Union 12 Grand Opening - Fort Wayne, IN Wedding Photographer
I think that it is safe to say we have all be on pins and needles to see this finished venue since they announced its creation. I am so excited to see a new space in Fort Wayne and even more excited to see a bit of diversity brewing which allows couples to make their wedding even more unique and representative of their personalities and interests! When Event Coordinator, Andi Jo, contacted me about photographing the new space for them and attending the opening weekend events I was crazy excited! I have a couple weddings coming up in this new space and was very eager to get a head start on my experience shooting here!
The event center is located on 20 acres of gorgeous grounds complete with some fields, a pond, and a woodland space. This is SO awesome for couples getting married here because there are endless photo locations for portrait time without having to leave! Off the back of the venue you can find a very large covered patio perfect for your ceremony, cocktail hour, or summer night dancing... with the ability to hold over 200 guests comfortably. At the entrance of the venue is a large patio with seating and a large gas fire pit perfect for your cocktail hour or intimate conversations under the stars with adorable bistro lights strung across the space. The patio is also large enough to hold your ceremony if you wish!
Just to the side of the venue is a small pond with cat tails, bridge leading to an island, a rowboat, lots of greenery and the perfect spot for your outdoor ceremony under the sunset. Even if you chose to hold your ceremony in a different location, this is a prime portrait location!
Once inside the venue you enter a small entry way where the restrooms are located. From the sneak peeks on the Union 12 Facebook page, we were all drooling over these super stylish spaces. The woman's restroom has everyone's favorite....Shiplap!!! And GORGEOUS tile walls with soft light from several wall sconces.
The mens restroom could not be any more masculine. The design is absolutely awesome! Rusty metal paneling, Edison lightbulbs, industrial fixtures, and a massive custom "bowl-less" sink made of sheet metal.
I'm sure you're more than ready to see the inside of this venue....am I right? Get ready for all the shiplap, polished cement floors, 6 very large intricate chandeliers, large wooden beams, strings of bistro lights, a large garage door opening up to the covered patio space, a loft, and LOADS of window light!
Located in the front corner of the space is the bar, owned by Union 12, complete with 2 Chapman Brewing taps, which will soon feature a custom brew made specifically for Union 12 called "Deadline". The bar, called "Joe's Bar" is named after and dedicated to a dear friend of the owners, Joseph DiGregory.
The venue space was decorated for the opening with beautiful centerpieces provided by Wedding Dreams by Linda. Fresh florals and candle light make for the perfect centerpieces!
One of the BEST features of this venue is the fact that there is an incredible suite for the bridesmaids to prepare themselves in for the day. Filled with natural light, gorgeous furniture, floor to ceiling 3 way mirrors, and hair and makeup station with beauty lights (the ultimate MUA's dream!!). The decor in this room is SO light and airy and was beautifully crafted by another local company, Niche Market, whom I have followed on Facebook for a while now and am forever drooling over their furniture and accent pieces...I definitely need to get out to their store ASAP!
Also located in the bridesmaid suite, is a massive bathroom with a second hair and makeup station for 2, dual sink vanity, and a large walk in shower.
On opening day, Mutton Party & Tent Rental provided inspiration for couples with some sample seating and centerpiece options outside in the courtyard.
This is going to be such a great venue, I can not wait to see what ideas and designs brides and grooms bring into the space for their wedding days! I'm so honored to have the opportunity to have first glance at this amazing venue! If you're in the market for the perfect venue to hold your entire day at, you MUST go check this place out!
Cheers!
Morgan