Create your own Fairytale

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A Barn? That’s where you want to get married then this is the guide for you. We are going to break down everything there is to know about Barn Venues. We will also be referencing our venue below as well, The Barn at Grant Station. Barns have become increasingly popular and there is no question about it. Not only are they a beautiful space to have your wedding, but they can host events like birthdays, anniversaries, baby showers, holiday parties, and more. No Barn venues are the same. They each have a uniqueness that separated them from one another. Some have a rustic charm while other have a sparkling elegance. All barns have attractive options for Brides and Grooms seeking a unique and memorable venue for themselves and their guests.

What do you want your Barn venue to look like?

Barn. When we say that some think of the Bright Red Barn from Old McDonald, while other may think of a horse stable, a big old barn full of haystacks or one with a second-floor window in the hayloft. There are all types of styles; more elegant ones with beautiful flooring, sparkling chandeliers, providing the perfect aesthetic for your event.

-Classic Red Barns:  A red barn is ICONIC! Yes, they are normally associated with farm animals, but they are truly beautiful. A red barn provides tradition and timelessness all in one nice package. 

- Pole Barns: These open-air barns are characterized by their simplicity. They often consisting of large metal or wooden poles supporting a roof, no doors or windows. They have a simple rustic look depending on what they are constructed of. Wooden Pole barns are quite beautiful providing wooden beams that make the space rustic.

Barns with Exposed Beams: Our venue at The Barn at Grant Station is an enclosed barn with exposed wooden beams. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. Our style of barn has a more refined and polished look, making them suitable for a range of events, from weddings to upscale corporate gatherings. Our venue specifically was built for special events. It has slate flooring with a high vaulted ceiling with a dozen unique chandeliers.

-Historic or Restored Barns: Some barn venues have undergone extensive restoration to preserve their historical charm. Once being used for farming these venues are often rich in character and tell a unique story. They can be elegantly rustic, with a little from both worlds.

Location. Location. Location.

This is one of the most important things about a venue in general. You want to make sure that the location of your venue meets not only your needs, but those of your guests as well. Location can affect, how far people need to travel to get there, are there accommodations nearby, handicap accessible, restrooms on site, parking for guests, scenic areas for photos, the list can be endless. Below we will touch base on the important ones.

-Rural vs. Urban: Some barn venues are nestled in rural areas, surrounded by natural beauty. So yes, we have a breathtaking backdrop, but what is the parking like? Is it a long dirt road leading up to the venue in a dirt parking lot your guests may get messy in, or paved? Make sure there are restrooms on site as well. Some rural venues require you to rent restrooms to bring out to the venue. Not all rural venues lack amenities. There are plenty that have all the necessities that the urbanely located venue offer. You just always want to check and make sure. Now there are pros and cons to the barn venues located in the urban areas as well. Yes, it may be easier for your guests to access, and have accommodations nearby, but what is the traffic like? Is your ceremony area tucked away from all the noise, is their enough privacy for your wedding party? There are a lot of things to look at when picking out the perfect venue for your big day. The choice between rural and urban barns can set the tone and influence the overall vibe of your event.

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Scenic Surroundings: Barn venues often boast picturesque views of landscapes, whether it's rolling hills, lakes, or forests. Our venue specifically has a beautiful jungle area. We have a fully landscaped paved walkway that will take you from parking to the private ceremony area, and then back up to our rustic barn. Make sure not just one part of your venue is beautiful, but all of it is. The surrounding scenery can be a crucial factor in creating a memorable backdrop for your event.

-Proximity to Accommodations: Your guests will need somewhere to stay. Especially if you are having a destination wedding, or if a majority of your guests are traveling from out of town. For those guests traveling from out of town, is the venue easy to find? Always research the distance the accommodations to the venue. A good question to ask the venue is also if Uber or Lyft are available in the area. 

What are we working with?

The amenities and facilities available at a barn venue can vary widely. Like we said before every Barn is different. They all have things that make them different. You want to make sure you know what your must have in a venue are. Make a list of what you want ranking them from most to least important. Take this list and compare them to what each venue can offer.

-Restrooms: I don’t know about you, but this would be at least in my top 3. Some barn venues have modern restroom facilities, while others may have rustic, portable toilets.  Both can be perfect for your event; it just matters what you want that day. I personally have seen some spotless portable restrooms that are adorably chic. However, the rental of these portables can be an added expense compared to a venue that has facilities on site. Ensure that the restroom facilities meet the standards and preferences of you and your guests.

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Getting Ready Space: Plan on getting ready on site sure makes everything easier. No driving around in your wedding dress, making sure the groom is on time, no missing bridesmaids. Having a space to get ready in is key. Some venues have large spaces while others do not. Make sure there is enough room for you and your wedding party. Even if you only have 1-2 bridesmaids, remember the moms will need somewhere on site to get ready too. Our venue offers an entire cottage so you can prepare for the big event on site. It has 2 full bathrooms on each the Bride and Groom side. 

Yes, your future husband will need somewhere to get ready too. Whether you get ready at home or at the on-site facilities you will want to make sure it is the perfect for photos as well. Those memories of getting ready with your friends and family on the big day will be the ones you cherish. Tears will be shed, so make sure you are somewhere gorgeous. 

-Catering Facilities: Kitchen or no Kitchen? Are you bringing in an outside caterer or is there a catering service on-site. A majority of barn venues use off-site catering. Our barn is unique in this sense we have out restaurant Rib City on-site. Which means we have all the food right there where you need it. Does that mean you cannot bring in outside catering? Absolutely not. We love when we have guest caterers. For other barns that use outside catering having an easily accessible kitchen on-site is an advantage. The availability of prep areas and storage can be critical for a seamless dining experience.

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Electrical and Lighting: Let’s get lit! Barns can be old, so you will want to make sure there is adequate power available for your event. No event is any fun with out music. Making sure your DJ or Band has enough power is essential. You will also want to make sure there is enough lighting. You will want lighting inside and outside the venue for you and your guests. No one likes trying to find their way around in the dark. At our venue we have the outdoor space that is lit with café lighting for the entirety or your event for your guests can enjoy both spaces.

-Heating and Cooling: We are in Florida so this is a big one. Florida wedding season runs from October-May, our cooler months. This also makes many venues with out A/C perfect. Our weather here at that time of year is perfect. A nice cool 68-76 degrees outside during our evenings. The open-air barns, and barns with large doors and windows are perfect this time of year. We really don’t have to worry about heating down here but if you are worried about getting one of those crisp Florida nights make sure to ask your venue what they do if it is chilly outside.

How Big of a Party are we having?

Before you even go and schedule a venue tour have an idea of how many guests you are inviting. Then when you are reaching out to venues have that be one of your first questions. “How many guests can your venue accommodate?” Our Barn can hold up to 130 guests, making it ideal for smaller weddings and special events. There are some barns that can hold 200-300 people. So, are you wanting a more intimate event or looking for things to be on a grander scale? Ask about tables and seating as well making sure your guests will be comfortable. Also take a look at the venues floor plans will help you get a better idea of what your setup will look like.

Following the Rules

It's important to understand any restrictions or regulations imposed by the barn venue. These may relate to noise, alcohol service, decor, or specific event timings. Compliance with these rules is essential for a successful event. Don’t be nervous about the rules put into place either. Most of the time they are there because of a previous experience. The rules are not setup to hinder your event. They are there to make sure you and your guest have a safe, fun, but most importantly memorable time.

How much does a barn venue even cost?

The cost of renting a barn venue can vary widely based on location, amenities, and the time of year. Our venue has basic packages starting at $4450. We like to be considered in the mid-range of Wedding Venues. We also have our largest package that includes catering and the bar for $9400. Meanwhile some barn rentals start at the 10k mark. Always ask about discounts. Most places offer seasonal, military, and weekday discounts. Be sure to understand what is included in the rental price and any additional fees that may apply.

Rain or Shine

What do we do if it rains? Its good luck, right? Always, always, always ask about a plan B at a possible venue. Most barns have an indoor and outdoor space available. However, make sure that you know what the backup plan is. Some venues have a backup plan that is included in the packages. Others may require additional fees, or even the rental of a tent.

Barns are beautiful rustic venues with so much to offer. The hope is that this can help find the right one for you! 

If the venue meets your space and location requirements, call and schedule a tour. You have to see it in person to truly fall in love with it. You want to get married somewhere that will be unforgettable. You will want it to not only be picturesque but meet all of your needs as well. Whether you're planning a charming wedding, a birthday, or a baby shower, a barn venue can set the stage for a remarkable and unforgettable experience.

Photo Credit: Jenifer Greenwood Photography & Magnolia Bee Photography