Wedding Places In Southern Illinois
If you’re getting married somewhere in Southern Illinois and need to book your wedding on a budget, then you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, I’ll tell you about top 10 wedding destinations in Southern Illinois.
Sometimes you feel like you have a big wedding, and other times you feel like a small wedding. One thing that’s for sure is that you want your special day to be perfect. When searching for places in southern Illinois we’re trying to find an ideal location that will make everyone happy. Today we’re going to take a look at some places that could make your ceremony and reception a true dream come true.
When it comes to planning a wedding, every bride wants to completely throw herself into the wedding and not stop until she’s over the top. So what does that mean? If your venue is in the middle of nowhere, you most certainly do want to deck it out with all sorts of decoration and beauty. Needless to say, if you’re searching for venues in southern Illinois, it’s an occasion that requires a lot of special decisions.
From the picture-perfect golf courses of historic Nicklaus, to the rolling hills of perfectly groomed fairways that are Southern Illinois’ own Medinah Country Club — the “Heart of Golf” includes some of the most beautiful courses near St. Louis. But that’s not where it ends! From country clubs with private lakes and cottages, to historic sites surrounded by rolling hills and fairways, Ohio River towns have much to offer those who enjoy a round of golf or two. You won’t just find golf in these southern Illinois towns — you’ll find a variety of magnificent landscapes perfect for your next big event! If you want to see some amazing southern Illinois wedding places for photographs — be sure to browse our website!
Wedding Places In Southern Illinois
When it comes to planning your dream wedding, there are a lot of logistics that come into play. Depending on the type of weddings you’re planning for — whether a formal event, or something more relaxed for friends and family — wedding venues in southern Illinois offer a wide variety of locations perfect for hosting your special day. Southern Illinois offers award-winning nature destinations that are perfect for elegant wedding ceremonies by the water, while historic Bed and Breakfasts offer an intimate setting. Other southern Illinois wedding destinations take advantage of unique establishments including barns, wineries and other interesting places that provide a memorable atmosphere on which to base your special day.
There are so many incredible places to get married in this area, and I love discovering new favorites when my couples get married somewhere unique! Whether you’re looking for an elegant, outdoor garden feel, an elegant mansion feel, or a beautiful barn, I think you’ll find a southern Illinois wedding venue on my list that you’ll love! I must admit, I enjoy traveling for my couples, but there’s no place like home (clicking my ruby red shoes)!
When you’re looking for a wedding photographer, it’s super important that they know the area you’re getting married. Their expertise is SO important when planning your wedding day. I mean, I’ve had times when I’ve arrived at a wedding venue and I know more about it than the wedding planner! That’s why it’s so important to have vendors who are comfortable with your venue, so there are no surprises! Since I’m from the Southern Illinois area, and I’ve lived here pretty much my whole life, I know the area quite well. I’m so excited to share some of my favorite southern Illinois wedding venues with you! Let’s go!
DRAGONFLY WEDDING VENUE
Located just outside of Herrin, IL, Dragonfly Wedding Venue is a dreamy little getaway, ideal for every type of wedding! I know, it’s hard to believe that one spot could accommodate any wedding style, but I really mean it with Dragonfly! They have 36 acres of manicured land, and you have access to all of it on your big day. From a pond, a little waterfall, a barn, a special groom’s room, the Wonder Woods and even a Boho Tiny House, they’ve truly thought of everything! They offer chair and table rentals to make your life a little easier. All of their packages include a one or two-night stay at their cottage, too! I’d like to make a special mention to Ana, the venue coordinator! She is one-of-a-kind and has been so helpful every time I shoot a wedding at Dragonfly!
Pricing: Depends on the month and day of the week, ranging from $2,950-$8,450
Availability: Year-round
Guest Count: Up to 250
HAVISHAM HOUSE
I absolutely love Havisham House! From the beautiful wedding pavilion to the sweet houses on the property, this is a wonderful wedding venue! Havisham House has that perfect vintage feel, so if you’re looking for a romantic, antique-y wedding, this one’s for you! One of my favorite things is that they welcome all vendors with open arms, which can be rare in the wedding world! Did I mention they have a little carriage house that’s perfect for your groom to get ready with his groomsmen?! Could this place get any more perfect? Actually, it can! The owners of Havisham House are opening up a Bourbon Bar right next to the venue!
Pricing: Packages range from $2,500-$5,950
Guest Count: Up to 200
Availability: Year-round
A POCKET FULL OF SUNSHINE
If you’re searching for the perfect barn venue for your Southern Illinois wedding, this is it! A Pocket Full of Sunshine, in Mt. Vernon, IL, is an absolutely lovely indoor/outdoor wedding venue space. They have several ceremony locations to choose from! Their main area features a picturesque white barn with incredible rustic wood tables, and a lovely pond around the side! The barn is fully climate-controlled year-round so you don’t need to worry about that, and their bride/groom suites are huge! One of the things I love most about A Pocket Full of Sunshine is the incredible story behind the venue. Talia, the venue owner, and her late fiancé, had plans of opening a wedding venue. After Talia’s fiancé died unexpectedly, he left Talia and their son. While the road to opening the venue was challenging, Talia persevered and has been running this successful venue for 4 years! I love the heart and soul that goes into this venue, and it really shows when you visit! Talia does incredible in-house decorating, which means one less thing for you to worry about.
Pricing: Inquire with the venue, but a military discount is available!
Availability: Year-round
THE WEDDING GARDEN
The Wedding Garden is really centrally located near Carbondale, but still feels very private and secluded! I love The Wedding Garden‘s beautiful pergola, reclaimed wood bar in their reception space, and the beautiful gardens surrounding the entire area! They actually have three different wedding locations, so couples can have options to choose the space that fits best for them. This is the perfect venue if you’re looking for a natural, lush, green wedding style! With both indoor and outdoor spaces, it is perfect for any time of year.