Your guide to getting married in Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Dayton, Toledo, and beyond!
Planning a wedding in Ohio? Whether you are tying the knot in a vibrant city like Columbus or Cincinnati, or opting for a romantic setting in Dayton, Cleveland, or Toledo, Ohio offers a diverse range of venues, seasons, and vendors to bring your dream day to life. From lakefront ceremonies to rustic barn receptions, Ohio has something for every couple.
Here are 10 essential tips to make planning your Ohio wedding easier, smoother, and more fun!
1. Choose The Right Ohio Wedding Season
Ohio’s weather can be unpredictable, so timing matters. If you are looking for a beautiful floral backdrop, Spring is a great time for your big day but keep an eye out for the rain! Even with Ohio’s unpredictable weather, Summer is the ideal time for an outdoor celebration. Peak season for Ohio weddings is Fall thanks to its stunning foliage. If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option, you might want to consider winter with cozy indoor vibes. Fall is especially popular in Columbus and Cincinnati so book early!
Looking to find your perfect vendor? Check out our extensive directory of vendors from all across the state!
2. Research City-Specific Venues For Your Wedding
Ohio’s five major cities each offer their own unique vibe when it comes to wedding venues. In Columbus, couples can find urban rooftops, botanical gardens, and contemporary museums to host their big day. Cincinnati offers historic mansions, riverside venues, and elegant art deco hotels, while Cleveland features lakefront views, downtown ballrooms, and industrial lofts perfect for a modern celebration. Dayton provides access to rustic barns, romantic vineyards, and charming historic estates for couples looking for a countryside feel. Meanwhile, Toledo is known for its waterfront venues, scenic metroparks, and creative downtown spaces. If you are still searching for your dream venue, make sure you check out our directory of venues!
3. Book Your Ohio Wedding Vendors Early
Vendor availability can be limited, especially during peak wedding months, so it’s essential to secure your vendors as soon as possible. Aim to book your key vendors, including photographers, DJs, caterers, and florists, 12 to 18 months in advance if your wedding will fall between May and October. Ohio wedding vendors in high-demand cities like Cleveland and Columbus tend to fill their calendars quickly. If you’re hoping for scenic wedding portraits on the water, for example, you’ll want to look for photographers with experience shooting Cleveland weddings on Lake Erie. Check out our directory full of amazing Ohio vendors.
4. Know Your Marriage License Rules In Ohio
Before your big day, make sure you understand how to get legally married in Ohio. You’ll need to apply for a marriage license from the probate court in the county where either you or your fiancé currently resides. If neither of you lives in Ohio, you’ll need to apply in the county where the ceremony will be held. Both parties must appear in person with valid identification, and the cost of the license typically ranges between $50 and $80 depending on the county. Marriage licenses are valid immediately upon issue and remain valid for 60 days. For example, if you’re getting married in Columbus, you’ll need to go to the Franklin County Probate Court. Make sure to check out your city on our website for information about your county.
Columbus Cleveland Cincinnati Dayton Toledo
5. Build In Backup Plans For Ohio Weather On Your Wedding Day
With Ohio’s unpredictable weather, having a backup plan is always a smart move, especially if your ceremony or reception will take place outdoors. It’s a good idea to have a tent or covered structure ready if you’re getting married in areas like Dayton or Toledo where sudden showers can roll in. Some venues in Cincinnati and Cleveland even offer free weather contingency setups as part of their wedding packages, so be sure to ask about that during your tour. Regardless of where in the state you’re getting married, it’s best to think ahead and prepare for any weather-related surprises.
6. Incorporate Local Ohio Touches
Adding a bit of Ohio charm to your wedding day can make it extra meaningful for you and your guests. Consider serving iconic Ohio treats like Buckeye candies as favors, or featuring locally crafted beers from breweries like Great Lakes Brewing Co. or Rhinegeist. You can also include regional flowers such as peonies or hydrangeas in your bouquet to tie in a sense of place. These thoughtful touches are particularly appreciated by out-of-town guests, especially at weddings in cities like Toledo or Columbus, where guests may be unfamiliar with local culture.
7. Factor In Big Local Ohio Events
When setting your wedding date, it’s important to check for large local events that could affect traffic, hotel availability, or vendor pricing. For example, you might want to avoid scheduling your Columbus wedding on the same day as an OSU football game, as hotels book fast and traffic can be a nightmare. Similarly, if you’re getting married in Cincinnati, keep an eye on Reds or Bengals games that could draw big crowds. Major conventions and festivals in Cleveland or Toledo can also impact the wedding experience for you and your guests. Checking your city’s event calendar before booking can save you from logistical headaches later on.
8. Use A Local Wedding Planner For Your Ohio City
If you’re planning from out of town or just want extra support, hiring a wedding planner who specializes in your Ohio city can make a huge difference. A local wedding planner in Cleveland or Dayton, for example, will already have connections to trusted vendors, can help navigate venue contracts, and may even be able to secure discounts on your behalf. They’ll also be more prepared to handle logistics like traffic flow, local ordinances, or weather-related issues. Looking to find your perfect wedding planner? Check out our directory of planners!
9. Prepare For Travel Between Ohio Cities
Ohio is a fairly easy state to travel through, but if you’re planning a wedding in one city, say, Columbus, and your guests are coming in from Cleveland or Cincinnati, you’ll want to make the experience as smooth as possible. Consider reserving hotel blocks well in advance, especially during busy seasons, and think about including welcome bags filled with local snacks, maps, and helpful tips for navigating the area. If your wedding spans multiple locations or venues, offering transportation or shuttle service can help avoid confusion and keep your timeline running smoothly. Always check for ongoing road construction or seasonal weather patterns that might affect travel plans.
10. Embrace Ohio’s Unique Wedding Charm
Finally, let your Ohio wedding reflect the beauty and spirit of the city you love. Whether you’re planning an urban-glam wedding in Cincinnati or Columbus, a lakefront celebration in Cleveland or Toledo, or a countryside escape in Dayton, Ohio has the backdrop to match your personality. Don’t be afraid to lean into what makes your location special. Use local florals, choose a locally owned venue, or pick music and food that reflect your story and your city.
From lake views to barns, ballrooms to breweries, Ohio weddings are as diverse as the couples getting married. Whether you’re saying “I do” in Columbus, Cincinnati, Dayton, Cleveland, or Toledo, these tips will help you plan with confidence in style!
