Orlando may be best known as a world-famous destination for tourists and weddings alike, but locals know there’s so much more to Central Florida than theme parks, luxury resorts, and nationally acclaimed restaurants.
This part of the state is full of hidden gems: hole-in-the-wall eateries serving unforgettable meals, historic town centers lined with ancient oak trees, brick-paved streets dotted with boutiques, and relaxed waterfronts with scenic bald cypress trees. While these places may not always make the travel guides, they’re deeply loved by the people who call Central Florida home.
The same can be said for Central Florida wedding venues!
Today, we’re shining the spotlight on 3 Central Florida wedding venues that locals love: Moss Estates, the Leesburg Venetian Center, and the Sanborn Center. Located just north of Orlando, each of these venues offers its own unique charm, whether that’s lush gardens, waterfront views, or historic character while showcasing the natural beauty and hometown feel that make this area of Florida so special.
If you’re searching for a wedding venue that’s a little more under the radar but no less memorable, we encourage you to keep reading! But first, check out the other parts in our venue highlight series below. As your resident Orlando caterer, we’ve worked in countless Central Florida wedding venues and we’re dedicated to helping match you with your ideal wedding site!
- Part 1: 3 Hidden Gem Orlando Wedding Venues
- Part 2: Unique Orlando Wedding Venues You Can’t Miss
- Part 3: Top Rated Indoor/Outdoor Orlando Wedding Venues
- Part 4: 3 Charming Orlando Wedding Venues for 2026
- Part 5: 3 Unconventional Orlando Wedding Venues for Creative Couples
Central Florida Wedding Venues: Moss Estates
First up on our list of Central Florida wedding venues that locals love is Moss Estates, a breathtaking rustic wedding venue tucked away in Eustis, Florida. Set on 20 acres and surrounded by the Seminole State Forest, this Central Florida wedding venue feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of Orlando proper. Everywhere you look, you’ll find lush greenery, sprawling fields, and majestic oak trees that have stood on the property for generations.
When you get married here, you’ll exchange vows beneath a sweeping ancient oak tree whose branches provide both a stunning backdrop and shade for up to 150 guests. Vintage double doors sit at the entrance to the ceremony site, helping to create a grand reveal as you walk down the paved aisle. The ceremony site also has a small raised platform at the altar to help put the spotlight on such an important occasion. The beauty of the surrounding forest and the sense of privacy you experience here create a peace that’s hard to replicate anywhere else.
After the ceremony, guests can head to cocktail hour at the covered outdoor bar area to sip on drinks, munch on appetizers, and play lawn games while admiring the scenery. Meanwhile, you’ll wander the property to capture your newlywed portraits, whether that’s among the rolling fields, beneath the ancient oaks, or in front of the iconic barn emblazoned with the words “Best Day Ever!” on its side.
When it’s time for the reception, everyone will make their way into the Estate’s beloved “Tuxedo Barn,” affectionately nicknamed for its striking black and white design. Originally built in the 1930s, the barn has been renovated to preserve its historic charm while offering all the modern comforts couples need for their big day. Inside, shiplap walls, glowing chandeliers, sliding barn doors, and a dramatic charcoal ceiling create a space that’s equal parts rustic and refined.
One of the best features of the Tuxedo Barn is its seamless indoor/outdoor design! Multiple sets of vintage doors open onto a covered patio, allowing guests to step outside, enjoy the fresh evening air, and admire the stars overhead.
Our John Michael Events team is proud to be one of just ten exclusive caterers at Moss Estates! Earning a spot on this curated list means we’ve had the opportunity to successfully serve countless celebrations here, building a trusted relationship with the Moss Estates team along the way. They know they can count on us to provide exceptional food and beverage service while caring for couples and their guests with professionalism, warmth, and attention to detail.
For couples, that means one less thing to worry about. Our team knows the property inside and out, works seamlessly alongside the venue staff, and is committed to creating a wedding day experience that’s as smooth as it is beautiful.
Central Florida Wedding Venues: Leesburg Venetian Center
Next on our list of Central Florida wedding venues that locals love is the Leesburg Venetian Center. Like Moss Estates, this venue is surrounded by natural beauty, as it’s situated within the Venetian Gardens Park and along the shores of Lake Harris. The combination of lake views, towering cypress and palm trees, and open Florida skies creates an unforgettable setting for your wedding day!
The primary event space here is the Harris Room, which is a versatile venue that can accommodate up to 450 for a seated reception. Large floor-to-ceiling windows line two sides of the room, allowing ample natural light to flood the space, which is especially magical as the sun sets. Numerous glass pendant lights hang from the ceiling to create an ambient glow while exposed wooden beams and soaring ceilings give the room an open, airy feel. With its clean, neutral palette, the Harris Room truly acts as a blank canvas, making it easy for couples to bring their own wedding vision to life, whether that’s modern, colorful, rustic, or coastal.
The back doors of the room lead to a covered patio with a stunning view of Lake Harris. From here, guests can enjoy the lake views and breeze while newlyweds take gorgeous photos on the bridge that leads into the Venetian Gardens Park. The Venetian Cove Marina is even nearby for any couples who want to partake in any water activities during their wedding weekend!
In addition to the Harris Room, the Venetian Center also offers two smaller event spaces, the Griffin Room and the Canal Room. These are perfect for more intimate gatherings, rehearsal dinners, or even wedding day getting ready suites for the wedding party.
Locals love the Venetian Center not only for its versatility and natural surroundings, but also for its accessibility and resident pricing. It’s a true community gem: Beautiful, spacious, and flexible for a wide range of wedding styles.
Check out their rental fees and more details at the link below:
Learn More About Leesburg Venetian Center
Central Florida Wedding Venues: Sanborn Center
Last but certainly not least on our list of Central Florida wedding venues that locals love is the Sanborn Center in DeLand, Florida!
Nestled within Earl Brown Park, this local favorite offers the best of both worlds: the natural beauty of a lush park setting paired with the convenience and functionality of a modern event center. Large oak trees, open green spaces, and waterfront views surround the property, creating a scenic backdrop around every corner.
For your wedding ceremony, you can choose between the outdoor East Courtyard, Lake Side Terrace, or the indoor Atrium. The Atrium is also a stunning setting for cocktail hour with its soaring glass dome that floods the space with natural light and creates an open, celebratory feel.
For your wedding reception, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 300 guests for a seated meal while still being flexible enough for smaller gatherings thanks to its ability to be divided into two separate spaces. The Ballroom also features a built-in stage, dance floor, and large windows with views of the adjacent courtyard.
Additionally, the Sanborn Center offers a variety of smaller meeting rooms that work perfectly as getting ready suites or ideal spots for pre- or post-wedding events. One of the best parts about the Sanborn Center is that every indoor space is paired with direct access to an outdoor courtyard, offering your guests both an indoor and outdoor experience!
It’s this unique blend of versatility, scenery, and sense of community that makes the Sanborn Center such a beloved choice among local couples! If you’re ready to check out more, find out more information and contact the Sanborn team below:
Central Florida Wedding Venues FAQ:
What are Central Florida wedding venues that locals love?
Moss Estates, Leesburg Venetian Center, and the Sanborn Center are 3 Central Florida wedding venues that offer a beautiful blend of natural scenery, versatile indoor/outdoor event spaces, and unique local charm.
Does John Michael Events cater at Moss Estates, Leesburg Venetian Center, and the Sanborn Center?
Yes! John Michael Events is a trusted catering partner at Moss Estates, Leesburg Venetian Center, and the Sanborn Center with exclusive or preferred caterer status at each one. This allows us to work closely with each venue’s team and ensure a smooth, elevated experience from planning through execution.
