Wedding Planning Guide ā Ocala, FL
Plan your perfect wedding in the Horse Capital of the World. Stunning venues, talented vendors, and natural beauty that makes Ocala a destination-worthy wedding location.
Why Get Married in Ocala?
Ocala offers a unique wedding experience that blends Florida's natural beauty with equestrian elegance. From moss-draped oak-canopied farms and crystal-clear spring ceremonies to world-class equestrian center ballrooms, couples find venues here that simply don't exist in typical beach or city wedding markets. Wedding costs average 20-30% less than Orlando or Tampa, and the area's growing vendor community means more choices than ever for photographers, caterers, florists, and entertainment.
Top Wedding Venues in Ocala
From equestrian estates to rustic barns and natural springs, Ocala has a venue for every style.
The Grand Oaks Resort
Equestrian EleganceCapacity: 50ā300 guests
Luxurious equestrian-themed resort offering indoor ballrooms and outdoor ceremony spaces surrounded by majestic oak trees and horse paddocks. A quintessential Ocala wedding experience.
World Equestrian Center
Grand & ModernCapacity: 100ā500+ guests
Ocala's premier event venue with stunning architecture, climate-controlled grand arenas, and elegant hospitality spaces. Perfect for large-scale weddings with world-class amenities.
Silver Springs State Park
Natural BeautyCapacity: 50ā200 guests
Historic and breathtaking natural setting along the crystal-clear Silver River. Ceremony spaces beneath towering oaks with Florida's most iconic spring as your backdrop.
Hilton Ocala
Classic HotelCapacity: 50ā250 guests
Centrally located hotel with elegant ballrooms, professional event coordination, catering services, and guest room blocks. Convenient for out-of-town guests with full-service amenities.
Lucky Clover Farm
Rustic CharmCapacity: 50ā200 guests
Beautiful farm venue with rustic barns, rolling pastures, and vintage charm. Ideal for couples seeking a countryside wedding with character and warmth.
Coehadjoe Ranch
Ranch & CountryCapacity: 50ā150 guests
Authentic Florida ranch setting with Spanish moss-draped oaks, a pond, and open-air pavilion. A relaxed, intimate atmosphere perfect for couples who love the outdoors.
Wedding Vendors & Services
Ocala's wedding vendor community includes talented professionals across every category.
Photographers
Ocala has talented wedding photographers specializing in everything from editorial-style shoots at equestrian venues to candid journalistic coverage. Many offer engagement sessions, bridal portraits, and albums.
Caterers
From Southern comfort food to farm-to-table menus featuring local produce, Ocala caterers customize menus to fit any style. Several venue-exclusive caterers also offer tasting events.
Florists
Local florists create stunning arrangements using Florida-grown flowers and foliage. Tropical blooms, garden roses, and live oak greenery are popular choices for Marion County weddings.
DJs & Live Music
Professional wedding DJs and live bands in the Ocala area offer customized playlists, MC services, and lighting packages. Several also serve the Tampa and Orlando markets.
Wedding Planners
Experienced coordinators who know Ocala's venues and vendors intimately. Services range from full-service planning to day-of coordination for couples managing their own details.
Beauty & Styling
Bridal hair and makeup artists, often available for on-location services at your venue. Many offer bridal party packages with trial sessions included.
Wedding Planning Timeline
Set budget, choose date, book venue, hire photographer and planner
Select caterer, book florist and DJ, send save-the-dates, start dress shopping
Order invitations, book officiant, plan ceremony details, arrange transportation
Finalize menu, fittings and alterations, book hotel blocks, plan rehearsal dinner
Send invitations, confirm vendors, obtain marriage license, final fittings
Final headcount to caterer, ceremony rehearsal, pack for honeymoon, relax and enjoy
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best wedding venues in Ocala Florida?
Top wedding venues in Ocala include The Grand Oaks Resort (equestrian elegance), World Equestrian Center (grand modern spaces), Silver Springs State Park (natural waterfront beauty), Hilton Ocala (classic hotel ballroom), Lucky Clover Farm (rustic barn), and Coehadjoe Ranch (intimate country setting). Ocala's equestrian heritage and natural springs create unique venue options you won't find elsewhere in Florida.
How much does a wedding cost in Ocala FL?
Wedding costs in Ocala typically range from $15,000 to $50,000 depending on venue, guest count, and vendor selections. Ocala weddings generally cost 20-30% less than comparable celebrations in Orlando or Tampa. Budget-friendly options include state park ceremonies, weekday weddings, and off-peak season dates (summer months). Venue rental alone ranges from $2,000 to $15,000 depending on the property.
When is the best time for an outdoor wedding in Ocala?
The best months for an outdoor wedding in Ocala are October through April, when temperatures are comfortable (60s-80sĀ°F) and humidity is lower. October and November offer beautiful fall light, while March and April bring spring blooms. Summer weddings (June-August) are possible but require heat contingency plans. Hurricane season peaks August through October, so weather backup plans are essential for fall dates.
Where do I get a marriage license in Marion County?
Marriage licenses in Marion County are obtained at the Marion County Clerk of Court office at 110 NW 1st Ave, Ocala. Both partners must appear in person with valid photo IDs. Florida residents have a 3-day waiting period (waived with a premarital preparation course), while out-of-state couples have no waiting period. The license costs approximately $93.50 and is valid for 60 days.
Can you have a wedding at Silver Springs?
Yes, Silver Springs State Park permits weddings and special events. The park offers stunning natural scenery with crystal-clear springs, towering oaks, and the Silver River as a backdrop. You can reserve pavilion areas and lawn spaces for ceremonies and receptions. Permits are required through the Florida State Parks system, and alcohol policies and setup requirements apply. Many couples choose Silver Springs for its natural beauty and historic significance.
About This Guide
This wedding guide is maintained by the Only In Ocala team based on venue research, vendor interviews, and community knowledge. Venue and vendor listings are for informational purposes and are not paid placements unless noted. Last updated February 2026. Contact us to suggest additions.