Planning A Wedding Reception In Ohio: What You Need

Planning a wedding reception in Ohio? You're in luck! The Buckeye State offers a variety of venues to choose from, including historic buildings, outdoor spaces, banquet halls, and more. Whether you're looking for a small, intimate gathering or a grand celebration, you'll be able to find the perfect spot to exchange your vows.

When it comes to wedding venues, Ohio has something for everyone. You can tie the knot in Cleveland, with its rock and roll scene, or opt for the capital city of Columbus. If you're looking for something more low-key, consider a rural location or even the shores of Lake Erie.

No matter where you choose to say I do, be sure to familiarise yourself with the local marriage laws and regulations to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch.

Where to have a wedding reception in Ohio

There are a variety of wedding venues in Ohio, from banquet halls to hotels to barns and farms. Here are some options for where to have your wedding reception in Ohio:

Banquet Halls

Banquet halls are a popular choice for couples as they offer stress-free planning, with most wedding details handled in-house. Some options for banquet halls in Ohio include:

• Stone Valley Meadows in Franklin
• The Madison Event Center in Covington
• The Ballroom at Park Lane in Cleveland
• The Blue Heron Event Center in Medina

Hotels

Hotel weddings are also a popular choice as they often provide all-inclusive packages and accommodations for the wedding party and guests. Some hotel venues in Ohio include:

• Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Tower in Cleveland
• Hilton Garden Inn Findlay in Findlay
• The Wooster Inn in Wooster
• Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade in Cleveland

Barns and Farms

For couples looking for a rustic or countryside setting, there are several barns and farms available as wedding venues in Ohio. Some options include:

• Canopy Creek Farm in Miamisburg
• Jorgensen Farms in Westerville
• The Magnolia Estate in Miamisburg
• Mohican Gardens in Loudonville

Other Venues

In addition to banquet halls, hotels, and barns/farms, there are also several other types of venues available in Ohio, such as:

• Country clubs: Wetherington Golf and Country Club in West Chester
• Waterfront venues: Blue Heron Lake in Dorset
• Historic buildings: J.E. Reeves Victorian Home and Museum in Dover
• Parks: Jeffrey Mansion Park in Bexley
• Art museums: Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati

How to get a marriage license in Ohio

There are many beautiful wedding reception venues in Ohio, from historic buildings to outdoor gardens. But before you start planning the wedding of your dreams, you'll need to obtain a marriage license. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to get a marriage license in Ohio:

• Visit the Probate Court: Each of Ohio's 88 counties has a probate court that is authorized to issue marriage licenses. You must go to the probate court in the county where one of you lives. If neither of you is an Ohio resident, visit the probate court in the county where the marriage will take place.
• Bring the necessary identification: Both parties must have valid government-issued photo IDs, such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or visa. The IDs must match the names entered on the marriage license application.
• Provide additional documentation: If either party has been married before, you must bring a certified copy of the divorce decree. If the decree is in a foreign language, it must be translated into English and certified by a translator. In the case of widowhood, a death certificate is not required.
• Complete the application: Both parties must be present to fill out the application and sign the license. Information such as your full names, father's name, mother's maiden name, and Social Security number will be required.
• Pay the fee: The cost of a marriage license varies by county but is typically more than $40. Some counties accept cash, money orders, or credit cards, while others may have specific payment requirements. Check with your local probate court for the exact fee and accepted payment methods.
• No waiting period: Unlike some states, Ohio does not have a waiting period between obtaining the license and having your marriage ceremony. You are free to get married as soon as you receive your license.
• License validity: Your marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date of issuance. If your marriage does not take place within this time frame, you will need to reapply and pay the associated fees again.
• Choose an officiant: In Ohio, several types of officials are qualified to perform wedding ceremonies, including ordained ministers, county court judges, municipal court judges, probate court judges, mayors of municipal corporations, and the superintendent of the state school for the deaf.
• Return the completed license: After the wedding ceremony, the officiant must fill out and return one of the forms provided to the probate court. This completes the marriage license process.

By following these steps, you will be able to obtain a marriage license in Ohio and be one step closer to your dream wedding!

How much does a wedding reception venue in Ohio cost?

Planning a wedding reception in Ohio? There are plenty of venue options to choose from, including banquet halls, hotels, barns, farms, country clubs, and waterfront locations. The cost of wedding venues in Ohio varies depending on various factors, but it can range from $2,000 to $50,000 or more. Here are some specific examples of venues and their costs:

Specific Examples of Wedding Reception Venues in Ohio and Their Costs:

• The Ballroom at Park Lane in Cleveland starts at $10,396 for 50 guests.
• The Wooster Inn in Wooster starts at $1,598 for 50 guests.
• Wetherington Golf and Country Club in West Chester starts at $11,245 for 50 guests.
• The Canton Palace Theatre in Canton starts at $3,726 for 50 guests.
• EnterTRAINment Junction in West Chester Township starts at $3,981 for 50 guests.
• Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade in Cleveland starts at $14,040 for 50 guests.
• The Inn at Honey Run in Millersburg starts at $6,177 for 50 guests.
• Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati starts at $3,847 for 50 guests.
• Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum in Hamilton starts at $3,954 for 50 guests.
• Adena Mansion and Gardens in Chillicothe starts at $3,835 for 50 guests.
• The Lands Weddings & Events starts at $7,175 for 50 guests.
• Smith & Wollensky Columbus in Columbus starts at $3,122 for 50 guests.
• Sebring Mansion Inn & Spa in Sebring starts at $12,870 for 50 guests.
• Schedel Arboretum & Gardens starts at $4,826 for 50 guests.
• The Magnolia Estate in Miamisburg starts at $4,485 for 50 guests.
• Gorman Heritage Farm in Cincinnati starts at $4,910 for 50 guests.
• The Farmhouse at The Lantern of Chagrin Valley in Chagrin Falls starts at $2,510 for 50 guests.
• First Congregational Church Ucc in Columbus starts at $1,950 for 50 guests.
• The Cleveland Marriott Downtown at Key Center starts at $21,427 for 50 guests.
• The Champion Mill Conference Center / Spooky Nook Sports in Hamilton starts at $2,750 for 50 guests.
• Kalahari Resorts & Conventions Sandusky in Sandusky starts at $5,795 for 50 guests.
• Guy's Party Center in Akron starts at $2,025 for 50 guests.
• Lake Anna Hall in Barberton starts at $3,111 for 50 guests.
• Blue Heron Lake in Dorset starts at $2,228 for 50 guests.
• The Glendale New Church in Cincinnati starts at $1,300 for 50 guests.
• The J.E. Reeves Victorian Home and Museum in Dover starts at $3,604 for 50 guests.
• Wexner Community Park in New Albany starts at $893 for 50 guests.
• The Taft Museum of Art in Cincinnati starts at $3,847 for 50 guests.
• The Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum in Hamilton starts at $3,954 for 50 guests.
• The Adena Mansion and Gardens in Chillicothe starts at $3,835 for 50 guests.
• The Magnolia Estate in Miamisburg starts at $4,485 for 50 guests.
• The Gorman Heritage Farm in Cincinnati starts at $4,910 for 50 guests.
• The Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade in Cleveland starts at $14,040 for 50 guests.

These are just a few examples of the many wedding reception venues available in Ohio. The cost of venues can vary widely depending on factors such as location, amenities, and the number of guests. When choosing a venue, it's important to consider your budget, the number of guests, and the desired level of inclusiveness.

Who can officiate a wedding in Ohio?

Ohio has specific requirements for who can officiate a wedding within the state. The state allows religious actors from all faiths to perform weddings, as long as they have the proper licensing. The state also permits non-religious weddings, which can be officiated by judges, mayors, and the superintendent of the state school for the deaf.

Ohio also recognises ministers ordained online by the Universal Life Church, provided they register with the state. To do this, they must present a letter of good standing and a copy of their credentials to the Secretary of State, who will issue a license to perform weddings. Ministers must be over the age of 18.

Planning a wedding reception in Ohio

When it comes to planning your wedding reception in Ohio, there are a variety of venues to choose from, including banquet halls, hotels, barns, farms, country clubs, and waterfront locations. Some popular reception venues in Ohio include:

• Lakeview at WatersEdge
• Franklin Park Conservatory
• Columbus Museum of Art
• Church in the Circle
• Pinstripes Weddings Cleveland
• Hyatt Regency Cleveland at The Arcade
• DoubleTree by Hilton - The Tudor Arms Hotel
• The Estate at Sunset Farm
• Rosewood Manor & The Magnolia Barn at Magnolia Estate
• The Dayton Art Institute

What are some unique wedding venues in Ohio?

Ohio offers a wide variety of unique wedding venues to suit different preferences and styles. Here are some notable venues to consider:

Canyon Run Ranch

Located in the Dayton area, this venue stands out for its impeccable style, with a mix of classic and modern elements. The property offers a large home with stunning hardwood floors, stained glass windows, stone walls, and antiques, as well as a glass conservatory for brides to get ready in. The outdoor space features bubbling brooks, wildflower fields, old-growth trees, wetlands, and acres of woods, providing multiple options for the ceremony site. The reception barn blends historic beauty with a modern edge, illuminated by twinkling fairy lights at night.

The Lake Erie Building

The Lake Erie Building is a non-traditional venue offering a minimal setting that couples can enhance with their own style. It features white walls, large windows, high ceilings, and polished concrete floors, creating an industrial atmosphere. In addition to the indoor space, there are also outdoor options for creative wedding photos. The venue can be rented for an extended period, providing ample time for setup and tear-down without rush.

Pine Springs Estate

Pine Springs Estate in Union, Ohio, offers a combination of an elegant historic home, open space, gardens, small lakes, and towering evergreens. This venue is ideal for couples who want a unique experience, as it provides ample space for large tented ceremonies and receptions. The home features a spacious front porch perfect for rainy-day photos and portraits, ensuring that unexpected weather doesn't dampen your special day.

The Madison

The Madison, located in Cleveland, is a relatively new venue that offers a clean, industrial space for weddings. With 20-foot ceilings and an open layout, it provides a blank canvas for couples to design their dream event. The getting-ready rooms are designed by Restoration Hardware, ensuring stylish and comfortable preparations. The venue can accommodate over 500 guests and offers a private parking lot for their convenience.

Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Hines Hill

For couples who want to embrace the beauty of nature and support the conservation of national parks, Conservancy for Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Hines Hill is a unique option. This venue allows you to exchange vows amidst the elegance of the great outdoors while contributing to the protection of this natural treasure for future generations.

Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove

Jorgensen Farms Oak Grove is a one-of-a-kind wedding venue in central Ohio, featuring a magical greenhouse that can be used for ceremonies or receptions. The venue also includes an open-air courtyard, a cottage, and a main hall. The serene property boasts old-growth oak trees, a reflective pond, and a charming garden, creating a peaceful atmosphere for your special day.

Strongwater

Strongwater, located in Columbus, offers a vintage industrial look with stunning natural light. Housed in a century-old warehouse, it showcases original skylights and large pane windows, along with open-duct ceilings and exposed brick walls. The venue also includes an open-air courtyard, adding to its unique character. Strongwater has a full liquor license and can cater your wedding with their exceptional food, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.

The Balsley House

For an intimate family wedding, consider The Balsley House, a unique Dayton Airbnb that has successfully hosted a wedding in the past. This elegant home features a dining room, parlor, library, gourmet kitchen, six bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, spiral staircases, a sauna, and an abundance of natural light. While it's not a traditional venue, a backyard wedding in a space that holds personal significance can be a memorable and sentimental choice.

Frequently asked questions