Can you help with our wedding reception dilemma?

Discussion Corner — By NikhilBhide on July 4, 2006 at 07:06

RockstarKary Wants To Know:

My fiance and I are looking for a loft/basement type place to hold our wedding reception. We are heavy into music and art and the typical banquet hall or over-priced anything just won’t do. We want the freedom to decorate it ourselves, supply our own catering and music. I’ve searched and searched and find nothing that fits this. My assumption is that they exist, but because they are not show-boaty, have no need to over advertise. Does anyone have any leads in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area?

India – The Destination Wedding Hub

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    6 Comments

  • Ramhat L says:
    July 12, 2006 at 18:48

    look online to see some interesting ideas :)

  • just me! says:
    July 12, 2006 at 00:20

    i would check out the local veteran’s clubs, legion clubs, see if your church hall is available. some ethnic groups have their own halls and rent them out.

  • Gretchen K says:
    July 10, 2006 at 19:31

    First, I admire you for taking the time to try to fine a venue that fits you and your interests instead of mindlessly turning to the typical wedding venues.

    I suggest contacting galleries, artsy stores, coffee shops, play houses, nature centers, sports arenas or (smaller) music venues, to see whether they will consider renting to you. Or even look into old or empty warehouses in your city. I know someone who got married in her office building this year! Just go around and look for spaces that intrigue you, and that you can picture your wedding/reception being in.

    If the place you find is not typically reserved for events, be aware that you will probably have to bring in everything, including tables or chairs. Also be sure to check whether the space will allow you to bring alcohol in, because if you plan on drinking at your wedding, that could be a deal breaker if they say no alcohol!

    I too have looked around for different types of venues. At first, the thought of a community center or veteran’s hall or whatever sounded so boring to me. But then I began to realize that these are venues that include tables and chairs and typically rent for between $150 and $450 for the entire day! And you get to decorate, bring in your own food, alcohol, etc. Some were really beautiful, located on the waterfront or out in nature. I couldn’t believe people would rent a boring hotel when some of these inexpensive options existed.

    I also looked into enclosed pavilions/”shelters” (really just a regular room/cabin) in parks. Some of these places were so beautiful and SUPER CHEAP. Unfortunately, about 50% of them did not allow alcohol. The others filled up really quickly.

    Basically, stay away from any and all hotels and restaurants if you want to DIY. And don’t be afraid to call up some places and say, “Can I pay you to rent out your space for my wedding?” even if they have never dreamed of holding events before. You just never know if they will say yes!

  • THE WEDDING DIVA says:
    July 8, 2006 at 22:53

    here is some listings in your area good luck

  • Diane B says:
    July 6, 2006 at 12:30

    Try different clubs — like the American Polish Club or the like many will offer you their club for a small fee.

  • Kristy says:
    July 4, 2006 at 22:05

    I would check local art galleries and see if any of the private ones allow rental of the space. I know in Philadelphia, NJ and NY most do. You get the art gallery that fits your tastes and you can then decorate and cater as you please. Look into that maybe?

    Good luck!

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