Brides, add another thank you note to your list. The City of Portland’s tourism initiative gave rise to three new hotels opening in the past year, adding more than 50,000 square feet of event space, dramatic outdoor vistas and luxurious honeymoon suites to your choices for a wedding venue.
THE NINES
The Nines brought luxury Portland hotels to a new level since it opened last September atop downtown’s historic Meier & Frank building—starting with the seven-story atrium behind the front desk. And that’s just the beginning: The entire expansive sixth floor of the modern nostalgic hotel is ideal for receptions for up to 500. While guests enjoy cocktails in the pre-function lounge overlooking Pioneer Courthouse Square, you can make a dramatic entrance on the angular staircase. Upstairs, the intimate Georgian Room is a lovely spot for showers or brunches for up to 80, with spring green walls and original woodwork that evoke the social glamour of the legendary Meier & Frank restaurant.
Speaking of restaurants, the Nines boasts two. Departures is renowned modern designer Jeff Kovel’s interpretation of midcentury space, airline and yacht travel—all with a fab L.A.-esque roof deck. Serving up Japanese Izakaya-style small plates, the space has become a favorite to see and be seen. For a more rustic meal, choose the Urban Farmer Steakhouse restaurant’s semi-private “Pantry” dining area for 25 under the soaring skylight.
HOTEL MODERA
You’d never believe Hotel Modera used to be a drab Day’s Inn. Now this Scandinavian modern hotel in downtown PDX surrounds an inviting courtyard and “Living Wall” of Northwest foliage, creating a refreshing retreat in the heart of downtown. Modera’s 174 warm-toned rooms feature high-quality linens and beauty products, plus thoughtful innovations like digital “Do Not Disturb” signs. These Euro-chic suites are the perfect place to enjoy an urban wedding night, with romantic touches like in-room massages and breakfast in bed. The hotel’s Nel Centro restaurant opened in May, helmed by beloved Portland chef David Machado (of Vindalho and Lauro Kitchen) and boasting French- and Italian-inspired cuisine. A private dining room for up to 32 is striking for rehearsal dinners, but the food is also available for catered events in the sleek meeting room that accommodates up to 120 for cocktail-style receptions.
HOTEL FIFTY
Hotel Fifty is another brilliantly reincarnated chain hotel downtown, a former Sheraton Four Points across from Waterfront Park that is now home to a chic restaurant and cool accommodations (in addition to the striking river views). It’s the smallest of these new Portland hotels at 140 rooms—but that just means you could possibly take over this cosmopolitan building with your party! Rent out the entire H5O Bistro & Bar for an avant-garde reception, with tall, narrow tables, sprawling chaises and a backdrop of city lights sparkling on the water. The creative array of sophisticated American and global fare (like Jambon-wrapped chicken or fresh pea succotash) can be personalized for the foodie couple hoping to show off the best of Portland cuisine.