Our Favorite Wedding & Event Venues in Jacksonville, Florida— Southside & Mandarin
The Mandarin and Southside areas of Jacksonville offer beautiful settings that range from classic club elegance to peaceful natural retreats. These venues are ideal for couples looking for refined celebrations surrounded by river views, lush grounds, and a sense of timeless tranquility.
At Bokeh & Birch photobooth co, we design photo booth experiences that feel intentional, polished, and thoughtfully integrated into each venue’s unique atmosphere. To see real celebrations here, you can browse our featured event galleries or explore our photo booth experiences created for spaces like these.
Bowing Oaks
Situated on a private estate in Mandarin, Bowing Oaks blends Southern charm with natural beauty. Towering oak trees, open lawns, and a serene garden atmosphere make it a favorite for couples seeking a romantic outdoor celebration with a timeless feel. It’s particularly well-liked for ceremonies and receptions that want to emphasize personal style and nature-driven backdrops.
Epping Forest Yacht Club
A Jacksonville institution since 1928, Epping Forest Yacht Club is known for its classic elegance and waterfront location on the Intracoastal Waterway. Couples choose Epping Forest for its sweeping river views, manicured lawn areas, and refined clubhouse spaces — perfect for weddings that balance tradition with scenic beauty.
Marywood Retreat
Marywood Retreat offers a peaceful, contemplative venue surrounded by oak-lined pathways and natural scenery. Often chosen for intimate ceremonies and meaningful celebrations, this venue provides a calm, gracious environment that encourages thoughtful event design and elevated guest experiences.
La Venture Grove
Set amid lush greenery and shaded by towering trees, La Venture Grove provides a natural, open-air setting for weddings and celebrations. Couples appreciate its pastoral landscape and flexible event layout, making it a great choice for outdoor ceremonies and receptions that feel relaxed yet intentional.
Crosswater Hall at Nocatee
Website: https://nocatee.com/weddings/crosswater-hall/
Crosswater Hall at Nocatee is a beautifully designed event venue known for its clean architecture, expansive indoor space, and thoughtfully landscaped surroundings. With soaring ceilings, abundant natural light, and a flexible floor plan, it offers an elegant backdrop that works seamlessly for both ceremonies and receptions.
This venue holds a special place for us — it’s where we celebrated our own wedding. From firsthand experience, we can say Crosswater Hall shines when it comes to flow, guest comfort, and the ability to truly make the space your own through intentional design and personal details. It’s a wonderful choice for couples who want a refined setting that feels timeless, welcoming, and effortlessly elevated.
Planning a Wedding or Event near the Mandarin or the Southside?
Each of these Mandarin and Southside venues offers a distinct character — whether you’re drawn to riverfront views, garden landscapes, or modern event spaces — creating unforgettable celebrations in Northeast Florida.
We’d love to help you create a photo booth experience that complements your venue and elevates the guest experience.