A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Venue for Your Wedding or Event

When it comes to planning a wedding or special event, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is choosing the venue. Your venue sets the stage for the entire experience, from the ambiance to the logistics of your big day. To help you make the best choice, we’ve prepared this guide with essential tips and considerations.

1. Location, Location, Location

The first step in finding the perfect venue is determining the location. Here are a few things to think about:

  • Proximity: Consider the location’s proximity to where most of your guests live or where you are based. You want your venue to be convenient for everyone. Alternatively, pick a location that has special meaning to you!
    • Our venue is located in the heart of the Entertainment District right downtown Ann Arbor, and is less than a mile from the Big House.
  • Scenery: Think about the backdrop you desire for your event. Choose a location that complements your vision.
    • Did you know? Our venue is the only Ann Arbor bar with unobstructed views of the sunset on our outdoor Roof Deck.
  • Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible and has adequate parking or transportation options for your guests.
    • Our building is ADA compliant, and features ramps, elevator and lift access for differently-abled guests.
    • Ann Arbor street parking is free after 6PM, and free on Sundays. There are multiple paid parking lots within walking distance to the venue, as well as convenient parking structure across the street (Monthly Parking Only until 3PM, after which is a $5 flat rate)

2. Size Matters

The size of your venue should match the size of your guest list. Here’s what to keep in mind:

  • Capacity: Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your expected number of guests. It’s essential to have enough space for everyone to move around comfortably.
    • Our venue has a standing room of over 500 (excluding outdoor areas!) Please see our spaces to see what the capacity per each space is to plan accordingly.
  • Layout: Consider the layout of the venue. Will there be room for a dance floor, stage, or buffet area?
    • Tip: ask your venue coordinator for recommendations! She can share examples of floor plans and layouts other clients have used in the past!

3. Style and Theme

Your venue should align with the style and theme you envision for your event:

  • Architectural Style: Look for venues with architectural elements that resonate with your style, whether it’s modern, rustic, historic, or elegant.
    • The building that houses are venue spaces was believed to have been constructed as early as 1850! The venue was restored to feature the original architecture, making our venue a mix of modern/industrial/rustic/and historic! Please see here to read more about our venue’s history.
  • Flexibility: Some venues offer a blank canvas that allows you to bring in your own decor and styling elements. Others may have a distinct theme or decor that you’ll need to work with or around.
    • You may use any of the decor that is already included in our space, but we can also clear out certain items if they don’t fit your aesthetic.

4. Amenities and Services

Consider what amenities and services the venue provides:

  • Catering: Does the venue offer in-house catering, or can you bring in your own caterer?
    • For our venue, the answer to both of these questions is yes! Please see our list of our preferred vendors. All outside catering is subject to approval, and has a $500 cleaning fee which includes usage of our kitchens.
  • Staff and Coordination: Inquire about the venue’s event staff and coordination services. Having experienced professionals can ease the planning process.
    • Please note there is a distinctive difference between a venue coordinator and an event planner, please see here for more.
  • Technology: If you require audiovisual equipment, ensure the venue has the necessary technology and technical support.
    • Our venue rental fee includes A/V services (usage of in-house system and help setting up), but not the services of a DJ – you must hire your own, or you can add on the services of our in-house DJ (private events only).

5. Budget

Your budget plays a significant role in venue selection:

  • Cost Transparency: Be clear on all costs associated with the venue, including rental fees, service charges, and any additional fees for special services.
    • Our venue rental fee does NOT include food and drink. All items subject to 6% tax. Food and Drink is subject to a 20% service charge which goes directly to tipping the staff working your event. Lastly, there is a credit card fee which can be waived if paying via cash or check.
  • Prioritize: Determine what aspects of the venue are most important to you and allocate your budget accordingly.
    • Many of our clients book the space because the venue speaks for itself. The naturally beautiful space does not need a ton of decorations to make your event memorable.
  • Off-Peak Savings: Consider booking your event during the venue’s off-peak season or on a weekday to potentially secure cost savings.
    • Given that we are located in a college town that has a Big Ten School , our peak season is actually in the Fall! Please consider local events such as UofM graduation and football games when booking.

6. Visit and Visualize

Once you’ve narrowed down your options, don’t forget to visit the venues in person:

  • Site Visits: Schedule site visits to get a feel for the space, see how it’s set up for events, and visualize your celebration there.
    • Feel free to visit our venue during our open hours, our schedule a guided-tour with our venue coordinators! Guided tours are typically held on Tuesdays/Thursdays during the day. Please inquire within for other availability.
  • Ask Questions: Prepare a list of questions to ask the venue coordinator during your visit. It’s the perfect opportunity to address any concerns or special requests.
    • We have a list of Frequently Asked Questions! Please see here.

7. Read Reviews and Get Recommendations

Research the venue’s reputation by reading reviews from past clients and seeking recommendations from friends or family:

  • Online Reviews: Check online review platforms like Google, WeddingWire, or The Knot for feedback from past clients who have held events at the venue.
    • Read our The Knot reviews here!
  • Word of Mouth: Personal recommendations can be invaluable, as they come from people you trust.

Selecting the perfect venue for your wedding or event may take time, but with careful consideration of these factors, you’ll be well on your way to creating a memorable and seamless celebration. Remember that your venue should not only meet your practical needs but also resonate with the vision and style of your special day. Happy venue hunting!

5 Unique Themes for a Corporate Event

Corporate events don’t always have to be in a meeting room setting, they can be nearly anywhere. A great place to host a corporate event is at a historic bar like The Circ Bar and Rabbit Hole at Root. When you host a corporate event at such a unique venue, you may also want to consider a unique theme. We have put together 5 different unique themes for a unique location. 

Fall Fest

Our Mural Courtyard is the perfect place for a fall event. The space is already equipped with two fire pits and a covered Tiki bar for breezy fall nights. You can add activities such as bobbing for apples, carving pumpkins, and eating donuts for the perfect fall fest! 

Casino Night 

What’s more fun than playing casino games with your coworkers? We work with local casino rentals to bring games such as Poker, Roulette, Slot Machines, and more! With our signature marquee arrow and our in-house dance club lights, we can easily transform The Circ Bar into a casino for the night. 

Scavenger Hunt 

The entire venue at 210 South 1st Street is perfect for a company-wide scavenger hunt. There are so many nooks and crannies around our venue for items to be hidden and found. You can do this as a solo or group activity. You get to explore the beautiful venue and work with your coworkers in a new way. 

Karaoke 

The Circ Bar already has a stage and a large selection of Karaoke songs, all you have to do is bring the singers. Singing in front of your coworkers is a great team-building activity. After everyone is done singing, you can celebrate with our large selection of craft beers and bar eats. 

Whiskey/Wine Pairing 

Rabbit Hole at Root is the best location in the city of Ann Arbor for a Whiskey or Wine Pairing event. We pour the drinks and supply the food. You learn the tasting notes and which coworkers of yours enjoy the same whiskey or wine as you. 

Corporate events are meant to be fun and social for your staff members. These five themes are great ways to ensure that your staff has the time of their life at your next event. Inspired? If you’re interested in throwing one of these themed parties with us, contact our team by filling out this inquiry form.

5 Tips for the Best Brunch Wedding Ever

Time to spill the tea – we’re talking all things brunch weddings! That’s right, we’re serving up a steaming plate of the best brunch tips we’ve seen.

1. Pick the Perfect Venue: One of the things that makes brunch weddings so magical is that special morning sunlight. Look for venues that offer both indoor and outdoor options, like the Roof Deck at Circ, to make the most of your brunch wedding. 

2. Dress up your Dessert: While we love cake just as much as the next person, brunch weddings offer the perfect excuse to mix it up with a wide array of delicious breakfast-y desserts that look as good as they taste. Some of our favorites are donut walls, cinnamon bun “cakes”, and cereal bars! Get creative and pick something that’s meaningful to you!

3. Opt for Effortless Chic: Embrace a relaxed yet chic dress code for both the wedding party and guests. Think flowing sundresses, linen suits, and comfortable footwear that allow everyone to dance and celebrate with ease. Encourage a casual, laid-back atmosphere that matches the brunch vibe and encourages everyone to feel their best while enjoying the festivities.

4. Choose Interactive Entertainment: Keep the momentum going with interactive entertainment that brings a lighthearted touch to your brunch wedding. Set up lawn games like cornhole, giant Jenga, or croquet for guests to enjoy during the reception. A live acoustic performance or a jazz band can add a lively soundtrack to the morning, creating a joyful atmosphere for all.

5. Hire a Wedding Planner: A good wedding planner is the key to a stress-free day. They’ll help you manage your vendors, decorate your venue, and ensure your vision comes to life- all so you can focus on enjoying your celebration!

From basking in morning sunlight to dancing in chic comfort, these 5 tips serve up the ultimate guide for creating a morning celebration that’s as memorable as it is delicious.

Embracing Intimacy: 10 Compelling Reasons for a Small and Intimate Wedding

When it comes to weddings, bigger isn’t always better. In fact, an increasing number of couples are opting for smaller, more intimate weddings with fewer guests. This shift reflects a desire for meaningful and personal celebrations that truly resonate with the couple’s values and vision. If you’re considering going small, here are ten compelling reasons why an intimate wedding might be the perfect choice for you:

1. Deeper Connections: With fewer guests, you’ll have more time to connect with each person on a deeper level, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

2. Authentic Atmosphere: An intimate wedding allows you to create a warm and authentic atmosphere where every guest feels valued and cherished.

3. Meaningful Moments: Smaller weddings offer opportunities for more meaningful moments, from heartfelt toasts to candid conversations that touch the heart.

4. Stress Reduction: A smaller guest list means fewer logistics to manage, translating to less stress and more time to enjoy your special day.

5. Budget Flexibility: Hosting fewer guests often means more budget flexibility to allocate funds to details that truly matter to you.

6. Unconventional Venues: Smaller weddings open the door to unique and non-traditional venues that might not accommodate larger crowds.

7. Personalization: You can focus on personalizing every aspect of your wedding, ensuring it reflects your personalities and story.

8. Quality over Quantity: With fewer guests, you can invest in high-quality food, drinks, and entertainment that resonate with your tastes.

9. Intimate Ceremonies: Intimate weddings create an atmosphere where you can be fully present during your vows, making the ceremony even more special.

10. COVID-19 Considerations: In uncertain times, smaller weddings ensure compliance with safety regulations while maintaining a cherished celebration.

Ultimately, an intimate wedding allows you to prioritize what truly matters – love, connection, and shared moments. By embracing a smaller guest list, you’re creating an environment where every detail is infused with meaning, and every guest plays a significant role in your journey. Whether it’s sharing heartfelt conversations, laughing with loved ones, or dancing the night away with your closest friends, an intimate wedding is an opportunity to savor each moment and create a day that is uniquely yours.

Remember, your wedding day is a reflection of your love story, and choosing an intimate celebration can magnify the beauty and significance of that story. So, if you’re considering an intimate wedding, know that you’re choosing a path that prioritizes connection, authenticity, and the creation of memories that will forever hold a special place in your heart.

Saying ‘Yes’ to Brunch: Why Couples Are Opting for Morning Nuptials

Picture this: the sun rising, birds chirping, and love is brewing like a perfectly roasted coffee at the coolest brunch spot in town. Now add the joyous cheers of friends and family, sipping mimosas, and indulging in stacks of fluffy pancakes. Welcome to the irresistible world of brunch weddings, where love gets served with a side of bacon and extra smiles. We’ll dish out the delectable details and explore why brunch weddings are the hottest trend on the wedding menu.

In recent years, weddings have taken on a new look. Couples are bucking tradition in favor of venues, decor, and trends that feel authentic to their personal tastes. The result has been an explosion of unique weddings that guests rave about and that couples will remember forever. 

Perhaps one of our favorite trends is the brunch wedding. Brunch weddings began to get a lot of momentum during the pandemic and this is why you should seriously consider a brunch wedding for your celebration.

Let me set the scene for you: you and your significant other are dressed to the 9s and it’s 9:00am (it’s little early for some but bear with us, it will all be worth it in the end). Everything is fresh and green and there’s a gentle breeze. Your photographer begins to snap photos, masterfully catching you in the soft morning light. All is calm and peaceful. A few weeks later you receive your photos back and are stunned at how gorgeous and romantic they turned out. This is because you had a brunch wedding and made excellent use of the golden hour to get the dreamiest photos. 

Perhaps the most obvious reason to have a brunch wedding is in the namesake. What’s a brunch wedding without brunch? We believe that brunch food is the superior meal of the day – The Circ Bar is known for its Circ Saturday brunch parties, and $10 all-you-can-eat brunch buffet on Sundays! Brunch weddings boast great food that caterers to a wide array of palates, from sweet to savory. Instead of the boring beef or chicken options that everyone serves at their wedding, make a lasting impression on your guests with a mouthwatering brunch spread. Imagine: you can have crème brûlée french toast, next to a steaming bowl of cheddar grits, finished off with a donut from the donut wall. The sky’s the limit for the delicious food options you can serve to your guests. Our brunch packages includes in-house catering, click here for more information on what our Brunch Wedding packages include.

If the gorgeous pictures and incredible food aren’t enough to sell you, then consider the fantastic selection of cocktails and mocktails that shine during the early hours. From Bloody Marys to mimosas (and bellinis, sangria, espresso martinis, mint juleps, palomas and screwdrivers…the options are endless!), it’s hard to beat the brunch selection. For cocktail connoisseurs, brunch weddings really allow the drink selection to shine. Your guests can enjoy socializing with their drinks in the relaxed morning atmosphere.

With that glowing list of perks, it may come as a surprise to some that there’s even more to love about brunch weddings, but there is. While photos, food, and drinks are nice, saving money is in a class of its own. Brunch weddings tend to offer couples huge savings on venue rental fees, catering, and decor, all without sacrificing elegance. This option is perfect if you’re considering a smaller intimate gathering. See this post for the top reasons why more and more couples are having smaller, intimate weddings.

Convinced yet? We know what some of you might think: “gee those sounds great but I’d still love to celebrate with family and friends in the evening.” With all the money you’ve saved on your brunch wedding and with the whole evening wide open, there’s nothing stopping you from keeping the party going! Traditional weddings are an huge undertaking, starting as early as 7AM and ending the next day at 2AM (that’s 19 hours!). With a brunch wedding, you can take a midday nap after the festivities to recharge. Later, take your entourage and have an epic afterparty and dance the night away at your favorite clubs.

So there you have it – from early rays to everlasting love, brunch weddings deliver the perfect recipe for a day that’s as special as it is delicious. These sunrise celebrations offer a world of perks that you won’t find elsewhere. Let your special day be a symphony of tastes that linger in the hearts and memories of all who gather.

We could go on and on about our love for brunch weddings. Follow us on our instagram @events_at_circ to see brunch weddings in action at our venue, or continue reading in this article on Best Tips for Hosting Brunch Weddings.

10 Heartwarming Ways to Include Your Beloved Pet in Your Wedding

Your wedding day is one of the most special moments in your life, and for many of us, our pets are an integral part of the family. Including your furry friend in your wedding can add a touch of joy, love, and an extra dose of cuteness to your big day. Whether you have a lovable dog, a playful cat, or any other beloved pet, here are ten heartwarming ways to incorporate them into your wedding celebration.

  1. *Pet Attendant or Ring Bearer. Our venue IS dog friendly! Pets are allowed in our outdoor spaces, in both the Mural Courtyard & Railway Patio, as well as the Roof Deck. Assign a special role to your pet on the big day, like being a “pet attendant” or “ring bearer.” Dress them up in a cute outfit or a floral collar, and watch as they steal hearts while walking down the aisle.
  2. Save-the-Dates: Start the excitement early by including your pet in your save-the-date photos. Capture a candid moment with your furry companion to announce your upcoming wedding to family and friends.
  3. Invitations: Get creative with your wedding invitations by incorporating pet-themed designs or illustrations. This personal touch will make your invitations stand out and set the tone for your pet-inclusive wedding.
  4. Portraits: Display photos of your pet at the wedding venue. This can be a beautiful way to honor your beloved companion and make them feel like an essential part of the celebration, even if they can’t physically attend.
  5. Attire & Accessories: You can now put your beloved pet portraits in a myriad of different customized accessories. Consider putting your pet portraits in cufflinks for the groom, or carry your pets with you down the aisle with a small charm attached to your bouquet.
  1. Pet-Inspired Decorations: Incorporate pet-themed decorations throughout the ceremony and reception areas. One of our favorites that we’ve seen at our venue is the couple had ordered custom cocktail napkins with a portrait of their dog (look for Theo in our wedding souvenir display case in the Bridal Suite). Another one of our favorites is the couple had incorporated their cat Knox into their programs (seen above!).
  2. Cake: Replace the traditional bride-and-groom cake topper with a customized figurine that includes your pet. Alternatively, see if your cake artist can put incorporate your pets into the actual cake decoration.
  3. Favors: Many wedding favors offer customization; customize your wedding favors with a portrait of your pet instead. Another easy way to add your pet to customize your favors yourself is to order stickers of your pet; simply peel and stick!
  4. Photo Booth: Photo booths are a fun activity to provide your guests, as well as being a built-in take home souvenir. DIY or buy some custom props with your pet’s face on them for your guests to pose with.
  5. Signature Cocktails: Upgrade your bar package to include signature cocktails for the happy couple! Many of our couples who choose to have their weddings at our venue will actually name their cocktails after their pets; take this one step further and incorporate your pets into the signage for these.

*Remember, while involving your pet in your wedding can be magical, it’s essential to prioritize their comfort and safety throughout the day. Have a designated pet handler to care for them, provide a quiet space for breaks, and be prepared for unexpected situations.

With these ten heartwarming ideas, your wedding will be filled with love, happiness, and the delightful presence of your four-legged family member. Embrace the joy of sharing your special day with your beloved pet, and let them play a starring role in the beginning of your happily ever after.