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Choosing a Wedding Venue: Local vs. Corporate Owned in Baltimore

  • jessheddings
  • Sep 23, 2024
  • 4 min read

Updated: Feb 12

By Jessica, 3rd Generation Operator of Island View Waterfront
Baltimore wedding venue, outdoor wedding venue, Maryland waterfront wedding venue, Chesapeake Bay wedding venue, Essex Maryland
Jessica, 3rd generation operator, with happy couple at Island View Waterfront - photo by @BobbyAPhotography

When you're planning your dream wedding, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the venue. It’s where memories will be made, family and friends will gather, and where your love story will be celebrated. Two primary options will come up: local, family-owned venues and large corporate-owned spaces. Both have their perks, but today I want to share with you why choosing a local, family-owned wedding venue like ours at Island View Waterfront will offer you a unique and unforgettable experience.


Why Choose a Local, Family-Owned Venue?

As a third-generation operator of Island View Waterfront, a venue located on the serene Chesapeake Bay, I can speak from experience when I say that being part of a family-owned business makes all the difference.


1. Personalized Service

Unlike corporate venues, where your wedding may feel more like a transaction, at a local, family-owned venue, you get personalized service. Every couple who chooses Island View Waterfront gets my full attention from start to finish. My team and I take the time to get to know your unique vision and make sure we tailor everything to suit your needs. Whether it’s recommending vendors from our curated guide, setting up your outdoor ceremony by the water, or customizing your reception to match your dream aesthetic, we’re here to bring your ideas to life.


2. Commitment to Your Wedding

When you choose a family-owned business like Island View Waterfront, you’re not just another client—we treat you like family. Every detail, from your first tour to your big day, is handled with care and love. After all, we’ve been operating this venue since 1968, and we’re committed to making every wedding an experience worth remembering.


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A sunset ceremony by the water—creating unforgettable moments at Island View Waterfront.

3. Support Local Businesses

Your decision to go local doesn’t just benefit your wedding—it supports the community as well. By choosing Island View, you’re contributing to the local economy, helping small businesses thrive, and ensuring that your celebration benefits the very people who call this area home.


4. Free Parking

No need to worry about parking on your wedding day! We offer free, ample parking for all your guests.


indoor reception, Chesapeake Bay views, wedding venue Maryland
Elegant and timeless—our indoor space provides panoramic views of the Chesapeake Bay.

5. Curated Vendor Guide

We've built relationships with some of the best local wedding vendors over the years, and we’re happy to share our curated vendor guide with you. From florists to photographers, we’ve got you covered with reliable, top-tier options to make your wedding day perfect.


6. All-Inclusive Options to Fit Your Budget

At Island View Waterfront, we understand that each couple has a unique budget and vision. Our all-inclusive options are customizable, so you can select the services and inclusions that work best for you. This flexibility allows you to focus on what matters most to you without compromising on quality.


7. Tables, Chairs, Setup, and Breakdown Included

We take care of the essentials, so you don’t have to worry about the logistics. Our pricing includes tables, chairs, and the setup and breakdown of the venue, so you can spend your time enjoying the planning process and your big day.

 

Read real couple reviews of Island View HERE

 
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Local waterfront landmarks on the Chesapeake Bay - photo by @captured.by.alyssa

What to Consider When Choosing a Venue


When it comes to choosing the perfect venue for your wedding, there are several factors you should keep in mind:


  1. Location: Is the venue easy for your guests to reach? Island View Waterfront’s location on the Chesapeake Bay is accessible for those near Baltimore and the surrounding areas.

  2. Capacity: Does the venue accommodate your guest list? We can host both small and large weddings.

  3. Budget: Is the venue within your budget? At Island View, we offer flexible packages that can be customized to suit your needs.

  4. Style: Does the venue match your wedding vision? Whether you're going for a rustic, elegant, or relaxed vibe, our venue is the perfect canvas for your style.

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Outdoor Micro wedding reception on the Chesapeake Bay, MD - photo by @georgiaalexzandriaphotography

Why Island View Waterfront is Your Perfect Venue

Choosing a venue is one of the most important steps in wedding planning. By selecting a local, family-owned venue like Island View Waterfront, you're not just booking a place to get married—you’re choosing a partner who will be there every step of the way, dedicated to making your day special.


At Island View Waterfront, we offer a unique and unforgettable experience for your wedding day. Our stunning waterfront location, personalized service, and commitment to excellence make us the perfect choice for couples seeking a truly special celebration.

As evidenced by the countless positive reviews we've received, our dedication to providing an exceptional experience shines through. Our clients rave about our personalized service, beautiful venue, and the overall stress-free planning process.

 

Contact us today to schedule a tour and learn more about how we can help you plan your dream wedding!

 
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Family owned and operated, Jessica is onsite to give personalized service to each celebration at Island View Waterfront - photo by @darllane

When you choose Island View Waterfront, you're choosing a venue that is passionate about making your wedding day unforgettable. 

Contact us today to schedule a tour and start planning your unforgettable wedding.

 

About us:  Island View Waterfront is an independent, locally-owned wedding venue near Baltimore Maryland. We have been family owned and operated since 1968. What started as a small bar and marina (read the history here), we are proud to be the current stewards of this waterfront property on the Chesapeake Bay.

When you choose an independent, locally owned venue like ours, you work directly with the owner, and third generation operator Jessica, throughout your entire wedding planning process!

We are committed to supporting other locally owned wedding venues around the country. A shout-out to the following venues who are offering their continued support and encouragement:




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Island View Waterfront

2542 Island View Road, Essex, Maryland 21221

© 2025 Island View Waterfront. All Rights Reserved.

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