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Say 'I Do' in Downtown

Whether you’re envisioning a chic urban celebration or a more traditional ceremony with a coastal flair, downtown offers several unique and beautiful options for your big day. From venues to vendors, downtown truly has it all.

1. Choosing Your Venue

Downtown Corpus Christi boasts a range of venues that cater to different styles and guest sizes. Just to name a few:

  • The Watergardens – A beautiful waterfront venue next to the Art Museum of South Texas with stunning views of Corpus Christi Bay. Great for a scenic and elegant outdoor wedding ceremony.
  • The Ortiz Center – A versatile event space with both indoor and outdoor options. It offers flexibility for large weddings and receptions.
  • The Art Center of Corpus Christi – For a more artistic vibe in a prime downtown location, this indoor/outdoor venue features an industrial-style space and showcases local art, making it perfect for couples seeking something unique.
  • The Bay Jewel – One of downtown’s newer event venues, it’s a perfect mix of industrial and timeless, the Bay Jewel covers everything from get ready spaces, a kitchen, and an intimate ceremony site.
  • The Beacon – Located in Uptown, this rooftop event venue sits atop the Chamberlain and has 360 views of the Corpus Christi Bay and downtown.

2. Vendors

Corpus Christi is home to many talented wedding vendors that will make your day easy and breezy. Some you’ll want to consider:

  • Photographers/Videographers: Many local photographers and videographers specialize in beach, urban, and traditional wedding photography. Look into photographers and videographers with experience in outdoor, waterfront, or cityscape weddings.
  • Caterers: There are a variety of options depending on your preferred style—whether it’s a classic plated dinner or something more casual like a seafood boil or barbecue. Downtown is home to several restaurants that have catering options with a variety of delicious options to choose from.
  • Florists: Local florists can help you with beautiful coastal or garden-inspired bouquets and centerpieces.
  • DJ/Band: With Corpus Christi being designated the 40th Music Friendly City in Texas, we have no shortage of great local musicians and DJs to suit any wedding vibe, from lively dance music to elegant classical music.

3. Additional Elements

  • Officiants: There are plenty of officiants in Corpus Christi who can conduct a meaningful ceremony, whether civil, religious, or non-denominational.
  • Wedding Planners: If you're looking for someone to manage the details, a local wedding planner can help coordinate everything, from vendors to timeline management.

4. Hotel and Guest Accommodations

Many downtown venues are close to a variety of hotels ranging in price and amenities. If your guests are coming from out of town, consider booking a block of rooms at places like:

  • Omni Corpus Christi Hotel – A luxury option with stunning views of the bay.
  • Holiday Inn Corpus Christi Downtown Marina – Comfortable accommodations and a central location to downtown’s amenities.
  • Best Western Corpus Christi – Ideal for a charming stay with close proximity to wedding venues and the water.

5. Weather Considerations

Corpus Christi’s coastal weather and temperature can be on the warmer side, so if you're planning an outdoor wedding—especially in the summer months—consider having an indoor backup plan or evening ceremony to avoid that heat! The fall and spring months are more pleasant for outdoor events.

6. Things to Do for Guests

Downtown Corpus Christi has plenty of attractions for your guests to enjoy before and after the wedding:

  • Texas State Aquarium: Just a hop, skip, jump across the Harbor Bridge, the aquarium is a great spot for nature and animal lovers to visit.
  • USS Lexington: A naval aircraft carrier turned museum, which offers a unique experience for history buffs.
  • Museum of Science and History: For those who enjoy culture and educational exhibits.
  • First Friday ArtWalk: If your wedding falls on that first weekend of the month, take your guests out for a night of fun full of vendors, food trucks, live music, and activations that showcase the best Corpus Christi has to offer.