It’s the first thing you have to think about when you get engaged. No, not the dress (well, actually yes, the dress is the most important thing) but past that, where are all your guests going sit, dance, and hit up the bar? The venue! It sets the scene for what kind of experience you want your friends and family to have on your special day. Whether that is a SoHo-style loft in St. Paul, or a trip to the French countryside only 30 miles outside the city- we have found three top wedding venues that will be sure to set your wedding day apart from the rest.
With the Edward Anne Estate making its grand opening this July, Bavaria Downs is going to be the new spot for a not-so-far-away destination wedding. Located just outside of the cities in Chaska, you and your guests are going to feel like you’ve been transported to the French countryside (without the plane fare or airport lines). The property is set on 270 beautiful acres of land, and even has its own private lake for a waterfront ceremony! The old-world elegance transcends throughout the entire estate- from the massive bridal and groom suites, newly constructed ballroom, and rich history. You’re going to have to see this place to believe it, trust us.
Bavaria Downs will also be opening its second site on the property, Equestria West, in 2019!
Features: Large Bride and Groom Suites, New Ballroom, Private Lake, Valet Parking, Award Winning D’Amico Catering On-Site, Old World Architecture, Event Coordinator
Opened in 2013, A’BULAE (pronounced “AH-BOO-LAY, for those of us not fluent in French) provides a gorgeous loft-style space, conveniently located in historic Lowertown, St. Paul. The venue is equipped with state-of-the-art technology that allows you to customize your spaces from lighting, to music, to your new initials lighting up the dance floor! If you’re lucky enough to have a MINNESOTA NICE day, you can celebrate your nuptials on the rooftop area, with the city as your backdrop. And with a 465-guest capacity, you’ll have more than enough room for all of those second-cousins-twice-removed that your family makes you send an invitation to.
Features: Luxury Bride and Groom Suites, 2000 Square Foot Kitchen, Award-Wining Mintahoe Catering, Floor-to-Ceiling Windows, Game Room, On-Site Coordinator, Handicap Accessibility, Gift & Floral Storage
Voted Best Unique Wedding Venue in 2017 by Minnesota Bride Magazine, The Van Dusen Mansion is quite a sight to behold. Your own personal private castle is located conveniently in Minneapolis, and close to hotels to host all of your royal guests. This place is filled with gorgeous chandeliers and stone work reminiscent of the French Renaissance, swanky bride and groom lounges, and even a two-tiered carriage house with a courtyard filled with oriental lilacs. If your Pinterest wedding board is flagged with “classy,” “romantic,” or “fairytale,” this is definitely the spot for you.
