The 3 Best Modern Wedding Venues & Spaces at The Penny

If you’re engaged, planning a wedding, or just single and browsing for some “modern wedding venues” Pinterest board inspiration, this is your golden ticket. Welcome to The Penny, a contemporary classic in San Luis Obispo, CA. With three exquisite venue spaces, including a breathtaking outdoor courtyard in the heart of downtown, your special day is bound to be unforgettable. After all, your love story deserves a picture-perfect setting. ✨

Address: 664 Marsh St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401

When I first stepped into The Penny, I knew it was something special. But before we get into why I fell head over heels for this place, let’s chat about why modern wedding venues are all the rage right now.

What’s the Buzz About Modern & Minimalist Wedding Venues?

Modern wedding venues are like that cool friend who always knows the latest trends but still appreciates the classics. They’re all about:

• Mixing old and new aesthetics: Think exposed brick walls with sleek furniture.
• Flexibility: Want to hang disco balls from the ceiling? Go for it!
• Urban vibes: City skylines and industrial chic wedding styles are totally in.
• Unique photography options: Your Instagram feed will thank you.

Some popular types of modern wedding venues include converted warehouses, hotel wedding venues, ballroom venues, rooftop spaces, and art galleries. But The Penny? It’s in a league of its own.

3 Contemporary Chic Venue Spaces at the Penny

Now, let me take you on a little tour of my favorite spots at The Penny.

The Historic Indoor Space: Where Time Stands Still

I’ll never forget the first time I walked into this room. It felt like I’d stepped into a time machine! This used to be a blacksmith shop back in the 1930s, can you believe it? The walls are made of this gorgeous clay brick that’s been there since day one. And those wooden beams on the ceiling? They’ve seen nearly a century of love stories unfold. But here’s the kicker – there’s this massive glass roll-up door that opens to a patio space outside. It’s the best of both worlds!

The Outdoor Courtyard: Your Secret Garden in Downtown San Luis Obispo

Step outside, and you’re in for a treat. The courtyard feels like a secret garden but with cool urban accents. There’s also this old barn from the 1930s that makes the perfect backdrop for photos (or exchanging your vows!). As the sun sets, the bistro lights come on, and let me tell you, it’s pure magic. You get gorgeous skyline views twinkling in the distance as you dance on our garden terrace. It’s romantic with a capital R and makes for an absolutely dreamy wedding celebration.

The Bridal Suite & Showroom: Your Pre-Wedding Hangout

Okay, this might be my favorite spot. It’s where the excitement of your big day really kicks in! The bridal lounge is vibrant, fun, and totally photo-ready. I can just picture you and your wedding party popping champagne, sharing laughs, and calming those pre-wedding jitters. Trust me, some of your favorite memories will be made right here.

Decorating Elegant Indoor Wedding Venues

Now, let’s talk decor. When it comes to modern wedding venues, less is often more. Here are some tips:

• Choose an elegant color palette: Stick to 2-3 colors for a cohesive look. Popular choices for modern weddings include white & navy, earthy brick tones, or neutrals.
• Play with textures: Mix metals, woods, and fabrics for depth.
• Lighting is key: String lights and candles create a romantic feel, while modern chandeliers and disco balls add to a glam look.
• Bring in greenery: Plants add life and soften industrial spaces.
• Make it personal: Add touches that reflect your story as a couple. Imagine the chic-est DIY like a hand-drawn map of all your favorite places together or a portrait of your pet.

At The Penny, we’ve got a secret weapon to help with all this – our in-house decor closet. It’s packed with pieces that’ll make your Pinterest board jealous. From chic candle holders to stylish table runners and whole lounge areas, we’ve got you covered.

Who’s The Penny For?

Let’s break it down:

FAQs For Curious Couples

Planning at The Penny in San Luis Obispo, California

How far in advance should I book a classy wedding venue?

• As they say, the early bride gets the venue! I’d say book your event venue at least 12-18 months ahead, especially for popular summer months.

Where are some other luxury modern wedding venues located?

• Southern California, specifically San Diego and Los Angeles, offers many rooftop gardens, waterfront ceremony spaces, and resort-style hotel wedding venues like The Hotel Del Coronado and Serendipity Gardens.
• The Texas Hill Country and parts of Utah are also famous for private destination wedding spots and mountain wedding venues like Paniolo Ranch and This Is The Place Heritage Park.
• Manhattan is also a popular spot for modern wedding venues and grand ballrooms overlooking its iconic downtown skyline. Chelsea Square is a well-known ceremony rental and reception space in the city.
• Arkansas, Missouri, and Georgia are common spots for luxury manors, ranches, and barn spaces like Meadows at Mossy Creek just outside of Atlanta.

How can I find a modern wedding venue near me?

• Start with a Google search Type in “modern wedding venues near me” and see what pops up. It’s a great starting point!
• Check out wedding websites like The Knot, WeddingWire, and Zola. They often list local wedding locations with photos and reviews.
• Ask your recently married friends. They might know some hidden gems you haven’t thought of yet.
• Consult a local wedding planner. These pros know all the coolest spots in town.
• Use social media! Instagram and Pinterest are goldmines for wedding venue inspiration. Try searching hashtags like #modernwedding.
• Check out hotel ballrooms, chapels, or botanical gardens. Many have been updated with modern decorations and amenities for wedding receptions.

Remember, the perfect venue is out there waiting for you. Don’t be afraid to think creatively and trust your gut feeling when you find “the one”!

What’s a reasonable budget for a modern wedding?

• Wedding budgets can vary widely depending on your location, guest count, and personal preferences. The average couple spends around 20-30,000 for their modern wedding. It’s best to sit down with your partner and decide what aspects are most important to you, then allocate your funds accordingly.

How can we make our wedding more eco-friendly?

• There are many ways to have a more sustainable wedding. Consider digital invitations, locally sourced flowers and food, rented or borrowable decor, and venues that practice environmental responsibility.

What are some alternatives to a traditional wedding cake?

• Dessert bars, donut walls, cheese wheels, or even a tower of your favorite pies are all fun, modern alternatives to the classic wedding cake.

What should I look for in a modern wedding dress?

Oh, I love this part! Let’s talk about what makes a wedding dress feel fresh and contemporary. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

• Clean lines are key! Modern dresses often have simple, sleek silhouettes. Think minimalist chic!
• Unexpected fabrics: Forget traditional lace. Look for dresses with cool textures like crepe, mikado, or even leather accents.
• Architectural details: Asymmetrical necklines, geometric patterns, or sculptural elements can make a dress feel super modern.
• Non-traditional colors: White isn’t your only option! Blush, champagne, or even black can make a bold, modern statement.
• Unique necklines: Off-the-shoulder, one-shoulder, or high-neck styles can give a dress a contemporary edge.
• Pockets! Because who doesn’t love a dress with pockets?
• Minimalist embellishments: If you want some sparkle, look for dresses with subtle, geometric beading or sequins.
• Short dresses: Tea-length or even mini dresses can be perfect for a modern city wedding.

Some websites I recommend browsing for inspiration are The Outnet, BHLDN, Reformation, and Azazie.

Start Planning

Alright, lovebirds, we’ve been on quite a journey together, haven’t we? From exploring The Penny’s time-warping indoor space to dreaming up your perfect modern wedding dress, we’ve covered a lot of ground. Whatever you envision for your special day, remember this: There are no rules in modern weddings. Only possibilities. Whether you choose The Penny (fingers crossed!) or another awesome venue, I hope this guide has sparked some ideas and gotten you excited about planning your big day. Remember, at the end of the day, the most important thing is that you’re marrying your person. Everything else is just icing on the (maybe non-traditional) cake. So here’s to love, laughter, and happily ever after – whatever that looks like for you!