Marjorie MillerAs the creative enthusiast in our friend group, I’ve been helping my friend Gwen with her wedding mood board for her ceremony styling ideas and reception pegs. You know how difficult it is to find the perfect venue for the most magical moment in one’s life.
Before they book wedding photographers, though, it’s important to lock in the date with their chosen venue. If you’re helping out, it’s best to always consult the couple to ensure it suits both of their preferences.
I know the pressure of searching for the right one because I’ve seen Gwen lose her mind over it, so I’ve tracked down the best wedding venues in Jacksonville that could also help you select the perfect match for your big day!
1. Brick & Beam
Media credit: Brick and Beam Jax
Website: https://brickandbeamjax.com/
Address: 1101 N Main St, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19045102168
Operating Hours:
- Mon, Sat: closed
- Tues–Thurs, Sun: 10:00am – 6:00pm
- Fri: 10:00am – 3:00pm
The first thing that caught my eye was Brick & Beam’s rustic aesthetic because it felt like the whole place was good for a photo op!
My friend Gwen and I checked the place out, so we were given a chance to see how they light the space during an event. Their accent lighting was so magical that it seemed like it could make anything ‘grammable.
You’d appreciate that the place has plenty of parking space, especially if you’re planning a big reception. You wouldn’t want your guests to start getting irritated by looking for parking.
For chilly nights, they also have a gazebo where guests can warm themselves up near the fire pit area. It’s perfect if your event is scheduled for the cold months but make sure to advise your guests to bring a shawl or a scarf to ensure their ultimate coziness.
Pro tip:
To get unique photo backdrops, maximize the brick walls and rustic theme by coordinating with your photographer and stylist to bring in mood lighting, string lights, or even drapery.
2. The Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens
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Website: https://www.cummermuseum.org/
Address: 829 Riverside Ave, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19043566857
Operating Hours:
- Mon: closed
- Tues: 11:00am – 8:00pm
- Wed–Sat: 11:00am – 4:00pm
- Sun: 12:00pm – 4:00pm
Package Costs: Starts at $9,000
What I liked about The Cummer Museum was their expansive art collection because it’s a feature that could add a touch of elegance to any event. They exhibit artworks from various eras like the Late Medieval, Renaissance, and Ancient Mediterranean.
You don’t want to miss out on their Botanical Gardens, too. It has a beautiful fountain, romantic arches, and just lush, healthy greenery overall that’s perfect for sweet photoshoots.
Pro tips:
- If you’re scheduling a photoshoot in the garden, always create a Plan B in case the weather doesn’t permit. Besides, there are indoor areas that you can choose as alternatives.
- Try to schedule your photoshoots during golden hour for a flattering bridal glow.
3. The Lark
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Website: https://www.thelarkjax.com/
Address: 229 N Hogan St, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19043291992
Operating Hours:
- Mon, Sat, Sun: closed
- Tues–Fri: 10:00am – 6:00pm
Recently, I’ve been drawn to rustic looks because of Gwen’s moodboards, and I like how warm it feels to have wood accents in venues. The Lark holds a unique charm that includes brick walls and wooden floors, which are great for a cozy vibe.
They have a bar and patio that are great as extensions of the reception venue, especially if you want your guests to feel more comfortable in the space.
The Lark also has a VIP Suite that provides customizable ceiling spotlights, so you can adjust them to your liking. This is a great way to make creative effects for your overall wedding look.
It’s a versatile venue, too, because they can hold not just weddings but also private parties, creative pop-ups, and corporate functions. You’d want to keep them on your list for future reference as well.
Pro tip:
You can add lights to the beams and by the windows to create drama through lighting, which can make for an interesting sight for guests and your photo opps.
4. Bowing Oaks
Media credit: Bowing Oaks
Website: https://bowingoaks.com/
Address: 7743 Alphons St, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19046005172
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Fri: 10:00am – 6:00pm
- Sat–Sun: closed
Package Costs: Starts at $8,250
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If you’re considering inviting around 200 guests, I’d recommend checking out Bowing Oaks. I came into the venue without any expectations, but then I was struck by their spacious indoor ballroom.
Their indoor ballroom has features like a catering kitchen and banquet tables, which make it convenient to coordinate with caterers regarding logistics.
Bowing Oaks provides romantic backdrops for couple photos as well as for family and friends. The venue caters to both indoor and outdoor ceremonies, and both areas are just magical.
Another plus for me is that they have enough parking spaces for your guests, so you don’t have to worry about them being late to the party due to parking issues.
Pro tips:
- It’s better to choose a weekday schedule if you’re open to it, so you can save a lot due to cheaper rates.
- Come up with something creative for your party props like ribbon wands since they don’t allow confetti and glitter in the area. You wouldn’t want to be charged additional fees for clean-up as a penalty.
5. The Ribault Club
Media credit: The Ribault Club
Website: https://theribaultclub.com/
Address: 11241 Fort George Rd, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19042511050
Operating Hours:
- Mon–Tues: closed
- Wed–Fri, Sun: 9:00am – 5:00pm
- Sat: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Package Costs: Starts at $6,800
I enjoyed the on-site visit to The Ribault Club because the design and architecture really stuck with me. The aesthetic of the space boasts beautiful scenery and timeless sophistication, which is perfect for classic wedding themes.
The backdrop against Fort George Island’s natural landscape would give a romantic wilderness feel to wedding photos. I like how the venue is effortlessly breathtaking and the beautiful greenery can be a background for special moments.
What’s also great is how it can hold medium to big events that have up to 400 guests. It’s a flexible event space that can cater to corporate events and other celebrations, too, like LGBTQ events, charity fundraisers, and family reunions.
You also don’t have to be anxious that your guests might complain about parking. With many guests invited to the party, The Ribault Club has plenty of on-site parking for your friends and loved ones.
Pro tip:
If you can be flexible with your event date, consider planning it on a weekend, so that your guests can enjoy an assortment of activities in the area. They could try activities like birdwatching and fishing, which can make your event more unique and memorable for everyone!
6. Five Points Chapel & Gardens
Media credit: Five Points Chapel
Website: https://www.fivepointschapel.com/
Address: 702 Margaret St, Jacksonville
Contact Details: +19043516692
Operating Hours: Daily: 8:00am – 8:00pm
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What stood out from Five Points Chapel was their stunning backdrops that are great for intimate moments shared among the families, friends, and, of course, the couple. The natural lighting in the event space just hits differently.
I’ve heard from my cousin Jen that the staff is very accommodating when it comes to inquiries. They also pay great attention to detail to make sure that everything runs smoothly on your big day, so it feels reassuring that they care about their clients.
Another green flag for Five Points Chapel is how their packages are flexible depending on your needs. They can cater to both grand celebrations and micro weddings, too, so your package will be tailored to include only what you need.
Keep in mind that the venue is a white space where you can be as creative as you want with your themes. Whether it’s a boho theme or a classic white wedding, your ideas will surely fit the venue’s vibe.
Pro tip:
Ask for transparent pricing quotation right from the start including any additional fees that you should anticipate on the day of the event. The venue has a tendency to add these on-the-spot, and you wouldn’t want to worry about that during your romantic moments.
