Nowhere but in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia will you find more diversity in people, environment, and beauty. The Virginia Beach area is active and alive with an athletic population, Norfolk provides the region with artistic and cultural centers, Hampton is steeped in urban history, and Williamsburg lends a touch of patriotic pride in its preservation of Virginia history. Stepping from town to town, the differences are simple to spot, yet for all the differences in each township it is clear they share one thing common: each Tidewater town offers a beautiful backdrop for a wedding. Here now are five such locales any Hampton Roads couple should consider when planning their special day.

Norfolk - The Chrysler Museum: Patrons enjoy the permanent collection of paintings and ancient sculpture and the fascinating exhibits by popular modern and contemporary artists, but did you know you could rent the entire musuem for special occasions? The gracious Florentine style of the inner courtyard and the elegant gardens bordering the outside of the building offer ample photo opportunities for the wedding party and guests.

Virginia Beach - Cavalier on the Hill: Before the sprawl of chain hotels along the Oceanfront, the Cavalier was the place to stay at the beach. Today, one can still experience the glory of this late 20s resort hotel with a dazzling wedding reception in the grand ballroom.

Hampton - Virginia Air and Space Center: A wedding at a science museum? Believe it or not, this popular Hampton attraction prides itself on catering weddings that are literally out of this world. What could be better for bride and groom space enthusiasts to have their wedding photo taken on the surface of the moon...or a reasonable fascimile?

Williamsburg - Williamsburg Inn: Situated in the heart of Colonial Williamsburg, this elegant inn hearkens back to days of colonial beauty and majesty. Its beautifully appointed courtyards and rooms are ideal for a wedding and sit-down dinner reception.

Williamsburg - The Wren Chapel at The College of William and Mary: One can only imagine how many important historical figures graced this stately on-campus landmark. Used for weddings and various ceremonies in the past, the Wren Chapel is still available for services upon request. Couples with a significant tie to one of the nation's oldest colleges or colonial history may want to consider an intimate ceremony here.

The natural beauty of the beach, the noble aura of our founding fathers and mothers, the mystery of worlds unknown...diverse wedding locales in the diverse community of Hampton Roads make this part of Virginia an exceptional place to enjoy a wedding. - Kathryn Lively

Kathryn Lively is the author of Pithed: An Andy Farmer Mystery from Mundania Press and the Ash Lake Mysteries, Saints Preserve Us and Pray For Us Sinners from Wings Press. She is also marketing manager for Ciniva Systems. Her articles and fiction have appeared in many online and print magazines and newsletters.