We are planning a very small and simple wedding with 30-45 people in September 2012. I really like the idea of just having it at a restaurant since it will save on a venue fee and they need less decoration. I would also rather use my budget towards good food rather than paying $2000 just for a space However, very few restaurants have an appropriate space for a ceremony.
We looked into using another venue just for the ceremony but the costs were quite high for the short amount of time. Neither of us are religious so a church is not really an option.
The ceremony space doesn't need to be anything fancy and could just be standing room for most guests.
I have found one place that meets my needs, Blue Hill Tavern in Brewers Hill, but I want to have at least one back up plan. Meli in Fells Point also seems to have an appropriate space but they haven't responded to my emails and the food may be a bit too fancy for the future in-laws.
Any suggestions would be greatly appreaciated!