Ep 32 • What No One Tells You About Wedding Venues with Brick & Mortar

If you've ever wondered what it really takes to run a wedding venue — the logistics, the zoning restrictions, the noise ordinances, the late-night load-outs, the neighbor complaints, the staffing puzzle — this episode is a must-listen. This week, Alison sits down with Sarah and Jenna of Brick & Mortar, the powerhouse team behind some of DC's most beloved event spaces. They break down everything couples and planners don't usually see, from behind-the-scenes operations to the surprising challenges of running a venue in a dense metropolitan area. From permits to parking to the politics of neighborhood associations, this conversation is packed with transparency, education, and real-world advice for anyone choosing (or managing) a venue.   In this episode, you'll hear: [03:26] - Sarah's Journey in the Venue Industry [05:54] -  Meet Jenna Mack: Event Management Veteran [06:14] - Jenna's Career and Collaboration with Sarah [09:28] - Launching Paige House: A New Venue [12:22] - Venue Logistics and Challenges [19:08] - Rules and Regulations in Event Venues [25:37] - Unexpected Challenges and Rule Creation [29:29] - Dealing with Broken Glass at Events [30:04] - Streamlining Event Planning with CRM Systems [32:10] - Challenges of Load-In and Load-Out at Venues [34:51] - Importance of Trusting Your Vendors [36:38] - Unique Needs of Different Clients [44:01] - Logistics of Managing Event Venues [54:03] - Crazy and Challenging Event Requests   Key Takeaways: Running a venue is far more than opening doors—it's permitting, logistics, staffing, timing, and constant coordination. Venue logistics shape the entire event. Parking, elevator load-ins, noise restrictions, and neighbor relationships can all impact how smooth the day feels. Couples need to ask smart questions. Clarify noise rules, load-in timelines, rain plans, vendor guidelines, and staffing expectations before booking.   Learn more about Brick & Mortar: Website: https://brickandmortarvenues.com/ Instagram: @brickandmortarvenues   Connect with us: Visit our website: www.weddingsunscripted.com Cherry Blossom Weddings & Events: www.cherryblossomwe.com Follow us on our socials: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572429101755 Instagram: @weddings_unscripted TikTok: @weddings_unscripted