My fiance and I looked at the Loft at the Red Building in our quest to find the perfect wedding venue, and while we ended up going with a place closer to where we lived (Portland), the Loft was my favorite. (My elderly grandparents wouldn't be able to drive to the coast, which is why we picked someplace closer to home - our choice had nothing to do with the quality of the venue.)
The venue itself is on the second floor of a beautifully-restored cannery building right on the pier. There are lots of big, bright windows to showcase the river traffic and the impressive Astoria bridge. There is a small room that could be used as a waiting or changing room for the wedding party. There are lots of lighting options - there are overhead lights, as well as multiple outlets - and an integrated sound and video projection system.
Disclaimer: WE DID NOT RENT THIS SPACE, so I can't speak to the service after a contract has been signed, but I did email Connie, the proprietor, several times and always received friendly, prompt responses. Her husband Tighe gave us a tour of the space on a Saturday, and was very friendly and knowledgable, and answered all of our questions.
I can't tell you how much I wish we'd gotten this space, but it just didn't work out. I hope this info helps someone else, and they choose to have their wedding in this beautiful venue.
Pros:
- Gorgeous architecture (hardwood floors, high ceilings with exposed beams, big windows, amazing view of the bridge and river traffic)
- Full kitchen, wet bar and accessible bathrooms all off the main room
- Elevators
- Changing/waiting room for wedding party
- Integrated sound and video projection system with drop-down screen
- Your rental includes tables, chairs, china, silverware, and glassware for 200 people
- Full-day rentals
- AFFORDABLE! Depending on the season, rental fees range from $550-1550 (as of 2010)
- Friendly, prompt responses from the owners
- Flexible catering options
- Right on the riverfront
Cons:
- 2 hour drive from Portland
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