An Unexpected Turn of Events

As promised, revealing here the results of a very big and exciting decision finalized over the weekend (which resulted in numerous beers, a donut stuffed with ice cream, and a big stack of pancakes):

Things in my wedding world just got real crazy. And I am pretty dang excited.

Matt and I have officially changed our wedding location... and potentially our date (but that tidbit is still TBD). Redlands, Calif. is our new stage.

Coming to this decision was really tough; it meant losing out on a few features of the Riverside location that I had come to fall in love with. Therew as the fabulous bridal penthouse (a full apartment with kitchen and four-poster bed, and mimosas to boot) the balcony (what a fabulous way to enter into the party, and that boquet toss!), and the mezzaine (felt like a 1920s nightclub. LOVED the feel of it).

I really liked the owner; we hit it off immediately. That being said, there were things that just could not be ignored. In the end, the lack of organization and lack of consistensy was just too much. In the middle of dealing with some of these issues, we received a message from Matt's uncle about a brand new venue in Redlands. He had just heard about it through word of mouth from a family friend. Turns out it was a godwink.

The space isn't even open yet. In fact, the day we went down to Redlands to meet with the owner, they were preparing for the Fire Department's visit for permitting the next day. So while many don't even yet know this space exists, we were able to get a sneak first peek! Consequently, I am not yet able to post pictures of the space, but I promise to as soon as they launch. Stay tuned.

[Street view]

Being among the first to see the space has some definite perks. For one, we are the second event to book and, therefore, dates that were previously eliminated because of the Loft's crazy schedule are all back on the table again. So many dates to choose from! Second, the space has the EXACT look Matt and I had originally been looking for, but unable to find within our price range. There's the exposed brick fascade and the loft-style space all within an urban, vibrant downtown. The character is spot on.

Beyond these features, the venue has an amazing history. The building was constructed in the late 1800s. The venue space itself used to be an actual Speakeasy. Many of the original elements remain - the red speakeasy light (switched on when cops were on the way) is still in working order in the main ballroom and the door still has the peephole. We can't wait to play into this theme for our wedding party.

I know this is going to be a hot spot when word gets out, so feeling very fortunate that we received early news of its debut (Thank you, Uncle Rich!) Additionally, excited about the church nearby for the ceremony. Matt has family ties to the church, which makes it more special. And the name - Holy Name of Jesus - closely mirrors the name of my current home parish - Holy Name of Mary. Silly, I know, but I liked that.

After fretting about finalizing my decision, I am now starting to feel a ton of relief. The owner of this new space is not only very kind, but extremely responsive. AND she works in vintage rentals so is very familiar with the vibe Matt and I are trying to go with. Very excited for what's to come!

Countdown to the Big Day: Potentially 320, but we shall see!

Best Moment of the Week: Finally making a decision!!!!

Currently on my Mind: Moving forward with all the pieces, and obsessively checking to see if the venue's website has launched yet ;)

What I am Looking Forward to this Week: Scheduling a meeting with the potential wedding coordinator!

Emotions: Getting over my "mourning period" and now feeling a tremendous amount of relief!