About Grand Rapids
Grand Rapids is the second-largest city in Michigan with many titles to boast, some of which include “Furniture City”, “River City” and “Beer City” as dubbed by USA Today. While those titles hold true with Grand Rapids being one of the cities in which massive furniture companies call their home, the Grand River being the source of the city’s name, and the city boasting a great collection of local craft beer, there is so much more Grand Rapids has to offer.
The city can only be described as a small city with a big city vibe. Activities and amenities are available all around without the hassle and noise that comes with a big city. Travel to the many museums and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant art or take a walk along the trails and observe the breathtaking scenery.
Searching for locations to host a wedding reception can be quite challenging but with Grand Rapids, most don't have to look far. Grand Rapids wedding reception venues can range from having the event under the stars to making wonderful use of a rustic building.
Wedding Reception Options in Grand Rapids
Wedding receptions are often the highlight of any wedding. Grand Rapids wedding reception venues differ but more importantly, they offer a variety of options that can make the event a success.
- Catering
Food is a statement. Look around and you will find various Grand Rapids caterers offering packages and custom menus that will have the guests talking about it for years to come.
- Photography
Eternalize the joy and laughter on your big day. Choose to keep the memories in an album full of pictures taken by a professional photographer, in a video documenting the entire event or take the option of both. Grand Rapids is sure to have a professional photographer and/or videographer right for the job.
- Entertainment
Keep the spirit of the wedding alive and make sure you’ll never have a dull moment. Grand Rapids has a selection of DJs to keep guests on the dance floor. If you choose to have a unique twist to the event, various live bands are available for hire, catering to the genres that suit you.
- Decorations
Flowers, lights, the right color of linens and other decor, a wedding has to have the right atmosphere. Many professionals in Grand Rapids are more than willing to offer their services to help create an event that will remain unforgettable and magical for both the couple and their guests.
- Rentals
No need to haul everything to the venue in a trailer. Anything you need, from tablecloths straight down to the chairs and barware, Grand Rapids has you covered with their rental services.
Wedding Reception Companies in Grand Rapids
Wedding reception venues in Grand Rapids are available for any preference. As far as rentals and event planners go, Grand Rapids is sure to provide many choices.
- Complete Weddings + Events
Undergoing all the planning for a wedding reception alone can be taxing on the human mind and body. Complete Weddings + Events offer to take that weight off your shoulders with a team of professionals who will guide you and plan the perfect reception right down to the smallest details.
- Alpine Events - The Rental Company
Alpine Events is a rental company specializing in giving you what you need for the reception, be it audio equipment, tents, heaters, lighting and more. In addition, they have a reliable and professional team to help with the setup.
- Dreamscape Desserts
What is a wedding with no cake? Dreamscape Desserts have been making high-quality cakes for weddings and just about any occasion in Grand Rapids since 2013.
Pros and Cons of Wedding Receptions in Grand Rapids
It’s only natural to want perfection when planning an event as big as a wedding reception. To do that, looking at the pros and cons of having a wedding reception venue in Grand Rapids can truly help you make your decision.
Advantages
- Affordable
Grand Rapids being a moderately sized city only means that things are affordable and still have the luxuries a big city offers.
- Traffic
No one likes to be late. In Grand Rapids, even during rush hour, the traffic is sparse. It's a guarantee that you will reach your destination in time.
- Breathtaking nature
The scenery. The green of the trees in summer and spring along with the blue of the river make for a pretty backdrop for many outdoor wedding reception venues in Grand Rapids.
- Things to do
Grand Rapids is diverse in the way that you would never run out of things to do. Whether your venue choice is outdoor or indoor, there will always be an activity to keep things fun.
- Summer is lovely
Summer in Grand Rapids creates the perfect weather to host a summer wedding reception. A general temperature one can expect would be 75F° accompanied by a soft breeze.
Disadvantages
- Crime rates
Grand Rapids can be considered as the second most dangerous city in the Michigan area. However, while it is better to be careful, Grand Rapids is still fairly safe compared to other cities.
- Weather
Weather in Grand Rapids can be quite unpredictable. Rain or shine a wedding goes on, but be sure to plan for rain and cool temperatures.
- Winter
Grand Rapids is known to have rough winters. For wedding receptions held in winter, there are plenty of indoor wedding reception venues in Grand Rapids that offer protection and warmth from the cold winds outside.
Famous Locations in Grand Rapids
- Fredereick Meijer Garden and Sculpture Park
Both permanent and temporary displays draw the public to one of the best art centers in North America. Exhibitions, different types of gardens with their own flora be it local or international, as well as kid-friendly spaces make this place a must-see.
- Downtown Market Grand Rapids
To fully complete the Grand Rapids experience, it’s important that you visit the heart of the city: the Downtown Market Grand Rapids. It is an absolute paradise for food lovers! Order take-out or try one of the eateries. Experience artisan cuisine and maybe even take a class.
- Grand Rapids Public Museum
Visit the Grand Rapids Public Museum and see its rich offerings. Culture, history and science collections are all wrapped up into one incredible package. This museum may take a few visits to see all there is. Plan to learn and be amazed.