Your Southwest Missouri Wedding Planning Guide

VENUES

Indoor and outdoor locations for any event.

Big Cedar Lodge

190 Top of The Rock Rd., Ridgedale, MO | 1-800-225-6343

Located in the Ozark Mountains, overlooking Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is a secluded haven of natural beauty with numerous stunning venues for your dream wedding. Big Cedar Lodge is a renowned, world-class resort located right here in your backyard and has been recognized as the No. 1 resort in the Midwest for three consecutive years by Travel and Leisure magazine. This premier wilderness resort offers everything you need for your special celebration, from the engagement party to the honeymoon. As for where to say your vows, choose from one of four distinctive chapels or multiple captivating outdoor settings. The celebration continues with your choice of reception venues. Whether you envision an intimate and rustic setting or a grand gathering place, Big Cedar has an option for nearly every bride’s unique style. Experienced wedding planners and a full-service catering department take care of all of the little details for your ceremony, reception and beyond. Their goal is for you to relax and enjoy every moment.

Inviting accommodations and countless activities will have you, your guests and your wedding party feeling as if your wedding is a vacation. From four world-class golf courses to a 50,000-square-foot adventure center with an underwater-themed bowling alley and NASCAR-inspired go-kart track, there is no shortage of opportunity for adding fun to your wedding weekend. As you get ready to say “I do,” pamper yourself at Cedar Creek Spa, an 18,000-square-foot luxury experience that offers multiple treatment rooms, an indoor grotto pool and even a private bridal suite. And, when the celebration concludes, curl up with your new spouse by the fireplace in one of Big Cedar’s many romantic accommodations. Big Cedar Lodge offers everything you need for the perfect wedding, allowing you to soak in every moment of your special day..

425 Downtown

Located in the historical heart of Springfield, 425 Downtown is the perfect venue for anyone who loves the restored beauty of the Queen City’s downtown. Customers can hold a flawless dream wedding reception, reunion or top-notch corporate event in a well known local location.

In addition to its beautiful, brick-interior atmosphere, 425 Downtown offers all-inclusive packages that include catering, bar service, tables, chairs and linens. Looking for a little extra? You always have the option to add on services to make your life easier and your event extravagant, like valet, professional cake cutting, coat check and ceremony setup.

425 Downtown’s spacious banquet hall allows for the complete customization of your event. The team at 425 Downtown has thought of everything to make your downtown event experience as perfect as possible, including having their own dedicated parking lot for you and your guests.

Since its doors opened 11 years ago, 425 Downtown has sought to be the go-to location for 417-landers seeking the perfect venue. Owner Matt Krupa and his well trained staff work to make every event, big or small, a success. Their goal is to give customers the experience of a lifetime with hassle-free planning and an end result that all guests will rave about.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

For a one-of-a-kind destination wedding, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers unforgettable wilderness venues unlike anywhere else. Let your perfect day unfold against the backdrop of their crystal-clear streams, cascading waterfalls, handcrafted bridges and beautiful meadows.

Surrounded by more than 10,000 acres of pristine wilderness, there are numerous settings throughout the park that can accommodate celebrations both large and small. Their specialists can assist you in selecting a venue that suits your individual tastes and comfortably accommodates the size of your wedding.

Dogwood Canyon offers one-of-a-kind customizations to make your day unforgettable. Ask about special touches like bicycles for your guests to ride between the ceremony and reception sites, fire pits and s’mores, getaway canoes, fly fishing receptions and more.

With its stunning natural beauty and long-standing tradition of genuine Ozarks hospitality, there is perhaps no more perfect place to say “I do” than Dogwood Canyon Nature Park. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park is also delighted to host your rehearsal dinner, farewell brunch and any other special events related to the big day. Wedding and reception venue tours can be arranged.

The Nature Park is the perfect escape to serenity that offers hiking, biking, wildlife tours, horseback riding and trout fishing amongst towering bluffs, creek beds and wildlife. Its purpose is to "promote and protect the natural environment of the canyon’s wildlife and plant life.”

They offer unforgettable views where you'll have your guest undivided attention! In fact, Dogwood Canyon is certified with both Wedding Wire and The Knot and is proud to hold awards for its ceremonies and receptions. Visit their website to see options for their venue locations, download an official brochure, see their current catering menu and book your complimentary consultation to start planning right away!

Branson Dream Weddings & Events

Branson, MO | 417-243-3419

Say “I do” at a one-of-a-kind venue with the finest accommodations. How? With Branson Dream Weddings & Events, of course! Branson Dream Weddings & Events is your one-stop location for the wedding or event of your dreams. They have the spectacular wedding venues you’re looking for. Tie the knot in front of the Branson Landing’s $7.5 million fountain show, as the fountains shoot 120 feet into the air to celebrate your first kiss as a married couple. Or be whisked away by the breathtaking views at Branson Hills Golf Club, ranked the number one golf course in Missouri by Golfweek and Golf Advisor. Superb photo opportunities abound in both of these striking settings!

Book your block of rooms and luxurious suites at the Hiltons of Branson, located on the Branson Landing and attached to the Branson Convention Center in historic downtown. And enjoy the most delicious food from Level 2 Steakhouse at your rehearsal dinner. The options are truly endless, with everything you need from wedding venue and reception venues to lodging for your family and guests. In addition, Branson Dream Weddings & Events has a dreamy list of preferred vendors to put the finishing touches on your special day.

Branson Dream Weddings & Events has special package options for weddings of every size, including elopements. Call today to start planning yours!

Finley Farms & The Ozark Mill

Retreat to the Finley River for your next celebration, ceremony or gathering. Finley Farms & The Ozark Mill feature a variety of vibrant event venues, unique restaurants, an urban farm and more. Both intimate and large-scale spaces allow for weddings and elopements, receptions, showers, celebrations and beyond for up to 150 guests.

Choose from a variety of venues immersed in nature, including the open-air chapel on the banks of the Finley River, the century-old Riverside Bridge and the sprawling urban farm. Or, go back in time and celebrate in spaces rich with history, including The Ozark Mill, originally built in 1833, and The Workshop, a 1930s industrial garage that overlooks the property.

In advance of your big day, capture this special time in your life with Finley Farms as the backdrop. The river, lush flower fields, moody wooded scenes and iconic structures act as beautiful settings for your photo session. Make your experience extra special, and ask about the hand-painted wooden rowboat.

Finley Farms would be honored to be a part of your wedding day and vows to create an unforgettable experience through a variety of catering options, audio setups and a trusted list of preferred vendors. Visit finleyfarmsmo.com today to start planning your wedding, event or reception.

The Gallery at The Gillioz

Nestled inside the nearly 100-year-old Gillioz Theatre is the Gallery at the Gillioz, a hidden gem among Springfield event destinations. The stunning venue features timeless style, including 90-year-old hardwood floors and a similarly styled bar, with sheer curtains decorating 10-foot windows that open up to a breathtaking view of Park Central.

The storied nature of the Gallery at the Gillioz is made even more impressive by its event capabilities. The venue has a 230-person capacity for your special day. Want to remove the stress of wedding planning? Brides can employ their catering and rental packages, which accommodate for table and seating arrangements, glassware, dishware, flatware and LED lighting.

While it is a separate venue, the Gillioz Theatre lends its charm to its upstairs neighbor. The Theatre—which is listed on the United States Congress’s Registry of Historic Places—shares a lobby with the Gallery, and the retro marquee hovering above the entrance is entirely customizable for your bridal hashtag. History is meant to be made at the Gallery at the Gillioz.

Hotel Vandivort

Hotel Vandivort is the first-of-its-kind boutique hotel in Springfield, Missouri, offering a 4-Diamond experience the moment you walk through the doors. A revitalized landmark, the hotel takes root in a 114-year-old historic building, centrally located in the heart of a bustling downtown.

Fully renovated, the hotel embraces its past, accentuating historic elements, paired with modern design for a vintage-industrial vibe. Its 98 guest rooms sit alongside The Order restaurant, Vantage Rooftop Lounge and over 9,000 square feet of thoughtfully designed indoor and outdoor event space.

Whether you are planning an engagement party, rehearsal dinner or wedding, the multiple event spaces at Hotel Vandivort can flex perfectly to host any celebration for up to 200 guests. The Ballroom, known for its blend of historic elegance and modern design, features high ceilings, chevron hardwood floors, contemporary chandeliers and grand windows overlooking downtown Springfield.

Hotel Vandivort offers a truly turnkey experience with stunning backdrops, personalized event planning services, an array of on-site culinary offerings and a dedicated banquet team to ensure your special day flows seamlessly.

Oasis Hotel & Convention Center

Say “I Do” to the Oasis wedding venue! If you are looking for the perfect venue and reception hall for your upcoming wedding, you’ve found it.

The Oasis Hotel & Convention Center offers full service catering and a breathtaking venue, which includes their convention center lobby, with its tall glass windows showing the beautiful landscaping outside and sparkling terrazzo flooring—a photographer’s dream. Pair the elegance of their property with their team’s years of experience, and you’ll have all the elements at your fingertips for your wedding day to go perfectly.

With a dedicated staff, fantastic food and a great wedding venue, your special day will go smoother than you could ever imagine!

The Gambrel Barn

The Gambrel Barn is new with modern luxuries, but was built in style to look like it has been standing for decades. Reclaimed wood adds warmth, aged corrugated tin creates depth and the setting overlooking a valley makes it the premier country venue.

It provides more than 5,000 square feet for indoor weddings and receptions. Another 2,100 square feet of open space lends itself to outdoor dancing and mingling. The outdoor ceremony area has a stamped brick walkway, wooden pergola and bench seating. Unlike other venues, the location is set on a family farm, providing a quiet setting.

The Hitchin’ Post

Are you looking for a wedding venue with rustic charm and country elegance? The Hitchin' Post is for you!

They are conveniently located just two miles off of Highway 60 between Marionville and Billings. The venue sits on a select 20 acres of the beautiful Kerans Family Farm, and the beautiful country sunsets there simply can't be beat.

The Hitchin' Post has one of the largest bridal suites in the area, which every bride and bridal party understand the importance of. Plus, their groom's area includes a game room to keep the guys busy.

They allow alcohol, and there are no catering restrictions. The Hitchin' Post is ready to accommodate your wishes and celebrate your most important day.

Sparrow Lane Venue

Sparrow Lane Wedding and Event Center is set up like no other wedding venue in 417-land. They provide four separate buildings, including a reception barn and a chapel, plus two cottages that serve as “get ready rooms” and can also provide overnight accommodations for you or your guests.

You can’t take a bad bridal picture at Sparrow Lane! Their venue is quite literally a photographer’s dream, with Magnolia-inspired rustic elegance executed in all white for your big day. The refined atmosphere will give you an experience that you and your guests love, with the backdrop for wedding photos that will never go out of style.

The Parks

Dreaming of a stunning outdoor wedding? Many park locations are very affordable at $500 or less, or choose a gazebo at the Botanical Gardens for just $100 per hour. The Springfield–Greene County Park Board has dozens of locations including: Springfield Botanical Gardens, Lake Springfield Boathouse, Rutledge-Wilson Farm Park, Jordan Valley Park, Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden, Northview Center inside of Doling Park, The Davis House and Park Pavilions. Any of these would make an unforgettable ceremony or reception..

Venue on Brick

Nestled on the charming Ozark Square, you will find Venue on Brick, a hidden gem that is a wedding and event venue best described as "rustic elegance." Owners Jon and Lisa Lane restored a nearly 100-year-old Ozark building into an event venue full of character.

And now they have opened a second location, Venue on Brick II, also located on the Ozark Square. This space can accommodate up to 50 guests and is rented for various small events or as a private groom’s suite.

Their full-service amenities allow couples and families to experience a stress-free best day ever.

CATERING & SWEETS

Experts in wedding catering, cakes and desserts.

Aviary Cafe

Aviary Cafe is pleased to assist with your bridal events, including engagement celebrations, showers, girls’ night out, bridal brunches and more. Their private event room is available for reservations, and is a beautiful space where antique vintage meets modern. Aviary also provides mouth-watering and unique catering for your reception and more. Options range from salads to savories, sandwiches to sweets.

They’ll even bring along their famous crepe bar for guests to enjoy, with whipped mascarpone, Nutella, creme anglaise, chocolate ganache and fresh fruit!

Visit aviarycafe.com to make your room reservation and explore their full menu, or call to begin planning your special event.
You’ll also find local Lavender Falls Farm products at Aviary Cafe and for sale on their website. These aromatic delights make perfect gifts for your bridal party, out-of-town guests, and for yourself!

Aviary Cafe serves traditional French-inspired entrees with stellar wines, beer and cocktails. All of their dishes utilize premium ingredients, seasonal vegetables and their very own baked goods.

Enjoy a signature cocktail, an order of delicious hand-cut Pommes Frites, and be sure to pair it with one of their incredible dessert crepes. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, at Aviary Cafe you’ll encounter a unique dining experience that will leave your tastebuds dancing with joy!

Hy-Vee

Big Whiskey’s

On your wedding day, every detail matters. That’s why Big Whiskey’s created an all-new catering menu that can be designed down to the last detail.

Big Whiskey’s versatile catering menu gives you options for wedding-day brunch or lunch, appetizer bars for cocktail hour and tons of decadent dinner options with plenty of side choices. Priced far below their competitors, you can even make sure your guests get seconds!

Their catering menu features dishes you and your guests know and love, like Chicken Ranch Alfredo and Bourbon Glazed Salmon. Your food will have everyone saying, “I can’t believe how good the food was!” for days to come.

With seven area locations, the stress of setup, delivery and staffing is not a factor. When you book your catering, just be sure to let your coordinator know what your needs will be. Give any of Big Whiskey's 417-land locations a call and ask to speak to a manager, or visit bigwhiskeys.com to download their catering menu and ordering guide to get you started!

Knotty Catering Co.

On the most anticipated day of your life, you need your catering dreams not only met, but exceeded. Thankfully, Knotty Catering Co. is "knot" your average catering company!

By uniquely tying the world championship barbecue bites of Gettin' Basted with the novel English pub flavors of Downing Street Pour House, this Knotty (but nice) team will help you tie the knot in once unimagined ways. You will have complete access to their elaborate menu and the freedom to create your own indelible table lineup.

All the award-winning meats and eats are prepared directly over Missouri hardwood coals, providing the best balance of smoke and fire to each bite. Knotty offers tastes like championship ribs, burnt end "meat candy," house-smoked pastrami, upscale American Wagyu beef burgers and classic comfort foods.

Picturing a fancy, full-service catering experience for 500? Traveling to Missouri for a chill destination wedding with ten of your closest friends? Needing a full bar and delectable desserts too? "Knot" a problem. Knotty Catering Co. services all venues, all size and all styles in the Ozarks.

ENTERTAINMENT & RENTALS

Experts in everything wedding entertainment and rentals.

Elevate Entertainment

When guests think back on an event, they remember the energy, excitement and experience that was crafted for their evening. Elevate Entertainment was born out of a passion for entertainment that can not only be powerfully impactful, but also takes the vision that you have for your event and breathes life into it.

Elevate Entertainment has built a reputation as the leader in wedding and event entertainment. Named 2019, 2020 and 2021’s Missouri's Best DJ by Missouri Magazine, Elevate Entertainment offers custom emcee, DJ and event hosting services for corporate events, weddings, fundraisers and other special occasions. Every event is custom-tailored and personalized for each client, whether they want epic and electric or casual and classy. Elevate performers are known for their professionalism, high-energy personalities and ultra-engaging creative strategies for including guests in the fun. Elevate DJs are dedicated to pushing the limits of what is possible, no matter the event.

In addition to premium DJ services, Elevate Entertainment also offers custom uplighting, explosive DJ + Band Hybrid options, award-winning officiants with Officially Wed, and a uniquely interactive photo booth through sister brand Selfie Mirror Photo Experiences.

BEAUTY, STYLE & GIFTS

Wedding beauty, style and gift experts.

Mitchum Jewelers

Mitchum Jewelers has provided jewelry for brides since 1965. They are proud to be the oldest family-owned jewelry store in the area.
Mitchum has a five-star reputation for going above and beyond for their clients. Brides love that Mitchum stays on top of all the trends for engagement rings and wedding bands, including stocking a large selection of halo and bloom-style designs. Of course, each ring can be custom designed with the store’s 3D illustrations, wax replica molds and two in-house jewelry artisans. This process is not only sentimental and unique for the loving couple, it’s easy, fun, and can help accommodate style preferences with the couple’s budget.

Mitchum prides themselves on their selection of loose diamonds, strategically hand-selected for brilliance and value. They offer a lifetime diamond upgrade policy, allowing customers to upgrade over the years, dollar for dollar. They also stock the most popular colors of gold that brides want, including yellow, white and even rose!

Mitchum’s mission is to develop a loyal relationship with customers and to convert them to friends. Couples in love can purchase with confidence from Mitchum Jewelers, knowing they are truly getting the best value for their investment.

Sun Tan City

It’s your wedding day. Let yourself shine! Sun Tan City wants to help you add that special glow. It’ll stand out against your white dress, give you confidence and add that finishing touch you’ll admire in photos for years to come! Whether you’re looking to get a traditional sun tan or a sunless tan, Sun Tan City has options for you. They believe in giving their bridal clients the best in everything—great prices, educated staff, advanced equipment and high-quality products—all with plenty of options to customize your plan to achieve a gorgeous sun-kissed look for your big day.