Carrington Crossing’s rustic charm is an asset, owner Eileen Conley said.

Built in 1908 and preserving much of its original interior, the building was a pharmacy in early iterations.

Since converting it from antique shop Memory Lane to a wedding and event venue in May 2014, Conley has invested funds in restoring the building.

Even so, the original ceiling tiles remain, and the paint on the walls is chipped.

“We decided to leave it looking like a 100-year-old building,” she said. “You’re seeing history through those walls.”

When she was operating as Memory Lane Antiques, she received suggestions from friends, some of whom are wedding photographers, that she open a wedding venue.

“It was a tremendous amount of work—much more than I thought,” she said.

After months of work, Carrington Crossing officially opened in January 2015. The venue hosted 12 weddings last year. In addition, she said about 10-15 small corporate events or baby showers were held there.

The first wedding at Carrington Crossing was held in April.

“Because of the lead time it takes with brides, it took awhile,” Conley said. “I think we are starting to see a pickup [in demand].”The Main Street venue is also in the heart of downtown Buda and, therefore, has access to stores in the historic district, large-scale retail outlets, such as Wal-Mart and Cabela’s, and nearby lodging as well as I-35.

With approximately 3,000 square feet of usable space, Carrington Crossing features a ballroom, an outdoor courtyard, bathrooms and rooms for the bride and groom to gussy up.

Depending on the day, rates range from $1,250 to $2,950 to rent the space for 10 hours. Clients who have contracted to rent the space for their wedding may take bridal photos at Carrington Crossing for as many as two hours free of charge or $75 an hour for at least three hours.

The venue also offers an elopement package. For $1,750, couples can rent the space for two hours and have as many as 25 guests. The package also includes chairs, a professional photographer, officiant and floral arrangements.

Conley said Carrington Crossing is also vying for business from corporate clients. As venues within Austin’s city limits increase in price, she said her venue provides an affordable option still in short driving range from downtown Austin.

Conley said she hopes the continued growth of her business will have a positive effect on the health of downtown Buda. Since wedding parties are able to walk up and down Main Street, she said others can benefit from drawing events to the city.

“We are hoping it brings lots of business down here,” she said.