Top 10 Reasons to Choose Alexandria

A bride and groom share a kiss outdoors in a field with autumn trees behind them, while a bagpiper in traditional Scottish attire plays nearby.

Top 10 Reasons to Choose Alexandria

Your wedding presents the opportunity to celebrate your love and the triumph of “happily ever after,” and to bring together family and friends for a memorable day you will talk about for years to come.

In Alexandria, you can have it all: the picture-perfect venue, the mouthwatering menu, the details that make your wedding yours. Alexandria is an accessible city that boasts a rich history and rests along the Potomac. It has heritage, charm, and everything you need for a seamless, tailored-for-you event.

We rounded up 10 of our favorite reasons to get married in Alexandria.

10. Alexandria boasts rich history

Alexandria features beautifully-preserved 18th century architecture that has accompanied American history through the Revolutionary War to modern day. Carlyle House, Gasdby’s Tavern, Mount Vernon Inn, the Torpedo Factory Art Center and more pose as the perfect venue for ceremonies, receptions, rehearsal dinners and more.

A historic two-story stone building with a symmetrical facade, tall chimneys, and shuttered windows sits on a grassy area under a blue sky. Four people walk along the brick path in front of the building.

9. The waterfront offers views and attractions

Travel logistics are made easy when you plan a wedding in Alexandria. With three major airports nearby, guests should have no trouble finding an affordable flight that works for them. Guests can also easily access Alexandria by way of highway, Metrorail, or Amtrak.

Aerial view of a marina with several boats docked along the water and a waterfront patio restaurant filled with people sitting under white umbrellas. Trees and grassy areas line the marina.

8. Getting there is easy—even for out-of-town guests

7. Getting around is just as simple

Say goodbye to hefty transportation costs. Alexandria is known as a “walk-friendly community” (and that walk is quite picturesque, if we do say so ourselves!) For those who want to give their feet a rest, the free King Street Trolley travels from the waterfront to the King St – Old Town Metrorail station.

A vintage-style red trolley bus drives down a tree-lined street with colorful autumn foliage. Historic buildings and shops line both sides of the road under a clear blue sky.

6. Versatile venues

What are you thinking for your wedding? Traditional? Rustic? A garden soiree? Perhaps something completely different? Whatever your theme, Alexandria has the perfect venue. We invite you to check out both our unique venues and hotel venues to get the ideas rolling.

A bride in a strapless white dress holding a bouquet walks hand-in-hand with a groom in a blazer, sweater, and khaki pants. They are outdoors on a grassy path with tall plants and greenery around them, smiling at each other.

5. Endless dining options

You can hardly throw a bouquet in Alexandria without hitting a top notch restaurant. Alexandria’s dining scene has no shortage of waterfront views, chef-driven menus, and restored historic spots. With so many options, it’s easy—and even fun—to plan out wedding events from engagement parties to send-off brunches.

A warmly lit restaurant with exposed brick walls, modern chandeliers, and wall sconces. People are dining and conversing at tables, creating a cozy, lively atmosphere.

4. Guest adore an Alexandria getaway

Picture this: Cans rattle, signifying your wedding getaway car has set off for the honeymoon, and your guests think to themselves, “We may have to stay here a while.” Between Alexandria’s shopping, culture scene, historical attractions, and lively nightlife, you can’t blame guests for wanting to extend their stay. Direct them to our guest activity…

People walk and dine outside a bustling restaurant called Fish Market. Tables with umbrellas line the sidewalk, and a sign advertises live music and live lobster. Trees and street signs are visible along the brick-paved street.

3. Stunning photos are a snap

However you envision your wedding photos, Alexandria offers the premier backdrop. Don’t believe us? Take a peek at our Instagram and we’ll let the picturesque sunsets, cobblestone streets, and dockside view speak for themselves.

A bride and groom embrace in a narrow, sunlit alley lined with red brick walls and greenery, creating a romantic and intimate setting on their wedding day.

2. Green-friendly weddings are a "do" in Alexandria

Many couples want to host a memorable wedding…without leaving a big carbon footprint. From farm-to-table dining options to eco-friendly hotels to mindful party favors, Alexandria makes it easy to host a green wedding.

Elegant outdoor table set for two with white flowers, candles, and wine glasses. Greenery decorates the black chairs, and a blue sign with white initials is displayed in the center. Lush garden background.

1. You get to say "I do" in the most romantic city in America

Alexandria’s gorgeous early-American architecture sets the tone for any picture-perfect wedding, widely unmatched by cities nationwide. Ranked the number one “Most Romantic City In America,” by Amazon.com, Alexandria has a quiet, irresistible charm that makes it a favorite wedding destination. As you can see, an Alexandria wedding is what day…

A bride and groom stand close together outdoors, gazing lovingly into each others eyes. The groom wears a black suit and bow tie, while the bride wears a strapless gown with a long veil and sparkling earrings.

From Our Partners

As you can see, an Alexandria wedding is what daydreams (and Pinterest boards!) are made of. Ready to start planning? Connect with Alexandria’s wedding services and tell us your vision. We can help you find resources that will allow you to enjoy a seamless, picture-perfect wedding. Contact our wedding specialist via email or phone at (703) 663-1620.