Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/1493068
By Randy Rice | Special to McDonald County Reconnection It's not surprising that McDonald County is increasingly becoming a location for celebrations like weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, meetings, reunions, and holiday parties. If you are looking for a unique event venue, you owe it to yourself to check out the Under the Woods Event Center in Jane. Under the Woods includes two locations for outside wedding ceremonies and a chic barn for dinners, dancing, and anything else you may need for a gathering. "When all the children had launched out on their own, my eldest son knew we wanted our own business that could continue into retirement and suggested we build a barn on the front acres of our land because of the beautiful view," said Janet Underwood who, with her husband Vic, own the Under the Woods, now in its fourth year of operation. "When this was presented to me it sounded like a fun and wonderful idea. I pulled my husband into this adventure and we have never looked back." The Underwoods went to work and designed a climate- controlled barn one mile north of Bella Vista, Arkansas. The barn itself provides 3000 square feet of space for indoor weddings, receptions, and many other gatherings. There is an additional 1200 square feet of covered patio for dancing, dining, or visitation. Behind the barn is a beautiful 1800 square foot garden area. Whether hosting a wedding, reunion, meeting, birthday, or holiday gathering, the staff at Under the Woods are there to make your event pure joy. The venue is a handicapped equipped facility. "We are directly off Hwy 71, a very convenient location," Janet said. "Most other venues are in the middle of a robust town or way outside the city limits. We have the most beautiful view looking out for miles at the breathtaking Ozarks. The custom barn has a 34-ft. ceiling post frame design. Our timbers came from the state of Washington and fit right into our location under the woods." Thought and care has gone into every aspect of the Under the Woods Event Center. "We have the best landscape designer in the four states," Janet said. "He was the perfect fit for my idea of keeping with the Ozarks and planting perennials that are not only beautiful but benefit nature as they are producers for pollinators like bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and the like." The Underwoods have developed four acres of picturesque land for photography and the enjoyment of visitors. "We have a waterfall that lands in a pond," Janet continued. "Our pond includes ducks, fish, and turtles. We display horses, donkeys, and guinea fowl. We also have our venue dog, Max, who is a huge hit among visitors of all ages. And what other venue has a Walmart a half a mile down the road if there are any last-minute needs for an event?" Under the Woods customers come in all shapes and sizes—young, old, and in-between. "They are mostly young couples seeking the place and day of their dreams," Janet said. "I think they like Under the Woods because they feel that we are all there for them. We provide not only a great service for the renters but also make it a memorable time for their visitors." "I love helping people have wonderful events. I love seeing people becoming a family on one of the most important days of their lives. I love to help their day go smoothly and without stress. And McDonald County is such a beautiful location with rivers, creeks, and breathtaking views. The people we know here will do anything they can to help you. They truly feel that community helps each other." A fresh event venue "under the woods" www.underthewoods.com ■ 16 2023