Cleveland’s Old Courthouse is a venue unlike any other in Cleveland and really all of Northeast Ohio. They literally don’t make them like this anymore! First-time guests to this historic property are obvious. They walk in and immediately look up and up and up! The grandeur of this building can’t be understated – it’s jaw-dropping. We’ve written about Cleveland’s Old Courthouse before but we thought we’d take a deeper dive as a resource for those considering this venue. Hence, we asked clients and partners to weigh in as well so you can get different perspectives on this incredible space.
A few of our favorite features for weddings include its ceremony opportunities (which feature some of the most memorable backdrops we’ve ever seen). There are also practical considerations that have been accounted for such as the Huntington parking structure behind the building and the ability to accommodate up to 400 guests with space for a dance floor and head table. These two, in particular, are sought-after amenities for receptions in downtown Cleveland.
Next, we asked some of our favorite Northeast Ohio wedding professionals what they thought of this space as well. While this venue looks like it came right out of a storybook, there are challenges when it comes to working here. However, veteran professionals are unphased by these quirks of the building. Having experience working in this facility makes a huge difference.
What are three of the best features of Cleveland’s Old Courthouse for a wedding?
First of all, there is plenty of space. This venue is ideal for larger weddings. Further, a 2nd and 3rd floor overlooking the space allows an excellent place for cocktail hour.
Secondly, it’s grandiose and graceful. There really isn’t another venue like it in the city. It’s almost regal. Almost too cool.
Lastly, it’s centrally located. If you’re Cleveland people and you want a Cleveland wedding, this venue is right in the thick of it. It’s minutes from everywhere you’d want to go, whether it be for pictures or a separate ceremony. Also, it allows you to show your out-of-town guests how much of a Comeback City we are.
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
For photographers at the Old Courthouse, the issue is always light and color. It’s an incredibly warm space, and it has an awesome “feel” to it, but cameras can’t see as well as our eyes can. I’m almost always adding light to scenes within the Courthouse. Long story short, I LOVE the feel of the place. Hence, I wouldn’t change it. The photographer you choose has to have the skill and experience to capture it correctly, which requires a fine balance of light and technical prestige.
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse?
Do it! It’s one of my favorite venues that Cleveland has to offer. I’ll never get over the attention to detail, the craftsmanship, and the history that’s encapsulated within its walls. The only way I’d deter is if your wedding is attended by like 20 people, then it might be weird…
What are three of the best features of Cleveland’s Old Courthouse for a wedding?
Most of all, the Grand Staircase! Then, the marble. Finally, the great downtown location.
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
First off, the acoustics, so knowledge and experience are a must! Also, there is no kitchen; we cook on-site in our truck.
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Above all, utilize professionals who are experienced with the space and familiar with its needs.
What are three of the best features of Cleveland’s Old Courthouse for a wedding?
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
Lighting can be tough but we bring our own off-camera lights to help remedy this. The high-pressure sodium lights in the staircase are especially challenging since they give off a green light. Also, the natural acoustics reverb there is challenging. A great sound system, additional draping/fabric, and filling the space with enough people and furniture can help minimize this. Finally, the minimal air conditioning and air circulation can be bothersome for some, especially in hot summer months. Extra fans/AC units can be brought in to help.
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Above all, do your research! The space can be challenging if the vendor has never worked there or has only a couple years of experience. Look up photos for inspiration and figure out your likes and dislikes in that space. Be sure to talk to several vendors on how much experience they’ve had there and how they would approach your wedding based on your preferences and logistics.
What are three of the best features of the Old Courthouse in Cleveland for a wedding?
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
Most noteworthy, for us, is that there’s no on-site kitchen available. Therefore, it’s imperative to have a caterer that can bring ovens & equipment to cook food on-site. Also with acoustics, PLEASE hire a DJ or Band that has worked at the Old Courthouse before (i.e. Selective Sound!).
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Above all, be sure to hire a team of vendors that are familiar with the Old Courthouse and trust their recommendations. We all want nothing more than to make sure your day is perfect and that you and your guests have an amazing experience so please trust us!
What are three of the best features of the Old Courthouse in Cleveland for a wedding?
Bonus features:
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
First off, you will need to have all food prepared off-site so hire a good caterer. Loading and unloading for DJs can be difficult. Also, this a popular venue for wedding photos and you will need to work around other wedding parties (just be nice).
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Plan ahead. Hire the best vendors (pay more for the really good ones). And have fun!
What are three of the best features of the Old Courthouse in Cleveland for a wedding
First, the traditional elegance in the heart of Cleveland. Second, the historic landmark to “wow” your guests. Third, large capacity but can be wonderful for a small wedding as well.
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
Most noteworthy, acoustics are a challenge due to the marble floors and interior. I tell brides they must have a knowledgeable DJ or band who is familiar with the space. Those professionals can minimize the issue and provide a great experience for all.
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Above all, put yourselves in the hands of those who do events there weekly. We know what works best to ensure you and your guest will have a great evening in one of the most beautiful venues in Cleveland.
What are three of the best features of the Old Courthouse in Cleveland for a wedding?
First of all, the pillars and tall ceilings (gorgeous interior). Secondly, the amazing preferred vendors (Taste of Excellence, etc.). Thirdly, it’s a great downtown location (easy access to photo opps around the city & to fantastic hotels).
What are the challenges of hosting a wedding at Cleveland’s Old Courthouse and how do you or other event professionals overcome them?
First of all, parking issues. The closest entrance to the parking lot is usually not open to guests on weekends to enter or exit. Just assist guests as best as possible to exits. Next, construction. It just wasn’t ideal and a big mess when weather was bad. Lastly, heating and cooling in the building is not great. Plan ahead based on weather.
What advice would you give to couples planning a wedding at the Old Courthouse in Cleveland?
Get a Day of Coordinator or Planner to assist you. Book with vendors who have had a lot of experience working weddings at The Courthouse. Provide instructions about parking or suggest guests stay at nearby hotel and walk over.
In summary, there are themes that keep popping up when discussing The Old Courthouse in downtown Cleveland. The parking and acoustics came up a lot as a challenge and a benefit. Both are right as long as there is a sufficient budget for the adjacent parking lot and a real professional sound team. Catering has its challenges but the larger more experienced organizations have the ability to bring their own field kitchen.
Therefore, while there are a few aspects of working in this wedding venue that are different from traditional spaces like hotels, you won’t have to sacrifice anything to have this dream venue if you do your research and work with the best!
Also…it’s fun to let people know that the Avengers filmed here!