax.
Delegate and Simplify
You don’t have to do everything yourself. Many resorts and destination venues offer on-site coordinators who handle vendors, decor and day-of details. If you’re planning independently, consider hiring a local planner who speaks the language and knows trusted contacts. It lets you breathe a little and actually enjoy your wedding week.
Plan for the Weather
Outdoor destinations can be unpredictable, especially in tropical or mountain climates. Have a simple backup plan for rain or heat, like a covered space or shaded area, and always confirm with your venue what’s included in case of a last-minute switch.
Focus on What’s Real
A destination wedding doesn’t need to be perfect. It just needs to feel like you. The view, the weather or a few last-minute hiccups won’t matter when you’re standing next to your partner. Focus on connection, not perfection. That’s the moment you’ll remember most.
The Best Place To Get Married Is Where It Feels Right
After all the planning, Pinterest boards and late-night venue debates, the truth is that there’s no single best place to get married. It’s wherever you’re standing with the person you love most. That’s what makes it perfect.
At Modern Gents, we believe your love story deserves something real and lasting. Our handcrafted, conflict-free rings are designed to celebrate every kind of “I do,” no matter where it happens.