Recently a video went viral of Elijah Wood surprising a couple at their wedding in The Shire. We loved everything about it, from the celebrity’s sweet gesture to the couple’s giddy excitement and the beautiful backdrop of the movie set.
As more and more couples opt for non-traditional weddings, unique venues like Hobbiton are rising in popularity. Looking for a one-of-a-kind wedding venue of your own? Here are ten of our favorite unique venues plus creative save-the-date and favor ideas for each theme.
Aquariums
There might be other fish in the sea, but not at this party! Say “I do” to your perfect match with an underwater celebration. Aquariums offer a peaceful yet vibrant atmosphere that will surprise and delight your guests.
Save the date: watercolor invitation
Favor: sea glass keychain
Zoos
If you’re an animal lover who prefers dry land, consider hosting your wedding at a zoo. Many zoos offer private event spaces with stunning backdrops of lions and tigers and bears (oh my!).
Save the date: custom safari ticket
Favor: animal crackers
Theatres
This one’s for the movie buffs and musical theatre fans. There are so many beautiful, historic theatre venues in the United States — why not take your love story to the stage? With a theatre as your venue, you can turn the entire celebration into a Hollywood affair.
Save the date: custom movie poster
Favor: his and hers movie theater snacks
Libraries
If you prefer books over movies, a library might be your ideal wedding venue. The quiet romance of old books and grand architecture makes for a timeless and elegant celebration.
Save the date: a custom book checkout slip
Favor: custom bookmark
Sports Stadiums
Calling all sports fans! Combine your love for the game and your love for each other with a wedding at your favorite team’s stadium. Major league stadiums like AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas offer a variety of spaces for rent. Say “I do” on home plate or in a skybox overlooking the field.
Save the date: custom fridge magnet calendar
Favor: mini pennant
Bowling Alleys
For the perfect blend of kitschy, nostalgic, and fun, opt for a bowling alley wedding venue. It’s the best of both worlds: an unforgettable ceremony backdrop and a built-in reception activity.
Save the date: retro bowling scorecard
Favor: custom arcade tokens
Treehouses
Take your love story to new heights with a treehouse wedding. The Atlanta Alpaca Treehouse, for example, is an ideal escape for nature-loving couples who want a whimsical and intimate setting. Space is limited in a treehouse, making it the perfect venue for a micro wedding.
Save the date: seed paper invitation
Favor: succulents
River Boats
Give your guests a night to remember with a wedding on a river boat. Dance the night away as you cruise into married life.
Save the date: vintage boarding pass
Favor: compass bottle opener
Lighthouses
Love the ocean? Tie the knot at a lighthouse before you set sail on your newlywed adventure. These coastal venues are ideal for seaside ceremonies and sunset photos you’ll treasure forever.
Save the date: lighthouse postcard
Favor: chocolate sea shells
Train Stations
Train stations might feel like relics from the past, but they’re full of old-world charm and history. Many historic stations have been renovated into stunning event spaces, making them the perfect venue for couples who love vintage romance and a good “journey” pun.
Save the date: custom train ticket
Favor: personalized luggage tags
Finding Your Unique Wedding Venue
Whether you choose to get married in The Shire or somewhere closer to home, your wedding venue is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the planning process.
To find your one-of-a-kind venue, think about what reflects your personality as a couple — your hobbies, your love story, and the memories you want to share with your guests. And let Eventective match you with the perfect place!
Rachel Kauffman is a Detroit-based content writer, bookworm, and cat mom to two feisty felines.
