If you’re looking for wedding venues within a few hours of Seattle, wow do I have three great options for you! I’ve shot at each of these places and immensely enjoyed working at all three.
1. Tierra Retreat Center
This beautiful Leavenworth venue is perfect for a couple who has a unique vision for their wedding day. When I shot Eva & MJ’s wedding here, they had a ceremony in the morning, a waterslide party in the afternoon, and a dinner with dancing in the evening. Most of their guests stayed on site in the various lodges and rooms on the property.
The grounds are stunning. As we took photos, we walked through the forest trails, posed in lavender fields, and explored the tree lined roads. The ceremony site is particularly unique (though not the most easily accessible for all people, since it does involve walking uphill). The site is built into the pine trees and the seating is arranged like an amphitheater. It’s so captivating and feels perfectly northwest in its ambiance.
2. Kingston House
I absolutely love Kingston house. I shot Kelly & John’s wedding here and it was the most picturesque day. Kingston house is perfect for a more traditional couple that wants to put a unique spin on their festivities. Maybe you want a little more space than a Seattle venue can offer you. Perhaps you want to give your guests the feeling of being hours away from home, while only being a short drive (or a shorter ferry!) from the city. Whatever the case, you can’t go wrong with Kingston house. I highly recommend having your family or wedding party stay on site at the house. I still can’t get over the dried lavender-lined hallway ceiling. It’s unique touches like that which make this venue one to remember.
This venue has stunning lavender fields and plenty of space for you and your guests to explore. I loved Kelly & John’s set up, where they had dinner in the open air, yet covered, space and then went outside for dancing. And my god, did these people dance. You’re sure to have a lively and elegant party here.
3. Mazama Ranch House
This Winthrop-adjacent venue is the furthest outside of Seattle, but well worth the trip. It’s particularly fitting to a couple who loves the outdoors but doesn’t want to take their friends and family on a 5 mile hiking adventure wedding. When I shot M & Jon’s wedding here, it was a dream to have their wedding party walking through the grasses with the mountains in the background. I loved how intimate and loving the ceremony felt beneath the grandeur of the mountains. Most guests also stayed onsite at this venue, but there are numerous opportunities for camping close by.
One of my favorite aspects of this venue is having the sweetest general store onsite. Their coffee is excellent, their sandwiches are delicious, and you’ll probably walk away with a beanie or mug after visiting. You’ll feel right at home in Mazama.
If you’d like to see more vendor recommendations, download my wedding guide! And if you’d like to see more of my wedding work, visit the wedding portfolio.
