Clay Theater // Historic Theater in Green Cove Springs Florida // Special Event Venue
On the search for a wedding venue, we stumbled upon the Clay Theater, a historic Theater in Green Cove Springs, Florida. While it did not suit our needs, it is a fantastic, beautiful, very special venue for a wedding or other large event.
The Clay Theater originally opened as an opera house in 1916, then in 1936 reopened as a film theater. It was popular in the 1940’s with sailors from the Lee Field Naval Air Station. Until finally closing in 2014, the movie theater opened and closed a few times in the 2000’s.
In April of 2019, the Clay Theater reopened as an event venue, and it is stunning. From the chandeliers to the floor, it’s beautiful.
In 2017 Andrea and David Vallencourt acquired the property and added layers upon layers of style and charm to the 5,000 square foot of space.
The day we visited, Andrea and David were busy preparing for a wedding. The bridal party already occupied the bridal suite, however, David graciously gave us what he called the “nickel tour” as Andrea dealt with flower deliveries and table setup decisions.
Elegant Entrance
Just imagine the happy couple and their entire wedding party instead of David’s truck on the historic brick street. What a photo opportunity – and, the lucky couple is featured on the marquee!
The details of the Gatsby-era entrances make for fantastic photo frames. Photographers would have no lack of inspiration for unique shots through and around all the 1920’s style details all over the property.
Foyer
Since the venue was preparing for a wedding that day, the venue was not set up as it would be during an event. However, you can visualize how stylish and crisp it must look full of well-heeled ladies and nattily-dressed gents!
David showed us where guest books and other welcoming memorabilia would be displayed on the entrance table.
Andrea was busy directing flowers, coordinating deliveries, but still paused to welcome us and give us a bit of her thoughts on the decorating process. I had admired the continuity between the tiles and the fabric wall coverings in the gent’s room and how patters were repeated in the foyer.
She promised me that it was all quite deliberate, and once they got on a roll, it became easier and easier to tailor each decorating choice to the overall theme.
Main Ballroom
The renovated Clay Theater opened April 18, 2019, and the first wedding was on April 28, 2019. An additional 50 weddings were scheduled in that first year alone.
For seating, 150 guests fit comfortably, and they said up to 200 could seat in the main space. Larger groups using the lobby and outdoor space can be accommodated.
The champagne chiavari chairs are part of the venue, we well as white folding chairs for outside, round 8-10 people tables, 30″ round cocktail tables, and 8′ rectangular tables. Table decor and flowers are not included.
Groom’s Suite
Absolute sophistication, the groom’s suite features plenty of hanging space, lounging areas, en suite loo, and even dining and bar space and television.
Grey tones and repeating themes and design styles echo the 1920’s vibe of the rest of the building.
The groom’s suite is at the opposite end from the bridal suite, so no chance of accidental encounters!
Bridal Suite
Above the ballroom in the former projection room lies the bridal suite. It already was occupied by the bridal party, so we didn’t get to tour it. From seeing the Groom’s Suite, I can predict it is just as stylish and attractive.
Courtyard
With a privacy wall all around, the courtyard has plenty of space for a reception or event.
Repeating details such as the “C” in the ironwork and etched on the doors echo the entrance details. You can imagine all sorts of fabulous photo opportunities using these as unique frames for beautiful people in the attractive setting.
Fully Equipped Catering Kitchen
Full-service caterers on the Clay Theater Catering Partners list have full use of the catering kitchen.
Clay Theater also offers wedding coordination and planning.
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Find a Really Awesome Airbnb in Green Cove Springs and Come Explore!
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