When it comes to weddings, the array of locations, ceremonies and types of receptions can often be overwhelming. Should the event be held inside or outside? What time of year is best? Do the bride and groom prefer casual events or does the budget allow a major extravaganza?
The following suggestions should help narrow the choices and provide vital information on pricing, selecting and making arrangements for a dream wedding ceremony and reception for those who’d love a Midwest wedding.
My top choices:
Wedding and Reception Location One: Connor Prairie
Connor Prairie is one of the nation’s oldest and most acclaimed outdoor living museums. Visitors to the site can experience a true trip back in time and see settlers living in Indiana as they did long ago. When it comes to weddings and receptions at Connor Prairie, there are more modern buildings and amenities available. As many as 1000 people can be accommodated but smaller wedding parties are also welcome There are a wide range of indoor and outdoor sites to choose from. Special features include the gorgeous bridges, scenes and backdrops which provide a gorgeous setting for photographs.
Prices average about $750 for a medium sized wedding party but do see the website info below for more information
Best time of year to have a wedding: May – June. All food and drink (except wedding cake) must be purchased through Connor Prairie.
Special tips: This is so popular that it is best to plan ahead. Catering is available. A wedding specialist is on hand to make everything easy.
Location and Contact Info:
Connor Prairie Farm
13400 Allisonville Road
Fishers, IN 46038
Phone: 317-776-6000
Website info: www.connerprairie.org/groups_catering/forms/wedding-faq
Catering info: www.connerprairie.org/groups_catering/meals/dinner
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Location Two: Buskirk- Chumley Theatre in Bloomington, Indiana
For those with a taste for art deco, this is a very special historic location to have a wedding ceremony and reception. With high ceilings, crystal chandeliers and a complete restored interior, the Buskirk-Chumley Theatre is a true delight. It was originally built in 1922.
Special features: Because this is a theatre, the bride and groom can opt to have special lighting on stage as well as backdrops, photos and other effects. There is even a fanstastic sound system. This is the height of sophistication and luxury but with a unique location. Professional staff are on hand to help plan weddings.
Listening devices are available for the hearing-impaired and wheelchairs can be used in parts of the seating areas. Balconies and other sections can be reserved for the reception after the wedding.
To get a sense of the building’s history, look here: www.buskirkchumley.org/history.html Rental fees start at around $660 for the space. Catering options are available and it is suggested that wedding plans are made at least 6 months in advance. Photos may be taken on site, if desired. There is reserved limo parking available and ample parking for guests.
Location and Contact Info:
Buskirk- Chumley Theatre
114 E. Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47402
Phone: 812 – 323-3022
Ask for Danielle
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Location Three: Brookshire of Central Ohio
Brookshire is a premiere property located in Delaware, Ohio and a very popular location for weddings. It has a Tuscan atmosphere, warm colors and European flair. To get more information, have a look here: www.brookshire.biz/gallery/ottery.html
If you opt for an outdoor wedding here, it would not be unusual to see a stately deer and perhaps even a fawn watching from afar. Guests entering Brookshire’s main building will be greeted by a gorgeous waterfall, elegant decor and a lobby that is truly spectacular. The outdoor area is filled with mature oak and hickory trees, stunning green lawns and incredible views.
Special features: A special bridal room. Because this is a large area with its own bathroom and other luxuries, the bride never has to leave the room before the wedding. For traditionalists, this helps ensure bride and groom don’t see each other till the wedding.
Location and Contact Info:
Brookshire
405 Greif Parkway
Delaware, Ohio 43015
Phone: 740- 548-8188
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Location Four: Georgian Manor – Ohio
This location has the reputation of being one of the most romantic locations in the area. It is located in Hocking Hills and overlooks Lake Logan. For bridge and groom, the Honeymoon suite offers Jacuzzis and two person showers. For guests, there is a lakeside wedding pavillion which can accommodate up to 125 guests.
Special Features: All common areas have tapestries, antiques and sculptures from around the world. 10% Active Duty Military Discount if Military ID can be provided.
Casual ceremonies start a $395 (bride and groom only) and larger ceremonies start at $1295. As weddings go, these are not overpriced and packages for small wedding parties of 20 or so include such features as the complete ceremony, overnight stay, bridal bouquet and many other special additions.
Location and Contact Info:
Georgian Manor
29055 Evans Road
Logan, Ohio 43138
Phone: 740- 385-9710
Website: www.georgianmanner.com/weddings.html
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Locator Five: New Harmony Inn in New Harmony, Indiana
This inn is located in the lower Wabash River Valley. Set in a peaceful areas, the lush gardens, architectural details and lakeside view afford much for wedding ceremonies, guests’ pleasures and reception plans. An experienced wedding planner here can help you design every aspect of your wedding, from the rehearsal dinners to the wedding and reception afterwards.
Special features: New Harmony has many older churches and historical buildings. It is an antique lover’s paradise and a refuge from the hectic city life for many.
There is a private area for the bride and bridal party before the wedding, on and off-site catering available, special room rates for guests and romantic carriage rides. A directory of historical buildings and churches in the area give guests information about architectural attractions that might be of interest.
The Red Geranium is the signature restaurant here.
Location and Contact Info:
New Harmony Inn
504 N. Street
New Harmony, IN 47631
Phone: 800-782-8605
Website: www.newharmonyinn.com/index.php
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Locator Six: Iowa Special Moments Bed and Breakfast
Quaint, charming and down to earth are the features often associated with bed and breakfasts and this inn is no exception. This two-story colonial was build in 1912 and features original oak woodwork and floors. Those renowned Bridges of Madison County are only a few minutes away!
Special features: A sense of home. Guests can relax on porches, enjoy the lakeside view or dine in the candlelit dining room.
For information about wedding options, all arrangements must be designed personally by contacting the management. Romantic wedding packages and dinners are all available. This location is best suited to small and intimate weddings of around 30 people or so.
Location and Contact Info:
Special Moments Bed and Breakfast
3070 State Highway 25
Orient, IA 50858
Phone: 641-345-2697
Room rates: $85-95
Website: www.bbonline.com/ia/special/index.html
Open all year but pets are not allowed.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Locater Seven: BrookLodge in Augusta, MI
Set on the grounds of a former estate, the main building has fireplaces and a very experienced banquet staff for any type of wedding reception. The path to the wedding can be lit with romantic luminarias, a very nice touch. In the wedding suite, there is an elegant four-poster bed, with fireplace nearby. Truly a romantic setting for the wedding night!
Currently, the best dates are November, January, February and March.
Special features: Complimentary late night pizzas are available for guests who are hungry even after the lavish dinner at the wedding reception. Hors d’oevres are served butler style on silver trays. No special touch is overlooked. Attention to details set this wedding location apart. There are also eight cottages available for guests, depending on availability.
Location and contact info:
Brook Lodge
6535 N. 42nd St
Augusta, MI 49012
Phone: 800-407-8496
Website: www.hfs.msu.edu/brooklodge/promos/wedding.html
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Locater Eight: Ritz-Carlton in Dearborn, MI
Nothing tops the Ritz-Carlton for luxury and wedding ceremony pizazz. Let’s face it – the location isn’t called “The Ritz” for nothing and all the images that come with the words “putting on the Ritz’ are apt at this place. From extravagant rooms to unparalleled service, the Ritz-Carleton offers everything you’d expect for a special wedding, one to remember through the years.
Special features: A wide range of pre-wedding events from bridal tea parties to bachelor parties and martini nights. Just ask and you’re likely to have a very personal and unique event arranged for you. Table with fine linens and candelabras are popular as is the gourmet cuisine. Every part of the ceremony and reception can take place on site. Catering is available.
Prime months? May, June, September and October.
Location and contact info:
The Ritz Carlton
300 Town Center Drive
Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone 313-441-2000
Website: www.ritzcarlton.com/en/Properties/Dearborn/Default.htm
