Cincinnati may be thousands of miles away from Europe, but you don’t need to book a transatlantic flight to experience the old-world charm and elegance of European architecture for your wedding.
As wedding photographers with a passion for capturing the essence of historic beauty, we are sharing our top five Cincinnati wedding venues that will make your special day feel like a European fairytale. These stunning locations not only boast incredible architectural beauty but also provide ideal settings for photography, lighting, and a seamless wedding experience all in one place.
In NO Particular order, we are starting off with Peterloon Estate! Let’s talk about it…
Peterloon Estate
History and Architecture: Peterloon Estate is a beautiful mansion located in Indian Hill. Built in the late 1920s by John Emery, a Cincinnati businessman, this estate was his family home where he lived with his wife and children. The estate’s architecture is considered a Georgian-Queen Anne Style home and features 36 rooms, 21 bathrooms and 19 fireplaces. Peterloon Estate was modeled after a home in Brussels, Belguim and includes many pieces of decor and flooring from 17th and 18th century homes in France and England. Its charming architecture is very reminiscent of manors found in the English countryside.
Why Choose Peterloon Estate for your wedding: Imagine walking down a gravel path surrounded by manicured gardens, lush greenery, and the façade of the estate behind you. Peterloon Estate provides a picturesque backdrop for wedding photography, with its expansive lawns and elegant interiors offering endless possibilities.
Photography and Lighting: Peterloon Estate is a photographer’s dream with its natural light pouring through large windows, creating soft, flattering light for portraits. The gardens and patios also offer a variety of scenic spots for outdoor photos, capturing the essence of an English garden wedding.
Pinecroft at Crosley Estate
History and Architecture: Built in the 1928 by Powel Crosley Jr., the Pinecroft at Crosley Estate is a striking example of Tudor architecture, drawing inspiration from medieval English and European designs. The estate features stone facades, ornate woodwork, and interiors that transport you back in time.
Why Choose Pinecroft for your wedding: The estate’s European inspired gardens, pond and stone archways, evoke the romance of a European castle. Pinecroft offers multiple ceremony sites with lush outdoor spaces as well as a covered reception space that is a great canvas for any wedding design. The versatility of this venue makes it perfect for capturing the magic of your wedding day from every angle.
Photography and Lighting: The estate’s large windows and rich wood interiors provide a warm, inviting vibe for indoor photography. Outside, the gardens are ideal for golden hour portraits and created a breathtaking, ethereal ambiance.
Laurel Court
History and Architecture: Laurel Court, also known as the Peter G. Thomson House, was constructed in the early 1900s. This “Gilded Age” mansion (or shall we say palace) showcases French-inspired architecture, with its grand columns and granite exterior carvings. The opulence and attention to detail in its design are reminiscent of a French chateau.
Why Choose Laurel Court: For couples seeking a wedding venue that exudes French elegance and sophistication, Laurel Court is the perfect choice. The estate’s formal gardens, with their meticulously manicured lawns and vibrant flowers, provide a stunning backdrop for an outdoor ceremony. Inside, the mansion’s lavish interiors, including a large staircase and richly decorated rooms, offer a regal setting for your reception or a place to take portraits.
Photography and Lighting: Laurel Court’s architecture and gardens are ideal for creating timeless, romantic wedding photos. The abundance of natural light and shadow in the mansion’s rooms and courtyard enhances the beauty of bridal portraits, while the outdoor gardens offer diverse settings for capturing candid moments, family photos, ceremonies and receptions.
Greenacres Art Center
History and Architecture: Greenacres Art Center which is part of the Green Acres Foundation, was built in the 1920s and was bought and restored by the Nippert Charitable Foundation in 1998. The estate was first owned by Julius Fleischmann, and served as the host to many fox hunting events which was a popular past time during this era. The Art Center’s architecture and stately design makes you feel as if you are standing in the middle of a European Countryside. The stone facade and ornate design both inside and out reflects the elegance of European country homes.
Why Choose Greenacres Art Center: Greenacres combines historical charm with natural beauty, offering multiple venues within its expansive grounds. The tranquil gardens, picturesque fountains, and stately home create a serene and sophisticated environment for your wedding. Whether you choose to say your vows under a canopy of gorgeous trees or have cocktail hour near the grandeur of the manor’s grotto, Greenacres provides a setting that is both beautiful and versatile.
Photography and Lighting: The expansive grounds of Greenacres provide a variety of scenic backdrops for wedding photography and is ultimately a photographer’s dream. Inside the home, the large windows and expansive rooms also provide a great space to capture portraits and other special moments on your big day with beautiful lighting.
Meshewa House
History and Architecture: Meshewa House, part of the Indian Hill Historical Society, is a stunning example of architecture that reminds us of a bygone era. Built in the late 1920s and early 30s, the house is very reminiscent of an old world Italian villa but with all of the modern amenities. Meshewa, meaning “horse” in Shawnee, was the backdrop of the original owner’s equestrian program which later included the neighboring Turner Farm.
Why Choose Meshewa House for your wedding: Meshewa House offers a unique blend of historical charm and country-like beauty, making it an ideal venue for a wedding with a European flair. The house is surrounded by lush gardens and rolling fields, providing a calm and picturesque setting. The intimate and elegant atmosphere of Meshewa House is perfect for couples looking to celebrate their special day in a setting that feels both exclusive and inviting.
Photography and Lighting: The architecture of Meshewa House, combined with its green surroundings, offers many photographic opportunities. The soft light filtering through the house’s tall windows enhances the beauty of indoor shots, while its expansive acreage and scenic fields provide breathtaking backdrops for outdoor photos, especially during golden hour.
So those are our top 5 venues that transport you to Europe!
Each of these five venues offers a unique blend of European architecture and natural beauty, providing the perfect setting for a wedding that feels like a step into a European fairytale. As wedding photographers, we are constantly inspired by the intricate details, historical significance, and stunning backdrops that these venues offer. Whether you’re dreaming of an English manor, a French chateau, or an Italian villa, Cincinnati’s Peterloon Estate, Pinecroft at Crosley Estate, Laurel Court, Greenacres Art Center, and Meshewa House can bring your vision to life, making your wedding day unforgettable.
By choosing one of these venues, you ensure that your wedding not only reflects your love story but also offers an unparalleled experience for your guests. With their stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and excellent lighting conditions, these venues provide endless opportunities for capturing the magic of your special day through timeless, romantic photography. Let these Cincinnati gems transport you and your guests to Europe, creating memories that will be cherished forever.
