Wedding season is a magical time when family and friends gather to celebrate a couple leaping into marriage. When you get engaged, you often get asked when you're getting married, where you are getting married, whether you have toured any venues yet, and what all you have liked or disliked. Well, this blog will take you through some wedding venue options in our region, with part of the research stress done for you.

Old Wicks Factory - Highland

Old Wicks Factory, housed in the historic century-old Pipe Organ factory in Highland, is a premier destination for your big day in Downstate. Old Wicks Factory has preserved the original architectural and artistic elements of the space while incorporating modern comforts to create the perfect blend of past and present. The stained glass, exposed brick, and chandeliers give the factory a more updated look while still maintaining a historical feel. This 100-year-old historic venue has six flexible spaces to accommodate events of all sizes.

The Grand Hall is the most elegant space in the Old Wicks Factory, highlighted by features like exposed rafters and skylights, crystal chandeliers throughout, large windows, and a 16’ white brick stone fireplace. The room also includes a bar, a large dancing area, a historic 1920s theatre organ, and additional space on the sceond floor mezzanine for overflow seating.

The second Venue on the property is West Hall, built in 1906, which features rustic original architecture with exposed brick, beautiful 100-year-old hardwood floors, curved/exposed rafters, and a big dance floor. There is also a Mill Room Bar for refreshments and a courtyard for access to an outdoor space.

The Gatsby Room is one of the most unique spaces at the Old Wicks Factory, drawing inspiration from the best-selling book “The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald. The room will transport you into 1920s luxury and capture the feeling of the early 20th century. Features of the room include exposed rafters, brass chandeliers, tufted leather couches, and 4-bar height tables and stools. The room also has space for two appetizer buffet spaces and a full-service bar area.

A patio with stamped concrete and arbor, a gas fire pit, and outdoor lighting make the perfect atmosphere for when the sun goes down. There is also a mobile bar service to elevate any gathering or event. So, take advantage of the lovely weather and use the patio for your event. 

Built in 1962, Stained Glass Hall is a space with a variety of uses. The room was originally part of the Pipe Organ showroom in the Pipe Organ Company. Towering stained glass windows and original hardwood floors create an atmosphere that's second to none, making this space the perfect place for an intimate event!

Lastly, there is the Main Hall. With modern fixtures and a sprawling floorplan, it is the biggest space on the Old Wicks property and the best equiped to handle large-scale events. There are two bars and a large dance floor, which can accommodate a band and is great for parties of all sizes. You can really turn this space into your dream wedding space, with the modern touches of this hall with the circle, glass chandeliers and high ceilings and light array space.

Main Street Abbey - Columbia

Nestled on Columbia's Main Street, The Abbey is an excellent wedding venue option for those looking for rustic charm. Built in 1866, the Abbey has a glowing history of serving the community of Columbia and continues to be a beloved venue. Main Street Abbey has gone through some renovations, during which efforts were made to preserve the original architecture of the Abbey Morris Cathedral. The original stained glass, cathedral ceilings, and existing woodwork all remain now as a testament to the space's former purpose. The Abbey features various venue amenities such as an outdoor terrace, patio, private bridal suite, private groom’s room, parlor, coat room, and private parking.

The Woods Event Center - Robinson

Right in the forest preserve west of Robinson, The Woods Event Center accommodates 150 people on the main floor and additional seating in their stunning loft that can hold up to an extra 150 people. You will have full access to their 8 acres of land, giving numerous locations for some beautiful pictures and giving you, if you want, an outdoor event. The view alone is a reason to book this place, with a wall of windows looking out over the Forrest Preserve. There's no doubt that The Woods is a place where people can come together and enjoy a good time.

The Barn at New Leaf - Lawrenceville

The Barn at New Leaf is a rustic and elegant escape from a traditional venue where your eyes will wander toward the 100-year-old barn wood ceilings and reclaimed features that adorn the walls. With wine bottle chandeliers suspended from the vaulted ceiling, every aspect of this space is truly a treat for the eyes. Use the space as it is, or add your own flair to create the farmhouse wedding of your dreams! Maximum capacity inside the barn is 120 people, and during warmer weather, they can roll up the 3 barn doors to reveal a screened-in porch for extra seating. With COCO's Cafe and Wine Bar located just steps away to offer catering, The Barn at New Leaf is your ultimate one-stop-shop wedding venue in Downstate Illinois. 

The Fair Barn - Salem

Turning your dreams into reality at the Fair Barn in Salem. Originally known as the Marion County Fair Barn, this space holds the title of one of the most gorgeous wedding venues in the area. You will not find another comparable ceremony site anywhere else. Say your vows under their beautifully adorned arch, surrounded by the property's beautiful landscape, with the backdrop of the waterfalls and flowers that will greet your family and friends. Guests can enjoy the views and cocktails while you take pictures with your photographers and catch the most beautiful wedding photos that will help you remember this day for a lifetime.

Castle Ridge - Centralia

Gather your loved ones at this fairytale-inspiring venue, where friends and family will be taken aback by the majestic views overlooking Lake Centralia. Exhange your vows with the shimmering water and lush green landscape as a backdrop. Castle Ridge is known for its expertise in wedding planning and execution to ensure details are met to the highest standard. For the reception, the grand ballrooms are spacious and feature elegant interiors. Large dance floors provide a good canvas for bringing your big day to life.