A local couple turns a former packing plant into a premier venue, bringing wedding dreams to life.
Jasmine Green
Gadsden County News Service
Where vegetables once moved through conveyor belts and workers sorted produce, brides now walk down aisles and families celebrate life’s milestones. Uraina’s Haven, Gadsden County’s newest premier event center, has transformed a 27,000-square-foot former packing plant into a multipurpose venue that owner Denisha Keaton calls a love letter to her community.
The journey to opening day wasn’t quick. Keaton and her husband, who serves as her business partner, spent two years searching for the perfect location before discovering the old produce facility. What they found was more than just square footage—it was potential wrapped in concrete and steel.
“We knew we wanted to create something special for Gadsden County,” Keaton said.
The couple has already renovated half of the expansive property into flexible spaces designed to accommodate everything from intimate birthday parties to elaborate wedding receptions and family reunions. The remaining space holds even bigger dreams—Keaton envisions possibly adding a bed-and-breakfast or expanding the event center operations.
But Keaton isn’t rushing to complete every project at once. Instead, she’s taking a measured approach that reflects a deeper philosophy about entrepreneurship and community building.
“I want to enjoy the fruits of our labor in real time,” she explained. “That means networking with other small business owners in Gadsden County, building relationships, and growing together.”
That collaborative spirit was on full display October 5th when Uraina’s Haven hosted its inaugural bridal expo. The event, featuring sponsorships from David’s Bridal and Men’s Wearhouse, brought together vendors from across the region to create a one-stop shop for engaged couples planning their big day.
The expo’s centerpiece was a fashion show that allowed soon-to-be brides and grooms to see the latest trends come to life on the venue’s floors. Attendees browsed booths staffed by cake decorators, photographers, bartenders, and wedding planners—each offering pieces of the puzzle that couples need to bring their vision to reality.
For Keaton, the bridal expo represented more than a successful first event. It embodied the mission behind Uraina’s Haven: creating a space where the community can gather, celebrate, and support local businesses simultaneously.
As the venue continues to establish itself in Gadsden County’s event landscape, the Kentons remain focused on their dual commitment—to their business and to their neighbors. The old produce plant may no longer sort vegetables, but in its new life, it’s cultivating something equally valuable: connections, celebrations, and community pride.
For information about booking Uraia’s Haven or upcoming events, interested parties can contact the venue directly.
