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Barn Weddings: 7 Reasons They Are a Great Choice

Barn Weddings

At Summit Hill Studios, we’ve captured weddings in castles in France, ballrooms, gardens—and yes, many magical barns. There’s something undeniably special about barn weddings. They blend rustic beauty with laid-back celebration in a way that feels effortlessly romantic and truly memorable. If you’re considering tying the knot in a barn, here are seven reasons to say “I do” to the idea:


1. Rustic Charm with Natural Beauty

Barns offer that perfect mix of weathered wood, open air, and vintage character. Whether you’re aiming for farmhouse chic or boho romance, barn weddings provide a naturally beautiful setting that photographs like a dream.

Kristi + Ted at The Mumm Barn in Clayton, Wisconsin. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

2. Indoor-Outdoor Flexibility

Most barn venues come with both outdoor ceremony areas and indoor reception spaces. That means you can enjoy a sunny outdoor ceremony and have a cozy backup if the weather doesn’t cooperate, no stress needed.

Ally + Chris at Oheme Oasis in New Richmond, Wisconsin. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

3. Customizable Space

Barns are often blank slates, giving you creative freedom. Want string lights, floral chandeliers, or whiskey barrel tables? Go for it. The open layout lets you bring your own style without fighting the venue’s aesthetics.

Easton + Austin at their Family Farm in Lake City, Minnesota. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

4. Relaxed, Intimate Atmosphere

Barn weddings tend to feel warm, welcoming, and relaxed. It’s a style that invites guests to let loose, dance under the stars, and truly celebrate with you…not just observe.

Kalli + Gunner at Divanyx Event Center in Dodge Center, Minnesota. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

5. Perfect for Golden Hour Photos

One of our favorite parts about barn weddings? The light. These venues are usually surrounded by open fields or wooded backdrops that glow during golden hour. It’s the kind of lighting that makes wedding photos and videos feel cinematic and magical.

Carly + Tyler at The Barn of Chapeau Shores in Albert Lea, Minnesota. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

6. Built-In Character

From vintage tractors and exposed beams to haylofts and sliding barn doors, these venues come with personality. You don’t need to over-decorate when the space already feels authentic and memorable.

Alexandra + Joseph at Gathered Oaks in Alexandria, Minnesota. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

7. All-Day Celebration Potential

Because barns are often privately owned or located on larger properties, many allow extended rental hours or full-day access. That gives you the flexibility to enjoy every moment—getting ready on-site, lounging with your wedding party, and dancing into the night.

Ellyn + Matt at Creekside Farm in Rush City, Minnesota. Captured by Summit Hill Studios

Thinking about a barn wedding?
We’d love to help you bring it to life with timeless photography and cinematic videography. At Summit Hill Studios, we know how to work with natural light, rustic textures, and those emotional moments that make barn weddings unforgettable.

📸 Contact us to learn more or view our latest barn wedding highlights!

Photos captured by Summit Hill Studios

AS VOTED BY MINNESOTA BRIDE MAGAZINE READERS, WEDDING PROFESSIONALS AND COUPLES

SUMMIT HILL STUDIOS IS MINNESOTA BRIDE'S
"BEST OF" SEVEN YEARS RUNNING