When your wedding day feels like it could be a scene straight out of Vogue, elegant but deeply personal. You know you’re doing something right! Amanda & Stephen’s celebration at The Sanctuary at Camelback was exactly that. With jaw-dropping views, and so many sweet, emotional moments, it was the kind of luxury wedding I absolutely live for.

As someone who blends editorial direction with real, candid storytelling, I’m always drawn to venues that offer both beauty and soul. And today, I’m sharing more than just Amanda & Stephen’s dreamy day! I’m walking you through some of the top luxury wedding venues across the U.S. These are the places that inspire elevated weddings, offer incredible backdrops, and help bring stylish, heartfelt wedding visions to life. If you’re planning a wedding that feels high-end and intentional, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in!

An outdoor wedding aisle with white flower arrangements and a floral arch, surrounded by cacti and desert plants under a partly cloudy sky at a luxury wedding venue

A black welcome sign with white text reads "Welcome to the wedding of Stephen and Amanda, April 5, 2025," surrounded by white flowers and outdoor plants.

Outdoor wedding ceremony setup with rows of clear chairs facing a floral arch on a grassy lawn, surrounded by greenery and mountains in the background.

A bride and groom embrace on a rocky ledge with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.

Amanda & Stephen’s Wedding at The Sanctuary at Camelback

Built right into the side of Camelback Mountain, The Sanctuary is that venue. The one that takes your breath away the second you arrive. With golden desert views, the dreamiest sunset lighting, and a vibe that’s effortlessly luxurious yet totally relaxed, it’s hands-down one of my favorite places to photograph in Arizona! Amanda & Stephen’s ceremony was a total dream. Sway Floral Studio absolutely crushed the floral design, white blooms lining the aisle, and the most stunning floral arch surrounded by cacti and desert textures. Amanda’s walk down the aisle was everything. Her gown paired with chic gloves and a long train, was giving timeless editorial energy and Stephen’s face when he saw her? Cue the tears! It was one of those moments I’ll never forget! From there, we headed to the reception, guests were greeted by a sleek black-and-clear seating chart labeled “Our Favorite People” (how cute is that?!), and cocktail hour brought their favorite drinks, plus a cute bar sign that read, “He bought her a drink… now we’re here.” I love those little touches that tell your story! The reception was glowing! Literally. Candlelight everywhere, creamy florals, black napkins tied with satin ribbon, and minimalist menus created a tablescape that was modern and romantic in the best way.

Amanda & Stephen’s day at The Sanctuary at Camelback was everything I love about photographing weddings: genuine emotion, and a couple who made their day truly their own. I could honestly photograph weddings here over and over again and never run out of inspiration!

Wedding invitation suite, RSVP card, rings in boxes, white flowers, and a pair of high-heeled shoes arranged on large textured rocks.

A bride in a white gown and veil stands outdoors with bridesmaids in black dresses holding white bouquets.

A bride in a white wedding dress and veil stands on grass, holding a bouquet of white roses, with shrubs and a stone wall in the background.

A bride in a white gown and veil walks on grass outdoors, holding flowers, with bridesmaids in black dresses assisting with her train. Rocky hills and greenery are visible in the background.

A person wearing a wedding dress stands outdoors, mostly covered by a sheer bridal veil, with blurred trees and structures in the background.

Luxury Wedding Venues in the U.S. That Feel Straight Out of a Dream

If you're in the thick of wedding planning (or just love a good venue scroll like I do), let’s talk luxury. These spots aren’t just beautiful, they’re an experience. Each one brings its own magic, from sweeping views and curated architecture to those soft, emotional moments that unfold naturally in the prettiest places. Whether you’re dreaming of ocean breezes, desert glow, or historic charm, here are some luxury wedding venues that truly have it all.

A man in a black suit wipes a tear from his face while standing under a flower arch at an outdoor event, with two other men in suits beside him.

A bride in a white gown walks down an outdoor aisle lined with white flowers, surrounded by seated and standing guests under a partly cloudy sky.

A bride and groom stand under a floral arch, holding hands during an outdoor wedding ceremony, with guests seated on both sides and mountains in the background at a luxury venue

A bride and groom share a kiss under a floral arch during an outdoor wedding ceremony, surrounded by guests and desert plants at a luxury wedding venue

A groom in a tuxedo stands with his bride at an outdoor wedding ceremony under a floral arch, with groomsmen and guests in attendance.

The Sanctuary at Camelback – Arizona

Okay, this venue is the definition of a modern desert dream. Built right into Camelback Mountain, it gives you allll the Arizona views with that peaceful, tucked-away feel. It’s perfect for couples who want something romantic and relaxed but still totally luxe.

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa – California

This one feels like a mini escape to the French countryside… without needing a passport! You’ve got lavender fields, a literal 400-year-old barn from France, and the dreamiest golden light. It’s intimate, peaceful, and perfect for a full weekend celebration.

The Resort at Pelican Hill – California

Pelican Hill is coastal luxury at its finest. The ocean views, the rotunda, the Tuscan vibes it gives destination wedding energy but make it SoCal. Add in villas for your guests and a top-tier service team, and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable weekend!

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens – Florida

If you love a little old-world romance, Vizcaya is the one. Ivy-covered walls, garden courtyards, and sculpted fountains make every corner feel like a fairytale. It’s timeless and elegant, with a side of Miami spice.

The Little Nell – Colorado

High-end and high-altitude, this Aspen venue is cozy in the winter and totally chic year-round. You can even ride a gondola to your ceremony (!!). Picture vows in the snow, toasts by the fire, and the most magical mountain views.

Amangiri – Utah

For my minimalist-loving couples. Amangiri is the spot. Think serene desert vibes, sleek architecture, and a calm that’s hard to describe until you’re there. It’s peaceful and wildly beautiful, and perfect for something totally unique.

Meadowood Napa Valley – California

Wine country weddings don’t get better than Meadowood. With vineyard views, private lodges, and candlelit dinners under the trees, it’s the perfect mix of cozy and upscale. And the food + wine? Absolutely next level.

Oheka Castle – New York

This is your regal fantasy come true. Grand staircases, Gatsby vibes, and gardens made for dreamy portraits! It’s luxury with a capital L. You can even rent out the whole estate for a full weekend takeover!

A bride in a white dress and sheer gloves holds hands with a groom in a black suit, who is holding a bouquet of white roses.

A bride and groom stand outdoors on rocky terrain. The groom holds a bouquet, and mountains are visible in the background.

Luxury Wedding Planning Tips (From a Destination Photographer Who’s Seen It All)

Hire a Planner You Truly Vibe With

Trust me, this is a game-changer. A great planner isn’t just checking boxes, they’re bringing your vision to life in ways you didn’t even think of and making the day feel effortless for you. Amanda & Stephen had McKenna Katherine Weddings leading the way, and everything flowed so beautifully!

Design with Meaning

Your details should tell your story, not just fill space. Whether it’s your signage, your color palette, or those dreamy florals, every element should reflect you. I was obsessed with Amanda & Stephen’s neutral-toned aesthetic!

A white card with gold embossed text reads, "He bought her a drink... now we're here," displayed upright on a table next to a black menu.

A black metal shelving unit holds wine glasses on the top and bottom shelves, with three bottles of liquor on the middle shelf. A glass of red wine sits on a table nearby.

A sign reads "Our Favorite People, Please Find Your Seat" with lists of names organized alphabetically underneath.

A table set with white plates, glassware, candles in glass holders, and floral centerpieces with white flowers and greenery.

A two-tier white cake decorated with piped white icing details, displayed on a white cake stand with a mirrored wall decoration in the background.

Give Your Timeline Room to Breathe

Some of the most magical moments happen in the in-between—when you're not rushed, when the sun is golden, when you’re just being. Their timeline was intentionally slow-paced, which gave us space for unposed portraits, quiet moments, and that golden hour glow we live for.

Let Your Photographer Take the Lead (Then Let Go!)

When you trust your photographer, the magic unfolds. My approach is a mix of editorial posing and genuine, emotional storytelling. I’ll guide you when you need it, and step back when it’s time for you to just soak it all in. The result? Photos that feel beautiful and real. And honestly, that’s the sweet spot!

A bride and groom kiss outdoors, surrounded by their wedding party dressed in black, with palm trees and a hedge in the background.

Love these Luxury Wedding Venues? Ready to Start Planning Your Own Luxury Wedding?

Your wedding day should feel like the most you version of luxury! I’m all about helping couples create a day that’s as stylish as it is heartfelt. If you’re dreaming up your own luxury celebration and want photos that feel editorial and emotional, I’d love to be part of it. Let’s make it happen! See more of my work on Pinterest and contact me here!

Top Luxury Wedding Venues & Planning Tips for your Dream Day