Hernando County, part of the beautiful Nature Coast of Florida, is one of the last remaining areas preserving that which is Old Florida. This picturesque area is ripe with breathtaking landscapes for every outdoorsy type, from the beach goer to the nature lover. One can feel that vacation atmosphere just a short drive off Cortez Blvd complete with breathtaking sunsets at Pine Island, the area’s own family friendly beach. Complete with Willy’s Tropical Breeze Café, restrooms, and a playground for the kids. People of all ages can take in the beauty that is the Florida Gulf Coast. Canoeing or kayaking down the crystal clear waters of the Weeki Wachee River is a wonderfully romantic escape for newlyweds, where chances are you’ll see one of the region’s beloved manatees. The Nature Coast Botanical Gardens offers a beautiful backdrops for quiet walks through their butterfly garden. Historic Brooksville, the county seat of Hernando is rich in history, architecture and small town charm with its brick paved streets, cafes, art galleries and Antebellum homes. Need some adrenaline? Dirt bike and ATV enthusiasts will
enjoy the 2600 acre Croom Motorcycle Area at Withlacoochee State Forest.
With all these treasures packed so richly into our community, it’s an ideal wedding destination for couples looking to have a diverse and magical experience. Hernando County offers some of the finest wedding venues to meet and exceed every bride’s wishes. Saxon Manor, located at 200 S. Saxon Avenue in Brooksville, owned and operated by Dorothea and Greg Stephens, has been making wedding dreams come true with their beautifully manicured grounds and towering oaks covered in romantic Spanish moss and finely renovated Victorian manor. Along with Saxon Manor, couples can choose from a beautifully appointed Garden Room which is climate controlled and its newest addition, the Shabby Chic Barn which relays a more rustic experience while still maintaining a sense of elegance and sophistication. Saxon Manor takes the stress out of planning a wedding, with reasonably priced packages and trusted vendors to see to all wedding planning needs from bar service, photography, catering and everything in between. Call (813) 909-3414 or visit their website for more information
Chinsegut Hill Retreat, located at 22495 Chinsegut Hill Road in Brooksville, is a gorgeous, sprawling historic landmark meticulously overseen by the Friends of Chinsegut Hill to ensure preservation of the grounds and integrity of this Hernando County gem. Sitting at one of the highest elevations in Florida, the sunset views are perfect for an outdoor garden wedding.
Aside from its rich history, views and sprawling canopy oaks, Chinsegut Hill Retreat offers facilities and lodging for wedding guests in climate controlled cottages as well as the dining hall
with a full kitchen, which can be used to prepare your own wedding dishes or use a local caterer of your choice. Call (352) 799-5400 or visit their website for more information.
The Palace Grand, located at 275 Della Court in Spring Hill, has been a wedding venue institution in the area for years. If a more traditional venue is desired, The Palace Grand delivers. Its close proximity to Spring Hill makes it a convenient destination for guests from all over the County, State and beyond. More importantly, The Palace Grand is a perfect combination of
elegance, grace and state of the art functionality. With on-site chefs, a choice of two dining rooms and planners to help you through every stage of wedding planning, The Palace Grand helps to create seamless events that couples will look back on with joy. The Palace Grand has a large stage area, in house lighting and sound and proudly boasts the largest dance floor in the
County. The Palace Grand has also been proud recipients of WEDDINGWIRE Couples Choice Awards for consecutive years. Call (352) 688-3390 or visit their website for more information
Recognizing Hernando County for the unique beauty it possesses by becoming one of Florida’s premier destinations for weddings not only increases knowledge of the culture and history of the area, but it can improve the local economy while maintaining the utmost respect for its surroundings. Local vendors, such as bed & breakfasts, photography, caterers, disc jockeys, florists, event planners and retail can all benefit from establishing trusted relationships in the community while allowing local dollars to stay local. Supporting the growing wedding industry in Hernando County is a sure fire way to boost our economy.