If you own a beautiful property — a farm, vineyard, ranch, or other wide-open space — you may be sitting on an untapped goldmine. More and more couples are looking beyond traditional ballrooms for wedding venues that are meaningful, scenic, and one-of-a-kind. That means properties like yours are in high demand.

As a professional wedding planner with over 20 years of experience, I’ve helped countless couples find their dream venues — and many of those hidden gems started just like yours. If you're curious about how to create an additional stream of income through hosting weddings and events, here are several ways to get started.

1. Offer Your Land as a Ceremony or Reception Site

You don’t need a full-service facility to begin — many couples are looking for outdoor ceremony sites with beautiful backdrops, like rolling hills, barns, vineyards, or pastures. You can offer your space as a "venue-only" rental for ceremonies, receptions, or both. Think of it as a "blank canvas" for couples who want to create a unique experience.

Pro Tip: Start with a flat, accessible area for tents or seating. Parking and restroom options are also important — portable luxury restrooms are a good short-term solution.

2. Create a Styled Ceremony Spot

Designate and lightly landscape a scenic area on your property for ceremonies. Add a few elements like an arbor, wooden benches, or a pathway to make it picture-perfect. This adds perceived value and helps couples visualize using the space.

Bonus: These features can also be used for engagement sessions, elopements, or family photo rentals.

3. Convert Existing Structures

Have a barn, stable, or outbuilding? With minimal updates, these spaces can be transformed into rustic reception venues, cocktail lounges, or bridal suites. You don’t need to go all-in on renovations right away — just making it clean, safe, and photogenic is a great place to start.

4. Create a “Micro Wedding” or Elopement Package

Not every couple wants a 150-person event. Offer small-scale wedding packages for elopements or micro weddings (under 50 guests). These packages can include short rentals (2–4 hours), ceremony use, photo access to your property, and a small celebration space.

These are great for weekdays or off-season dates and can become a very profitable offering with minimal impact on your schedule.

5. Partner with Local Vendors

You don’t have to do everything yourself. Build relationships with rental companies, caterers, planners, and photographers who can provide services to your clients. You become the venue — they provide the rest.

Want to be hands-off? Create a preferred vendor list. Want to be more involved? Offer vendor coordination or planning services as an add-on.

6. Offer Photography Access Year-Round

Even outside of wedding season, your land could be a dream spot for engagement photos, family sessions, holiday card shoots, or even commercial brand shoots. Charge photographers an hourly access fee or offer mini-session weekends.

7. Host Seasonal Events

Don’t stop at weddings. Consider hosting seasonal events like:

• Farm-to-table dinners

• Wine tastings

• Pumpkin patches

• Flower picking

• Retreats and workshops

These not only generate income but also help promote your property as a community destination.