The St. James Hotel is a gorgeous wedding venue with serious history — it was established in 1875! This hotel right in downtown Red Wing, Minnesota, is an all-inclusive venue with incredible views of the river valley. Get to know the story behind this location from the Wedding Sales Manager, Abby Hanson, below, and meet the team in person at Twin Cities Bridal Show!
Q: Let’s get to it, what’s your business’ specialty?
A: Weddings! We are in hospitality; we know how to make your wedding feel special and make all the details happen.
Q: Where can we find you?
A: Red Wing, Minnesota.
Q: What makes your venue unique from others?
A: Our 5 unique and diverse spaces. Each one provides a different feeling and aesthetic than the other.
Q: What is the history behind St. James Hotel?
A: Our history is what sets us apart from other companies the most. We are a unique property that has stayed the same for 144 years. Throughout the years there have only been three family ownerships. With our location right on the Mississippi River Valley on Minnesota Bluff Country, our views cannot be beat.
Q: How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then?
A: The St. James Hotel was established in 1875. What has changed the most would be the additions here and there or renovations to venues and restaurants in the building. The St. James Hotel’s mission is to provide the finest guest service, genuine memorable experiences, and to inspire connection to our rich local history through our iconic, boutique hotel.
Q: Walk us through your average workday.
A: Lots and lots of emails and phone calls! Wedding leads are the most important part of my day and responding in a timely manner. Most workdays involve discussing everything the St. James Hotel provides. I create quotes, contracts, and room blocks, and then the fun part – detailing the couple’s big day! From outlining their menu to linen color to diagram mock-ups. You name it!
Q: What would you want couples searching for wedding venues to know?
A: Find what YOU want and envision. So many people are going to have input on what to look for or what you should have at the wedding. The only thing that matters is that YOU two are happy. Venue-wise – look for all the hidden fees, they will sneak up on you.
Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?
A: 6 – 9 months for a Saturday.
Q: What is the biggest crowd-pleaser at your venue?
A: The Summit Room View! It is amazing, With a panoramic view of the Mississippi River guests will be in awe.
Q: What are your other hobbies and passions besides creating beautiful wedding days?
A: My job takes up the entire word of “hobby”! If I could have another hobby, I would say music and cooking/baking. I am a huge people person, I think every cell in my body withholds empathy. That is my passion – caring for others of any kind and making them happy before myself.
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Q: Do you have any favorite podcasts or books?
A: As cheesy as this is, I listen to many of the Bachelor/Bachelorette contestants’ podcasts.
I am not a book reader, though I can watch a movie any hour of the day.
Q: Who’s your most played artist on your streaming service?
A: Anything country.
Q: Heels or flats?
A: Heels on an office day, and flats on a wedding day.
Q: Mountains or Beach?
A: Mountains
Q: Go-to cocktail (or mocktail)?
A: Margarita – otherwise, wine all the way.
Q: When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: Owner? Hmm – I have always been very independent, I always envisioned owning any kind of business.
Q: You’re at brunch. Are you going for something sweet or savory?
A: Both! The sweet syrup and mix of salty bacon or eggs – YUM!
Q: Go-to comfort food?
A: Pizza!
Q: Duck Duck Grey Duck or Duck Duck Goose?
A: Duck Duck Grey Duck
Thanks so much for chatting with us, Abby! If you’re interested in checking out any of their versatile venues within the hotel, get in touch here.
