Your Southwest Missouri Wedding Planning Guide

VENUES

Indoor and outdoor locations for any event.

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park

2038 W. State Highway 86 Lampe, MO | 877-459-5687

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 guests 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!

Finley Farms

Finley Farms is a timeless setting for nuptial traditions that have been around since the bygone days. Here, couples can celebrate the most momentous of occasions, surrounded by nature on the banks of the Finley River in Ozark, Missouri.

We invite all couples to retreat to the Finley Farms for their next celebration, ceremony or gathering. A destination where discovery and hospitality intertwine and born out of a genuine passion for local heritage, it is destination to make memories and magic in the heart of the Ozarks.

Choose from one-of-a-kind 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 turned coffee shop and makers space, overlooking the property. With a variety of both intimate and large-scale spaces available for weddings, elopements, receptions, showers, celebrations and beyond, our venues can accommodate intimate settings or larger gatherings for up to 150 guests.

All celebrations at Finley Farms offer couples and their guests a backdrop of lush flower fields, moody wooded scenes and iconic structures for unique settings and incredible photo sessions. Additionally, Finley Farms offers a variety of catering options with exquisite menus featuring farm-to-table fare and craft cocktails, plus, complete audio setups for bands and DJs, and a trusted list of preferred vendors to make your event effortless.

Finley Farms would be honored to be a part of your wedding day! Let us help you create an unforgettable experience and memories for a lifetime. Visit finleyfarmsmo.com today to start planning your wedding, event or reception.

Bear Creek Lodge

With stunning views and an unrivaled atmosphere, Bear Creek Lodge is an incomparable event venue nestled just 10 minutes outside of Branson. There’s no fuss and no stress–just a dedicated staff ready to help you realize the wedding of your dreams.

The setting at Bear Creek is anything but typical. Whether you envision a charming garden or an intimate chapel in the woods, Bear Creek offers natural elegance at competitive prices. Their packages include all the major choices for your special day. There’s scrumptious catering, a fabulous DJ, a skilled photographer, a bartender and a pastry chef who crafts mouth-watering, made-for-you cakes.

Elevate your wedding from one big day to a weekend celebration with a stay at Bear Creek’s lodging. Your family and friends will love the complimentary breakfasts and the cozy cabins and suites, complete with relaxing hot tubs. And with a wine tasting at Bear Creek Wine Co. and Brewery, there are even more possibilities to celebrate with your guests.

Get off the beaten path with a wedding at Bear Creek. To view the property and find out more, make an appointment today.

Big Cedar Lodge

190 Top of the Rock Rd, Ridgedale, MO | 800-225-6343

Big Cedar Lodge, a world-class resort located right here in the Missouri Ozarks, offers everything you need for your special celebration, from the engagement party to the honeymoon. Choose from one of four distinctive chapels or multiple captivating outdoor settings to exchange your vows surrounded by the great outdoors. Whether you envision an intimate and rustic setting or a grand gathering place, Big Cedar has an option for nearly every couple’s unique style. Experienced wedding planners and a full-service catering department take care of every detail for your ceremony, reception and beyond. And, when the celebration concludes, curl up with your new spouse by the fireplace in one of the property’s many romantic accommodations. Soak up every moment of your special day and begin your new forever at Big Cedar Lodge.

Hotel Vandivort

305 E. Walnut, Springfield, MO | 417-832-1515

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 bustling downtown Springfield. Fully renovated, the hotel embraces its past by accentuating historic elements that are paired with modern design for a vintage-industrial vibe. Ninety-eight 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.

University Plaza Hotel

Ready to celebrate with all of your friends and family? The University Plaza has over 170,000 square feet of options to choose from, including two traditional ballrooms and the Springfield Expo Center across the street in addition to the Tower Club, to be able to accommodate a broad array of events. They host many events, from weddings and receptions to galas and annual conventions.

With the amount of events that are held at University Plaza, it will be no surprise that the food is also great. The culinary team at University Plaza is able to customize menus to fit your event or palate, so every guest will be happily satisfied.

Guests will enjoy staying the night in the University Plaza Hotel, a contemporary city hotel in an unbeatable location with indoor and outdoor pools and a terrace lounge. Leave the car keys in your room and simply walk to your event!

Top-tier meeting facilities, technology, amenities and an unbeatable downtown location anchor the University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center as an event destination in 417-land. Backed by a team of event experts who thrive on executing flawless weddings, events and banquets, you simply get great service, setting and catering.

425 Downtown

425 W. Walnut St, Springfield, MO | 417-888-3025

Cassell Vineyards

1103 Lucky Rd, Mansfield, MO | 417-893-1758

Ciao bella! Cassell Vineyards offers a beautiful wedding scene in a historic open-air chapel. An all-in-one site, you and your guests will also enjoy the winery terrace overlooking an incredibly romantic setting for your reception.

The Terrace offers a breathtaking view of the rolling Ozark hills as you gaze over a vineyard adorned with growing grape vines. When the sun sets, The Terrace becomes cozily lit with string lights hanging from the wrought iron open-air roof. The property is surrounded by gorgeous woods that offer an intimate and genuinely gorgeous setting meshing hints of Italy with the Ozarks.

GlassHaus Weddings & TreeHaus Village

From the moment you set foot on the grounds of GlassHaus Weddings near Branson, you will be immersed in the natural beauty of 417-land. Sweeping views of Table Rock Lake are the backdrop for an extraordinary wedding day like no other. From the beautifully designed dressing rooms to the glass-lined chapel and expansive reception areas, your multi-day celebration will be filled with picture-perfect moments to remember. 

3-day packages with on-site lodging in the TreeHaus and Bungalows make this a destination wedding spot to remember. They also offer single day weddings, elopements or micro-weddings. 

Come. Stay. Celebrate. Play. Learn more at glasshausweddings.com.

The Parks

Let nature be your backdrop. The Springfield-Greene County Park Board offers a variety of gorgeous settings for your wedding ceremony or reception, ranging from pavilions and gazebos to premier venues at Lake Springfield Park or the Davis House. Consider Springfield Botanical Gardens for bloom-filled outdoor events April–October, where the Hosta Garden or Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden offers an ideal layout for your ceremony.

Pavilion rentals start at $50, gazebos at $100. Check the website for popular gardens and indoor venues. Parks are built to last, so plan to revisit your special spot on your anniversary for years to come.

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 wedding party.

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 Barley House at Moon Town Crossing

3060 N. Kentwood, Springfield, MO | 417-799-2500

With a tastefully rustic exterior, it may surprise some that the Barley House at Moon Town Crossing was only constructed in 2018. You can thank the local Amish artisans who built the barn by hand with only locally sourced materials.

This fantasia of old-fashioned design and new construction makes The Barley House a prime landing spot for events with character. Flexible seating arrangements and an adjoining patio give the space an “all-purpose” feel, further aided by the venue’s projector, screen and surround sound capabilities. The planning of social and professional gatherings can be simplified even further by utilizing The Barley House’s all-inclusive event packages.

The fusion of old and new, and the attention to detail, make The Barley House at Moon Town Crossing an ideal event venue for all of life’s events including weddings, corporate events and special occasions. To reserve a date call 417-799-2500.

The Old Glass Place

521 E. St. Louis St., Springfield, MO | 417-501-8035

Happily ever after begins at The Old Glass Place, located in the heart of Springfield’s vibrant downtown. With more than 12,000 square feet and a seated capacity of 300 people, The Old Glass Place is customizable for wedding events both large and small. Rental includes 12 hours of venue use, round tables and chairs, a state-of-the-art sound system, an outdoor area and a private parking lot. For a schlep-free experience, choose the all-inclusive package, which includes onsite catering and bar service.

Celebrate your love story in a place where history meets elegance. Tour The Old Glass Place to discover all it has to offer.

University Plaza Hotel

333 S. John Q Hammons Parkway, Springfield, MO | 417-864-7333

With one of the best views of the city, The Tower Club is a venue rich in history as a private dining restaurant now available for private events. From the top floor, you overlook the beautiful skyline of Springfield, with views of Downtown Springfield, Hammons Field— home of the Springfield Cardinals—and Missouri State University. The culinary team at University Plaza is able to customize menus to fit your event or palate, so every guest will be happily satisfied.

Convenience gets closer as your guests will enjoy the stay in the University Plaza Hotel, with indoor and outdoor pools and a terrace lounge. Call today to book your dream wedding in 417-land.

CATERING & SWEETS

Experts in wedding catering, cakes and desserts.

Infused Catering

At Infused Catering, each recipe is homemade from the freshest ingredients. Their wide variety of succulent choices—including their famous smoked meats—will please even the most discerning eater. No group is too large or too small for Infused Catering’s mobile catering and personalized service. They will cook the food, set up, serve and clean up—so that you can truly sit back and enjoy your special event.

With their new venue, Infused Catering offers a comfortable, welcoming environment for your gathering, whether it’s a rehearsal dinner or a weekly sales meeting. The venue boasts two large banquet spaces and three intimate conference rooms, along with projectors and sound system. Scheduling is flexible and available 7 days a week.

If you dream it up, Infused Catering will make it a reality! Infuse your event with their delectable flavors and tailor-made service.

Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue

107 Aldersgate Dr Suites 3 & 4, Nixa, MO | 417-725-9777

Prepare to savor the extraordinary. For 24 years, thousands of clients in 417-land have trusted Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue to craft culinary magic and ensure enduring memories. In their meticulous orchestration of every event, Lillee’s is truly a cut above. Their outstanding team takes care of the details, allowing you to set worries aside and focus on what matters most.

Ideally situated in the heart of Nixa, Lillee’s event space radiates timeless elegance and sets the stage for life’s most cherished gatherings. The venue accommodates about 100 guests, with handicap accessibility and ample parking. Whether your gathering is at their Nixa venue or they’re bringing the catering to you, Lillee’s caters one-of-a-kind food at a respectable price. They specialize in improving on time-honored classics, and their extensive menu brims with options, such as delicate hors d’oeuvres for a reception or a hearty homestyle meal for a rehearsal dinner. No matter the group size, at Lillee’s Catering, the cuisine is always fresh, and the presentation is always beautiful. It’s flavorful food—with a gourmet touch.

Look no further than Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue, but don’t delay! Many dates fill more than a year in advance. Contact Lillee’s at lilleescatering@ymail.com to begin the conversation.

Happy Chef Catering

408 N. 4th Ave, Ozark, MO | 417-860-7734

Catering is at the heart of any special occasion, and for over 15 years, Happy Chef Catering has created unforgettable culinary experiences at premier events in 417-land. From a Hawaiian luau to the classic Southern brunch to a taste of India, Happy Chef Catering does it all. Led by Chef Phil Colbert, the business provides full service catering and bar services for weddings, anniversary celebrations, birthday parties and corporate events. They offer a wide assortment of customizable menus and can work within any budget.

For your wedding or special occasion, discover true culinary excellence with Happy Chef Catering.

Knotty Catering Co.

2845 W. Hwy 76, Branson, MO | 417-559-2450 

Knotty Catering Co. is “knot” your average catering company! They tie the world championship barbecue bites of Gettin’ Basted with the pub flavors of Downing Street Pour House. All eats are prepared directly over Missouri hardwood coals, giving the best balance of smoke and fire. Knotty offers tastes like championship ribs, house-smoked pastrami, upscale Wagyu beef burgers and classic comfort foods. You will have access to their vast menu and the freedom to create an indelible lineup.

No matter your venue, group size or event style, Knotty Catering Co. can handle it all. Do “knot” be surprised when the food is the top thing your wedding guests remember!

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

Experts in everything else wedding related.

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 not only can 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. 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 Hybrid Experience options, award winning officiants with Officially Wed and a uniquely interactive photo booth through sister brand Selfie Mirror Photo Experiences.

Serendipity

215 W. Commercial St., Springfield, MO | 417-501-6843

Whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, graduation or celebration of life, Serendipity understands the significance of each of life’s special occasions. From gorgeous fresh florals to an organic balloon bar to a unique inventory of paper goods and gifts, Serendipity knows how to elevate and create impact at any type of gathering.

Serendipity offers florals for every style and price point, including build-your-own bouquets, DIY buckets and full floral installs. Their balloon bar carries a large selection of colors, prints and shapes as well as design options to fit any budget. Visit their Commercial Street location and design an organic balloon garland, and pick it up completely assembled that same day! They also carry an assortment of local gifts and trendy paper goods not found in large national party stores.

As a local, women-owned business, Serendipity believes in supporting 417-land. To them, this means supporting area agriculture. It means hosting floral workshops. It means working closely with other local businesses, especially female-owned. Most importantly, it means treating each event as if it were their own. Visit Serendipity to find out how they can enrich and enliven your next party or special event.

Botox & Co.

2225 W. Chesterfield Suite #101, Springfield, MO | 417-512-8288

Say “I do” to the ultimate bridal beauty experience! The pros at Botox & Co. love to make every bride and bridal party shine on the big day. They offer rejuvenating facials, flawless makeup and nails, gorgeous up-do’s, IV hydration, hangover recovery and cosmetic injectables, ensuring you’re picture-perfect from head to toe. Your group can meet at the spa, or Botox & Co.’s mobile service will come to you.

Botox & Co. is professional, inclusive and always a good time! If you’re planning a bridal shower, bachelorette party or girls’ night out, give them a call to learn more about their variety of services and package pricing.

Dreamy & Darling Creations

Dreamy & Darling Creations focuses on custom event decor. Sydnie and her team specialize in creating one-of-a-kind decor to fit each style and couple. While Dreamy & Darling Creations’ main focus is balloon garlands, they also offer rentals such as backdrops, florals and more. Sydnie and her team pride themselves on intentionally creating statement pieces you and your wedding guests will always remember. They offer three tiers of services to ensure everyone is able to enjoy beautiful balloons no matter the budget. If you want to elevate your wedding or event to the next level, email Sydnie at dreamyanddarling@gmail.com.

Selfie Mirror Experience

Springfield, MO | 417-893-0435

Add a touch of magic to your wedding day with Elevate Entertainment's Selfie Mirror Experiences. These are not your average photo booths–they're interactive, sleek and so much fun!

Guests will gather around, having fun capturing endless selfies through their reflection.

Simply touch the screen, strike a pose, customize and boom! Print it out or share it on your phone through instant text and email features, emoji-stamping, retro games, memory books or GIF/Boomerang creation.

Their Showstopper 360 Video Stage is like a red carpet experience capturing every angle.

Your guests will be talking about this long after the party’s over!

The Red Garter

3265 Falls Pkwy Ste S, Branson, MO | 417-337-9542

It’s fun and flirty, it’s whimsical and carefree! It’s The Red Garter, 417-land’s top source for lingerie, bachelorette party goods and adult novelties.

Looking for the perfect bridal gift? With their inventory of unique, quality merchandise at low prices, The Red Garter is sure to please. Visit their retail store in the Falls Shopping Center in Branson, or check out their website. Whether you’re purchasing in the store or online, packaging and billing are always discreet, and customer information is always private. Discover why The Red Garter has been a customer favorite for 60 years.

Sabbie Chic Events

Springfield, MO | 417-425-2086

Stunning and timeless. Seamless, stress-free and carefully curated. These are the outstanding qualities that set Sabbie Chic Events apart as a premier wedding and event planner in the 417. Guided by founder and lead planner Sabrina Chamberlain, Sabbie Chic Events creates custom designs and facilitates flawless logistics for destination weddings, elopements, social and corporate events and beyond.

Sabbie Chic Events takes a personal approach to every client’s celebration. Whether it is full-service planning and thoughtful design or event-day management, no detail goes unnoticed. Sabbie Chic Events brings calm to the chaos, ensuring a peaceful, memory-filled experience for everyone involved.

The Crafted Clinic

205 E. Madison St, Marshfield, MO | 417-221-5700

Are you a bride-to-be seeking the perfect glow for your special day? We've got the solution! From Wrinkle Relaxer Injections and Dermal Fillers to IPL Laser and more, we're here to make you radiate with confidence.

Our services include beauty treatments, skincare and weight loss, ensuring you’re bridal-ready. We provide a high-end, down-to-earth experience, delivering natural results tailored to you.

We’re the top choice for brides preparing for their big day. Our clients describe us as educated, professional and friendly, offering customized treatment plans. Our passion is restoring natural beauty and optimizing health in a non-intimidating atmosphere.

Transform into your radiant self for your wedding.