Nestled in the heart of Minnesota, the Willmar Lakes Area emerges as a hidden gem for couples dreaming of a picturesque setting for their wedding day. With its serene lakes, lush landscapes, and charming venues, this locale offers a plethora of options for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. Whether you envision an intimate gathering by the water or a grand affair in a sophisticated ballroom, the Willmar Lakes Area caters to every couple’s unique vision. Let’s explore some of the most enchanting venues that promise to turn your special day into a memorable celebration.

For those looking for an elegant fairytale wedding, Stonewall Farms presents an idyllic setting. This enchanting venue, located just outside Willmar, offers a blend of rustic elegance and natural beauty, providing the perfect backdrop for your special day. Located in the heart of a Scotch Pine forest, the outdoor ceremony site immerses guests in the beauty of the native surroundings. The forest canopy provides filtered light and a natural break from our Minnesota seasonal climate. This versatile site can be arranged to intimately accommodate both large and small events. If you’d rather be indoors, you can choose between the Pine Pavilion, a 40′ by 90′ tent brought to life with chandeliers and hundreds of feet of cafe lighting, or the White Oak Barn, with its high ceilings and wooden beams that exude a warm, welcoming ambiance, ideal for both ceremonies and receptions. The simplistic elegance and peaceful setting of the Stonewall Farms Estate is sure to make your big day a true joy and memorable experience.

Next, is the River Country Event Center with its rustic covered bridge over the Middle Fork Crow River. It stands as a quintessential venue that epitomizes the charm and elegance of a fairy-tale wedding. Enclosed in a serene landscape that whispers tales of romance and enchantment, this location offers a beautiful background with its iconic covered bridge, which acts as a passageway not just between two physical points, but into a new chapter of life for couples. Included is a She Shed for the bridal party to get ready and a reception & dance barn (that holds 250 people with tables/chairs). The harmonious blend of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and attentive service at the River Country Event Center ensures that each wedding and reception held there is not only memorable but also seamlessly executed, allowing couples and their guests to immerse fully in the celebration of love and commitment.

Prairie Woods Environmental Learning Center offers a unique and enchanting setting for weddings and receptions, encompassed in the heart of nature. Surrounded by the serene beauty of woodlands, prairies, and wetlands, this venue provides a picturesque backdrop that is both inspiring and tranquil. The center’s commitment to environmental sustainability adds a meaningful layer to celebrations held here, allowing couples to start their journey together in harmony with nature. With versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, Prairie Woods is equipped to accommodate a range of wedding styles and sizes, offering a memorable experience for the couple and their guests. The natural setting not only enhances the beauty of the event but also offers an array of photographic opportunities, ensuring that the special moments of the day are captured amidst the splendor of the great outdoors.

Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery and beautiful freshwater lakes of New London-Spicer, Little Crow Event Center offers everything you need to make that dream wedding come true! Say “I do,” surrounded by the lush greenery of a exquisite golf course. The spacious event center comfortably accommodates up to 250 guests, providing an intimate yet expansive setting for your celebration. The banquet room features large windows that overlook Little Crow Golf Course so you and your guests can enjoy the beautiful views while you dine and dance. There is also an outdoor patio, directly accessible from the banquet room, which offers a charming space for al fresco celebrations. Whether it is an outdoor wedding or an extension of your reception, the patio provides a versatile option to make your day even more magical. This charming setting combined with their full-service bar and delectable catering options makes this the perfect place for your wedding.

Seeking elegance and sophistication? Look no further than the Willmar Conference Center. This venue embodies both qualities with its adaptable ballrooms tailored to your theme and guest count. It combines contemporary amenities with flawless service to guarantee a stylish and flawless wedding day. The atrium lobby features a grand piano and full service bar providing the perfect venue for a grand reception. The Willmar Conference Center is connected to the Best Western Plus and Holiday Inn Express Hotels so your guests will only have a short walk to their hotel rooms after a night of dancing. No matter what your budget, the conference center staff will help you plan that spectacular wedding you’ve always dreamt about.

Another location not to be overlooked is The Land, featuring a variety of rustic spaces perfect for anyone looking to host a truly unqiue event. Ideal for anything from a small and intimate ceremony to a high-end wedding, this venue seats 175 guests comfortably with flexibility to accommodate larger gatherings too. Corrugated metal walls, barn wood elements, and cafe lighting make for a quaint clean slate to dress up or down for your event. Additional features include the The Love Apple Orchard for ceremonies, The Event Pavilion, a built-in pergola bar, and a large yard for games, bonfires and outdoor fun!

Other great options to consider:
O’Neil’s in Spicer – Located along the sparkling shores of Green Lake, this modern yet cozy inspired event center holds up to 150 people and also has an outdoor patio that can hold 125 people.
Lone Star Farm – Lone Star Farm is a rustic wedding and event space located on a farm outside of Prinsburg. There’s a beautiful spot for the wedding ceremony, an event center for the reception, and place to play cornhole.
Green Lake Bible Camp Stave Chapel at Green Lake Lutheran Ministries (GLLM) – The Green Lake Bible Camp and Chapel is a popular retreat center and historic chapel with fountains and gardens.

This is not an extensive list of all the wedding and reception locations in Kandiyohi County. To see a full list, click here.

No matter which venue you choose, the Willmar Lakes Area promises a beautiful start to your new life together. With its scenic beauty and diverse venue options, it stands as a testament to Minnesota’s charm, offering couples a perfect backdrop for their wedding day. As you plan your celebration in this enchanting locale, remember that the magic of your special day is not just in the setting, but in the love that you share. Here’s to beginning your forever in the Willmar Lakes Area!

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