My fiancé and I are looking into wedding reception venues in the downtown/urban core area. We will be getting married in a church downtown and would like a reception site that is fairly close by. We are planning for about 50 people. I am interested in feedback from people who've had their receptions or been to receptions downtown. Where was it held, and what did you like and dislike?
Check out the River Club. It is located on the top two floors of the Wells Fargo tower.
We went to a wedding at the River Club once, it was pretty sweet.
My wife and I had our rehearsal dinner in one of the upstairs rooms at River City Brewing Company, and had our reception at the Cummer Museum. One of the galleries was empty at the time, so we were able to use that space for seating and dancing. Without the extra space, it would have been tight quarters in the logia. 50 people might fit, though. The Garden Club is also an option with more space, but without the riverfront gardens (ironic, isn't it?).
Renting a ballroom at the Omni or Hyatt is also an option. Convenient for out-of-town guests, but obviously without the views of the River or U-Clubs. You're usually stuck using hotel catering as well.
We had our reception at the University Club. Can't recommend it highly enough. Best view in Jacksonville, great food, and the event planner was extremely attentive. It's also really convenient if you have your guests stay next door at the Crowne, that way they don't have to drive after the reception if they drink. Big benefit of either the University Club or the River Club is that the view is such an impressive "decoration" on its own that you don't really need to spend a fortune on stuff like centerpieces, floral arrangements, etc.
I'm having my wedding at treaty oaks park and I'm holding my reception at river city brewing. I'm super excited!
@BenFranklinbof is recreating my wedding, Treaty Oak followed by River City Brewing. Anyway @jaxcpa, if you don't mind crossing to the south bank for the reception the view of downtown and the fountain from their were amazing.
Quote from: Murder_me_Rachel on November 07, 2014, 12:38:25 PM
I have been to many at the Main Library's outdoor garden. They were all amazing. Other than that, yeah, you have got university club or River Club. I know they rent out the club section of the stadium, but that may be pricey, and dont know if they'll do that during the season. Also 927 Events is supposed to be pretty sweet.
We looked into having our reception at the library. It can't be beat.
Depending on which church the wedding's at, also check out MOCA Jax and Old St. Andrew's. Both should be fine for your size.
MOSH rooftop can also be very nice if it's not raining or too hot/cold.
Karpeles Manuscript Museum @ 1st & Laura
Springfield Woman's Club @ 7th & Silver
927 Event Center @ Forsyth & Lee
Thanks for the feedback everyone. We will definitely look into these places.
btw, congrats! ;D