After working in the Kansas City wedding and event industry for over 20 years, we’ve run into fantastic experiences as well as not so fantastic experiences working in and attending venues in the local Kansas City and surrounding areas. A venue sets the stage for everything. It’s where all your guests will be collectively celebrating, it’s the vibe and the aesthetics, and the experience as a whole.

How do they become our top favorites you ask?  There are lots of factors that play into what makes a venue so wonderful: the location, a kind and reliable staff, the historic or newness to it, the funny smells, lighting, the picturesque backdrop, and the list goes on.

So I wanted to bring some of my professional expertise of all my favorite ins and outs of my top 10 favorite wedding and event venues in the surrounding Kansas City area. I’ll provide some of my favorite images from these locations that I believe really show off as much of the indoor and outdoor backdrops, some of their amenities and photo locations, and details of how each space can be set up for different looks.

For those planning their next intimate or large event, listen in…..

(make sure to scroll through the slideshows of images)

WHY WE LOVE: Nestled among 72 acres of open fields and lush tree lines, White Iron Ridge offers a tranquil getaway to host your memorable moments for mostly the most grand weddings, perfect for large corporate events, or social gatherings. White Iron Ridge is super elegant, dreamy, picturesque indoor and outdoor with big open windows and natural light with bright interior (a photographers dream).

AMENITIES:

• The most obvious, as you walk into the exquisite main event space, your jaw drops viewing the floor to ceiling light white walls, incredibly beautiful large chandeliers hanging above, the elegant gold wall sconces and more.
• Probably a unanimous fan favorite are the enormous double sided staircases that drapes down the center of the entrance.
• The massive size of the space being one of the largest venues accommodating the most guests in Kansas City.
• The beautiful back patio to host an outdoor scenic ceremony.
• The stunning golden white chairs provided by the space.
• The onsite room and board for immediate family and friends to have their own private suites and community areas with foosball, living room and small kitchen area.
• The elegant and modern bridal tower suite for couples to stay overnight and to get ready in day of a wedding or event.
• The sleek sexy vibe of the bars aesthetics from tile, countertop, and lights to die for.
• The two patios: one being enclosed/indoor AND another outdoor covered patio for all seasons of events.
• The location being just a short 20-25 minute drive north of downtown Kansas City, Missouri, yet still providing that picturesque, secluded and scenic backdrop everyone hopes for.
• Hidden trails to the woods for nature photos plus beautiful open fields for the perfect photos at sunset.
• Extremely high ceilings WITH capabilites of hanging snowflakes, lights and others from.
• Plus loads of indoor photo opportunities as a backup plan in case of the imperfect weather.

STAFF:

• This staff is a dream to work with. They are prompt, friendly, inspiring, inclusive and we just can’t say enough good things about their staff from start to finish. These type of positive staff reviews come from clients and vendors alike.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• The lack of quick storage areas for vendors to put their belongings (and lets face it, that has nothing to do with your experience as a client so it’s hardly a con).
• The more feminine bridal suite only has one accessible door that opens to the main space is a bit of a downfall if you’re trying to maneuver around or up to the bridal tower without being seen. It can get tricky to make sure no one sees you in the main space.

WEBSITE: www.whiteironridge.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: One of Kansas City’s top of the line luxury event space’s to fit just about any size and type of event. The Abbott is HUGE. With it’s all white interior with crystal lighting, any style you want to bring into the space is perfect in this blank canvas.

AMENITIES:

• The Abbott has a HUGE event space.
• Perfect for corporate events, non profits and weddings.
• The location is pretty awesome, just off the beaten path in the crossroads, not quite walkable anywhere but a super short drive to everything KC has to offer.
• The main room is big, a blank urban white canvas with an elegant flair with a stunning bar and loads of room for all sorts of floor plans.
• Elegant chandeliers bigger than I’ve ever seen and universal to all themes and styles that would come into the space.
• There is a stunner of a cocktail room with 3 large sliding doors that open and close off into the main event space. Utilize this for more intimate affairs or for a place to get the party started while the room is being transitioned into the reception set up. There is also a stunning glass and marble bar awaiting your guests arrival with it’s own entrance if you dont want people walking through the main space just quite yet. That cocktail room leads upstairs to a….
• Rooftop space with cozy outdoor furniture, string lights and a semi-pretty view of the downtown Kansas City skyscrapers.
• The Abbot’s luxurious gold back chairs for their space is so complimentary to their upscale chandeliers, sconces and even (yes I’m going to say it) super sexy bathrooms from floor to ceiling
• They also have two large garage doors right off the main entrance where you can fit things like food trucks, our Airstream and VW Bus Booth photobooths inside and more.
• High ceilings leaving balloon, floral or decor magic to happen a million different ways.
• Did I mention how SERIOUSLY SEXY their bathrooms are? It’s a place I’d just want to hang out awhile.

STAFF:

• The staff is usually flying under cover. There are lots of them helping around the spaces and behind the bar and all are willing to jump into action.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• As large as this space is, we were surprised to see how small the one suite is for any sort of bridal party to get ready in. It’s hardly a space to prep, but more a holding area for your belongings. It’s a cute little room tucked back behind the kitchen which makes it private but not the most ideal for photos or getting ready. And there’s only one.
• Their website doesn’t do it just at all. Search for White Iron Ridge on photographer blogs or social media. There is a plethora of elegant shoots and events done here. All very different also.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• The main entrance and the side door are both easily accessible for those with special needs or a wheelchair. The entire space is easily maneuverable except the rooftop. I do not believe there is access to the rooftop other than the large stairwell up.

WEBSITE: www.theabbottvenue.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: Oh this darling little hidden gem, the Guild has it ALL. If you’re looking for a darker moodier city venue with a beautifully lit outdoor space in a hidden garden, this is your place. It is right smack dab in the idealistic middle of the crossroads Kansas City and has literally everything you could dream of in one place from great parking (wha?), to an outdoor ceremony area surrounded by grass and trees (you’d never know you were in the city), stunning indoor event space with yet again another HUGE elegant chandelier they’re kind of known for in the heart of their space, along with a large garage door into the venue to get vehicles and such into, and a fun little cocktail room with a small bar if needed. There’s also getting ready rooms here. It’s a dreamy brick and urban place that has the whole package which is ideal for both clients, guests and vendors.

AMENITIES:

• Two large getting ready rooms, nailed it.
• A pretty large main event space that, depending on the view or photo taken, can look sleek and elegant along the white shiney tiled wall, or look the other direction to a more urban red brick. It’s like having the best of both worlds again.
• The outdoor patio area feels like a little park nestled in the city, you’d never know. And it’s only about 5 steps outside the main event space alongside the parking. It’s easy for guests (older guests, wheelchair guests or those with special needs) to get around without moving around a whole lot.
• You heard right.. I said PARKING! I love that Kansas City is still a place where we can have parking lots next to our downtown buildings. Only here in KC. The Guild has a side parking lot and a back parking space, perfect for outdoor food trucks, our Airstream or VW Bus Booth photo booths and the like.
• There’s something about the bathrooms at event spaces that are so appealing. Their bathrooms have a neat historic charm to them just off the main space.
• Semi high, darker ceilings that aren’t a focal point other than large elegant chandelier that steals the show.
• The Guild is literally walkable anywhere for photos or a quick drink/bite post event.

STAFF:

• There isn’t a single staff member I don’t love working with. They’re low key, easy to and quick to communicate with if you need them, but also stay out of the way and work like flys on the wall when it’s the right time. A few from their staff have received quite a few awards from vendors who adore them in the area. They are super friendly and organized as well.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• It’s a tad bit dark in there for a natural light photographer’s liking. But if you hire a professional, they should be able to bring in their own non obtrusive lighting and nail that elegant, candle lit, sexy city vibe most everyone is going for in this space.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• The main entrance off the city sidewalk is special needs friendly, as well as the back entrance into both the space and the ceremony area. The entrance into the ceremony might have a *slight* hill upward but it’s such a short distance it’s not burdensome.

WEBSITE: www.theguildkc.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: Rich in history, the Grand Hall Event Space is a timeless, elegant, historic space bringing Kansas City history lovers together for a night under the skyscrapers. Sitting in the main hub of downtown KC, it has that “wave down a taxi” or “get swept away in a limo” vibe. It’s interior speaks for itself with its 2 story open space allowing for multi room and style set ups.

AMENITIES:

• One of the most stunning getting ready bridal suites (more feminine) with large frosted windows perfect for photography, big beautiful mirrors, glass and mirror everything and beautiful luxury seating both cozy and more dinette style, as well as a second bridal suite (very dark, leather and more masculine).
• Perfect for corporate events, non profits and weddings.
• You walk into the space and without a single thing in it, can see its historic charm from vintage lighting, detailed trim, poles and crown moldings to the picturesque double staircase melting from the top floor open to the event space, down to the main hall.
• The ceiling height openly scales two stories so you can have tables and cocktail hours set up on the second story that overlooks into the main hall.
• Almost the entire walls are glass windows looking into the city, which makes it a PERFECT back up location for indoor photos in case of a rainy day. With a backdrop like these details and lighting, I’d gladly shoot in here on the second story any day.
• The main hall is darker, more moody perfect for candlit events, beautiful uplighting and all sorts of creative lighting.
• Couple’s getting married here typically get access to the private rooftop lounge and outdoor wrap around patio which is great for a beautiful (and super windy always) sunset photo session. It’s an experience everyone should have if you’re from KC. It’s the best view in the house!

STAFF:

• The staff before we ADORED. Literally one of our favorites to work with. They have had new staff in the last year or so and we have not had the honors of working with them yet. We’ll be excited to meet them and I would imagine they are just as professional and kind as before being such a great venue.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• The bathroom situation is not the hottest here. On the main hall, you have a shared single bathroom alone off the main space. Or you can track your steps up to the second floor to find the bathrooms in the bridal suites, which guests typically don’t enter. That leaves ONE bathroom for your hundreds of guests.
• There is not an easily accessible elevator from the main space to get to the second story easily. I believe you’d have to go out the main door, around the city sidewalks into the side door to access the elevator.
• Parking! Definitely not a favorite venue for parking. You have to find garages, valet or lucky street parking and walk a bit. It’s definitely not ideal for vendors to park and get into the space quickly.
• Vendor loading & unloading for set up isn’t ideal being off the main street. We can pull over with hazards and unload as quick as possible but it’s not a friendly space being a main street, for lingering vendors.
• It’s almost like a dark pit for photographers to shoot in. If you don’t know off camera flash, you are almost always likely to fail capturing your guests in this space, professionally and with quality. Lights are needed 100% of the time on the main floor/event space.
• Walkable everywhere in the main downtown KC area for great photos.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Not the best acoustics for music (from my personal perspective).
• From the city sidewalks into the main space, it is a typical entrance door and the main hall is all on one floor easy to get around.
• However, there is not an easily accessible elevator from the main space to get to the second story easily, without going up a few stairs. Many events have something special up there too so you can almost always count on the need to use the side door and elevator. I believe you’d have to go out the main door, around the city sidewalks into the side door to access the elevator.
• The side door is also the entrance into the P&L apartments so they are not unlocked the majority of the time. You’d have to have a venue host or someone on site allowing those who need to, to get in to that side door. It isn’t horrible but it can bring a need for problem solving for some guests.

WEBSITE: www.thegrandhallkc.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: Just 45 or so minutes from Kansas City, the Timber Barn arrived at the already established Weston Red Barn Farm in the Fall of 2015 and completely changed the Kansas City wedding market for those who love the countryside and natural world of wonder. From it’s towering hilltop perch, the Timber Barn is a year round barn that overlooks rolling hills, apple orchards, lush fields, and forests. Featuring hand-cut white oak beams, soaring 40 foot ceilings, and a one-of-a-kind 160 year-old factory fly wheel chandelier, the Timber Barn is renowned for its unparalleled charm and beauty. AMENITIES:

• Everyone shouted “AMEN” when they built the Timberbarn. It was built for year round usability with both air conditioning and heating. This quickly became Kansas City’s rustic wedding venue for those reasons.
• Sitting on top of a hill by it’s lonesome, it gives for much privacy and open skies to the stars at night.
• Durring non dry or high wind seasons, you are welcome to have an outdoor bonfire area for guests.
• There is enough gravel parking for everyone attending events here.
• It has ONE getting ready space that is pretty ok in size. It’s not the largest but one set of the bridal party team usually loves getting ready here because it’s secluded and on site.
• It is one big room, pretty decent in size.
• There is a large barn door that opens to the brick patio if you want to extend the party outdoors or bring the outdoor stary night to your indoor event.
• There is a large newly built cement and covered patio for event more space, which also allows for a great set up to prepare for that outdoor ceremony if desired.
• There is an outdoor ceremony area with rustic seating that overlooks the rolling hills just off the apple orchard.
• The sunset is stunning here for photos.
• Animals can be used in your photos by request.
• Lots of room for kids to run, yard games to be played and good conversations to be had.
• Just a quick little walk to the farm animals for those who want to love on them.
• The town of Weston is SO inviting and charming and has great bars, restaurants and some local airbnb/hotels. If you party at the Timberbarn, you MUST stop at the history town of Weston to experience it in it’s full glory.

STAFF:

• Being a family owned and operated, year round functioning farm, this staff is ALWAYS top notch. They live on property, they’ve raised their children here, their children have helped run the event spaces as adults (that’s right, there are two), so we always love this generational staff.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• There is no second suite.
• With it mostly being a big open barn, there really is no “get away” areas to be hidden in private besides that one suite which makes it hard to hide people before ceremonies or if couples don’t want to see each other before hand.
• Your cars always leave dirty. Common’.. it should be expected however. It is the country after all.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• With a lot of dirt roads, gravel to the venues, and old cobblestone patios and wood flooring outside it can be a little hard for those with special needs to get into the space. Doable, but not ideal.

WEBSITE: www.westonredbarnfarm.com/weddings

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: Located in the heart of the Power and Light District in Kansas City, Missouri sits this downtown Hilton President hotel and event space. For those who want the high class, luxurious, romantic, moody and elegant feel of rich history in Kansas City, the Hilton President in downtown Kansas City is a place to check out.

AMENITIES:

• This 1920s building is a National Historic Landmark.
• Lots of ornate, gold trimmings are reminiscent of a 19th-century estate or palace.
• Large venue size.
• A large ballroom style event space.
• Shiny elegant patterned floors.
• Big windows that can open for natural light, or close for the candlelit romantic feel.
• Rich history.
• Beautiful golds from floor to ceiling.
• Once again, massive and impressive chandeliers that make the space.
• Rounded ceilings making for a unique touch compared to other venues.
• Fun lobby areas for extra party services or cocktail hours.
• A beautiful hotel for guests to stay and rooms for getting ready/prepping.
• Detail work on the walls, trim and pillars that are jaw dropping.

STAFF:

• We haven’t worked here in the last couple of years to know any current staff.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• It can feel really dark in there for a photographer. But that’s the look the clients want. With OCF skills you should be golden!
• No outdoor spaces.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Fully handicap accessible from parking lot to elevators to the event space.

WEBSITE: www.theknot.com/marketplace/hilton-president-kansas-city-kansas-city-mo-212880

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: Who doesn’t love one of the most world-renowned historic institution, venue and beloved buildings in all of Kansas City? The nostalgia and architecture alone sets the Nelson Atkins Museum of Art apart for distinguished events. With it being both a place of architecture and art, it also sits on acreage of lush green lawn and trees which makes it a perfect place to stay all day for the event AND photos. If you want an elegant event full of rich history AND to feel like you’re in a park, you’ve chosen the right place. Hosting your event at the museum is a unique way to support the arts and their mission to offer free admission to everyone.

AMENITIES:

• Art, art and more art! (For the art lovers)
• Being the second photographer to ever capture an outdoor wedding ceremony on the South lawn “Sculpture Park” the Nelson Atkins now offers this intimate outdoor ceremony location. Which means there is both an outdoor space for intimate gatherings and a large indoor space in Kirkwood Hall.
• There is the historic architecture and pillars indoor and out, as well as the newer addition: the modern building which has sleek exterior walls for both styles of backdrops.
• The photo opportunities are endless here and you never have to leave this site to get both the city look and one of the most beautifully upkept natural outdoors area. Surrounded by trees, trails, open fields, the north pool with the main entrance pillars as a backdrop, and even some indoor places for photos make this place so great.
• Great parking in a closed and monitored underground garage that leads to the space.
• The main even hall not only is high class with it’s large floor to ceiling pillars and sky lit windows..
• But it sounds angelic as well with it’s acoustics. It can get pretty loud with live music in here however but no one’s ever complained because the parties here are always a huge hit!
• With Rozelle Court just off the main hall, you can shift people into the elegant, historic, string lit space with an indoor fountain and lots of intimate tables for small bites and good conversation.
• In house catering for fancier upscale dining!

STAFF:

• Typically friendly and quieter. A little high stressed but they have every right to be with high levels of security and protocols.
• Normally hard to find. You’ll want a third party coordinator for sure on duty when utilizing this space.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• Because the Nelson Atkins is so large that means LOTS of walking. Even from the parking lot to the main space, you’ll get quite the steps in.
• Having to be checked in and escorted everywhere (as vendors or couples who want to take photos indoor anywhere) due to the high level of security for the art. It just takes a bit longer when planning to get around.
• There isn’t ideal set apart spaces for getting ready if you want to host a wedding here. You’ll want to plan on getting ready elsewhere and driving in.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Fully handicap accessible from parking garage, to elevators to the event space.

WEBSITE: www.nelson-atkins.org/event-rental/wedding/

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: I can’t say enough good things! Offering a cozy estate like ambiance, 1890 Event Space has sophisticated natural charm tucked away on a private property in yet again, the beautiful rolling hills of Weston, Missouri. It’s elevated, high class, yet one with nature. It’s up kept and modern, everything you need in one place from a private stay to an outdoor gathering, to an indoor celebration to top the night off under the country stars.

AMENITIES:

• A short 40-45 min drive North from Kansas City.
• There are two locations here: 1890 and The Fields. We’ve never visited or seen The Fields however so we’re just talking about 1890’s event space in this post.
• 1890 has a usable Victorian home with rooms, kitchen areas and living spaces rich in family history and detail work for getting ready, gathering, being tucked away, storage and more.
• There is a phenomenal outdoor garden ceremony area for intimate gatherings and celebrations with an included elevated altar and white arbor.
• Rentals galore and lots included!
• Lots of covered, open and outdoor patio areas for any cocktail hour needs. There are also outdoor bars easily accessible.
• Lots of property for photos and spending time loving the outdoors.
• There has been an added (red) barn space for the more modern rustic vibe (typically where a lot of guys spend their time pre event).
• Lots of easy cement parking near everything.
• Beautiful estate property with trees and fields for stunning photos.

STAFF:

• We literally love everyone here! You can’t go wrong. They are so helpful, courteous, they care and they’re all always working so hard.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• I honestly don’t think there’s a single con about this place. Maybe the semi-far drive from those nearer the city.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Fully handicap accessible from parking lot, to the cement aisle that leads to the outdoor ceremony seating, to the event space.

WEBSITE: www.1890kc.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: The Bardot by Abbott Hospitality delivers intriguing intimacy and old-school glamor to Grand Boulevard. Peppered with artful details and mystique, The Bardot is every bit a full package deal.

AMENITIES:

• With lots of black details, white walls and open wood beam ceilings, the beautiful urban main event space provides a cozy space for charm.
• One energizing bridal suite downstairs where it’s more intimate and moody (no windows for privacy).
• Two indoor levels: the main event space plus the downstairs “speak easy” sort of space
• A large expansive rooftop space that overlooks north into downtown Kansas City and the TMobile center, perfect for photos and romantic dances under the twinkle lights.
• Eye-catching art pieces throughout the space including their famous chandelier over the stairs.
• Outdoor rooftop wedding venue space equipped with speciality lighting and bar.
• Full functioning catering kitchen.
• A “greenery” wall in the corner which seems to be a staple for cake tables or candy bars.
• A really sexy detailed bar in the back with a full kitchen hidden away behind.

STAFF:

• We’ve worked there a handful of times but I’m not sure we’ve met staff here. We are typically working with third party coordinating services for events here.

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• Parking is never fun in the city!
• The lighting is a little yellow for photographers but if you know how to work external lights, you should be golden.
• Only having one suite for prepping.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Fully handicap accessible from the front doors to and around the event space. Probably not ideal for restrooms but I’m not too sure if they have any on the first floor for wheelchair guests to get to, to be honest.

WEBSITE: www.thebardotvenue.com

Overall Rating:

WHY WE LOVE: The absolute #1 reason Outreach Event Space is set apart from ALL other venues in Kansas City… Rent this space and your payment will help people worldwide develop solutions to poverty. You’re going to be throwing a party, and there are those who have needs to be met, so you are sure partying with a purpose here. It’s a win-win for everyone!

AMENITIES:

• In the heart of crossroads district.
• Ground level to the main hub 18th street.
• Not too large and not too small, but the perfect size.
• A beautiful walk anywhere in KC, just a block and a half from the Kauffman Performing Arts building.
• Two private suites, one larger and more feminine in decor, the second very modern city vibe with a masculine touch.
• Private kitchen and dining area FOR YOU included in the rental.
• A main event space under twinkle stars for a more urban celebratory feel.
• Back private parking for 3.
• A parking garage just .5 block behind the building.
• Projectors and sound equipment included.

STAFF:

• Prompt, easy to work with, with massive hearts for what they do and also celebrating you!

OUR LEAST FAVORITE (BC LETS BE HONEST, NO ONE IS PERFECT):

• Parking is really the only downfall here. There is complimentary street parking, or a paid parking garage just .5 block behind the building for an easy walk to the space.
• It’s a tad bit small but it functions great for more intimate affairs.
• It’s a bit “orangey” inside with the lighting, red brick and floors all reflecting each other. Not a phone photo fav lit place.

SPECIAL NEEDS ACCESSIBLE:

• Fully handicap accessible from parking front wheelchair ramp, to the lift from first floor to the second, and the bathrooms and countertops in one bridal suite are all to accomodate those in wheelchairs or special needs.

WEBSITE: www.outreacheventspace.com

Overall Rating:

Of course these are amongst a handful of so many other favorites, it was hard to pick.

Here is a list of some of those other favorites that didn’t make this first list: Barn at Riverbend, Hotel KC, Lone Summit Ranch, The Hawthorne House, The Midland Theatre, The Hobbs, Kauffman Performing Arts, The Gallery, and so many more..

Comment below if you held an event at any of these venues and loved it! What DID you love about it?