Venue Spotlight: Machine Shop
There are tons of awesome and unique venues in the Twin Cities, but one of our favorites is the Machine Shop located in the St. Anthony neighborhood of Minneapolis, Minnesota. While we’ve worked a couple of weddings there (and have more to look forward to in 2019 & 2020!), we figured now was a great time to find out more about what makes their venue just so awesome. Check it out!
What about the Machine Shop would you like to highlight to couples?
We offer a historic and unique space in the Saint Anthony Main area of downtown. We have amazing spots to take pictures not only in the venue, but also on the parkway and Stone Arch Bridge. We include tables, chairs, and beverage with our rental,and on Monday nights we open our lounge called "The Break Room" which has specialty cocktails and small plate food options- perfect to come in and have a planning meeting with an Event Manager and enjoy a cocktail or two.
How do you help a couple create their perfect wedding?
We are meeting and talking with our couples right when they book to assist them with any questions as they start their planning process. We let them know what works well in our space and help them implement their vision into our unique venue. Learning who they are in the process helps us establish a rapport with our couples that instills trust, and as we get closer to their big day they feel the relief by knowing that our venue as well as their vendors will execute their dream wedding.
What are the current trends you've seen with weddings?
The minimalism of decor by foregoing large installations and keeping things simple. Also, couples have been having less of the "traditional" ceremony and reception. They are having quicker ceremonies and are doing open seating with food stations to make it more of a party and not as formal.
What other events, besides weddings, does the Machine Shop host?
We host markets, galas, fundraisers, holiday parties, photo/commercial shoots, and numerous corporate and non-profit events along with our weddings.
What are some amenities and unique offerings the Machine Shop has to offer?
We have a fully integrated sound system in the venue. This makes set-up for bands and DJ's much quicker and easier, and the sound can be controlled for anywhere in the space. We have a 63' truss in our main room the rises and lowers from the ceiling to the floor and everywhere in between which makes for some cool decor and lighting options for our couples. The lighting in the venue is also zone controlled and can be turned off/on or even dimmed in specific spots throughout anywhere in the space. This is great for setting the mood, highlighting an attraction for when it's darker during dancing, and even for photographers for their pictures.
