A Unique and Elegant Boston Public Library Wedding!

The Boston Public Library is a downright decadent building that features towering archways, a private courtyard, and grand staircases. Basically, it’s everything you could ever want for your wedding, plus some! As an Ohio wedding photographer, I love traveling the country, checking out all the best venues. Here is what you can expect from a Boston Public Library wedding. 

About The Boston Public Library Wedding Venue

700 Boylston St, Boston, Massachusetts 02116

While the Boston Public Library might now be seen as one of the more extravagant venues out there today, its origins are far more humble. Originally started in a schoolhouse in 1854, this center quickly looked at how it could expand to fit its 16,000 volumes. The building was designed in 1887 and then opened in 1895, where it has served as the headquarters ever since. Today, the Beaux-Arts building is a certified National Historic Landmark known for its original features and breathtaking architecture. 

Details of the Grounds

With the Boston Public Library, you will be able to choose between several wedding spots inside the McKim Building. When it comes to your ceremony, McKim Bates Hall is a popular option. This space is a bibliophile’s dream with the walls lined with fully stocked bookcases. Above the shelves are towering French windows that let in plenty of natural light. The front of the room has an opening in the bookcases, ideal for placing your altar. 

You can choose to host your cocktail hour either inside the lobby or outside in the courtyard. The former offers a dramatic staircase leading up to a balcony where your guests can mingle and enjoy some drinks. Outside, you will have a picturesque green space complete with an atmospheric fountain. 

Receptions can be hosted inside several spaces, including Bates Hall. If you would prefer a space with a little more room for dancing, you might love the Guastavino Room, an elegant space with soaring ceilings, stone columns, and shelf-lined walls. There is also the dark and moody Abbey Room, where you can celebrate alongside hand-painted murals. With this venue, you can accommodate up to 300 guests. This wedding I photographed in the winter hosted their ceremony in Abbey Room, Cocktail in the lobby, dinner in Bates Hall and dancing back in Abbey!

Photography Opportunities

Boston Public Library is one of the most picture-perfect venues out there with endless backdrops for your portraits. If you’re the type who loves a big dress with an iconic train, you can use the staircase in the lobby to show it off. Once you finish sharing a kiss out on the balcony, head over to the main story of the courtyard, where you can get the architecture in the background. The front of the building is also a favorite, especially as they break out the progress flags for Pride Month. 

Wedding Details

The library knows how to throw a wedding unlike any other! They have a Special Events team that can answer all your questions, help you find your ideal locations, and figure out the layout. They work alongside The Catering Affair, who will create the perfect menu for your day. 

You Can’t Ignore The Elegance Of A Boston Public Library Wedding

If you are looking for a unique yet elegant venue, I really think you are going to adore a Boston Public Library wedding! With its killer architecture and dreamy backdrops, this venue is about to deliver your dream celebration. 

Once you have your venue, it’s time to find your photographer. If you are looking for someone who is going to match your vibe while catching every legendary moment, I would love to chat! As an Ohio wedding photographer, I specialize in celebrating the extraordinary. I would love to have a conversation and tell you all about my work so you can decide if I’m the one for your day. Hope to connect soon! 

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