5 reasons why you should consider a museum wedding

Barns are nice. Churches, nice. Beaches, also nice. While weddings at these types of venues are lovely, there’s no doubting that they are popular. And while popularity rises for a reason, there is no shame in a bride wanting her day to feel truly unique.

For brides hoping to shake up guests’ expectations of what a chic wedding looks like, cast your attention to the arts. There are many reasons you should consider a museum setting for your big day—here are the top five.

1. Museums are different.

Some brides pride themselves on being the most interesting and avant-garde in their groups. And a rustic barn wedding doesn’t exactly scream “cutting-edge.” Your venue should match your personality, and museums check a lot of boxes for various kinds of couples. Not only are museums often forgotten as wedding venues, but they also offer a lot of venue variety. Depending on the museum you choose, your venue can be classy, grandiose, romantic, modern, or just plain artsy while remaining unique.

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2. Cash in on existing decor.

Consider yourself to be pretty low-fuss? Don’t love the idea of buying a bunch of decorations to spiff up a plain ballroom? A museum wedding may be your savior. By hosting the cocktail hour, ceremony, and reception in galleries and atriums, you sidestep the need for decor. What better art could you ask for than what’s already hanging in the museum? Museums are stylish and eye-catching by nature and will require minimal decorating on your end.

3. Support the arts.

Support the arts with a museum wedding. While you’re not directly contributing to the procurement of works, you are certainly supporting the museum’s mission by booking an event there. If you needed an extra push towards saying ‘I do’ in a museum, just think about all the local, regional, national, and/or international artists you’re supporting with your choice.

4. Museums are experienced with big events.

While certain venues may seem charming for their rarity as wedding venues, be weary about booking there. Fewer weddings means less experience, and when you only have one day, one chance, to get married, you may want a venue that’s experienced. Museums are accustomed to organizing and hosting large events, as they do it often. The event experience of the venue is certainly something to keep in mind when booking the backdrop to your big day.

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5. Museums are authentic.

Give out-of-town guests a true Charlotte experience with an uptown museum venue such as the Bechtler or the Mint Museum. The city vibe will set the scene for your wedding day, while the venue shows a real look into the city’s culture. There’s just something that feels so cool about mingling amongst real art in a local museum rather than in a cookie-cutter venue that’s made only for events. Treat yourself and your guests to an authentic experience with a locally-infused museum wedding.

This story was originally published November 15, 2018 at 9:00 PM.