Our Favorite (in and around) Gainesville Wedding Venues
You’re engaged! Let the planning begin! But where to start? Here are some of our favorite Gainesville area wedding venues!
Austin Cary Forest Stern Learning Center
This amazing venue doesn’t always show up on Gainesville wedding venue lists.
A University of Florida property, this place is both stunning and affordable. A short drive from the Gainesville Regional Airport, there’s plenty of parking and really leans into a deeply Gainesville, old Florida aesthetic.
Our friends hosted their reception at Austin Carey ten years ago and their beautiful photos highlight how gorgeous this venue can be.
The Thomas Center
Maybe we’re a little biased because it’s in our neighborhood, but nothing says Historic Gainesville quite like The Thomas Center. In addition to being beautiful, The Thomas Center is budget-friendly. We encourage you to think outside the usual spots for your ceremony here. There are lots of gorgeous places that with a little decor will be stunning! And with its indoor/outdoor options, The Thomas Center is perfect for any season!
Sweetwater Branch Inn
Looking for something more inclusive but still darling? Love picking out the details of your wedding but don’t want to research all of the individual vendors? Sweetwater Branch Inn might be the perfect venue for you! Browse through their brochure to the list of their preferred vendors to make planning a breeze! This venue also has extensive lodging to host family and friends who would like to stay on the property.
Santa Fe River Ranch
A little drive outside of Gainesville, this venue is for the couples who want a more rustic, country vibe while still being elegant and dreamy.
Sloane attended her college roommate’s wedding here in 2014 and it is a stunning property (with animals!). You’ll always win us over with a chance to see some farm animals.
Bonne et Belle
The cutest name! This gallery from Indie West Photography really showcases what a lovely wedding venue this is - and how a barn can be whimsical and boho. The owner, Anita, is so kind and great to work with. Here attention to detail is exceptional. Bonne et Belle has been in her family for a long time and that love and respect of the land is reflected throughout.
1908 Grand
FOR YEARS we drove past the old Masonic Temple, in a prime location on Main Street and wondered what would become of it. And now it’s 1908 Grand.
While we’re big believers that you can have an ultra-chic black tie event anywhere (a la David and Patrick’s wedding on Schitt’s Creek), 1908 Grand certainly lends itself to an over-the-top event with a more formal flair.
Their gallery is STACKED with all kinds of inspiration and showcases the versatility of the space. The getting ready rooms are some of the best!
Top Secret Event Spaces
Gainesville’s favorite restaurant, The Top, has wedding venues! And the best part? The Top restaurant caters your wedding! Two of their top wedding venues are The Wooley and Depot Event Space.
The Wooley
If speakeasy is your vibe, look no further than The Wooley!
Depot Event Space
The Depot event space is great for intimate weddings. Brimming with old Florida charm and located right next to Depot Park for picture spots!
The Barn at Deep Creek
We are not personally familiar with the new-ish venue but the story of its inception is so sweet and I highly recommend reading it here.
This venue looks like a wonderful “blank canvas” for you to plan a truly customized wedding. The website gallery shows both rustic/country inspired weddings and more modern/contemporary vibes.