We had planned to get married in Norfolk, VA (where I grew up), but the wedding venue canceled on us a week or two ago (they couldn't get the permits they needed and had to cancel all weddings). We went and visited Norfolk over the weekend (we live in DC), but we didn't find a place we were happy with - all were either too expensive, boring, or ugly. My fiance is from Pittsburgh, so we thought we'd check out places there. The problem is I know absolutely nothing about Pittsburgh (and he's a dude, so completely un-knowledgeable!).
Could someone please, please help with suggestions on places to have both the ceremony and reception (held at one venue) for around 125 people? Would like the venue to provide it's own tables, chairs, etc., so I don't have to rent those seperately. Also, ideally the venue would offer catering, so as not to requre a seperate caterer, but that's definitely not a deal-breaker. It should be near a hotel, so our guests don't have to drive after the reception. I'm not a fan of hotel ballrooms that look like big rectangles of boringness, though. Would prefer a place with some character - even places that are considered to be "non-traditional" wedding venue options. Probably needs to be indoor, but if it's an outdoor option, would need to offer indoor back-up plan. Am looking to keep venue/catering/bar under $10K.
I know this is a lot of "requirements," but when you've looked at as many places as I have (and had found your PERFECT place to get married), you start to know what you do and don't like! If your ideas are outside of these "requirements," I'd still love to hear them! Thank you SO MUCH in advance!