Thumbs up for venue hunting!
If you want to instantly sound and subsequently feel like an asshole, say this:
"We aren't banquet hall kinda people."
Unfortunately that translates to, “We think we’re individuals! We like art! We listen to Father John Misty!”
What I really meant to say was, “Traditional banquet halls are expensive and don’t offer great vegetarian options. Plus, in my initial research, most have a myriad of fees.” Much more eloquent, right? Unfortunately, when tempers flare eloquence goes out the window.
So! Who was my unfortunate slip of the tongue directed at? My parents, of course. They are part of a select group of people that get to witness my fabled short fuse. Lucky, right?
We were discussing venues over dinner and my Dad kept insisting I “use the Google” to check out the Liberty Grand and Rosewater Supper Club. After dismissing both options multiple times I barked, “We aren’t really banquet hall kinda people.”
My Mom chortled and sarcastically replied, “You are an individual. Can’t wait to see the venue list you come up with.”
Obviously I deserved that.
Really, it doesn’t matter WHERE you get married. If you want a banquet hall, go for it! If you want a non-traditional venue, go for that to! For us, a banquet hall just isn't the right fit.
So! What venues are the "two individuals" considering? Take a look below. This is just our initial list. There will be more to come. And if you have a suggestion, we will gladly take it.
PRICE TAG: $2, 750
What we like about it: The price! Also, it's charming interior. It's an old school! Adorable! The Schoolhouse is on Trinity Street just south of King -- very accessible by public transit. Also, it's in the East End of the city (where we live). Ideally we'd like a venue in an area we are familiar with incase there are any last minute purchases we need to make.
What do you get? The site from 1 p.m. – 1 a.m., 150 chairs, 1, wired microphone and PA system, 1 podium, grand piano, 2 easels, a screen, AV cart, coat racks + hangers, eight 8 foot long rectangular tables and six 6 foot long rectangular tables.
Our Verdict: Worth a visit to check out the space.
Price Tag: $2000/day
What we like about it: Don't let the name fool you, this venue is also for two legged creatures. The Pawsways price is great and it's located near the Harbourfront Centre.
What does that get you? They have 20 6ft tables and 90 chairs.
Our Verdict: Unfortunately there are no photos of a wedding that's taken place there. Bummer. Also, it took the venue coordinator a few week's to reply to my email. Not a good sign. Depending on how our visits to other venue sites go, we may visit.
Price Tag: $3,800 Saturday rental
What we like about it: Although it's a bit pricer than what we've allotted for in our budget, the space looks hella cool. It's also located near the Distillery District, which is a great place to get some wedding photo snaps taken.
What do you get? 150 chiavari chairs (whatever those are), indoor & outdoor lounge furniture and bar furniture.
Our Verdict: Even though it's a bit pricer than what we've budgeted for, I want to check it out and see if it's worth the extra coin .