Finding the perfect venue for your wedding is the first step you should take as you begin planning. You’ll want to consider the vibe, location, space options, versatility, and size. The Whim has all of this and so much more! Located in the heart of Northeast Minneapolis, this venue has over 15,000 square feet of airy white walls, endless natural light, 14′ ceilings, and even a speakeasy.
Founded by a local wedding planning company, the owners thoughtfully designed the space with couples and vendors in mind. They flipped a shampoo factory into a stunning wedding venue that includes getting-ready rooms, space for your ceremony and reception, and a cozy patio perfect for sunset photos. Get to know more about this chic and luxurious venue below from the owners, Jennae and Elliot Saltzman.
Q: Let’s get to it, what’s your business’ specialty?
A: Weddings! We do all events – corporate, nonprofit, awards shows, photo shoots, etc. but weddings are definitely our most popular events in the space!
Q: Where can we find you?
A: 655 19th Ave NE, Minneapolis, MN 55418
Q: Tell us when and how The Whim began.
A: We started as wedding planners in the Twin Cities (Blush & Whim) and started the venue in early 2021. It’s been an adventure and we are so grateful to be where we are today!
Q: What makes The Whim unique from other venues?
A: Our experience in the industry definitely sets us apart from other venues in the Twin Cities. From the build out of the space to vendor recommendations, we were truly able to curate the entire process and experience for our clients and vendor partners with an intimate understanding of the Twin Cities wedding industry and what will (and more importantly what will NOT) work for each and every event.
Q: How long have you been in the industry? What do you think has changed the most since then?
A: I started in the industry in 2013 – pre-Instagram and Pinterest boom – which has changed the industry SO MUCH. We relied so much on Google and magazines for vendor ideas and inspiration back then. Love how accessible it all is now!
Q: Walk us through your average workday.
A: Tours, emails, and more tours! Final detail meetings and event execution is surprisingly a smaller piece of our day-to-day.
Q: What should a couple searching for their wedding venue know?
A: Be flexible on a date (the more open you are, the smoother the process will be!); like the chairs at your venue (this can be a HUGE added expense!); and go for a Friday event (more available!)
From the build-out of the space to vendor recommendations, we were truly able to curate the entire process and experience for our clients and vendor partners!
Q: How far in advance should a couple book with you?
A: 12-24 months
Q: What is the biggest crowd-pleaser at The Whim?
A: The BIG windows and all the natural light! The speakeasy is a big hit as well!
Q: What are your other hobbies and passions besides creating beautiful wedding days?
A: Skiing, cooking, boating and being with our family!
Q: What is the history behind The Whim?
A: 1920s factory. It was a shampoo factory right before we acquired it!
LIGHTNING ROUND!
Q: Do you have any favorite podcasts?
A: How It’s Made!
Q: Who’s your most played artist on your streaming service?
A: M83
Q: What was your latest impulse buy?
A: Make-Up – Gen Z is keeping me young via TikTok
Q: Mountains or Beach?
A: Beach!
Q: Go-to cocktail (or mocktail)?
A: Dirty Martini
Q: When you were little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I used to plan weddings for my dogs so I think being in the wedding world was always in the cards for me!
Q: You’re at brunch. Are you going for something sweet or savory?
A: Savory always – Eggs Bene!
Q: Go-to comfort food?
A: Pizza
Q: Duck Duck Grey Duck or Duck Duck Goose?
A: Duck Duck Grey Duck!
A bustling location, modern amenities, and unmatched hospitality — what else could you need for your ideal wedding venue? Jennae and Elliot would be delighted to give you a tour of the space and help you curate an unforgettable day. Get in touch with them here!
