Saint Louis city is moderately saturated with Roman Catholics. According to the 2000 census, one in every five people reported belonging to Catholicism. Justin and I were both raised catholic. Therefore the vast majority of the weddings we have both attended have been Catholic ceremonies and have included the typical early afternoon mass, a four to six hour break, and then debauchery into the evening — Followed by further drinking at bars nearby.
As Justin and I have grown older, we have also grown into a deeper spirituality that no longer requires a church, a steeple, a male priest, or repeated sitting, standing, and kneeling. I knew right away that if we were honest about our beliefs the Catholic Church would not provide a mass, and possibly not provide us a ceremony. This forced us to think outside the box on where our ceremony would be held.
With the help of wedding websites that list all possible wedding venues in St. Louis we were able to gradually chip away at places that looked beautiful, were cost effective, and would provide some of the amenities we desired.
Wedding Reception at the Moulin in Saint Louis
Because of our passionate love affair with St. Louis City we limited our search to venues only located within the city limits. Our first visit and tour was to Moulin Meetings and Events. Their space was extraordinary and unique. The exposed brick and worn, but strong wooden support beams created an organic sentiment. This site would allow us to have both the ceremony and reception in one place! What was most remarkable about the place was their purposeful action in maintaining the integrity of the building when restoring it from a neglected brewery to an event facility and restaurant. Their food read amazingly, and their package included additional services to the bride and groom, like a paid stay in a hotel for the wedding night. I was sold, but my bank account was tugging at my sweater like an impatient child.
After returning home from the Moulin visit, my high gradually wore off as some of the realities sank through my chest. It would require extensive decorating, which only adds to the already inflated price. The worst part was in that while the price was expensive, we would definitely be getting our money’s worth. It was not unreasonably priced considering they provided a four course meal made by the chef of 1111 Mississippi, a signature drink, loose brick centerpieces, an outstanding ambiance, and a captain to ensure the satisfaction of the bride and groom all evening.
With resistance, I placed the Moulin lovingly in the back of my mind. The next morning, while on the way to work, I picked up a lottery ticket in addtion to my usual hot chocolate, wishing siliently that this ticket might afford me the Moulin.
