SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. (May 14, 2019) – An honorary bride and groom joined developers and South Haven community leaders to break ground Tuesday, May 14 at the site of Black River Barn, an 11,000 square foot state-of-the-art wedding venue and corporate event space. The first of its kind in South Haven, this elegant yet rustic barn-style venue will have capacity for up to 400 guests.

Features include a gracious 5,400 square foot main hall for dining and dancing and vaulted ceilings with exposed beams and chandeliers. There will be space for indoor and outdoor ceremonies and private bride and groom suites, plus a well-appointed caterer’s kitchen with custom catering opportunities.

Black River Barn’s covered and open air patios will include fire pits overlooking a picturesque 10-acre vista. The building will feature a fully temperature-controlled environment and state-of-the-art audio/visual system. Located at the northeast corner of 73rd Street and 8th Avenue with easy access from I-196, the venue is just minutes from Lake Michigan beaches and downtown South Haven.

“We fondly remember spending summers on Lake Michigan and love South Haven for its charm and beautiful landscape,” said James Slott, developer and co-owner of Black River Barn with his sister, Nicole Slott. “In our research and planning, we identified a lack of locations in this area that can accommodate larger groups, and many existing wedding venues in the region are booked one to two years in advance. We anticipate an immediate demand for Black River Barn and believe it aligns nicely with South Haven City Council’s plans for economic development.”

South Haven Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Kathy Wagaman says the large corporate event space fills a void. “Black River Barn will provide our local agriculture partners, manufacturers, and businesses an ideal place to hold regional or national seminars and meetings.” She added, “Our community has long been a draw for visitors with its picturesque shoreline and rich history. We are pleased to welcome this venue and believe it will be a perfect complement, helping to drive tourism dollars to South Haven.”

Construction is expected to be complete in November, in time for holiday parties and corporate events and will be available for weddings by May 2020.