Getting Married in Lexington, Virginia: Your Guide to Venues, Accommodations, and Vendors

Considering getting married in Lexington, Virginia? This guide was created to help you find venues, planners, vendors, and all kinds of recommendations for your guests to help make planning your wedding smooth.

Lexington, Virginia is a charming historic town about fifty miles from Richmond, Virginia. It is home to both Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute (VMI). The city is surrounded by the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains and is a popular destination for its picturesque landscapes, historic sites, and cultural attractions.

Why get married in Lexington, Virginia?

Because Lexington is a college town, many graduates find themselves returning to this charming town to get married! Those that aren’t already familiar with Lexington decide to get married here for lots of reasons:

• Natural Beauty: The town is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of the Shenandoah Valley and the Blue Ridge Mountains. This setting provides a breathtaking and scenic environment for weddings, with opportunities for outdoor ceremonies, photography sessions, and even nature-inspired themes.
• Venues: Lexington offers a variety of wedding venues, ranging from historic estates and elegant ballrooms to rustic barns and outdoor gardens. This diversity of options allows couples to find a venue that aligns with their preferences and vision for their special day.
• Historic Charm: Lexington is a town rich in history, known for its charming and picturesque surroundings. Its historic architecture, quaint streets, and well-preserved buildings create a romantic and timeless atmosphere that many couples find appealing for their wedding backdrop.
• Local Services and Vendors: Even though it’s a small town, Lexington offers a range of local services and vendors that can help with wedding planning, catering, photography, and more. Supporting local businesses can add a unique touch to the wedding experience.
• Seasonal Beauty: The changing seasons in Virginia can provide different atmospheres for weddings throughout the year. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of fall foliage, the blossoming flowers of spring, or the cozy winter ambiance, couples can select a season that resonates with them.

Regardless of the reason you are considering Lexington for your wedding, let’s get into all the resources you need to start planning your wedding.

How to start planning your wedding in Lexington, VA

The best wedding plans start with a budget and a local guide–your wedding planner! There’s a whole list of planners and venues below to help get you started in the right direction. If you’re looking for more guidance, here are more tips on planning your wedding.

The Best Wedding Venues in Lexington, Virginia

Big Spring Farm

Big Spring Farm is situated in the picturesque countryside of the Shenandoah Valley, offering a scenic and serene setting for weddings and events. The venue boasts expansive landscapes, rolling hills, lush gardens, and a tranquil pond, creating a charming and natural backdrop for couples’ special days. It’s known for hosting both outdoor and indoor ceremonies and receptions, allowing couples to customize their wedding experience based on their preferences and the weather.

The Seclusion

The Seclusion, as the name suggests, is a wedding venue that offers a private and secluded setting for couples to celebrate their special day. The venue is situated in the serene countryside of Lexington, Virginia, providing a picturesque and tranquil environment for weddings. They offer truly panoramic views of the valley, a large reception hall with wood beams perfect for floral draping, and getting ready suites for both wedding parties.

House Mountain Inn

A picturesque mountain retreat offering indoor and outdoor wedding spaces with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. House Mountain Inn is a wedding venue located in Lexington, Virginia. It is a charming and picturesque location that offers a blend of natural beauty, rustic elegance, and comfortable accommodations. The venue offers a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that cater to different aspects of a wedding celebration, including ceremonies, receptions, and accommodations for guests.

Irvine Estate

Irvine Estate is an extension of the House Mountain Inn property, offering an additional event space specifically designed for weddings and events. It features unique architectural elements like a stone fire place and cocktail patio, scenic views for your ceremony, and getting ready space for both wedding parties.

Other wedding venue options near Lexington

1. Llewellyn Lodge: A historic bed and breakfast that offers a charming setting for intimate weddings. The gardens and cozy interiors create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
2. Lee Chapel and Museum: Located on the campus of Washington and Lee University, this historic chapel is a popular wedding venue for its neoclassical architecture and rich history.
3. Virginia Military Institute (VMI) Museum: The VMI Museum offers event spaces with a blend of history and elegance. The courtyard and reception areas can accommodate larger weddings.
4. Hull’s Drive-In Theatre: For a unique and retro wedding experience, Hull’s Drive-In Theatre offers an unconventional venue with a vintage flair.
5. Glen Maury Park: This park features a variety of outdoor spaces that can be used for weddings, including open fields and a pavilion, all set against the backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
6. Wade’s Mill: A historic grist mill with a rustic and charming atmosphere, offering a scenic setting for smaller weddings and events.
7. Lexington Golf & Country Club: If you’re looking for a more traditional setting, this country club offers elegant indoor and outdoor spaces for weddings and receptions.
8. Boxerwood Nature Center & Woodland Garden: This botanical garden provides a serene and natural backdrop for outdoor weddings, with various garden settings to choose from.
9. Jordan’s Point Park: This park along the Maury River offers a riverside pavilion and green spaces, making it a great option for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
10. Virginia Horse Center: If you’re a fan of equestrian culture, this venue offers a unique setting with indoor and outdoor spaces that can accommodate larger wedding parties.

Remember that availability, amenities, and offerings can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to contact the venues directly for the most up-to-date information and to schedule site visits. Additionally, Lexington’s proximity to other towns and cities in the Shenandoah Valley means there might be even more options within a short drive, such as Roanoke, Staunton, Charlottesville, and Richmond.

Wedding Planners serving Lexington, Virginia

Before we get into the wedding planners and planning companies you should consider, learn more about types of wedding planning, coordination, and design services here.

Lemondrop Events Co

Lemondrop Events, owned by Brooke Benson, offers Bespoke wedding planning, coordination, and design services throughout Virginia, including Lexington, Charlottesville Virginia, and available for travel. Her designs are described as “classic with a twist,” inspired by European trends and old world elegance. She’s known for her entertaining and thorough wedding venue tours on Instagram. Consider Brooke to manage your wedding day experience!

Boundless Love Events

Jordan, owner of Boundless Love Events, describes herself as a hopeless romantic and detail-oriented wedding planner. She is based in Lexington, Virginia and serves the surrounding areas. Her reviews show people love her professionalism, joyful attitude, and eye for detail. She covers events from micro weddings to luxury scale events. Contact Jordan to begin planning your Lexington Virginia wedding day!

Brooke Shehan Events

Brooke Shehan Events is an award-winning full-service wedding planning company located in Lexington, Virginia. BSE happily serves couples in Virginia and beyond. As your wedding planner, Brooke’s goal is to provide a fun and seamless planning experience for you and your fiancé, all while pouring her heart and soul into your event and executing the wedding of your dreams. 

Wedding Photography in Lexington, Virginia

If you haven’t figured it out already, I’m Jo and I’m a wedding photographer in Virginia! I’m glad you found me! I created this guide to help you get started planning your wedding in Lexington. And, I’d love to chat about your vision for wedding photography! Every wedding photography proposal starts with a conversation or zoom call to hear all about your plans, what’s most important to you, and how you’d like your day captured. I want to make sure I’m the absolute best fit for you and your wedding first and foremost.

Ready to talk wedding photography details? Inquire here!

Accommodations for your wedding guests in Lexington, VA

Lexington is home to a variety of lodging options for your wedding guests. From traditional hotels to historic inns, you’ll be able to find accommodations that fit your guest list and event style. Here are some hotels and lodging options in and near Lexington:

1. The Georges: A boutique hotel in downtown Lexington with elegant rooms and a historic atmosphere. It’s a popular choice for wedding guests due to its central location.
2. Holiday Inn Express Lexington: This hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms, making it suitable for accommodating wedding guests.
3. Hampton Inn Lexington-Historic Area: Located near downtown Lexington, this hotel provides convenient access to local attractions and offers comfortable accommodations.
4. Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Lexington, VA: A hotel with a welcoming atmosphere, offering various room types for different guest preferences.
5. Best Western Plus Inn at Hunt Ridge: This hotel provides comfortable accommodations and is equipped to host guests attending weddings in the area.
6. Robert E. Lee Hotel: Another historic hotel in downtown Lexington that can offer a unique and charming experience for wedding guests.
7. Wingate by Wyndham Lexington: This hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms, making it suitable for accommodating wedding guests.
8. Comfort Inn Virginia Horse Center: If the wedding is taking place at the Virginia Horse Center, this hotel is conveniently located nearby.
9. Sleep Inn & Suites: A hotel offering contemporary accommodations for wedding guests, with various amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
10. Quality Inn & Suites Lexington: This hotel provides standard amenities and comfortable rooms for wedding guests.

Please note that the availability, amenities, and quality of accommodations can vary from hotel to hotel. It’s recommended to contact the hotels directly to inquire about availability, group rates, and any special arrangements they might offer for wedding guests.

Dining in Lexington

Whether you’re looking for a place to host your rehearsal dinner or recommendations for out of town guests, here are some of the local places to eat in Lexington, Virginia:

1. The Red Hen: A popular farm-to-table restaurant known for its creative and locally sourced American cuisine. The menu often changes based on seasonal ingredients.
2. Southern Inn Restaurant: This historic restaurant offers Southern and American cuisine in a classic setting. It’s known for its elegant dining rooms and traditional dishes.
3. Devils Backbone Outpost Brewery and Tap Room: While not in Lexington itself (it’s in nearby Roseland), this brewery and restaurant offers a range of craft beers and pub-style food in a rustic setting.
4. Salerno’s Italian Restaurant: If you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, Salerno’s is a favorite among locals and visitors alike, offering pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.
5. Bistro on Main: A cozy restaurant with a diverse menu that features American and international dishes, including seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options.
6. Kind Roots Café: A vegetarian and vegan-friendly café offering fresh and healthy options, including smoothies, salads, sandwiches, and more.
7. Macado’s: A casual spot known for its extensive menu of sandwiches, subs, and American comfort food. It’s a popular choice among students and locals.
8. Haywood’s: Located at The Georges hotel, this restaurant offers upscale Southern cuisine with a modern twist, along with a stylish and inviting ambiance.
9. Pure Eats: A burger joint known for its creative and gourmet burgers made with high-quality ingredients. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options.
10. Lime Kiln Theater Concession Stand: If you’re catching a show at the Lime Kiln Theater, don’t miss the concessions stand offering a variety of snacks and light fare.

Things to do in Lexington

There are plenty of things to do and explore in the area. Here are five activities you might consider when visiting Lexington:

1. Visit Historic Sites: Lexington is home to Washington and Lee University and the Virginia Military Institute (VMI), both of which have historic significance. You can explore the beautiful campuses, visit the Lee Chapel and Museum at Washington and Lee, and learn about the history of VMI. The Stonewall Jackson House, the former home of Confederate General Thomas “Stonewall” Jackson, is also a popular historic site.
2. Natural Beauty: Enjoy the natural beauty of the area by hiking or driving to viewpoints like House Mountain, a local landmark with stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. The Blue Ridge Parkway is also nearby, offering scenic drives and hiking opportunities.
3. Walking Tours: Take a leisurely stroll through downtown Lexington to explore its charming streets, historic architecture, and boutique shops. You might also consider taking guided walking tours to learn more about the town’s history and notable landmarks.
4. Outdoor Activities: If you enjoy outdoor activities, the area around Lexington offers options like kayaking and tubing on the Maury River, fishing, and even horseback riding. The Virginia Horse Center hosts equestrian events and is worth a visit, especially if you’re interested in horses.
5. Art and Culture: Explore the local art scene by visiting galleries and cultural venues. The Lenfest Center for the Arts at Washington and Lee University often hosts art exhibitions and performances. Additionally, the Lee Hi Travel Plaza is known for its unique art installations.

Remember that this is just a small sample of things to do in Lexington, Virginia. The town has a lot to offer in terms of history, outdoor experiences, and cultural attractions. If you’re interested in a specific activity or attraction, I recommend checking with the local Lexington tourism website.

Average Wedding Budget for Lexington, Virginia area weddings

Wedding budgets are highly customized to the scale, style, and professionals you choose. Exact costs will depend on your own priorities for your wedding, but here’s a rough breakdown of estimated costs:

1. Venue: Venue costs in Lexington, can range from $3,000 to $14,000 or more. Luxury venues or popular historic locations might have higher price tags.
2. Catering: Food and beverage expenses could range from $45 to $100 or more per person, depending on the menu, service style, and venue.
3. Photography and Videography: Professional photography and videography packages might cost between $4,000 to $9,000 for each service.
4. Attire: Wedding attire expenses, including the dress, tuxedo or suit, accessories, and alterations, might range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
5. Flowers and Decor: Floral arrangements, centerpieces, and decor could cost around $3,000 to $8,000 or more.
6. Entertainment: Hiring a band, DJ, or other entertainment could cost around $2,000 to $6,000 or more.
7. Invitations and Stationery: Invitations, save-the-dates, and other stationery might cost around $500 to $1,000 or more.
8. Transportation: Transportation for the couple and guests might cost around $500 to $1,500 or more.
9. Miscellaneous Expenses: Other costs, including wedding favors, cake, officiant fees, and marriage license fees, could add up to a few thousand dollars.

Considering these various expenses, the average total wedding budget for couples in Lexington, Virginia, could range from $30,000 to $90,000 or more.