Our Story
A rustic, yet elegant gathering spot.
When your mom is a full-time realtor, you might have the expectation that finding a venue would be the easiest part of the process.
As one of our sons began planning his wedding to the love of his life, they both had a clear picture of where they wanted to host their wedding: a venue that conveyed the elegance and sophistication of a bride and groom with a touch of down-home, Southern charm.
There aren’t many venues in our home base of North Lake County, Florida… that’s when the dream of a rustic, farmhouse venue started to form in our minds.
After years of hosting very large family gatherings—and especially as our family continues to grow—we had the crazy idea to create a space in which we could continue to make cherished memories together for years to come!
We made it our mission to design the perfect location to enjoy one another’s company. With the help of our sons, Brett and Austin, we labored in love to create a one-of-a-kind place.
Our community is also so important to us. Since our sons were high school athletes, we were very involved and connected with our neighbors, and soon our idea evolved into a bigger dream: we wanted to share the space and all it means with others.
The Barn at Southern Oaks is the culmination of our family’s dreams, love, and the joy we find in each other’s company. We are so excited to give families, corporate teams, and couples a rustic, yet elegant gathering spot to make lifelong memories.
About Our Family
DAWN BUSH
Owner
As your primary contact for all things wedding planning at The Barn at Southern Oaks, I cannot wait to get to know you and your family better in the lead up to your big day! It’s my belief that the best way to build a great relationship with our couples is to share more about ourselves!
First and foremost, you should know that family is at the center of all we do in our lives. My husband, Rusty, and I started dating in high school. Sometimes, when you look at something or someone, you just know. And I knew right away that Rusty was the one. I’m sure you’ve heard those stories where people meet and decide within half an hour that they’re meant to be; I knew Rusty would be my forever. On August 8, 1992 we said, “I do,” to the greatest love story, filled with many blessings and adventures together.
I’m also a mom to two amazing sons, Brett and Austin. In the last few years our family has grown with the addition of Brett and Austin’s soulmates, Jordan and Grayson; we also have welcomed four beautiful grandbabies. Rusty and I are excited for our greatest adventure yet as we proudly begin our new roles as Papa & Grammy!!!
I’m a full time realtor in addition to owning The Barn at Southern Oaks, but in my free time, you can usually find me planning our next family vacation or get together!