Mankato is full of amazing wedding venues and it can be overwhelming to decide where you want to get married. Should you book a barn venue? A luxury venue? Modern venue? Have a backyard wedding? The possibilities truly are endless. Believe it or not, there is no shortage of wedding venues in the Mankato area for you to peruse, tour, and discuss with your partner. It can almost feel overwhelming because your wedding venue is going to set the entire tone for your big day. BUT, no need to worry! I’ve done all the work for you, and I’m here to share my favorite wedding venues in the Mankato area!
Let’s dig in shall we?
1. The first wedding venue I want to introduce to you is The Barn at Ballard Creek. Based just outside Mankato, Minnesota, this wedding venue is the cutest little spot to get married. Ballard Creek is complete with a gorgeous, white bridal suite, outdoor or indoor ceremony spaces, & a classic red barn. Everything about this venue feels down-to-earth and fun. Ballard Creek is perfect for couples who just want to enjoy their day & work with a family-owned venue. Not to mention Lindsey is the sweetest lady that you’ll ever meet and she takes such great pride in what she does. I know you’ll just love her and everything her venue has to offer. Plus you’re only 10 minutes away from Mankato so you’ve got a wide variety of vendors right at your fingertips!
2. Okay, this wedding venue is a bit far from Mankato, but it just cannot be overlooked! This venue is in Hastings, Minnesota and is one of the most upscale barn venues I’ve ever seen. Almquist Farm feels natural, classic, and chic all in one. With the red exterior of the reception barn and white/wood interior, this venue is a blank slate for you to create the perfect wedding you’ve been dreaming of. Paul & Kari are so kind and are taking “family tradition” to a whole new level. So make sure when you tour this beautiful wedding venue in southern Minnesota that you ask them about the history behind their space and what inspired them to create it.
3. Willow Brooke Farm is another one that’s not in Mankato. It’s located in Red Wing, Minnesota & is one of my all-time favorite wedding venues! They have taken the barn wedding aesthetic and perfectly blended that with the modern, all-white spaces that are trending right now. From that beautiful reception space, to the perfectly manicured vineyard they have; this wedding venue is perfect for brides who want a little of everything. Plus the bride + groom’s getting ready spaces are just perfect! This family-owned wedding venue is such a stunning space for the modern couple to bring their dreams to life.
4. The next venue I want to chat about is brand new to the Mankato area! Ahavah Cottage is located in Elysian, Minnesota; just north of Mankato. This venue used to be a restaurant, but the new owners chose to open up the first luxury wedding venue in the Mankato area. They have perfectly blended the log cabin aesthetic with a classic, modern vibe that makes this venue feel just perfect. Mankato has seen a rapid amount of growth in the last few years, so I was so excited when I found out about this amazing venue! They are still working on a few final touches, but this place will be ready to go in summer of 2022! My first wedding here will be taking place in 2023 & I am so excited!!
5. Golden Bubble is also brand-new to the greater Mankato area! This venue is located in Wells, and provides a sweet backdrop for couples who just want to have a great time celebrating their marriage. The owners, Jeff & Ann are two of the most dedicated people that I’ve ever met. They are so hands on with their weddings. They do everything they can to make sure that their couples are 110% satisfied with everything. Jeff & Ann love what they do and it’s so easy to see that when you get the chance to connect with them. (And how about that disco ball?)
6. The next two venues are in New Prague, but also can’t be overlooked. This is Next Chapter Winery. It is such a beautiful vineyard. With rolling rows of lush grapes & greenery (and tasty wine) this venue is the perfect spot to say “I do.” NCW is picturesque and full of opportunity for any wedding day. From their caring staff, to the natural beauty of the land around this place, you couldn’t ask for anything more. And, NCW is only 40 minutes from Mankato so if your guests want to stay in town, that’s definitely an option!
7. And now we have Creeksbend Golf Course in New Prague, MN. Creeksbend is a beautiful location for any wedding. Their outdoor ceremony space is dotted with beautiful florals along the back wall, and there are endless photo opportunities. This was actually my first wedding location in Southern Minnesota, so it holds a very dear place in my heart. Their venue staff is so organized and thoughtful. This is truly a hidden gem of wedding venues in Southern Minnesota and you’re only 40 minutes away from Mankato, so this one is just super convenient!
8. South Glen Farm is a wedding venue located one hour north of Mankato and about the same distance away from the cities. This venue is such a great spot to get married because your guests have so many options for where they could stay. Maybe I’ve strayed too far outside of Mankato now, but I really do believe that this is the most beautiful barn venue I have ever seen. It is so well thought out and provides a gorgeous space for any wedding. Plus you will LOVE Sherry!!! She is literally the best in the biz! And again, this venue isn’t too far from Mankato so it’s an easy trip back home OR straight to the airport for that luxurious honeymoon you’ve been planning!
May 18, 2022