1908 Grand Wedding in Gainesville, Florida

Zach and Katie's Gainesville, Florida wedding at 1908 Grand in March of 2024, was a perfect blend of traditional and novel elements. From their "Lord of the Rings" inspired framed seating chart and stationary, to their hand-fasting ceremony, every thought out detail was unique to Zach and Katie.

The couple decided to get ready at 1908 Grand, which is an excellent choice, since the venue has ample getting ready spaces for both the groom and bride. While Katie got ready with their little daughter, bridesmaids, and mother, Zach was upstairs getting ready with his Groomsmen.

The day was carefully organized and coordinated by the experienced Ashley of Ashley Johnson Weddings formerly with Seas Your Day Events, but now a lead planner at Simply Enchanted Events.

First Look and Portraits at 1908 Grand Wedding Venue

The nerves were high and the excitement filled the air as Katie made her way upstairs for their first look. During our wedding planning meeting she expressed her desire for a first look inspired by the moment Rose and Jack met at the staircase on the movie "Titanic." While Zach anxiously awaited her arrival, he stood at the bottom of the staircase. Their anxiety lifted and emotions ran high as they gently made their way towards each other at the center of the staircase. The grand staircase made gorgeous setting for their romantic first look and stunning portraits.

After their First Look, we went outside for a few bridal portraits in the courtyard and family photos at the front entrance.

Ceremony at the Baughman Center

With its central location, historical architecture and flood of natural light, it's no wonder why so many choose to have their ceremony at the Baughman Center. Zach and Katie were surrounded by their closest family and friends as they made their vows during a hand-fasting ceremony.

After the ceremony, we took the opportunity to take a few more couple's portraits as well as bridal party photos.

1908 Grand Wedding Reception

This one-of-a-kind wedding venue has multiple options for both ceremony and reception spaces. The grandest of them all, however, is the Grand Ballroom located on the top floor of the venue. Zach and Katie's reception was lit with romantic candles as the sweetheart table and bridal tables were placed on the stage.

One of my favorite moments before the grand entrance into the reception space, is a Reception Reveal for the bride and groom. They get to enjoy the splendor of all their planning and choices come together in one uninterrupted moment. Zach and Katie were in awe as they viewed their reception hall fully decorated for the first time.

Another one of my favorite non-traditional moments, was when Katie and Zach joined their guest in the courtyard for the cocktail hour. With careful planning and a strategic timeline, I worked with them to ensure enough time for all these special moments they could share with family and friends.

The night was filled with dancing, laughter, catching up conversations, cake and drinks at the bar. After dinner, Katie and Zach stepped out for a break, which made great photos in the elevator.

1908 Grand Wedding Venue Highlights

Once the night started to come to an end, Katie and Zach had their final dance and private moment together as everyone gathered below for their grand exit.

For couples looking for a historical and architectural stunning venue in the heart of Downtown Gainesville, Florida, this location has so much to offer. With spaces for indoor and outdoor ceremonies, multiple rooms for small to large sized groups, including elegant, modern getting ready spaces for the bride and groom, this venue is a must see. As a photographer, one of my favorite elements is all the natural light that pours into almost every room in the venue and did I forget to mention how I LOVE the grand staircase for photos?!

Check out the full vendor team below for this beautiful wedding as you plan your big day!