There are so many beautiful places in Brevard to host an amazing event. From a lodge set up at the Brevard Zoo, to oceanfront in the sand with bon fires (permit required), there is no shortage of lovely venues and inspiring spaces, each with varying levels of services and costs.

The three I like the best are outlined here, and each of them has beautiful outdoor spaces with indoor backup plans in case our finicky Florida weather chooses not to cooperate. You can customize each of these spaces with your own party theme supplies, designs and floral arrangements, or you can opt to use the spaces just as they are. These venues also offer delicious food and catering menus with many set-up options, from small plates for a cocktail party to elegant and extravagant sit-down dinners.

7032 Stadium Pkwy, Melbourne, Florida
Overlooking a beautiful lake and manicured vibrant green golf course in Viera, this restaurant is a favorite among party hosts and wedding planners. The outdoor veranda is a sizeable covered space that can accommodate larger parties. The full kitchen can handle any request from passed hors d’oeuvres to customized menus. I also love hosting gatherings during their brunch buffet, which feature bottomless mimosas (pictured)! On-site coordination is also available making this venue a stress free option. www.durangolf.com/tradewinds-restaurants/

6485 South US1, Rockledge, Florida
River Rocks is a fine dining restaurant with sweeping views of the Indian River Lagoon. Actually, there are two dining establishments within the space, the fine dining bar and restaurant located inside the facility, and a very, large (mostly covered) patio and bar, with outdoor al fresco seating on decks directly facing the water. There is also a private banquet room available for hire.

Special event menus feature fresh seafood (Pictured: Fresh Catch Salmon), creative twists on classic standards and locally-sourced ingredients, and can be customized for a variety of event styles. www.riverrocksrestaurant.com

1218 E New Haven Avenue, Melbourne
Located just outside the Downtown Melbourne area, The Mansion is a historic venue in a large Victorian house that dates back to 1905. The collection of buildings features a large rooftop deck overlooking the water and cityscape as well as a large deck of covered outdoor space tucked between tropical foliage around the property, and an indoor space with a small bar with a wall of windows and natural light. The historic house itself houses a large beer, wine and liquor cellar with an impressive collection of libations from around the world. (Pictured: The Sangria at The Mansion). One of the interesting options at this venue is booking an event with a private wine tasting, and the venue hosts weekly and monthly tasting events (for a charge) if you want to sample a selection of foods with, for example, fine wines, Champagne or Whiskey. www.thebigmansion.com