Today we’d like to introduce you to Donald and Laura Goodie.
Donald and Laura, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
The Gin began as a working cotton gin in 1953, built and run by my great-grandfather, and remained in operation for many years. Eventually sold in the late ’90s and bought back into the family in 2004, it stood largely vacant until our vision to transform the building into a wedding and event venue was set into motion in 2012. It took six years of patience, research, design and convincing before the dream would become reality, when the Gin opened its doors for its very first wedding on October 21st, 2018.
Has it been a smooth road?
Our biggest challenge in starting this business was that we did all of the design work and managed the entire renovation ourselves, not to mention all while working another full-time job and also having just welcomed our first child. We had no prior knowledge or experience in the industry, so we were (and still are) on a huge learning curve. There were many times we got overwhelmed or hit dead ends, but we always reminded ourselves to trust the process and that nothing great ever happens overnight or comes without a lot of hard work.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into The Gin at Hidalgo Falls story. Tell us more about it.
We are a restored 1950’s cotton gin hosting weddings and events. Located near the Brazos River and historic Hidalgo Falls and surrounded by 800 acres of farmland, our unique setting combines vintage industrial style with modern details and amenities. We are proud to be a family-owned, family-run business, and our goal is to not only create a beautiful backdrop for your event but for you and your loved ones to truly experience the Gin and all of its history and charm.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
We envision more and more people with a desire for a destination-type wedding or event. Brides and families will want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and make a mini-vacation out of it.
We’re also definitely seeing a trend towards a minimal and organic design for weddings. Less is sometimes more and people want that authentic feel and to focus more on the moments.
Pricing:
- Venue rental ranges from $2,500-$7,000.
- We also offer overnight accommodations, sleeping up to 24, for an additional $1,000.
- Please inquire for weekend package or retreat pricing.
Contact Info:
- Address: 30707 FM 159
Navasota, TX 77868 - Website: www.theginathidalgofalls.com
- Phone: 979.530.6109
- Email: hello@theginathidalgofalls.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegin_hidalgofalls/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegin.hidalgofalls/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/thegin_hidalgo
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/thegin_hidalgofalls/
Image Credit:
Century Tree Productions, Dana Fernandez Photography, Specialties Photography, Ten23 Photography
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