THE BRIDE guide
YOU’VE SET THE DATE—WHAT’S NEXT? Most wedding planners will agree that booking the venue should be one of the first things on your growing to-do list. As you’re touring facilities, keep in mind the size of your guest list and make note of aspects like lighting, parking, privacy, and the room’s decor—you don’t want it to completely clash with your personal tastes or color palette.
Once you have decided on your location, you can move forward with all the other details of your big day—like finding the perfect gown, choosing invitations, and picking out blooms for a gorgeous bouquet. Oh, and sampling cake.
If you’re not sure where to start, browse this list of venues for bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, ceremonies, and receptions in and around Indianapolis. You’ll find important information about seating capacities and notable architectural features to help you begin your search.
BALLROOMS & EVENT FACILITIES
416 WABASH
416 E. Wabash St., 317-576-9643
Featuring a 1,000-square-foot lighted dance floor, this industrial-inspired space in downtown Indy has three bar areas on multiple levels, a JBL sound system, and an elevated DJ booth with a glass floor.
CAPACITY: 588 standing, 200 seated.
502 EAST EVENT CENTRE
502 E. Carmel Dr., Carmel, 317-843-1234
Hamilton County’s largest event venue can accommodate a range of party sizes. Its newest addition, a 5,000-square-foot foyer, welcomes guests into the elegant space. It also offers plenty of parking, a separate ceremony site, an event concierge for the entire duration, and a bridal suite and groom’s room.
CAPACITY: 60–1,200, depending on room layout.
THE ATRIUM BANQUET & CONFERENCE CENTER
3143 E. Thompson Rd., 317-782-4467
Established in 1998, the Atrium brings sophisticated elegance to any wedding with high, 13-foot ceilings, gorgeous chandeliers, wall sconces, lit trees, and mirrors. The versatile staff will work with couples to design the perfect fit.
CAPACITY: 50–800.
BASH
1235 N. Keystone Way, Carmel, 317-343-4138
Located adjacent to Carmel’s Merchant’s Square, Bash is a light, open, and airy event space with wood floors, white walls, sliding barn doors, and overhead string lighting for a charming effect. The venue is also pet friendly, should you choose to include Fido in your nuptials.
CAPACITIES: 200 seated.
BEESON HALL
396 Branigin Blvd., Franklin, 317-346-1197
malones-catering.com/beeson-hall
The brick building near Franklin College can accommodate events indoors or out. The wood gazebo on the grounds provides a romantic spot to tie the knot under the trees before heading in to dance the night away.
CAPACITIES: 50 outdoor guests; 250 indoors.
BILTWELL EVENT CENTER
950 S. White River Pkwy. W. Dr., 317-916-6000
Built in 1922, this former warehouse was converted into an event space in 2014. Not far from Lucas Oil Stadium, Biltwell features exposed-brick walls, sliding metal doors, skyline views, 20-foot ceilings, and a large parking lot.
CAPACITIES: The Overlook, 90 seated; The Dock and The Deck, 200 seated; Gallery 1922, 350 seated; The Grand Hall, 600 seated.
BLACK IRIS ESTATE
5801 E. 116th St., Carmel, 317-542-8333
This venue showcases beautiful vistas for both indoor and outdoor weddings. A recently renovated interior lends an elegant Southern-plantation feel, with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto a wooded setting.
CAPACITIES: Ballroom, 350 seated with dance floor, 400 seated without. Outdoor garden area for ceremonies.
CANAL 337
337 W. 11th St., 317-624-0337
Located on the north end of Central Canal, this locale boasts a rustic-chic atmosphere with earthy elements, outdoor spaces on two levels, and great views of the downtown skyline.
CAPACITIES: Balcony, 20 seated dinner, 30 ceremony, 50 reception; first floor, 200 seated dinner, 200 ceremony, 350 reception; second floor, 130 seated dinner, 200 ceremony, 250 reception; terrace, 150 seated dinner, 150 ceremony, 250 reception.
THE COLUMNS BALLROOM
230 W. Main St., Greenwood, 317-887-6631
Tall ceilings, hardwood floors, and a balcony overlooking the spacious ballroom set a polished tone for any event. A full-service cake-cutting package includes plates, napkins, silverware, a cake attendant, and a bottle of champagne. The Colonnade Room is ideal for bridal showers and rehearsal dinners.
CAPACITIES: Colonnade Room, 60 seated; ballroom, 225 seated.
COMMUNITY LIFE CENTER
10612 E. Washington St., 317-396-3728
Located on the campus of Washington Park East Cemetery, the 10,000-square-foot Community Life Center offers multiple options for ritzy receptions. Highlights include a stone tower with a dazzling crystal chandelier and winding staircase, and the rotunda with imported Italian marble flooring, an art gallery, and water feature.
CAPACITIES: Crystal Tower and Glass Atrium, 200; Rotunda, 225; Buchanan Ballroom, 300.
THE CRANE BAY EVENT CENTER
551 W. Merrill St., 317-423-2999
The Crane Bay offers thousands of square feet, onsite parking, customizable lighting packages, and a location
