Big weddings are so 2019. All you need for a great reception is enough room for those you truly love—sorry weird college roommates and mom’s bridge group—a dance floor, and gourmet sustenance.
“I think smaller venues are going to be very popular in the coming year,” says Patrick McClure of Downtown Mall event space Penny Heart. Smaller venues “don’t carry a lot of the overhead, so it can be an affordable experience.”
Of course, small spaces don’t mean you have to go small on style. If you’d also like beautifully appointed rooms in plum locations, have a look at these five spots.
Old Metropolitan Hall
101 E. Main St.
Old Metropolitan Hall on the mall accommodates from ceremony to reception. It’s the ideal post-vow destination but can also host nuptials, with the Sanctuary at the Haven next door to expand the space. If you’re looking for a seated dinner for up to 100 or a cocktail soirée for 175, the Old Met is your spot. Details are key: tall ceilings, exposed brick, chandeliers, wood floors, elegant dance floor. Done.
Lewis Catherine House
1033 Afton Mountain Rd., Afton
The Lewis Catherine House is relatively new to weddings but no newcomer to style. The five-bedroom rental home spills onto scenic acres diagonal from Veritas Vineyards and bucolic splendor. “It’s a great venue for the family to stay and celebrate the special weekend,” says one Facebook review of the venue.
Common House
206 W. Market St.
Your wedding party will own the Downtown Mall with the Common House as your homebase. The West Market Street address comes with modern design, gourmet food and beverage, and all the extras. “All-inclusive” is the buzzword here, with custom dining, drinks, seating, and servers.
Penny Heart
223 W. Main St.
McClure’s Penny Heart offers the customizable space you need for your 2021 wedding. If you’d like 50 guests at a sit-down dinner or 75 milling about, this is your spot. On-premise or outside catering, full kitchen, bar, patio. “We can customize,” McClure says. “If there’s a dish you had on your first date, our team can recreate that.”
Montalto
1400-1402 Mountain Top Farm
What would TJ do? Prolly have his wedding at Montalto overlooking his mountain home. Thomas Jefferson’s first land acquisition—Montalto, that is—offers a stunning space for wedding days, bridesmaid luncheons, and rehearsal dinners. The small space is ideal for 40 or so guests.
