You’ve finally found the love of your life, your best friend, your person — and there’s no better feeling than taking the next step with them. We know how eager you are to plan the wedding of your dreams, but we certainly don’t want any of these big decisions keep you up at night! To help, Visit Loudoun has assembled a little guide to help make sure that you’re absolutely in love with every detail of your special day. Before you walk down the aisle, check out these six steps to the perfect wedding in Loudoun County. You’ll find that Loudoun’s historic charm, craft culture and vibrant countryside make it the most romantic location to get married. And don’t forget to register for their Weddings in Loudoun Open House Weekend this weekend, March 9th and 10th! You can even map your stops beforehand to make the whole process stress free. Hope to see you there!

The Venue

Some wedding venues book up years in advance, so locking down all your celebration locations is great place to start. Whether you want an elegant wedding with winery views, rustic-chic nuptials in a remodeled barn or a traditional church ceremony, Loudoun’s got it all. Wedding venues in Loudoun offer the perfect setting for guest lists both intimate and infinite.

The Date

It’s always the “season of love” in Loudoun! Save the date for a spring or summer ceremony when the flowers are in full bloom at Oatlands Historic House and Gardens. Alternatively, aim for an autumn wedding as the leaves begin to turn against the Blue Ridge Mountains at Bluemont Vineyard. Or, why not wed in winter at Mt. Defiance Distillery’s “wow”-worthy barn? The evolving Loudoun landscape provides timeless beauty and serves as a stunning backdrop, no matter the month!

The Dress

Once the venue and date are set in stone, the dress moves to the top of the list. Whether you go lace or beaded, long-sleeved or sweetheart, mermaid or princess, the shops in Loudoun have got you covered. At Le Reve Bridal House, you can shop ‘til you drop with the feeling that you found “the one”. After finding the dress, you’ll need new bling to keep up that wedding “glow” on your big day. Take a day to stroll through designer shops at the Leesburg Corner Premium Outlets or wander through Loudoun’s downtown streets to discover the one-of-a-kind piece that will complete your bridal vibe!

The Drinks

Picking drink options can often be a challenge… but, for Loudoun County weddings, it’s one of those “good-problem-to-have” challenges. Do you go with beer, wine or maybe specialty cocktails? While the choice is up to you and your spouse-to-be, just know that the options are endless in Loudoun. We’re talking 40+ wineries, 30+ breweries and several distilleries. Then again, why choose? To us, the perfect combo is something like a few cases of vino from Breaux Vineyards, growlers from Ocelot Brewing Company and bottles from Catoctin Creek Distilling Company. Thanks to Loudoun’s craft beverage scene, you’ll be ready to hit the dance floor with your friends, family and loved ones!

The Food

Of course, dancing up a storm means working up an appetite. So, what kind of feasting do you want your wedding to feature? Luckily, Loudoun’s chefs to bring serious culinary chops to the table, whatever your palate prefers. Go casual with comfort food from Monk’s BBQ or dine in decadence with a menu from Magnolia’s at the Mill. If there’s a unique twist to your taste, try The Conche’s specialty treats. Check out their Vendors page to plan a mouthwatering wedding that will keep you full ‘til your first anniversary — bon appétit!

The Stay

Your wedding day will be fun, but busy. (They don’t call it “your big day” for nothing!) So, planning your escape to a sweet oasis for two at the end of the night is maybe the most essential detail. Take your pick of a cozy haven like Fieldstone Farm Bed and Breakfast, a luxury resort like Lansdowne Resort or a convenient retreat like the Comfort Suites. No matter where you choose to crash, Loudoun’s amenities will keep you rested and relaxed in wedded bliss.

Hopefully this six-step wedding planning guide has you off on the right foot. However, we also cordially invite you to attend our Weddings Open House Weekend to explore the best of Loudoun’s venues and vendors first hand! Then, check out our Weddings Page to take full advantage of Visit Loudoun’s complimentary services. We can help ensure that your wedding is the best day of your life… and know it’s just the beginning of your happily ever after.

Photo Credit: Joffoto