landlocked bride® | midwest + mountain west wedding inspiration

Last week I showcased some beautiful outdoor and lakeside venue’s in Minnesota, this week we look at some of the most beautiful, elaborate, and magnificent mansions the Midwest has to offer. These historical masterpieces are stunning backdrops to your wedding day. From the detailed structure of the exterior, to the sophistication of the rooms inside, these venues are truly one of a kind.

 Joliet, Illinois – The Patrick C. Haley Mansion

Miller+Miller

Milwaukee, Wisconsin – The Pabst Mansion
M Three Studio

St. Louis, Missouri – The Lemp Mansion Tom & Jerry – Schmidt Photo

Carmel, Indiana – The Mansion at Oak Hill Nate Crouch Photography

Golden, Colorado – Boettcher Mansion

Stephanie A. Smith Photography

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The Midwest and Mountain West have so many beautiful wedding venues to choose from, so you tell us, are you a lakeside or a mansion type of bride?

Let’s face it, we’re not all getting married in a house of worship.  So, how do you make your ceremony location stand out in a unique way? Flowers are the old standby.  Now, brides, stylists and planners are scouring for fun and unique ways for the altar to pop. Through color, textiles and found objects, the mission is accomplished.

Felix Gonzalez-Torres via Green Wedding Shoes

Having an evening warehouse / loft wedding? Hang strands of light from the ceiling for a simple yet dramatic look (with the added detail of ambient lighting).

Focus Photography via Green Wedding Shoes

Your grandfather loved clocks? Honor him with an eclectic collection of vintage clocks as your backdrop. Not only is this quirky and fun, but it’s a nod to your beloved family member.

The Nichols via Style Me Pretty

Jason + Anna Photography via Style Me Pretty

Having an outdoor ceremony? Add streamers to the trees to create a colorful backdrop, and a dramatic element when the wind blows.  Or, use found objects, like Allison did with these old doors, and string a fun phrase to frame the shot.

Paige Newton Photography via 100 Layer Cake

Want to add a pop of color? Aim for something dramatic using colorful textiles and votives, hanging them against a muted wall, from a tree or wherever the color will shine.

Jenny Jimenez via Style Me Pretty

Are you a teacher, or just a lover of chalkboards? Create this backdrop using design cues from your stationer. Not only does it make a fun ceremony backdrop, but it also is the perfect background for your photobooth.

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Your ceremony backdrop is the perfect opportunity to add a little flair and personality. How did you (or will you) spruce up your ceremony spot?

While you’re busy keeping it simple, remember to keep it fun, too. After all, this should be one of the happiest days of your life, and you should spend it having fun*.

Images courtesy of MNC Photography

*Yes, that is Elmo. And, yes, I find it extremely hilarious. As should you.

When your venue(s) has a ton of character, why over complicate things? Well, really, why over complicate things, period?  Keep your details simple and meaningful. And, use your surroundings to your advantage.

Images courtesy of MNC Photography

So, if you haven’t already picked up on the fact that I am a HUGE (which is an understatement) fan of baseball and the St. Louis Cardinals, here’s your chance to figure it out.

Local photographer, Benjamin Trevor, was lucky enough to photograph a wedding on home plate at Busch Stadium.  Here’s to hoping the Cardinals kick a little butt today for their Home Opener against the Houston Astros.

Benjamin Trevor Photography

What an enchantingly romantic ceremony location?!

Image courtesy of Jeff Greenough Photographers via Southern Weddings

Well, hello there gorgeous lakeside ceremony venue. Too bad you’re located in Pennsylvania.

Image courtesy of Jenna Walker Photographers

Do you know of any great Midwest hidden gems perfect for a ceremony? If so, please share!