Top 5 Columbus Wedding Venues That Pair Perfectly with BBQ
As wedding trends evolve, couples are increasingly seeking unique and personalized experiences that reflect their style. One of the most popular and delicious trends to emerge is the move towards more relaxed and flavorful catering options, with BBQ taking center stage. The rustic charm and communal atmosphere of a BBQ feast pair perfectly with the natural beauty of outdoor and barn wedding venues. For couples in the Columbus, Ohio area, there are a number of stunning venues that provide the perfect backdrop for a down-to-earth yet elegant celebration complete with all the smoky goodness of a barbecue.
This blog post will explore the top five Columbus-area wedding venues that are exceptionally well-suited for BBQ catering. We will delve into what makes each location unique and how the relaxed nature of a BBQ menu can enhance the overall wedding experience.
Why BBQ is the Perfect Wedding Catering Choice
Before we dive into the venues, let's take a moment to appreciate why BBQ is such a fantastic choice for a wedding celebration. Beyond the mouth-watering flavors, BBQ catering offers a number of benefits that align perfectly with the atmosphere of a rustic or outdoor wedding:
BBQ catering sets the tone for a laid-back and enjoyable reception. Guests can socialize without the formality of a plated dinner, making the experience more relaxed and interactive. [1]
This relaxed dining style encourages mingling and creates a more communal and interactive experience for guests. BBQ menus are also incredibly versatile, offering a wide range of smoked meats, side dishes, and sauces to please every palate. From a cost perspective, BBQ can be a more budget-friendly option compared to traditional plated dinners, without sacrificing quality or flavor. The sensory experience of a BBQ, from the aroma of smoked wood to the vibrant colors of the side dishes, adds another layer of rustic charm to your special day.
The Top 5 Columbus Wedding Venues for a BBQ Celebration
Here are our top five picks for Columbus-area wedding venues that provide the perfect setting for a memorable BBQ wedding.
VenueLocationCapacityKey FeaturesJorgensen FarmsWesterville, OH250Two distinct venues: The Gardens & Oak Grove (historic greenhouse)The Old Blue Rooster EventsSoutheast of Columbus200Rustic barn with modern amenities, allows outside cateringCamp Mary OrtonColumbus, OH200+Historic lodge, flexible for food trucks and unique requestsHoney Birch FarmLogan County, OH200Secluded country estate with full-weekend rentalsAmelita Mirolo BarnUpper Arlington, OH150Historic barn with modern updates, allows outside vendors
1. Jorgensen Farms: The Gardens & Oak Grove
Jorgensen Farms is a premier wedding destination in the Columbus area, offering two distinct and stunning venues on its 100-acre property. The Gardens provides a classic and elegant barn setting, while Oak Grove features a breathtaking historic greenhouse. Both venues are surrounded by lush gardens and open fields, creating a picturesque backdrop for an outdoor ceremony and a rustic-chic reception. The farm's commitment to organic and sustainable practices extends to their on-site catering, but the expansive grounds and beautiful outdoor spaces make it an ideal location to host a BBQ feast from an approved outside caterer. Imagine your guests enjoying delicious smoked brisket and pulled pork under the stars, surrounded by the natural beauty of the farm.
2. The Old Blue Rooster Events
For couples seeking a venue that offers both rustic charm and modern conveniences, The Old Blue Rooster Events is an excellent choice. Located just 20 minutes southeast of Columbus, this venue boasts a beautiful barn that can be customized to fit your wedding vision. One of its biggest draws is the flexibility it offers, including the option to bring in your own caterer. This makes it a perfect match for couples who have their hearts set on a specific BBQ vendor. The outdoor ceremony space, surrounded by lush greenery, provides a beautiful natural setting to say "I do" before celebrating with a relaxed and delicious BBQ reception.
3. Camp Mary Orton
If you're looking for a truly unique and flexible wedding venue, Camp Mary Orton is a hidden gem. The historic lodge, with its wood floors and stone fireplace, provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. The surrounding grounds offer ample space for an outdoor ceremony and reception. What makes Camp Mary Orton particularly well-suited for a BBQ wedding is its incredible flexibility. The venue is known for accommodating unique requests, including allowing food trucks for catering. This opens up a world of possibilities for a fun and casual BBQ experience that your guests will love.
4. Honey Birch Farm
Nestled in the quiet countryside of Logan County, Honey Birch Farm is a stunning country estate that offers a secluded and intimate setting for your wedding. The venue offers full-weekend rentals, allowing you to relax and enjoy the entire wedding weekend with your loved ones. The property features multiple event areas, both indoors and outdoors, providing plenty of options for your ceremony and reception. The beautiful country setting is the perfect complement to a relaxed BBQ dinner, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your celebration.
5. Amelita Mirolo Barn
Located in the heart of Upper Arlington, the Amelita Mirolo Barn offers the perfect blend of historic charm and modern convenience. This beautifully restored barn provides a rustic and romantic setting for a wedding, and it's one of the most affordable options in the Columbus area. The venue allows you to bring in your own vendors, including your favorite BBQ caterer. The combination of the historic barn setting and a delicious BBQ menu creates a truly memorable and quintessentially rustic wedding experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right venue and catering are two of the most important decisions you'll make when planning your wedding. By pairing a stunning rustic or outdoor venue with the delicious and crowd-pleasing flavors of BBQ, you can create a wedding celebration that is both elegant and relaxed, and a true reflection of your personal style. The Columbus, Ohio area offers a wonderful selection of venues that are perfect for bringing this vision to life.
References
[1] New York Firehouse Grille. (2025, March 11). Wedding BBQ Catering: Ultimate Guide to a Flavorful... Retrieved from Wedding BBQ Catering: Ultimate Guide to a Flavorful Celebration