There is just something about being by the water. The benefits are scientific behind the idea of the “blue mind:” research shows that being on, in, or near the water can relieve stress, boost creativity and instill a sense of peace. When the sunshine and moonlight dance across the ripples, the magical ambience sets the scene for a stunning backdrop, especially when it comes to weddings.
For couples who want a waterside wedding but don’t necessarily want beach sand between their toes, explore these ALHI Members around the U.S. that can make lakeside wedding dreams come true.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
On the shores of Lake Geneva, just an hour and a half from Chicago, The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa hosts all types of weddings, from intimate family ceremonies in the summer with a cocktail reception and passed hors d’oeuvres, to all-out, sparkling bashes in a winter wonderland with a three-course dinner, and everything in between. The resort’s wedding professionals work with each couple to ensure their celebration is tailored to their desires, and that no detail is overlooked. And while the couple and their wedding party is preparing for the big day, their guests can enjoy myriad activities right on the resort’s 90 acres, from a round of golf, a sunset cruise, a day at the spa, bicycling and more.
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Couples planning to say “I do” in Colorado who would like to add a water element to the natural stunning mountain backdrops should look no further than The Broadmoor. For more than 100 years, the historic hotel has welcomed couples to seal their love, with ceremonies ranging from black tie to mountain casual. The Lakeside Terrace on Cheyenne Lake, with the Cheyenne Mountains in the background, sets the scene for a waterfront ceremony, accommodating 100 to 250 guests. For a more intimate setting, the Fish House on the East Golf Course boasts stunning lake and mountain views for parties of 11 to 24 guests.
Coeur d'Alene, Idaho
Overlooking Lake Coeur d'Alene, the team at The Coeur d’Alene Resort stand at the ready to make couples’ storybook wedding dreams come true, whatever time of year. One of the resort’s most popular wedding venues is the Hagadone Event Center & Garden, an indoor-outdoor space overlooking the lake that is idyllic for celebrations any time of the year. Or, for something completely different, couples and their guests can set sail for a lake cruise and take the celebration onto the water.
Gateway, Colorado
Couples who want to add a sense of adventure to their nuptials should consider Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa, about an hour southwest of Grand Junction. Surrounded by the vast lands of the Uncompahgre Plateau, Piñon Mesa and La Sal Mountains, wedding parties can reconnect with nature while reconnecting with each other in celebrating the happy couple’s big day. After time spent hiking, mountain biking, or off-roading, come back together for an intimate wedding ceremony at The Ponds; the venue can accommodate up to 40 guests.
Horseshoe Bay, Texas
They say that everything is bigger in Texas, and that goes for weddings, too. About an hour from Austin is Horseshoe Bay Resort, named one of the best wedding venues by The Knot. The resort offers two stunning waterfront venues from which to choose for the perfect wedding: Falls Point Lawn and Shoreline Lawn, both on the edge of Lake LBJ. New this fall is the Lady Bird II, a dining yacht that can accommodate parties of 30 to 85. Couples can work with their wedding planner and the resort team to curate a weekend filled with events for their guests to enjoy, from lawn games and world class golf to a silent disco and gathering around a fire pit for s’mores.
South Lake Tahoe, California
The incredible greens, turquoises and blues of Lake Tahoe provide a stunning backdrop for weddings at Margaritaville Resort Lake Tahoe. Whether hosting an intimate ceremony for a handful of family and friends, or a grand celebration that lasts well into the night, the resort team will make sure every fine detail meets the couple’s expectations. One ceremony venue to consider is The Arch at Lakeside Beach, right on the shores of Lake Tahoe with panoramic views of the Sierra Nevada mountains. Afterwards, return to the resort to continue the celebration at a reception to remember.
Lake Conroe-Houston, Texas
The tropics find themselves deep in the heart of Texas at Margaritaville Lake Resort, Lake Conroe-Houston. Couples can choose from a variety of lakefront venues for their ceremonies, including Stars on the Terrace with beautiful landscaping and brick pathways; Waterfront Landing shaded by oak trees; The Beach, surrounded by nature; and The Little Palm Yacht to take the nuptials out onto Lake Conroe. Afterwards, retreat to the resort for a fun-filled reception, from flip-flop casual to formal. The festivities can go beyond the ceremony, too, with a plethora of onsite activities for guests to enjoy, including miniature golf, fishing, an 18-hole USGA-certified course, water sports and more.
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