by Jane Matousek
From sun-kissed vineyards to gently rolling hills and open meadows, outdoor weddings provide couples with a perfect mix of natural beauty and timeless elegance. Whether you’re envisioning a weekend getaway or a single-day celebration framed by stunning scenery, these two Northeast Ohio venues deliver unforgettable backdrops, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service to suit every couple’s vision.
Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens
16965 Park Circle Drive, Chagrin Falls
Tucked into the woods of Chagrin Falls, Sapphire Creek Winery & Gardens combines natural beauty with modern design, offering couples a refined yet warm setting for their wedding day. The six-year-old venue is known for its seamless indoor-outdoor flow—from the floor-to-ceiling windows to expansive gardens and patios perfect for photos or cocktail hour.
On the Great Lawn, guests can sip champagne on a manicured stretch of green that is surrounded by oak and beech trees. The Overlook Terrace, framed by hanging lights and wetlands in the distance, offers a romantic space for portraits and gatherings.
“Our couples instantly feel special from the moment they step into Sapphire Creek for their first visit,” said Kathleen Dangelo, owner and president of Sapphire Creek.
To ensure an impeccable experience, each couple is matched with a wedding manager who supports them throughout the planning journey. On the big day, a dedicated butler stays with the couple and their immediate family, providing full-service attention from start to finish.
Among Sapphire Creek’s more playful traditions is “Bury the Bourbon,” a Southern ritual believed to ward off rain on the wedding day. According to folklore, the couple must bury a full bottle of bourbon—upside down—exactly one month before the ceremony at their venue. The type of bourbon doesn’t matter (though it can’t hurt to splurge, just in case Mother Nature has good taste).
“After the vows, the couple unburies the bourbon and enjoys it with the family and guests,” Dangelo explained.
Inspired by the wineries of California’s Napa Valley, Dangelo and her husband, Andy, aimed to bring that same effortless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces to their hometown. Their passion is reflected not only in the design but in the service and cuisine.
The on-site kitchen offers scratch-made, elevated dishes, complemented by white-glove service for up to 250 guests. Couples can also choose from a curated list of preferred vendors to ensure smooth execution and personalized flair.
Recognized as a “Best of Weddings” award winner by The Knot from 2021 to 2025, Sapphire Creek was also inducted into The Knot’s Hall of Fame. “That is because of our attention to every detail, exceptional service and cuisine and a beautiful venue with numerous, amazing photo opportunities,” Dangelo said.
With lush gardens, water features, firepits, and attentive service, Sapphire Creek offers more than a venue—it offers an experience.
To learn more or schedule a tour, visit sapphire-creek.com/wedding.
Standing Rock Farms
7394 Ross Road, Madison
Nestled on 450 private acres in Madison, Standing Rock Farms offers a wedding destination designed for relaxation, celebration, and connection. Just 45 minutes from Cleveland and surrounded by forests, lakes, and meadows, the venue delivers the feeling of a weekend getaway with all the amenities of a luxury resort.
“What sets us apart is our ability to host full wedding weekends where couples and their guests can relax, connect and celebrate all in one place,” said Anthony Spena, general manager of Standing Rock Farms.
The two-year-old venue features two distinct event spaces—The Flower Farm and The Barrel Room—plus 11 luxury overnight accommodations and numerous ceremony spots across the sprawling property.
The Flower Farm venue spans 12,000 square feet and accommodates 100 to over 350 guests. It features a 40-foot bar, reclaimed wood walls, and custom-built tables made from materials sourced directly from the land. Glass doors open onto a covered patio with fire tables and lounge seating.
For smaller events, The Barrel Room offers indoor and outdoor ceremony options for up to 150 guests. Indoors, large windows frame views of the forest. Outdoors, ceremonies can take place amid natural greenery, with meadows or wooded backdrops.
“It’s the perfect setting for couples seeking something elegant, yet grounded and authentic,” Spena said.
Guests can extend the celebration with overnight stays in one of the venue’s cabins, allowing for weekend-long events that include sunset ceremonies, lakeside paddleboarding, morning coffee on the porch, and cozy evenings around the firepit.
“In addition to our two venues and 11 luxury overnight accommodations, the property offers a variety of beautiful ceremony spots, private lakes, forest trails and wide-open meadows,” Spena said.
Standing Rock works with a select list of required catering vendors—offering Kosher and specialty options—who are familiar with the property and trained to deliver top-tier service.
“At Standing Rock, we believe your wedding should feel like more than just a day—it should feel like a destination,” said Spena. “We’re honored to provide a setting where love stories unfold naturally, surrounded by beauty, comfort and the people who matter most.”
To inquire about hosting your event at Standing Rock Farms, visit standingrockfarms.com/wedding.