Event Planning Guide

VENUES

Indoor and outdoor locations for any event.

Dogwood Canyon

800-456-4812
2038 West State Hwy 86, Lampe, MO

Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, straddling the Missouri-Arkansas border in Lampe, Missouri, is a haven for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Covering over 10,000 acres of stunning Ozark Mountain landscape, this serene escape offers visitors rugged beauty and tranquility. This expansive park provides the perfect setting for a variety of events and celebrations.

With five exceptional venues, Dogwood Canyon caters to gatherings of all sizes, whether indoors or outdoors. The rustic Chuckwagon Pavilion is ideal for hosting receptions, complete with live music on the streamside stage. For a touch of elegance, the 1800s-style Hope Wilderness Chapel, which overlooks a picturesque waterfall, is perfect for exchanging vows. Guests can dine and dance under the stars on the Canyon Grill patio or say "I do" in front of the awe-inspiring Thunder Falls.

Surrounded by crystal-clear streams, handcrafted bridges, stables, meadows, waterfalls, and vibrant pools, these venues offer unforgettable natural vistas that enhance any event.

Tailor your event with unique touches that make it truly memorable, such as horse-drawn carriage rides, guest bicycles, fire pits with s'mores, fly fishing receptions, and horseback riding. Each season brings its own charm to the park, with spring blooms of Dogwood and Redbud trees, fall’s vibrant foliage, and a winter wonderland backdrop providing stunning settings year-round.

Dogwood Canyon offers a wealth of activities to engage visitors, including hiking, biking, wildlife tours, horseback riding, and trout fishing, all set amidst towering bluffs and native Ozark wildlife. Guests can visit the working gristmill, explore the creation by Treehouse Masters, and tour the Conservation Education Center, adding educational elements to their adventure.

Ideal for corporate retreats, family reunions, company picnics, weddings, or special celebrations, Dogwood Canyon ensures unforgettable experiences with its breathtaking views and dedicated team of event specialists. Whether planning a significant event or a day trip, the park provides a stunning backdrop that enriches any occasion.

To start planning your next adventure and experience the natural beauty of the Ozarks, contact wow.groupsales@wondersofwildlife.org. Dogwood Canyon Nature Park promises a unique and enchanting escape, perfect for creating lasting memories amidst the natural splendor of the Ozarks.

425 Downtown

417-888-3025

425 W. Walnut St., Springfield, MO

From the rehearsal dinner to the final send-off, 425 Downtown curates seamless weddings that leave a lasting impression. Centrally located on Springfield’s Walnut Street, the venue boasts a lush brick interior, space for 200 guests and a host of amenities and packages to suit every need. Choose the flat rate package to rent the space, or choose the all-inclusive package and let 425 Downtown’s experienced staff take care of all the details, including catering and bar service. No matter which package you select, your guests’ experience and yours is sure to be unforgettable!

The Old Glass Place

417-501-8035

521 E. St Louis St., Springfield

Happily ever after begins at The Old Glass Place, located in the heart of Springfield’s vibrant downtown. With more than 12,000 square feet and a seated capacity of 550 people, The Old Glass Place is customizable for wedding events both large and small. Rental includes 12 hours of venue use, round tables and chairs, a state-of-the-art sound system, an outdoor area and a private parking lot. For a schlep-free experience, choose the all-inclusive package, which includes onsite catering and bar service.

Celebrate your love story in a place where history meets elegance. Tour The Old Glass Place to discover all it has to offer.

Big Cedar Lodge

1-800-225-6343

190 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale

Table Rock Lake, rolling hills, and the Missouri sky create a picturesque setting at Big Cedar Lodge, ideal for celebrations and corporate meetings of up to 1,000 guests. Located 10 miles south of Branson in southwest Missouri, this resort offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities.

The Grandview Conference Center boasts Ozarks charm, stunning views of Table Rock Lake, and state-of-the-art technology, making it perfect for business meetings. Big Cedar offers on-site catering and various restaurants, all featuring rustic elegance. Guests can enjoy activities such as five legendary golf courses, a world-class spa, the Lost Canyon Cave and Nature Trail, unique food and beverage events, the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, and a 50,000 square-foot adventure center with an arcade, ropes course, and an underwater-themed bowling alley. Corporate team-building activities include golf outings, scavenger hunts and fishing tournaments. Nearby, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park offers horseback rides, wildlife tram tours, and evening chuck wagon dinners.

For weddings and receptions, Big Cedar features four stunning chapels and multiple indoor and outdoor venues with captivating lake views. This premier destination provides everything needed for special celebrations, from engagement parties to honeymoons, with luxury accommodations in a secluded, natural haven.

14 Mill Market

417-763-6500

14 Mill Market, a premier food hall with 10 uniquely hand-crafted restaurants and a full-service bar, is the perfect venue for any event. With four rental spaces—the meeting room, large fire pit, front patio and turf—14 Mill Market accommodates everything from office meetings and birthdays to wedding receptions and private dance classes. The venue features both indoor and outdoor come-and-go seating, which transforms into a high-class setting for private events. Catering options are available from all on-site restaurants and a capacity of 260 people ensures every need is met. Regular events include trivia nights, karaoke and live music every weekend.

Cassell Vineyards

417-893-1758

1103 Lucky Rd., Mansfield

Ciao bella! Cassell Vineyards offers a beautiful wedding scene in a historic open-air chapel. At the all-in-one site, you and your guests will also enjoy the winery terrace overlooking an incredibly romantic setting for your reception.

The Terrace offers a breathtaking view of the rolling Ozark hills as you gaze over a vineyard adorned with growing grapevines. When the sun sets, The Terrace becomes cozily lit with string lights hanging from the wrought iron open-air roof. The property is surrounded by gorgeous woods that offer an intimate and genuinely gorgeous setting meshing hints of Italy with the Ozarks.

Cassidy Station at Estes Farms

417-522-3659

5176 N. Fremont Rd., Nixa

Cassidy Station at Estes Farms is a beautifully restored century farm—a legacy of the Estes family for over 150 years. In 2022, the farm underwent a thoughtful renovation: the farmhouse became a charming mercantile store, the workshop transformed into a full-service flower shop and the barns and other buildings were converted into elegant event spaces. Known for hosting weddings, showers, graduation parties, corporate events and more, Cassidy Station combines simple elegance with a timeless, intimate ambiance. Located conveniently off Highway 65 in Ozark, this versatile venue comfortably seats 150 guests and offers a countryside experience close to the city.

Hotel Vandivort

417-832-1515
305 E. Walnut St., Springfield, MO

Oasis Hotel and Convention Center

417-866-5253

2546 N. Glenstone, Springfield, MO

Elevate your event at the Oasis Convention Center! Equipped with 30,000 square feet of meeting space and 11 private meeting rooms, this luxurious venue is completely customizable to fit the purpose and character of each and every event. Their experienced staff will bring your unique vision to life by ensuring an inviting, relaxing atmosphere and by creating any layout you can dream up.

Your event will be unforgettable thanks to Oasis Convention Center’s trove of outstanding amenities. The event space is equipped with a built-in stage, theatrical lighting, state-of-the-art audiovisual equipment, drop-down screens and high-speed Wi-Fi. Oasis offers a full-service catering menu designed by their exceptional culinary team, led by the executive chef from Fire & Ice Restaurant & Bar. Their menu presents a diverse selection of food that can fit any style of event and breaks the mold of traditional convention fare.

Your event, your way. This is what sets Oasis Convention Center apart. Immerse yourself in their resort-style ambiance and redefine the way you experience events.

Call today to start planning your next corporate event or wedding.

Plaza Towers Event Center

417-883-7424

1736 E. Sunshine St., Suite 304, Springfield

Elevate your next event at the newly remodeled Plaza Towers Event Center. With a versatile space that caters to any occasion, this premier venue is ideal for conferences, celebrations and weddings. Guests will be captivated by the stunning ground-floor entrance, elegant surroundings and luxurious details that set the tone for a memorable experience.

Our state-of-the-art amenities include a built-in prep and service station, ensuring seamless service for your event. The modern, stylish facilities provide the perfect backdrop for your guests, offering both comfort and sophistication. Whether you're planning a corporate gathering or a grand wedding, Plaza Towers Event Center promises to exceed your expectations.

Host your next event at Plaza Towers Event Center and make it an unforgettable experience. Book now and allow them to help you create lasting memories!

University Plaza

417-864-7333

333 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield

Events large and small are what University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center does best. With an array of versatile meeting and event spaces in a convenient downtown Springfield location, University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center is the go-to place for corporate meetings, trade shows, conventions, weddings, reunions and beyond.

University Plaza Hotel features nearly 47,000 square feet of flexible event space, including 35 meeting rooms and 2 ballrooms that can accommodate up to 2,000 guests. The Tower Club, located on the 21st and 22nd floors of Hammons Tower, offers sweeping panoramic views of the city, creating a memorable vista for your special event. And with an additional 123,000 square feet of space, Springfield Expo Center is poised to host any large group, from local sporting competitions to multi-national conventions.

Yet the impressive numbers tell only part of what University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center has to offer. All spaces are customizable to fit every need, with onsite catering, state-of-the-art technology and expert staff who will ensure your event is an incredible success. Trust University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center to do it right. Call today to find out more.

Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium

888-222-6060

500 W. Sunshine St., Springfield, MO

Johnny Morris' Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (WOW) invites guests to experience an extraordinary indoor wildlife adventure! Visitors will be captivated by WOW's unique and versatile event spaces with stunning aquatic views.

Guests can explore the Open Ocean exhibit, where encounters with zebra sharks and sea turtles in 300,000 gallons of saltwater await. Witness sailfish chasing massive tuna while dolphins leap alongside and seagulls soar above. Enjoy dining in the Australian Great Barrier Reef area beneath a towering three-story aquarium teeming with giant Queensland grouper and moray eels.

WOW's acclaimed 350,000-square-foot facility is perfect for meetings, conventions, weddings, and special occasions. Benefit from full-service catering, event photography, and unique team-building experiences such as penguin encounters, shark dives and behind-the-scenes tours. The catering professionals at White River Conference Center offer exceptional custom event menu planning and comprehensive coordination services.

To book an unforgettable event at Wonders of Wildlife, contact Wow.Events@wondersofwildlife.org and start planning your next great adventure.

Finley Farms

417-210-6644

802 Finley Farms Lane, Ozark, MO

Finley Farms offers a variety of vibrant event venues, farm-inspired restaurants, an urban farm, and more. This destination caters to both intimate and large-scale events, making it perfect for weddings, elopements, receptions, team-building experiences, corporate events, and beyond.

Imagine exchanging vows in the open-air chapel on the banks of the Finley River, surrounded by the natural beauty of lush landscapes. The century-old Riverside Bridge provides a historic and picturesque setting, while the sprawling urban farm offers a unique backdrop for any event. For those who appreciate history, The Ozark Mill, originally built in 1833, and The Workshop, a 1930s industrial garage overlooking The Farm, provide rich, nostalgic atmospheres.

The diverse venues at Finley Farms are enhanced by lush flower fields, the tranquil river, and moody wooden scenes, all of which serve as stunning settings for your photo sessions. Capture these special moments with the iconic structures and natural beauty as your backdrop. Insider Tip: Ask about their charming hand-painted wooden rowboat, perfect for unique and memorable photos.

Finley Farms can accommodate up to 150 guests and offers a variety of catering options to suit any palate. They provide comprehensive audio setups for bands or DJs, ensuring your event has the perfect soundtrack. To make planning effortless, Finley Farms has curated a trusted list of preferred vendors. If you're planning a wedding, you'll appreciate the included on-site, day-of coordinator who ensures everything runs smoothly.

In addition to the enchanting venues, Finley Farms also boasts a range of farm-inspired restaurants that provide fresh, locally-sourced meals, enhancing your event with delicious, seasonal flavors. The on-site culinary team is skilled in crafting menus that cater to a variety of dietary preferences, ensuring that every guest is delighted with their dining experience.

For those seeking a unique and interactive experience, Finley Farms offers farm tours and workshops. Guests can engage in hands-on activities, learning about sustainable farming practices, or even participate in a cooking class that utilizes ingredients harvested directly from the farm. These activities add an educational and entertaining element to your event, making it truly memorable.

Furthermore, the dedicated staff at Finley Farms is committed to making every event personalized and special. From the initial planning stages to the final moments of your celebration, their team works closely with you to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s setting up decorations, coordinating with vendors, or managing logistics, their attention to detail ensures a seamless and stress-free experience.

For corporate events, Finley Farms offers team-building activities designed to foster collaboration and creativity. The serene environment provides the perfect setting for brainstorming sessions, workshops, and retreats, allowing your team to connect and innovate in a peaceful and inspiring setting. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a corporate retreat, or simply enjoying a gathering with loved ones, Finley Farms provides the ideal backdrop for any occasion. The combination of historic charm, natural beauty, and modern amenities makes it a standout destination for unforgettable events. Let Finley Farms be the canvas for your most cherished memories.

Bear Creek Lodge

417-443-0036

1320 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade

With stunning views and an unrivaled atmosphere, Bear Creek Lodge is an incomparable event venue nestled just 10 minutes outside of Branson. There’s no fuss and no stress—just a dedicated staff ready to help you realize the wedding of your dreams.

The setting at Bear Creek is anything but typical. Whether you envision a charming garden or an intimate chapel in the woods, Bear Creek offers natural elegance at competitive prices. Their packages include all the major choices for your special day. There’s scrumptious catering, a fabulous DJ, a skilled photographer, a bartender and a pastry chef who crafts mouth-watering, made-for-you cakes.

Elevate your wedding from one big day to a weekend celebration with a stay at Bear Creek’s lodging. Your family and friends will love the complimentary breakfasts and the cozy cabins and suites, complete with relaxing hot tubs. And with a wine tasting at Bear Creek Wine Co. and Brewery, there are even more possibilities to celebrate with your guests.

Get off the beaten path with a wedding at Bear Creek. To view the property and find out more, make an appointment today.

The Barley House at Moon Town Crossing

417-799-2500

3060 N. Kentwood, Springfield, MO

Discover the rustic elegance of The Barley House at Moon Town Crossing in Springfield. Built in 2019, this venue is ideal for corporate events, banquets, award ceremonies, quinceañeras, graduation parties and more. Plus, this stunning venue is conveniently located next to a modern new Holiday Inn Express hotel should you need lodging accommodations. Rental of the venue includes full-day access with tables, chairs, AV equipment and decor. Enjoy seamless event support with on-site staff and post-event clean-up. The venue also has a patio with a fire pit, cornhole boards and garage doors on two walls that open to the outdoors, blending indoor and outdoor spaces. With a capacity of 310, The Barley House ensures a memorable experience.

GlassHaus Weddings

870-421-9447

738 Ozark Hollow Rd., Blue Eye

Glass Haus Weddings is a luxury venue on Table Rock Lake near Branson, Missouri, and offers a stunning setting for weddings with accommodations in their Tree Haus Village. Located in Blue Eye, this venue can seat up to 225 guests and provides both indoor and outdoor lake-facing ceremony spaces. The style blends modern luxury with Ozarks charm, with Scandinavian decor, contemporary light fixtures and earth tones. The "Something Borrowed" room provides an array of decor options to choose from, all with full transparency and no hidden fees. Experience the charm of our Tree Haus and Bungalow lodging, with guest accommodations on-site for up to 45 people. Each wedding package includes a complimentary stay for the Bride and Groom.

University Plaza

417-864-7333

333 S. John Q. Hammons Parkway Springfield

You may know about University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center’s 170,000 square feet of customizable event space, but it’s their remarkable amenities that set them apart. Event attendees can stay in well-appointed guest rooms and take advantage of all the location has to offer, from fitness and business centers to relaxing indoor and outdoor pools. Guests might start their morning with a Dubuque Coffee at Q-Street Perk. At mealtime, they’ll savor delicious entrees at Terrace Grille Restaurant, and at the end of a long day, they can unwind with a craft beer at Terrace Lounge.

At University Plaza Hotel & Convention Center, let your next event be beautifully packaged in one convenient downtown location.

RESOURCES

Experts in food, entertainment, photography, decor and more.

Elevate Entertainment

417-893-0435

Elevate Entertainment firmly believes that every event is an opportunity to create memorable and extraordinary experiences. Entertainment is the single most important decision an event host can make because a highly skilled entertainer does more than dictate the music playlist—they become the event's driving force. By opting for Elevate Entertainment's premier DJ services, clients receive a tailored experience where each announcement, game and song is meticulously chosen by fully customized and skilled DJs who specialize in turning moments into cherished memories.

Elevate Entertainment, along with its sister brand, Selfie Mirror Photo Experiences, have both been recognized by Missouri Magazine as Missouri’s Best DJ and Best Photo Booth, respectively. These accolades underscore their commitment to offering customized emcee, DJ, event hosting and photo booth services for various events including corporate gatherings, weddings, fundraisers, holiday parties and other special occasions. Elevate Entertainment is also known for having unique additions such as custom uplighting and DJ + Band hybrid setups that help blend live music with personalized DJ performances.

The team at Elevate Entertainment views their role as extending far beyond the duties of a traditional DJ. They approach each event with the mindset of entertainers who see every moment as a chance to engage guests and create meaningful memories filled with excitement, laughter and dancing. They consider themselves specialists, entertainers, dream builders, advocates, party enthusiasts, movers and shakers, all dedicated to crafting extraordinary experiences. Elevate Entertainment avoids a one-size-fits-all approach, ensuring that each event they are a part of is genuinely unique and extraordinary.

According to Elevate Entertainment, research shows that 78% of brides wish they had prioritized entertainment higher, and nearly 100% would allocate more of their budget to it if they could redo their wedding. Furthermore, 81% of guests remember the entertainment above all else. Elevate Entertainment offers enhancement packages, including uplighting, low-lying fog and cold sparks, tailored to venue needs, enhancing ambiance.

With a focus on innovation and creativity, Elevate Entertainment aims to push the boundaries of event entertainment, ensuring each occasion is not just memorable but also magical, capturing the essence of what makes every celebration special.

Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue

417-725-9777

107 Aldersgate Dr. Suites 3 & 4, Nixa

Prepare to savor the extraordinary. For 24 years, thousands of clients in 417-land have trusted Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue to craft culinary magic and ensure enduring memories. In their meticulous orchestration of every event, Lillee’s is truly a cut above. Their outstanding team takes care of the details, allowing you to set worries aside and focus on what matters most.

Ideally situated in the heart of Nixa, Lillee’s event space radiates timeless elegance and sets the stage for life’s most cherished gatherings. The venue accommodates about 100 guests, with handicap accessibility and ample parking. Whether your gathering is at their Nixa venue or they’re bringing the catering to you, Lillee’s caters one-of-a-kind food at a respectable price. They specialize in improving on time-honored classics, and their extensive menu brims with options, such as delicate hors d’oeuvres for a reception or a hearty homestyle meal for a rehearsal dinner. No matter the group size at Lillee's Catering the cuisine is always fresh and the presentation is always beautiful. It’s flavorful food—with a gourmet touch.

Look no further than Lillee’s Catering & Event Venue, but don’t delay! Many dates fill more than a year in advance. Contact Lillee’s at lilleescatering@ymail.com to begin the conversation.

Serendipity

417-501-6843

215 W. Commercial Street, Springfield MO

Whether it’s a wedding, baby shower, graduation or celebration of life, Serendipity understands the significance of each of life’s special occasions. From gorgeous fresh florals and an organic balloon bar to a create-your-own lip gloss bar and unique inventory of paper goods and gifts, Serendipity knows how to elevate and create impact at any type of gathering.

Serendipity offers florals for every style and price point, including build-your-own bouquets, DIY buckets and full floral installs. Their balloon bar carries a large selection of colors, prints and shapes as well as design options to fit any budget. Visit their Commercial Street location and design an organic balloon garland, and pick it up completely assembled that same day! They also carry an assortment of local gifts, greeting cards and trendy paper goods from 20+ local makers not found in large national party stores.

As a local, women-owned business, Serendipity believes in supporting 417-land. To them, this means supporting area agriculture. It means hosting floral workshops. It means working closely with other local businesses, especially female-owned. Most importantly, it means treating each event as if it were their own. Visit Serendipity to find out how they can enrich and enliven your next party or special event.

Alpha-Lit Springfield

417-414-0717

Alpha-Lit Springfield offers light-up marquee letters, numbers and symbols to rent, enhancing any event with a personalized and memorable photo opportunity. Handcrafted in the United States from high-grade aluminum, these sturdy marquees withstand weather conditions and balloon/floral attachments, ensuring they remain a stunning feature throughout any celebration. With a beautiful, easy-to-read font, they suit all occasions including weddings, graduations, birthdays, corporate and nonprofit events, proposals and more.

Alpha-Lit Springfield handles delivery, setup and teardown, allowing clients to enjoy their special day stress-free. Known for exceptional customer service and reliability, they offer customizable quotes, discounts for nonprofits and creative solutions to fit most budgets.

Dreamy & Darling Creations

Springfield

Dreamy & Darling Creations specializes in organic balloon garlands while also offering rentals, backdrops, floral, paper goods and more. The Dreamy & Darling team loves helping clients create decor for every type of celebration, big or small. Owner Sydnie started the business as a way to express herself creatively, and she has loved introducing 417-land to organic balloon garlands and the joy they bring people.

Dreamy & Darling Creations has always been built on a passion for creativity... and that thought isn't going anywhere! The company offers a variety of additional event services, such as backdrops and rental decor. Thanks to a strong support team and community, Sydnie Myers has been able to follow her passion and bring joy to others. She would love to help make your event dreams come true!

Bedda Matri

417-419-8084

1411 E. Cherry St., Springfield

Bedda Matri is a food truck with a big heart! The name, a Sicilian phrase expressing surprise or amazement, reflects the emotions customers will feel when trying their authentic Sicilian street food. With options like flavor-packed, customizable Arancino and a variety of Rosticceria such as aromatic Cipollina or the delightful Pizzette Club 84, there is something for everyone. Diners shouldn't forget to save room for desserts like Cannolo or Panzerotti. Perfect for private parties, company events and family retreats, booking Bedda Matri is a decision you won’t regret.

Opulence Productions

417-836-1400

Experience the epitome of pyrotechnic artistry with Opulence Productions. As the newest sensation illuminating the Midwest skies, Opulence crafts breathtaking displays that transform any occasion into a cherished memory. With unparalleled precision and creativity, their team orchestrates pyro-musicals synchronized to custom music tracks, weaving stories of light and color across the night canvas. From weddings to corporate events, their turnkey service ensures every detail is perfected, from site assessment to venue delivery. Choose from their Gold, Platinum or Diamond packages, starting at just $3,000. Elevate your event with Opulence Productions and ignite a symphony of unforgettable moments. Book now at OpulencePyro.com.