This past year I’ve noticed a lot of great event trends, but one of my favorites, by far, is the increase in popularity of warehouse venues. For years, people have been hosting underground secret parties in hip warehouse spaces and abandoned buildings. But this year we’ve seen the concept move mainstream. Warehouse spaces are being used for all types of events, from dinner parties to music performances; and most notably, weddings!
Types of Events Good for Warehouse Spaces:
- Weddings
- Dinner Parties
- Fashion Shows
- Fundraisers
- Art Openings
- Music Performances
- Film Screenings
In a similar fashion that old industrial buildings across the country started to gain popularity in the 1980s as converted loft apartment buildings, we’re seeing that shift for event spaces, as well. Spaces that were once seen as too cold, dark and unfinished for weddings and events – are now being thought of as creative, urban and current. It is not that surprising that event trends get their cues from architecture, design and fashion; however, it is a bit shocking just how far behind the event industry is on some of these trends. However, as brides continue to push the limit on tradition, and look at their wedding day as an opportunity to reflect their unique personality, my guess is that we’ll see the industry start to catch up.
Historic New York warehouse venue, The Foundry.
Characteristics of Warehouse Spaces:
- Exposed Brick Walls
- Exposed ceiling structure and systems
- Concrete or Wood Floors
- Open Floor Plan
- Tall Ceilings
- History of Industrial Era Factory
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We really saw the warehouse venue trend gain momentum last March when pictures of this private Brooklyn dinner party, hosted by Kinfolk, dominated practically every event blog. The event came across as elegant, timeless, effortlessly stylish, simple, and intimate. In addition, it evoked a level of intrigue and got people wanting to know where this stylish and versatile space was, and how they could get on the invite list. Since March we’ve seen countless weddings in similar unfinished stylish spaces. If you like this trend, one thing to keep in mind is that in most cases the space will require a vision, creativity and some time to dedicate to staging and décor – even if it’s just a small amount.
Kinfolk Brooklyn Dinner Party, found here. Photo Credit: Leo Patrone
Warehouse spaces are a good fit for people that are:
- Creative
- Like DIY trends
- Minimal/ Simple
- Can visualize lighting and décor
- Have time (or help) to put up lighting
- Don’t mind a little dust
In addition to all the potential these spaces offer, what I really love about this trend is that the look and feel is attainable to anyone hosting an event on practically every budget. The simplicity, the versatility and the rich history in these warehouse buildings are all part of the package that add to the guests experience, at no additional cost. And since there are warehouse venue spaces in practically every city across the country there is bound to be one near you. Many are rented out as event venues and will be easy to find, others may be functioning as something else, but can be uncovered with some detective work.
Industrial warehouse wedding, found here. At Castle Gibson location.
Advantages to Warehouse Venues:
- Have a rich history and a story to tell
- Open floor plan allows for flexibility in furniture layout
- Simple and timeless style allows for unique customization and décor
- Neutral color palette goes with any color scheme or theme
- Often has fewer restrictions than typical event spaces
- Unique and unexpected experience for guests
- Attainable on every budget
If you like the idea of warehouse venues, check back in next week. I’ll be talking about drawbacks and things to consider when looking at warehouse spaces, propping elements and décor trends for these spaces, and I’ll be sharing a few of my favorite unique warehouse venues from across the country.
In the meantime, check out our Pinterest Board for Warehouse Venues. And if you know of any great warehouse venues, we’d love to hear them. Share please!
Social Tables is proud to introduce you to our newest expert blogger Libby Bryant. Libby is an event designer and the founder of Venue Please, an online venue finder exclusively showcasing event spaces with personality. Libby received a degree in Interior Architecture from the University of Oregon; she developed her event career in New York City where she worked for M.A.C Cosmetics designing countless events for Fashion Weeks, press launches and VIP dinners. Libby is passionate about special spaces, as well as, the history and people that shape them.
The post Event & Wedding Trends: Warehouse Venues appeared first on The Social Tables Blog.
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