Raw wood, exposed brick and concrete, walls of glass and metal are the hallmarks of an urban venue. Perfect for weddings, these open and unapologetically rough-edged spaces have the flexibility necessary for a modern wedding while adding a sophisticated counterpoint to more romantic details. Portland is not the only place in the state boasting this type of popular venue; here are five of the best wedding spots from around the state that deliver an urban feel no matter where they are located.
1. Couples getting married in the Columbia Gorge have a wide assortment of vineyards, farms and resorts to choose from when it comes to selecting a location for their wedding. The Ruins at Springhouse Cellar stands out for its downtown Hood River location and its rustic yet urban feel. Formerly a turn of the century cannery and distillery, the space now houses the winery’s tasting room and outdoor event space in the remains of the cannery’s cement walls which can hold up to 175 guests. Debbie Dennis of Hitched in the Hood, an event planning company in Hood River, says clients love the unique feel of the Ruins. “There’s nothing else quite like it in the area,” she says. “You can have an outdoor ceremony somewhere with a sweeping Gorge view, then head to the Ruins and wow your guests with something completely different.”
The Loft at the Red Building, photography by: Stark Photography
2. The Red Building Loft is located in a restored former cannery set along the Columbia River in the shadow of the historic Astoria Megler Bridge. “The Loft offers an urban, industrial feel with scenic views and that combination is hard to come by,” says photographer Daniel Stark. Soaring old growth timber vaulted ceilings, exposed pipes, floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the water, seating for 225 guests and the outdoor deck for ceremonies and photos make this venue a standout on the north Oregon coast. “Our goal with every wedding is to capture the moment and emotion while encompassing the beauty of the venue,” says Stark. “When you have an amazing couple at an amazing location like The Loft, it makes our job easy.”
Ford Alumni Center, photo courtesy of UO Alumni Center
3. At the edge of the University of Oregon campus stands a venue that combines modern design aesthetics with sustainability. The five-story glass walled Ford Alumni Center sits as a complement to the Matthew Knight Arena next door and boasts eco-friendly features such as a native plant garden surrounding the outdoor ceremony lawn and courtyard, use of reclaimed wood and the sustainable cork flooring in the ballroom, which can accommodate up to 220 guests. Couples love the built-in custom lighting, state-of-the-art audio/visual system and fireplace in the large, airy atrium. “It really is unlike any other venue in Eugene and the southern valley,” says event services coordinator Jonathan Beckhart. “It’s the perfect venue for anyone looking for a more modern, urban feel in Eugene.”
Vue, photography by: Becerra Photography
4. Occupying the fifth and sixth floors of the Elements Building in downtown Corvallis, Vue is a contemporary venue for up to 150 guests that offers sweeping panoramic views of the valley from both indoors and outdoors. The covered terrace is a hit with couples and provides a scenic ceremony backdrop year-round, rain or shine, as well as a spot for a dramatic bouquet toss from above. With sleek black walnut floors, customizable LED lighting, fireplaces, contemporary leather seating and stunning views, the need for decorations is minimal. “I love all of the modern features of Vue,” says Chris Becerra of Becerra Photography. “The customizable LED lights, the smooth lines of the architecture and of course the sunset that pours in through windows in three directions…It’s a photographer’s dream.”
Oxford Hotel, photography by: Byron Roe Photography
5. Located in the heart of historic downtown Bend, the Oxford Hotel is a luxury boutique hotel that combines modern amenities with eco-chic sensibility for an unforgettable urban-meets-organic experience. “In a town that is focused on the rustic, natural look, the Oxford is a truly modern, cosmopolitan venue,” says Byron Roe of Byron Roe Photography. Built with recycled steel, the hotel is powered completely by renewable energy sources and its on-site restaurant, 10 Below, uses only local organic ingredients. The seventh floor penthouse features floor to ceiling windows, providing a stunning backdrop for ceremonies, and the Oxford has several reception spaces with room for up to 175 guests. Photo opportunities abound around the hotel for couples and their wedding parties. “The modern decor adds a stylish touch to every wedding detail,” says Roe. “We just love that look because it lends itself to truly unique, high-end images.”
