When it comes to planning your wedding, one of the first and most important things you’ll do is choose your venue. From the moment your guests arrive your venue tells your story. Whether it’s romantic and refined, rustic and relaxed, or somewhere in between, your venue is the heart of your event.
With so many venues to choose from, where do you start? Read on for the top 7 distinct types of wedding venues to help you narrow it down and to hear directly from us the ones we recommend as our favorites.
1. Elegant Estate Venues
Featured: Bella Collina
If your wedding vision includes sweeping staircases, grand entrances, and luxury at every turn, an elegant estate venue might be the perfect fit. Bella Collina in Montverde is a true standout. Inspired by the charm of the Italian countryside, this breathtaking venue offers rolling hills, cobblestone courtyards, and Mediterranean-style architecture.
It’s more than just a place to tie the knot—it’s an experience. Bella Collina’s versatility allows you to host everything from a sunset ceremony overlooking the lake to a candlelit reception in their grand ballroom. The timeless elegance of this venue makes every photo look like it belongs in a bridal magazine.
2. Lakeside & Waterfront Venues
Featured: Lakeside Inn, Lake Mary Event Center
There’s something undeniably romantic about saying your vows with water glistening in the background. Lakeside and waterfront venues offer a peaceful ambiance and stunning scenery.
Lakeside Inn in Mount Dora is a charming, historic hotel that sits directly on the lake. With its iconic yellow façade, wraparound porches, and vintage character, it feels like a step back in time—in the best way possible. It’s a dream for couples who want a relaxed, picturesque wedding with a touch of Southern hospitality.
Just a short drive away, Lake Mary Event Center offers a more modern waterfront experience. Nestled beside West Crystal Lake, this venue features large windows, a spacious ballroom, and beautifully landscaped grounds. It’s perfect for couples who want contemporary amenities with classic appeal.
3. Rustic & Ranch-Style Venues
Featured: Horsepower Ranch, Oak Hollow Manor
Love the idea of open skies, wood-beamed barns, and country charm? Rustic and ranch-style venues are ideal for couples who want a relaxed, outdoor-friendly atmosphere.
Horsepower Ranch in Geneva delivers authentic ranch vibes with a warm, welcoming feel. This working ranch has a barn decked out with string lights, wooden accents, and all the cozy touches that make rustic weddings so unforgettable. There’s even space for horses, hayrides, and fun family-friendly extras.
Oak Hollow Manor brings a similar country aesthetic with a slightly more refined twist. Think rustic elegance—where exposed wood meets crystal chandeliers. Surrounded by nature, this venue offers multiple outdoor ceremony locations, making it a great pick for couples looking to blend natural beauty with a polished feel.
4. Classic & Traditional Venues
Suggested: Highland Manor
For those who love the idea of a timeless wedding with all the traditional trimmings, classic venues are where it’s at. Highland Manor in Apopka fits this category perfectly. With its dramatic staircase, elegant ballrooms, and centuries-old oak trees, it creates a storybook setting for your big day.
Traditional venues like Highland Manor are also great for couples who value structure—think onsite bridal suites, convenient ceremony-to-reception flow, and plenty of room for guests to mingle in style.
5. Garden & Outdoor Venues
Suggested: Cypress Grove Estate House, Leu Gardens
If your Pinterest board is full of florals and greenery, garden venues offer a natural and enchanting backdrop. Cypress Grove Estate House, located on Lake Jessamine, is a lakeside property surrounded by cypress trees, gardens, and gazebos. It’s romantic, serene, and ideal for dreamy outdoor ceremonies.
Another favorite is Harry P. Leu Gardens in Orlando. With multiple gardens to choose from and lush blooms year-round, it’s a paradise for plant lovers. Whether you’re exchanging vows beneath an arbor of roses or dining under the stars, garden venues provide built-in décor and plenty of fresh air.
6. Unique & Offbeat Venues
Suggested: The Acre Orlando, The Balcony Orlando
Not every couple dreams of a ballroom. If you’re planning a wedding that’s as bold and creative as your love story, consider a venue that colors outside of the lines.
The Acre Orlando is a one-of-a-kind space blending boho charm with industrial flair. It’s perfect for food trucks, eclectic furniture, live music, and unconventional ceremony layouts. No two weddings look the same here—and that’s the point!
If you’re dreaming of city lights, The Balcony Orlando offers rooftop views with a sleek urban twist. Located in the heart of downtown, this open-air venue gives you the chance to dance under the stars with the skyline as your backdrop.
7. Charming Historic Venues for Your Wedding Day
Suggested: Historic Venue 1902, The Wellborn House
If you’re dreaming of a wedding with character, charm, and a rich sense of history, a historic venue might be the perfect backdrop for your big day.
Historic Venue 1902 in Sanford brings a stunning historic atmosphere. Housed in a lovingly restored schoolhouse, this venue blends vintage charm with modern amenities, offering beautifully landscaped grounds and elegant indoor spaces perfect for full wedding celebrations. Historic Venue 1902 is a fantastic option for couples looking for a timeless venue with plenty of room for guests and unforgettable photo opportunities around every corner.
The Wellborn House in downtown Orlando is a hidden gem that feels intimate and inviting. Nestled among lush gardens and century-old architecture, it’s ideal for smaller celebrations where guests feel like they’re stepping into a secret garden. With its boutique hotel accommodations and unique indoor-outdoor spaces, The Wellborn offers an enchanting, relaxed setting for couples who want a more personalized and cozy experience.
Find a Venue That Speaks to You
At the end of the day, your wedding venue should reflect your personality, your love story, and the experience you want to create for your guests. Whether you’re drawn to lakeside serenity, rustic charm, or refined elegance, Central Florida has a wedding venue to match your vibe—and we’re here to help you bring that vision to life.
Need help designing your space or choosing the perfect rentals to match your dream venue? At Crystal Event Rentals & Design, we specialize in transforming spaces into unforgettable celebrations. Give us a call today so we can help bring your vision to life!
