If you think the whole “rustic elegant” wedding is a Texas cliché, then you haven’t seen the Hill Country’s newest wedding venue. The Ironwood Barn at the Von Erich Ranch takes the concept to a luxurious level that combines the beauty of nature with all the comfort, service, and amenities you’d expect on your big day. The venue’s centerpiece is the 5000-square-foot converted barn that is essentially an empty canvas just waiting for you to make it your own.

“The barn lends itself beautifully to whatever you want,” describes Venue Manager Laura Avery. “It’s not tied to one specific style, and it’s amazing how we can transform it.”

The Space

The moment you walk through the main level doors, you are met with breathtaking vistas. Beautiful iron and crystal chandeliers grace the high ceilings, and light sheer panels drape over the wooden beams. Large windows directly across from the main door provide a view of a traditional cross, illuminated at night to cast a soft glow.

Upstairs, the bride will find everything she needs to prepare for her big day. The bridal suite has a long counter, mirrors, and stools for doing hair and makeup with ease. The room also boasts a seating area for the bride and her attendants to relax, along with a private bathroom.

Meanwhile, the groom and his party have their own cabin on the property, complete with a pool table, poker table, television, and comfy couches. The cabin and a separate bedroom cottage are both available as Airbnb rentals for guests. The cabin sleeps 8-10 people, while the one-bedroom cottage is the ideal spot for the newlyweds to use as their honeymoon suite.

The ceremony site is located just outside the barn and is accessible through three sets of French doors. This large, grassy area sets the stage for romance with its cascading waterfall, shade trees, and sweeping hill country views. A covered patio with tall cocktail tables and an outdoor bar runs the barn’s length and invites guests to gather for hors d’oeuvres and cocktails. The space offers a nice transition area for guests to wait while the happy couple poses for photos in one of the many picturesque spots including in front of an oversized Texas flag painted on one side of the barn.

The reception area inside the barn can hold up to 225 for a seated dinner. Avery and her talented crew can take care of the setup and breakdown of the provided tables and chairs and help you with all your additional needs, from florists to caterers, bakeries, photographers, and more.

“We have a preferred vendor list,” she explains. “We have spent many hours vetting the best in the industry to save the couple some legwork.”

Unlike other venues, the Ironwood Barn doesn’t charge these vendors a fee to be part of the list. Instead, they are carefully chosen based on their ability and reputation.

“We do not make money from our vendors,” assures Avery. “We want the best for our clients, and we want to get them the best deals.”

However, one of the building’s most unique features is one you cannot see.

“When the barn was originally built, a Bible was placed in the cement underneath the entryway so that when you come and go, you are walking over the word of the Lord,” says Avery.

The History

The religious iconography appealed to the property owner, Kevin Von Erich, and his family, all of whom live on the ranch.

“They feel very strongly about the sanctity of marriage and family, and they have a strong faith,” Avery says. “That’s why they all live on the property.”

If the owner’s name sounds familiar, it could be because the Von Erichs are a family of three generations of professional wrestlers. You may have even heard about a movie in the works with Zach Effron playing Kevin Von Erich. The famous family is originally from Texas but lived in Hawaii for 16 years. They christened their ranch after the Ironwood tree that is native to both Hawaii and Texas while also giving a nod to the well-known wrestling move, the Iron Claw, invented by Kevin’s grandfather, Fritz Von Erich.

The Ironwood Barn is located just 20 minutes from the quaint towns of Boerne and Comfort. Both are home to charming restaurants, shops, and inns, offering plenty for guests to see and do. Learn more at www.vonerichranch.com