Are you dreaming of a black-tie (or black-tie optional) wedding? Honey, I feel you! Marrying my husband in anything other than a classic black Paul Smith tuxedo was not an option. I’m the kinda girl who loves a man in a tux with a clean shave and a martini in hand. So basically, James Bond. Who can blame me? Now, back to your wedding...

So, there are a couple of ways to slice this. Hotels are a classic pick for formal affairs, but let's not stop there. Here are three examples of perfect venues to host your swanky soiree.

Impeccable Hospitality Services

I go to lots of fancy parties and the idea of wearing a ball gown to The Driskill Hotel still really excites me. The Driskill Hotel makes you feel like the belle of the ball. Whether you’re on the Mezzanine Level or the smaller Victorian Room, you have the feeling of holding court. The mezzanine level comes with 5 suites where you and your family or wedding party can spend the night. It’s your castle and your special night. They even assign an experienced waiter to the bride and groom so you can be in the moment and not worry about grabbing a bite or your next glass of champagne.

The service at The Driskill Hotel is, truly, over the top perfection. Imagine your guests enjoying "synchronized service" where a team of waiters surrounds your table and delivers your meal and the meals of those around you at the exact same time. The result is you aren't watching your food get cold while you wait for others at the table to be served. Thinking you want that iconic champagne toast? It takes a well-oiled machine to deliver 200 glasses of champagne in a timely manner. Trust me, I'm the impatient wedding planner standing in the corner waiting for all the tables to be served so we can kick off the toast. Not at the Driskill Hotel! They are speedy hospitality wizards who make staffing large complicated events appear effortless.

Jenny DeMarco Photography

Jessica Frey Photography

Jenny DeMarco Photography

Jessica Frey Photography

Jenny DeMarco Photography

Grandeur Design and Scale

If holding court in a castle-like setting isn’t your speed, how about a historic mansion? The recent renovation of Woodbine Mansion is absolutely exquisite. The colonial-style columns, lush gardens, and enchanting interior details will sweep you off your feet. There is no gown or tuxedo too fancy for this property. Go full-on Great Gatsby if you like with champagne towers and tuxedo-clad butlers! This outdoor/indoor venue works for Garden-Glam or all-out Glam!

I recommend dancing the night away under beautiful neoclassical chandeliers near a roaring fireplace, then sneaking out to the front balcony for a moonlit kiss with your beau. Finally, have a classic car pick you up for a grand exit under the towering magnolias as you head off to the honeymoon of your dreams (well, once travel restrictions are lifted...).

SMS Photography

Cory Ryan Photography

SMS Photography

Mint Photography

SMS Photography

Dazzle Guests with Art and History

Laguna Gloria is a contemporary art museum located on an estate featuring a 1916 Italianate-style villa. It's perfect for a casual dining al fresco garden-party and can easily be dressed up for a black-tie affair. I’ve planned and designed many weddings at Laguna Gloria and it’s perfect for a black-tie optional wedding. Imagine tuxedos, black suits, and cocktail dresses. Every square inch of this property is a photo-op. This venue is elegant but effortless.

If you're planning to turn it up a notch at this lovely estate I recommend offering valet in the large circle drive. While there is plenty of parking onsite it can be a little bit of a walk if you're in your best heels. I believe if you request that your guests get glam, you treat them as such!