A few things to know about me: I’m a townie, Purdue Alumna, met my spouse at Purdue, AND have a degree in photography. I’m not sure there is a topic more uniquely suited for me to answer than “Where are the best photo spots on campus for my wedding day?”
If you’re getting married at Purdue, these locations will likely bring back a flood of memories! What you may not know is some of the sentiments (that are perfect for weddings!) that are tied to Purdue’s most memorable monuments.
Gateway to the Future
If you spent much time on the engineering side of campus or passed underneath on your way to Ross-Ade or Mackey Arena, this archway is likely to be immediately familiar to you. Located next to the Neil Armstrong Hall of Engineering, Purdue describes the “Gateway to the Future” as symbolizing “the future for Purdue students and graduates. When students walk through the arch, they take charge of their futures and step into new beginnings which Purdue University has prepared them for.”
Clapping Circle
You may have visited this spot on your first campus tour or during BGR as you explored campus for one of the very first times. This unassuming patio space, surrounded by raised grass lawns and concrete steps, is located between the Purdue Memorial Union and Heavilon Hall and is the perfect spot for getting shots of you and your bridal party surrounded by the iconic textures of campus.
Memorial Mall
Memorial Mall is in the heart of campus and is always beautifully landscaped! The gates, pillars, and bricks that line the edge make for stunning bridal party images.
Unfinished Block P
The Unfinished Block P, dedicated in 2008 is one of the newer landmarks on campus. It serves as “an emblem encouraging all Purdue students, alumni, and friends to treasure all that Purdue has blessed us with and to keep the Purdue experience close at heart”. A fitting sentiment for your wedding day!
Residences
Fond memories of Greek life on campus? Did you meet in the halls of your dorm? Don’t forget to stop by your old campus residence for a once-in-a-lifetime photo opportunity.
Engineering Fountain
Purdue’s Engineering Fountain is one of the jewels of campus! Whether you head there with just your spouse or your whole bridal party, the drama of the fountain and surrounding landscaping make for a beautiful backdrop in any season. Just no fountain runs until AFTER the wedding, okay?
Hovde Hall
This campus building houses much of the administrative services for the university, so you probably didn’t spend too much study time here. However, the pillars and symmetrical steps outside Hovde Hall make for stunning portraits on your wedding day.
Bell Tower
This Purdue landmark has its own Wikipedia page! The current bell tower was built in 1995, but includes bells that have a history with the campus that dates back to 1895!
While the Bell Tower is a symbol of resiliency and striving for “one brick higher”, legend also has it that “if a couple kisses under the tower, and then walk past the nearby Stone Lion Fountain, they will eventually be married.”
Purdue Memorial Union
If you’re getting married on campus, you’re likely either staying at the newly renovated Union Club Hotel, having your ceremony or reception inside the Union, or both!
You only have to take a few steps outside for a great photo opportunity.
Don’t forget the Grand Staircase in the main entrance hall. A perfect locale if the weather doesn’t fully cooperate on your wedding day.
Planning a Wedding? Let’s work together!
Photographers in this post:
A.R. Davis Media
Bokeh Studios
Bowersock Images
Erika Eileen Photography
Cassie Howard Photography
IS Photographic
Jasmine Norris Photography
Jenn Plumlee
Kelsey Lefever Photographer
Meg Elaine Images