Unveiling the Best Wedding Venues in the Winston-Salem Area: My Top 10 Favorites
Reading Time: 5 min 21 sec
Selecting the ideal wedding venue is a cornerstone of your big day—where your love story takes center stage. I am Greg McLeese, a seasoned Winston-Salem DJ with decades of experience, I’ve had the privilege of spinning tracks at some of the most stunning locations. From historic estates to modern marvels, the Winston-Salem region offers various options. Below, I’ve compiled my top 10 picks, each infused with personal insights and experiences from years of working alongside DJs in Winston-Salem. I hope these personal touches make you feel more connected to the venues and the process of choosing your perfect location.
Key Takeaways
- Plan Ahead: WinMock and others book fast—secure your date early.
- Style It Your Way: Historic, modern, or rustic—there’s a fit for every couple.
- Space Flexibility: Legacy and Millennium handle any guest count with ease.
- Setting Sets the Mood: Gardens, views, or chandeliers amplify your vibe.
Winston Salem DJ Greg McLeese’s Picks
WinMock at Kinderton
- Location: 168 E. Kinderton Way, Bermuda Run (just west of Winston-Salem)
- Details: Originally a 1920s dairy farm, WinMock transformed into a premier event space under Sterling Events Group in 2010. Its signature Loft boasts 32-foot ceilings with gothic arches and wrought-iron chandeliers, seating up to 275 indoors. Outdoor courtyards and a tented lawn add flexibility for ceremonies and receptions.
- Why It Shines: The blend of rustic charm and modern amenities—like a top-notch sound system—makes it a dream for couples and DJs alike. It’s a National Historic Site, adding prestige.
- My Take: I’ve lost count of the weddings I’ve DJed here. The acoustics are phenomenal, and the two-year booking window means you’ve got to plan early—it’s that popular.
- Website: https://www.winmock.com
Legacy Stables and Events
- Location: 4151 Thomasville Rd, Winston-Salem
- Details: Legacy is a 30-acre family estate that offers six indoor and outdoor spaces, including the Reagan Room (up to 1,000 guests) and the cozy Forsyth Barn. Horseback riding training adds a quirky charm, and the gardens provide a picturesque backdrop.
- Why It Shines: Its versatility is unmatched—small elopements or massive celebrations, it adapts. Packages range from à la carte to all-inclusive.
- My Take: I love the variety here. One night, I’m spinning in a grand hall, the next under the stars. The rural feel with city access is a win for guests.
- Website: https://legacystablesandevents.com
The Barn at Reynolda Village
- Location: 100 Reynolda Village, Winston-Salem
- Details: Built in 1916 as part of the Reynolda Estate’s dairy, this whitewashed barn seats 130 with a concrete floor, exposed beams, and a silo bar. Access to Reynolda Gardens and the House Museum grounds elevates photo ops.
- Why It Shines: The historic elegance and garden serenity mix is perfect for intimate, upscale weddings.
- My Take: The primary ballroom serves as a blank canvas, offering the flexibility to be shaped into whatever masterpiece your imagination dreams up, and the silo bar keeps cocktail hour buzzing—my playlists feel right at home.
- Website: https://www.reynoldabarn.com
The Crest
- Location: 2225 N Liberty St, Winston-Salem
- Details: Opened in 2025, this Victorian-inspired venue features a 3,000-square-foot Carriage House, private gardens, and luxe bridal/groom suites. It’s designed for small gatherings and larger receptions, with a prep kitchen for caterers.
- Why It Shines: Brand-new and sophisticated, built with modern weddings in mind—think Instagram-worthy details.
- My Take: I got a sneak peek during construction and know the manager personally. The sound potential here has me eager to DJ its first big event.
- Website: https://www.thewscrest.com
The Graylyn Estate
- Location: 1900 Reynolda Rd, Winston-Salem
- Details: Once home to the Hanes family, this 1927 manor spans 55 acres of gardens and parkland. With stone architecture and English rose gardens, it hosts up to 150 guests in settings like the courtyard or Persian Room.
- Why It Shines: It’s a historic gem named among the Top 25 Most Romantic Hotels by Historic Hotels of America.
- My Take: The romance is palpable—I’ve spun sets under twinkling lights here that feel like a movie scene. It’s pure magic for a Winston-Salem DJ.
- Website: https://www.graylynweddings.com
The Historic Brookstown Inn
- Location: 200 Brookstown Ave, Winston-Salem
- Details: Established in 1837 as a cotton mill, this boutique inn offers rustic indoor spaces and a cherry blossom courtyard for up to 200. Exposed brick and a B&B vibe add character.
- Why It Shines: Its industrial charm meets Southern hospitality, with cozy yet spacious options.
- My Take: The brick walls amplify sound beautifully. I’ve DJed here for intimate nights that feel grand—I love the courtyard energy.
- Website: https://brookstowninn.com
The Millennium Center
- Location: 101 W 5th St, Winston-Salem
- Details: A former Federal building and Historic Landmark, turned multi-level venue. The Center features a Marble and Mahogany Grand Lobby and The Millennium Ballroom with 20 chandeliers, hardwood floors, giant windows, and lots of brick, for parties of up to 400. The full-service venue provides in-house catering, bar service, decorations, audiovisual, dance floors, and almost anything you have in mind.
- Why It Shines: Vintage elegance in downtown Winston-Salem, with all the bells and whistles.
- My Take: One of my absolute favorites—the owner’s a dear friend. I’ve rocked this space so often, it feels like home. The rooftop views are a bonus.
- Website: https://millenniumevents.ws
The Kimpton Cardinal Hotel
- Location: 401 N Main St, Winston-Salem
- Details: Housed in the 1929 R.J. Reynolds building, this hotel offers two ballrooms (Lexington and Magnolia, up to 130 each) and a 20th-floor lounge with city views. Art Deco flair meets modern luxury.
- Why It Shines: It’s a one-stop shop—rehearsal dinner to farewell brunch—with standout cuisine from The Katharine.
- My Take: The vibe here is electric. I’ve spun in the ballrooms and felt the history—perfect for a glamorous night.
- Website: https://www.thecardinalhotel.com
Forsyth Country Club
- Location: 3101 Country Club Rd, Winston-Salem
- Details: A private club with a ballroom featuring bay windows and a terrace overlooking the golf course, seating up to 350. Custom menus and manicured grounds elevate it.
- Why It Shines: Classic sophistication with scenic views and top-tier service.
- My Take: The terrace is a stunner, and the room’s layout lets me spread sound evenly. It’s polished and timeless.
- Website: https://www.forsythcc.org
Childress Vineyards
- Location: 1000 Childress Vineyards Rd, Lexington (south of Winston-Salem)
- Details: Owned by NASCAR legend Richard Childress, this 70-acre winery offers a Grand Pavilion, vineyard vistas, and an elegant bridal suite. It’s ideal for wine lovers and outdoor affairs.
- Why It Shines: Award-winning wines and rolling hills create a dreamy escape.
- My Take: An old friend runs this spot—haven’t seen him in years, but the sunsets here are unreal. I’ve DJed nights that felt like a celebration in Tuscany.
- Website: https://childressvineyards.com
My Reflections
These venues are more than just places—they’re where I’ve watched love unfold. WinMock’s popularity demands foresight, Legacy’s range keeps me adaptable, and The Barn’s charm is a DJ’s delight. The Crest’s newness excites me, Graylyn’s history enchants, and Brookstown’s rustic edge resonates. Millennium’s my comfort zone, Kimpton’s my luxe fix, Forsyth’s my classic go-to, and Childress’s vineyard magic rounds it out. Each one’s a canvas for a Winston-Salem DJ like me to paint with sound.
FAQs
How early should I book a venue?
WinMock needs two years; for most others, 12-18 months works.
Best for a huge wedding?
Legacy (up to 1,000) or Forsyth (350) have the space.
What’s the coolest venue quirk?
Millennium’s chandeliers and rooftop—I’ve loved every set.
Can a Winston-Salem DJ handle these spots?
Absolutely. I’ve spun at all 10 as Greg McLeese—each one’s a breeze with the proper prep.
Any hidden gems?
The Crest’s new suites and Childress’s wines add sparkle.
Final Thoughts
The Winston-Salem area brims with venues that turn weddings into lifelong memories. Whether you crave a vineyard glow or a downtown dazzle, there’s a spot here calling your name. As Greg McLeese, I’ve seen how these places, paired with the right beats from DJs in Winston-Salem, make magic happen. Choose a venue that echoes your love story, and let’s craft a night that shines. Ready to lock in your soundtrack to your newly chosen venue? Contact Greg McLeese, a top Winston-Salem DJ, to make your day epic!