A Guide to Timeless Wedding Venues in Pittsburgh

Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum in Oakland is nothing but a dream for those seeking elegance for their Pittsburgh wedding venue.

Full of History and Charm, Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall might be the perfect fit.

In the Pittsburgh area, there’s plenty of wedding venues to choose from, but if you’d like a classy and timeless venue, you might have found what you were looking for.

If you’re searching for a Pittsburgh wedding venue that’s not only rich in history but also offers architectural beauty, grandeur, and amazing photo opportunities—you’re going to want to consider Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum in the heart of Oakland.

As a wedding photographer who focuses on editorial elegance and real, documentary storytelling, I’ve found this venue to be an absolute gem for couples who want their wedding day to feel iconic, cinematic, and unforgettable.

Whether you’re envisioning a classic and elegant affair or something more modern and artsy, this venue holds space for all of it.

Why Soldiers & Sailors is One of the Best Wedding Venues in Pittsburgh

This venue isn’t just a museum—it’s a legacy.

With its dramatic neoclassical architecture, soaring columns, marble interiors, and majestic auditorium, Soldiers & Sailors offers a level of grandeur that feels timeless and truly Pittsburgh.

Couples love the versatility of the space—it’s equally stunning for traditional ceremonies and modern, creative receptions.

Here are just a few of the reasons why this is a favorite Wedding Venues

• Historic charm with modern amenities
  It’s rare to find a Pittsburgh wedding venue that honors the past while providing the comforts and flexibility couples need today. The museum’s historic spaces are elegant, while the ballroom and auditorium give you the ability to host larger events without sacrificing intimacy.
• Breathtaking architecture
  From the grand front steps and massive columns to the intricate detailing inside, this space photographs beautifully. It’s ideal for couples who want their wedding photos to look like they belong in a magazine.
• Convenient and scenic Oakland location
  Nestled between the University of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon, the venue is steps away from some of the most beautiful architecture in the city. Think the Cathedral of Learning, Heinz Chapel, the Carnegie Library, and the Carnegie Museum of Art. These iconic buildings make for incredible editorial portraits and storytelling moments before and after your ceremony.
• Indoor and outdoor versatility
  Whether you’re planning for a sun-soaked outdoor ceremony or a cozy candlelit evening indoors, Soldiers & Sailors has flexible spaces to suit any vision—no matter the season or weather.

A Photographer’s Dream Location for Editorial & Storytelling Wedding Photos

As a documentary and editorial wedding photographer in Pittsburgh, I approach every wedding with the intent to tell your story as it naturally unfolds—with honesty, beauty, and an eye for the small, meaningful moments that make your day uniquely yours.

Soldiers & Sailors is one of those places where I can craft both grand editorial portraits and quiet documentary images that speak to your love, your people, and the emotions you’ll want to remember for the rest of your life.

From dramatic staircase photos to romantic portraits in the oak-lined walkways around the museum, the possibilities are endless.

Getting Ready at The Oaklander Hotel

When I photographed Casey and Andy’s wedding, they chose to get ready at The Oaklander Hotel, and it was absolutely perfect for their elegant day.

The natural light streaming through the windows, the chic modern decor, and the stunning city views from the rooftop made it such a photogenic and relaxing space for those getting-ready moments.

As a photographer, I loved how many editorial-style portraits we were able to capture just within the hotel.

From elegant candids by the window to fun, candid moments with the wedding party in the lounge, every corner offered a unique backdrop.

And the best part? It’s just a short walk or drive to Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall, which meant no stress, no long transitions—and more time to enjoy the day.

If you’re looking for a location to start your day with ease, elegance, and beautiful photo ops, The Oaklander is a top-tier choice.

Why a First Look at The Oaklander Hotel Is a Dream

One of the most memorable parts of Casey and Andy’s day was their first look at The Oaklander Hotel.

Tucked away from the hustle of the day, they shared this quiet, emotional moment in a beautiful corner of the hotel with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the heart of Oakland.

The natural light, the intimate ambiance, and the architecture made it feel timeless—just like the moment deserved.

Doing your first look at The Oaklander has so many benefits:

• Privacy & Calm Before the Ceremony
  It gives you both a chance to connect and slow down before everything begins. No distractions—just the two of you soaking in the moment.
• Beautiful Light & Design
  The hotel’s clean, elegant interior with modern finishes and sweeping city views creates the perfect backdrop for romantic, editorial-style photos.
• Smooth Logistics
  Since The Oaklander is right across the street from Soldiers & Sailors, doing your first look here allows for a seamless transition into your ceremony, without having to build in travel time or worry about Pittsburgh traffic.
• More Time for Portraits
  Doing a first look opens up your timeline, so we can capture couple portraits, wedding party photos, and even family formals before the ceremony—giving you more time to celebrate after you say “I do.”

For couples getting married at Soldiers & Sailors, The Oaklander Hotel is the ideal spot for a first look.

It’s luxurious, convenient, and allows us to capture some of the most meaningful and emotional images of the entire day in a quiet, controlled, and beautifully lit setting.

Make It a Full Oakland Experience

What I also love about this Pittsburgh wedding venue is its proximity to everything you and your guests could need. Planning a wedding weekend here? You’re walking distance to:

• The Oaklander Hotel – a chic, modern hotel with rooftop views
• Carnegie Museum of Art & Natural History – perfect for an elegant, art-inspired photo session
• Phipps Conservatory – if you want to sneak away for some nature-filled portraits
• The Cathedral of Learning – for dramatic, Harry Potter-like vibes in your photos
• Cozy cafés and restaurants – perfect for an afterparty or brunch the next day (I recommend The Porch or Butterjoint!)

Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Pittsburgh Wedding Venue

Your venue sets the tone—but your photographer brings it to life.

That’s why you really have to put some thought into what vibe you want for your wedding venue.

When you look back at your photos, I want you to feel everything. That’s why I mix editorial-style portraits with raw, storytelling coverage.

If you’re ready for an incredible experience, make sure you reach out and tell me what you have in mind.

It’s not just about looking beautiful—it’s about remembering what it felt like.

If you’re dreaming of wedding photos that look like they belong in a magazine, tell your love story with soul, and reflect your personalities in a deeply artistic way—let’s talk.

Soldiers and Sailors is a Pittsburgh Wedding Venue that is classy and elegant, which will result in not only an amazing experience but incredible photos for a lifetime to come.

I travel all over for love stories, but there’s something extra special about Pittsburgh weddings, especially at Soldiers & Sailors.

Let’s Plan Your Dream Wedding Together

As a Pittsburgh Wedding Venue, Soldiers & Sailors Memorial Hall & Museum is a true Pittsburgh treasure—classic, romantic, and unforgettable.

If you’re looking for a wedding photographer who will capture it all in a way that’s artful, honest, and deeply you, I’d be honored to be part of your day.

Reach out and let’s start dreaming together.