Looking for the Perfect Jacksonville, FL Wedding Venue? Start With These 5 Favorites
When it comes to selecting a Jacksonville, FL wedding venue, the variety is as vibrant and personal as the couples who say “I do” here. Known for its coastal charm, Jacksonville has long been considered an ideal place to plan a wedding—especially from the perspective of a local Jacksonville wedding photographer.
From riverfront estates and historic landmarks to rustic barns and elegant clubs, Jacksonville offers no shortage of settings. Whatever your vision, there’s a space to match it. I’ve handpicked five of the top Jacksonville, FL wedding venues to help you find the one that feels just right.
1. The Clay Theatre: Historic, Chic, and Unforgettable
Imagine stepping out of the doors of this historic 1937 movie theater turned venue, dress trailing behind you, all eyes are on you, and yours are on your partner, with tears filling their eyes. You say your “I dos” in a private courtyard with white, classic brick as your backdrop, surrounded by the people who love you most. Then make your grand entrance from the second-story balcony as everyone watches and cheers. After you dance the night away in a stunning, classy, and upscale ballroom, the custom LED lighting sets the atmosphere, and your new married name is posted on the front marquee for all to see. That is the experience you will get from this amazing wedding venue in Green Cove Springs, just outside of Jacksonville.
The Clay Theatre is truly art-deco charm, meets cinematic elegance. Think clean white walls, large glass chandeliers, this wedding venue is a one-of-a-kind showstopper. This Jacksonville, FL wedding venue is perfect for you if you’re wanting something stylish and unique.
2. Bowing Oaks: A Jacksonville, FL Wedding Venue Where Rustic Charm Meets Modern Comfort
Love the modern feel, but looking for something more rustic for your big day? Bowing Oaks, a wedding venue just Southeast of Jacksonville with its century-old moss-covered oak trees, might be what you’re looking for. Also, this barn-style wedding venue has all of the modern amenities you need. Like a bridal suite, grooms quarters, private parking, and an air-conditioned ballroom that accommodates 200 guests.
My wedding couples love this Jacksonville, FL wedding venue for its perfect indoor/outdoor flow, large outdoor cocktail hour area under large oak trees, fire pits, and rocking chairs under the twinkle-lit patios. Unlike other barn venues, this one is fully paved. No dirty train or you or your guests having to walk through dirt. As a Jacksonville wedding photographer, this venue has many beautiful photo-ops. Each only a few steps from one another. Allowing you more time to enjoy your day and less time worrying about walking to and from.
Head to their website to schedule your venue tour today!
3. Ribault Club: A Piece of Old Florida Elegance
Situated on the Fort George River, Northeast of Jacksonville, this secluded, historic waterfront venue is perfect for you if you’re seeking a classic, yet vintage-inspired wedding. Here you can marry your best friend at the foot of the giant, picturesque oak tree and then dance the night away under the string lights over your dance floor.
This Jacksonville, FL wedding venue offers timeless interiors and different space options for small, intimate weddings and also larger spaces for up to 400 guests. The Ribault Club also has many indoor and outdoor spaces, perfect for rain backups, those hot summer Florida days, and all the best places for your portraits. Those “just married” portraits by the river just hit different here.
Planning tips: You’ll need to provide your own linens, place settings, dance floor, catering, bartending, and additional lighting. White ceremony chairs can be added for an extra fee. You’re also responsible for removing all decor and personal items after the celebration. Letting an amazing wedding planner like Justice Designs take care of that for you is my recommendation.
4. Epping Forest Yacht Club: A Jacksonville, FL Wedding Venue With Riverfront Luxury
Unquestionably, no wedding is too big or too small for Epping Forest. Right in the heart of Jacksonville on the St. Johns River, Epping Forest Yacht Club can accommodate your intimate wedding of 10 guests to over 400. Once a former mansion, now turned private club, this wedding venue in Jacksonville, FL is guaranteed to be a showstopper for your big day.
The club is refined, romantic, and elegant with its brick courtyards, grand staircase, and views of the St. Johns River. Imagine your most memorable moments with the luxurious backdrop of the boat dock with the sun setting behind, or sharing your first kiss with this elite mansion setting the frame. Black tie, formal, and upscale weddings are ideal for this location.
5. Marywood Retreat & Conference Center: A Serene, Spiritual Setting
Last but not least, South of Jacksonville, this peaceful Riverfront wedding venue is great for couples looking for a quiet, yet meaningful space. Maybe you’re looking to document your memories with a backdrop of the river, oak trees, or cobblestone main property. This Jacksonville, FL wedding venue checks all of those boxes. Marywood Retreat is affordable, charming, and offers an on-site chapel and other accommodations. A favorite portrait spot amongst my couples is at the spiral staircase.
Tip: Be sure to visit this venue during your ceremony time to get a feel for how the sun/sunset will be during that time. Aim for a ceremony location with the sun behind the altar and not directly on you or your partner’s faces.
Still Deciding? Here’s How to Narrow It Down
Without a doubt, choosing the right venue for your wedding can be one of the biggest choices when wedding planning. With the right team by your side, it doesn’t have to weigh you down. Narrow down your venue choices by guest count, overall vibe, indoor/outdoor preferences, and things included in the rental. Then schedule your tours and visit in person. The right wedding venue will feel…well, “right”. As you walk the grounds, imagine yourself on your wedding day, spending those moments in those spaces. If you can see yourself there and feel exactly how you want to feel on that day, then nothing else matters. You’ve found “the one”!
And when you’re ready to pick the perfect venue, I would love to be beside you. I’ll document your momentous day with care and honesty. Reach out here.
In the meantime, check out my free wedding planning guide: What Most Couples Forget To Plan For, But You Won’t.
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