Comparing Two Venue Worlds
St. Louis is a city rich with event venue options, from historic halls to sleek, modern spaces. For many years, the hotel ballroom was the default choice for weddings, large gatherings, and banquets. While those venues provide a feel of tradition and convenience, a new wave of modern event spaces has emerged, providing a compelling alternative. For anyone planning an event, from corporate organizers to couples, the question is not just about what is available, but which venue type gives the best value. This guide offers an objective evaluation to help you make an informed decision between the traditional choice and the contemporary options in the St. Louis market.
Understanding Hotel Ballrooms: The Classic Choice
Hotel ballrooms have been a mainstay in the event business for a long time. They are a classic and dependable choice because they have huge, easily divisible spaces and a formal look. Some common features are:
- Large capacity for hundreds of guests.
- Central location, often in downtown hotel districts.
- In-house catering and audiovisual (AV) devices.
- Guest room blocks and different hospitality services.
Pros:
Bundled Services:
Hotels offer convenience with all-inclusive packages that cover catering, AV, and staffing, streamlining the planning process.
Established Reputation:
They have a proven track record of managing large-scale events and a reputation for professional service.
Cons:
Dated Aesthetics:
Many ballrooms have a conventional, and often outdated, look with patterned carpets, chandeliers, and not much natural light, which can make it hard to make creative customization.
Lack of Flexibility:
You are often stuck with a set list of in-house vendors and a set layout, which makes it hard to personalise.
What Defines a Modern Event Space?
Modern event spaces, which include rooftop venues, urban lofts, and contemporary studios, are designed with flexibility and aesthetics at their core. They provide a refreshing alternative to the traditional ballroom feel. Some common characteristics are:
- Clean, minimalist structure with modern layout.
- Floor-to-ceiling windows and enough natural light.
- Advanced, built in technology.
- Versatile layouts that can be configured without problems
Pros:
Customizable Layouts:
The open, flexible layout allows you to create specific ground plans that perfectly match your event’s vibe and features.
Modern Ambiance:
These venues offer a fresh, trendy, and sophisticated backdrop that requires less décor to create a “wow” factor.
Advanced AV:
Modern spaces are usually constructed with the latest AV technology, making them ideal for high-tech displays and hybrid activities.
Cons:
A La Carte Pricing:
Services like catering, rental, and AV are often priced individually, which can require more hands-on planning.
Limited Availability:
The most demanding contemporary venues can book up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Cost vs. Value: Breaking Down the Pricing
When comparing prices, you should look beyond the first price tag. A hotel ballroom frequently has a set charge per guest that includes food, drinks, and some services. But this model may have extra costs that aren’t obvious, including for parking, special AV equipment, or certain lighting needs.
A lot of modern venues use a la carte pricing, which is clearer. You can pay for the space separately and then hire your own vendors, which gives you greater control over your budget. The best deal isn’t the lowest price; it’s being able to plan a unique, high-quality event without having to change your mind.
Guest Experience and Atmosphere
The environment of a venue directly influences the guest mood. Hotel ballrooms, with their formal and conventional atmosphere, are ideal for occasions where a feel of grandeur and style is needed. However, this may sometimes feel basic.
Modern event spaces, on the hand, create a trendy and one of a kind atmosphere that is usually more memorable.
The city loft or a scenic rooftop venue, with its downtown skyline views, gives an awesome and sophisticated vibe. This visual attraction complements the experience but also gives a dynamic and attractive backdrop for pictures and social media sharing.
Flexibility & Amenities
A big difference is how flexible it is. Many hotels have a rigid list of preferred vendors and only offer one type of service. While their in-house catering and AV are convenient, they might also limit your options and make it harder to stick to your budget.
Modern event rooms are made to be flexible. Many of them let you use your own vendors, like caterers and florists, so you can make every part of your celebration unique. This flexibility is a big plus because it lets you work with experts who fit your style and budget.
Case Study: Vue 17 as a Modern Event Space Example
Vue 17 is a good example of a modern event space in St Louis that gives a wonderful alternative to the hotel ballroom. With its floor-to-ceiling windows, it gives panoramic views of the town’s skyline, creating an unforgettable atmosphere. Its flexible layout can be configured for an extensive range of functions, from elegant weddings to expert meetings. Furthermore, its superior amenities, together with a green screen studio and expert AV equipment, make it the best choice for companies in search of a high-tech and sophisticated space.
Making the Right Choice for Your Event
To determine which venue is great for you, we have summarised the whole thing here:
| Feature | Hotel Ballroom | Modern Event Space |
| Aesthetics & Ambiance | • Formal, traditional, and often grand• Can feel dated with patterned carpets and chandeliers• Limited natural light• Consistent and predictable atmosphere | • Contemporary, sleek, and minimalist• Emphasis on architectural design and natural light• Often features panoramic windows and scenic views (e.g., skyline)• Creates a unique, trendy, and memorable atmosphere |
| Flexibility & Customization | • Limited flexibility on layout and decor• Often has a strict list of in-house vendors (catering, AV, etc.)• Less opportunity for personalization• “One-size-fits-all” approach to services | • Highly flexible and customizable layouts• Allows for outside vendors (BYO vendors)• Offers greater creative control over themes and décor• Adaptable to a wide range of event styles and sizes |
| Amenities & Technology | • In-house catering and basic audiovisual (AV) equipment• Services are often bundled into packages• May require extra fees for specialized tech or advanced lighting | • Advanced, built-in technology (e.g., state-of-the-art AV, professional lighting, broadcast studios, green screens)• High-speed, reliable internet connectivity• Tech-friendly for hybrid and virtual events |
| Cost & Pricing | • Often has a per-person pricing model for packages• Can have hidden fees for services like parking, extended hours, or specific tech• Pricing is bundled, which may limit budget control | • Typically uses a transparent a la carte or flat-rate pricing model for the space• Gives hosts more control over their budget by choosing their own vendors• Final cost is often a sum of individual services |
| Guest Experience | • Provides convenience with on-site guest rooms• Formal and structured environment• Can feel generic or less unique• Professional, but often impersonal service | • Creates a unique and visually stunning backdrop (e.g., city views)• Modern, comfortable, and engaging atmosphere• Highly memorable and shareable for social media• Offers a more personalized and tailored feel |
| Use When… | • You prioritize convenience and bundled services• You need on-site guest accommodations• You are hosting a very large, formal banquet or conference• You want a traditional, classic setting with minimal planning hassle | • You value a unique, modern aesthetic and stunning views• You want more creative control over vendors and décor• You are hosting a tech-focused event, like a hybrid conference• You want to create a highly personalized and memorable guest experience |
Conclusion
The best place for your event in St. Louis depends on what you want to achieve. Hotel ballrooms offer a classic and convenient option, but modern venues allow you to be creative, make things your own, and give your guests a genuinely unforgettable experience. The modern event space is the clear winner for people who want a unique look, technology that can be changed, and a beautiful setting that adds value.
We suggest that you contact us at Vue17 to look into the options for a high-end event venue rental in St. Louis that offers both flexibility and a modern, gorgeous location.
