Upcoming EventAbout The Fort
Welcome to The Fort, a breathtaking wedding venue set on 100 acres of rolling Florida landscape in beautiful Howey-in-the-Hills.
As you arrive along the enchanting tree-lined drive to The Elrey House, you’re immediately surrounded by timeless charm and natural elegance. Our signature barn, The Fort, features two fully air-conditioned indoor spaces—perfect for an indoor ceremony and reception, or a cocktail-hour-to-reception flow that’s entirely your choice.
We proudly allow you to bring your own vendors, giving you complete freedom to design a celebration that reflects your vision. With flexible packages designed to fit a variety of budgets, we make planning simple, seamless, and tailored to you. From the moment you step onto the property, you’ll feel the magic of a place where unforgettable weddings come to life.
Events Offered On-Site
- Ceremony
- Reception
Packages & Pricing
Other
Wedding package prices 2025
Wedding Packages
Cake and Ceremony Package -$2500
We offer a cake and Ceremony Package for up to 40 people outside the Elrey house during the week. This package is our smallest and offers our beautiful tree lined backdrop, ceremony chairs and arch, as well as a cake table and standing tables afterwards for the Cake. This package is 4 hours and is offered Monday-Thursdays.
Bronze Package – Beginning at $3,500
Monday–Thursday Only • 6 Hours Outside Ceremony and Reception – Ideal for
elopements or small celebrations – Outdoor ceremony & reception space – Limited guest
count (under 40 people) – Basic décor included – Tables and chairs included – Cocktail
tables included – Optional add-ons available, including entry to Elrey House for the bride
and groom
Silver Package – $6,500
• Perfect for intimate & elegant weddings
• Ceremony & reception setup
• Tables and chairs included
• Cocktail tables included
• Use of the air-conditioned Fort buildings, which can accommodate indoor wedding
and reception
• Optional use of Silo wedding site if preferred
• Seating for up to 150 guests
• Optional add-ons for per person if over 150
• Cake and gift tables included
• Up to 8 hours (all events must end by 11:00 PM)
• Note: $1,000 additional for Saturday weddings
Gold Package – $8,500
• Use of Elrey House for bride and groom preparation areas: the bride enjoys a
private, luxurious space while the groom and groomsmen have a distinguished area
• A magical outdoor ceremony amidst the enchanting, tree-lined drive in front of Elrey
House, creating a breathtaking setting for your special day
• The Fort for cocktail hour and separate reception room
• Tables and chairs included
• Cocktail tables included
• Gift/card tables and linens included
• Note: $1,000 additional for Saturday weddings
Platinum Package – $11,500
• Basic décor and seating options
• Ceremony & reception setup
• Tables and chairs included
• Cocktail tables included
• Gift/card tables and linens included
• Use of Elrey House bridal room and groom’s room
• A magical outdoor ceremony amidst the enchanting, tree-lined drive in front of Elrey
House, creating a breathtaking setting for your special day
• Selected ceiling draperies included
• Day-of security for event
• Full-service planning: encompasses all aspects of planning from start to finish,
including handling the budget, venue vendor contracts, and day-of coordination
• Note: $1,000 additional for Saturday weddings
Deals & Discounts
Key Info About The Fort
The Basics
Max Seated Capacity: 350
Events must end by: 11:00 pm.
Pets Allowed with Restrictions
Vendor Information
No Preferred Vendor List
Wedding Planner Required
Optional Rehearsal Add-On
Liability Insurance Required
Professional Bartender Required
Venue Features
- Exclusive Rental
- Free Parking
- Air Conditioning Available Indoors
- Free WiFi Available
- Weekend Buyout Available
- Eco-Friendly / Green Venue
- Handicap Accessible
Venue Inclusions
- Getting Ready Rooms
- Chairs
- Tables
Guest Experiences & Specialty Decor
- Fireworks (outdoor)
- Cold Sparks Indoor
- Cold Sparks Outdoor
- Sparkler Exit
- Fog Machine
- Dancing on a Cloud
- Confetti Cannon
- Bubble Machine
- Snow Machine
- CO2 Cannon
- Open Flame Performers
- Open Flame Candles Allowed
- Open Flame in Enclosed Holders
- Electric Candles Only
- Hanging Installations
- Real Flower Petals Allowed
- Faux Flower Petals Allowed
- Wall Draping Allowed
- Ceiling Draping Allowed
Languages We Speak
- English
9541 Orange Blossom Rd, Howey-in-the-Hills, FL 34737
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Gallery
Upcoming Events
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Forever Begins at The Fort
May 17, 2026 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm ET
9541 Orange Blossom Rd, Howey-in-the-Hills, FL
featuring…
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top three venue features?
Our Top Three Venue Features 1-Two Adjoining, Fully Air-Conditioned Event Rooms (The Fort) Designed for a seamless event flow—whether you’re hosting your ceremony and reception or a cocktail hour followed by dinner. Your guests will enjoy a comfortable, elegant setting no matter the season. A2- Breathtaking Working Cattle Ranch Setting Our expansive ranch offers unmatched natural beauty, complete with wide-open landscapes and spectacular sunsets. It creates a one-of-a-kind backdrop that elevates every photo and adds true Texas charm to your celebration. 3-The Stunning “Elrey House” Featuring a grand tree-lined driveway, this beautiful home provides exceptional photo opportunities and separate, spacious getting-ready suites for both sides of the wedding party—ensuring a relaxing and memorable start to your day.
Does the venue offer catering or bar services? If yes, what is the average cost per guest?
“One of the things that sets us apart is the flexibility to bring in your own licensed and insured catering vendor, as long as they are approved by The Fort.”
Is there a guest or spending minimum required to book?
We offer an outdoor ceremony option beginning at $2,500, as well as outdoor ceremony-and-reception packages starting at $3,500. We also have several beautifully tailored packages and seasonal specials available right now, so there’s truly something for every style and budget. I’d love to walk you through the options and help you find the perfect fit for your day — feel free to give us a call anytime!
What does a typical wedding day look like?
When you begin your day in, “The Elrey House”, you and your bridal party can relax, sip, laugh, and enjoy those final, meaningful moments as you get ready. When it’s time for your ceremony, you may choose to step out onto the enchanting tree-lined driveway, where your guests will be waiting to witness your walk down the aisle. From there, the celebration continues at The Fort, where one indoor room can host your romantic ceremony while the other welcomes guests for an elegant cocktail hour. The flow is seamless, the atmosphere unforgettable, and every moment is designed to feel effortless and magical. It’s a wedding day filled with beauty, excitement, and endless opportunities to savor every detail.
Is there a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies? If yes, what is it?
Absolutely! We would use the first indoor room of “The Fort”
How much setup time is included, and can they purchase extra?
We do offer 2 hours, however, you are able to purchase additional time if requested and approved.
What makes your venue a favorite with couples?
Couples love our venue because it offers a truly unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, elegance, and flexibility. From the breathtaking sunsets over our working cattle ranch to the stunning, “Elrey House” with its tree-lined driveway and dedicated getting-ready spaces, every detail is designed to create picture-perfect moments. Our two adjoining, air-conditioned event rooms provide comfort and seamless flow for ceremonies, receptions, and cocktail hours. Plus, we give you the flexibility to bring in your own licensed and insured catering, so you can customize your menu exactly the way you want. With this unique blend of rustic charm, luxury, and personalized options, our venue makes every celebration memorable.
Are couples required to provide wedding insurance?
Yes
What other types of events does the venue host?
Weddings, sporting events, holiday parties, anniversaries, vow-renewals,
Best piece of advice for couples planning a wedding.
Start by envisioning the experience you want for your day, then take full advantage of our venue’s flexibility and unique features. Consider booking a tour early to see the “Elrey House”, tree-lined driveway, and ranch grounds in person—this helps you plan ceremony and reception layouts that maximize the natural beauty. Think about your catering and décor options, since you can bring in your own licensed, insured catering to create a personalized menu. Most importantly, embrace the space, sunsets, and ranch charm—it’s designed to make your wedding day both seamless and unforgettable.
Tell us about a memorable story from a recent event.
One of our favorite recent moments was helping a bride who realized she had forgotten a few essential items on her big day. Thanks to our carefully stocked collection of items for brides, we were able to step in quickly and provide exactly what she needed. From emergency essentials to little touches that elevated her experience, we were able to take what could have been a stressful situation and turn it into a moment of joy. Seeing her relax, smile, and enjoy every detail of her day reminded us why we love what we do—and the couple was absolutely thrilled that everything came together so perfectly.
How many weddings do you host per day/weekend?
We only have one per day, making you our number 1 priority!
What is one thing couples always tell you after the wedding?
Their day was magical and everyone had an amazing time!
Can couples or vendors ever drop off decor items the day before or pick them up the next day?
Absolutely! We also have a few items that couples can use if they don’t have something. Couples are more than welcome to look through our inventory.
Manager (Fairy God Mother)
Linda Thomas
My name is Linda, and I’m obsessed with assisting brides have their special day! Here at The Fort we want your day to be perfect and magical!. We also have day of planners who will assist you in organizing all of your needs. We will do everything we can to assist you in making your day amazing! I look forward to meeting you!
The Fort Reviews
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