The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

In the heart of Minneapolis, The Machine Shop is a unique event venue that combines historical charm with modern industrial vibes. This venue offers a stunning backdrop that makes every wedding unforgettable! 

A couple stands by a large window; the woman wears a ruffled white gown, and the man stands behind her in a dark suit, both looking out through sheer curtains at the machine shop in minneapolis
A bride in a white dress holding white roses and a groom in a black suit stand under a transparent umbrella on a rainy day in front of a brick building at the machine shop in minneapolis
A luxury bride and groom standing underneath an umbrella in the mist rain in front of the Machine Shop in Minneapolis
A wedding couple stands with their bridal party in front of a building labeled "Machine Shop." The group is dressed in formal attire, holding bouquets and smiling at each other.
A person in a white outfit stands behind a window, holding the curtains open. The image is in black and white at the machine shop in Minneapolis
A bride and groom standing next to each other holding hands, looking in opposite directions with a large brick building behind them at the machine shop in Minneapolis

The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

The Machine Shop was originally built in 1916 and was once a part of the Pillsbury Mill, one of the largest flour milling complexes in the world. This industrial vibe is preserved and gives you a glimpse into the past with its exposed brick walls, towering ceilings, and original steel beams. It also has beautiful surroundings that make for breathtaking photo opportunities like the Minneapolis skyline as a back drop! While The Machine Shop has its historical features it is also equipped with modern amenities to meet a wedding’s needs! Let’s dive into more of the space below!

The Ceremony & Reception Space

Bridesmaids dressed in mismatched, pastel, floral dresses, helping the bride fluff her veil while she laughs with them at the machine shop in Minneapolis

The Machine Shop Wedding venue has a beautiful ceremony space that can seat up to 300 people and has an up and downstairs! The ceremony space has a super flexible setup that makes it easy to switch from the ceremony to a the reception and dance floor.

The Getting Ready Space

A woman in a strapless white dress with a mermaid silhouette and feathered sleeves stands by a large window, brushing her hair out of her face at The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

The Machine Shop has a beautiful Bridal suite and Groom’s suite to get ready in right at the venue! The space has gorgeous windows that allow for stunning editorial type photos! Straight out of vogue! There are bathrooms upstairs as well as an elevator for any heavy make up/dress/hair bags!

The Cocktail Hour Space

A couple is lounging on a black couch, with the woman in a white wedding dress lying on the lap of the man in a dark suit. Both wear a relaxed expression. White curtains are in the background at the machine shop in minneapolis
A couple is lounging on a black couch, with the woman in a white wedding dress lying on the lap of the man in a dark suit. Both wear a relaxed expression. White curtains are in the background at the machine shop in minneapolis

The cocktail hour space is right next to the ceremony and reception space, separated by a wall. This way, guests can enjoy the cocktail hour while the ceremony space is being flipped into the reception space. There’s a bar located at the cocktail hour space as well as some comfy black leather couches and high chairs for guest to enjoy!

Unique Features at The Machine Shop

A wedding rehearsal in a spacious, industrial-style venue with large windows. Six people are gathered; the bride is dressed in white with a long veil, and the wedding party is wearing various pastel gowns and suits at the Machine Shop in Minneapolis
A bride and groom share a kiss in an elevator. The bride is wearing a white wedding dress and holding a bouquet of flowers, while the groom is in a black suit at the machine shop in minneapolis
A wedding couple stands with their bridal party in front of a building labeled "Machine Shop." The group is dressed in formal attire, holding bouquets and smiling at each other.
A couple in wedding attire dances in a bright, industrial-style venue. The bride's gown flares out as she twirls, and the groom holds a bouquet of flowers in The Machine Shop in Minneapolis
A bride and groom smile joyfully while embracing each other and holding a colorful bouquet of flowers.
A couple under an umbrella stands by the door of a brick building labeled "Machine Shop." The bride is in a voluminous dress, and the groom wears a suit at The Machine Shop Minneapolis

The Machine Shop has some really unique features that make this wedding venue stand out from others! First of all, the upstairs space that allows you to view the whole reception and dance floor from above! It’s really cool to be able to go upstairs and enjoy some time “people-watching” from above while you have a little break! It also creates some cool perspectives for photos!

Second, the elevator! It truly is helpful to have an elevator for carrying anything heavy upstairs such as all the heavy make up and hair bags, photography gear, wedding and bridesmaids dresses etc!

The fun Machine Shop sign outside the venue is a classic photo shot for couple’s getting married here! Lastly, all the awesome photo spots near the venue! St Anthony Main is a hot spot in Minneapolis! Therefore, it’s easy to sneak out for sunset photos or bride and groom portraits to get some really cool wedding photos! My favorite spot personally is right across Aster Cafe. There’s a little spot where you can walk down and have a beautiful view of the Minneapolis Skyline and the St Croix river as your backdrop!

There’s also plenty of other cool spots! The parking garage has a really cool stone building behind it. The Minneapolis event center is also near by and makes for some pretty epic photos!

Rental Details!

Tables
30 – 72” round
10 – 30” low top
20 – 30” high top
10 – 6’ banquet
10 – 6’ classroom
4 – 8′ wood tables

Chairs
300 whitewashed crossback

Included in your package:

  • Security
  • Bar set-up and staff
  • Portable bars
  • Two furnished dressing rooms
  • Break room lounge furniture
  • Moveable wood walls
  • Concert grade in-house sound system and LED light set up.

Dining Options Near The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

The Machine Shop sits in the vibrant St. Anthony Main district, surrounded by a host of dining, entertainment, and accommodation options. As well, this prime location not only enhances the convenience for your guests but also allows them to explore the rich cultural offerings of Minneapolis!

Wood + Paddle Eatery

Wood + Paddle Eatery is a cozy restaurant known for its wood-fired dishes and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu features artisanal pizzas, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables, all cooked in a wood-fired oven.

Red Cow North Loop


Known for its gourmet burgers, craft beers, and innovative cocktails this vibrant Minneapolis restaurant offers a modern and inviting atmosphere, perfect for both casual dining and social gatherings.

Zelo

Zelo is an upscale Italian restaurant located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis. Known for its elegant yet inviting atmosphere, Zelo offers a menu that blends traditional Italian cuisine with contemporary flavors

Aster Cafe

A young couple smiles and walks together on a brick pathway in a charming urban area with historic buildings and autumn foliage.
A young couple smiles and walks together on a brick pathway in a charming urban area with historic buildings and autumn foliage.

Known for its charming ambiance and riverfront views, Aster Cafe offers a cozy, vintage-inspired setting with warm decor, making it a perfect spot for intimate gatherings. Their menu offers a selection of globally inspired dishes, including artisan flatbreads, fresh salads, and hearty entrees, all crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

Jefe Urban Cocina

Looking for traditional Mexican cuisine? Jefe Urban Cocina offers a lively and colorful atmosphere that reflects its bold and flavorful menu. The dishes are with fresh, high-quality ingredients and include a variety of tacos, enchiladas, and other Mexican favorites.

Hotels Near The Machine Shop in Minneapolis

A couple stands on a rock by a river, embracing and kissing, with a city skyline and a bridge in the background.

Aloft Minneapolis

Aloft Minneapolis is a chic, contemporary hotel. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and modern design, the hotel offers stylish rooms equipped with sleek furnishings, free Wi-Fi, and Bliss Spa amenities.

Moxy Minneapolis Uptown

This is a trendy, boutique hotel located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis. Known for its playful and contemporary design, Moxy offers stylish, compact rooms with smart technology and modern comforts.

The Residence Inn Minneapolis Downtown at The Depot

This is a charming hotel nestled within the historic Depot complex in downtown Minneapolis. Offering a blend of modern comfort and historic charm.

Nicollet Island Inn

A couple stands close together, gazing at each other affectionately, in front of a stone building with ivy and blue awnings.

The Nicollet Island Inn is a boutique hotel on the scenic Nicollet Island in the Mississippi River, just minutes from downtown Minneapolis. This historic inn combines vintage elegance with modern comforts, Each of the 23 guest rooms is thoughtfully decorated with luxurious furnishings, providing a cozy and romantic atmosphere.

The Mill City

A man and woman stand together in an urban park with tall buildings in the background. The man stands behind the woman, both smiling, as he embraces her in a pose. The scene is in black and white.
A man and woman stand together in an urban park with tall buildings in the background. The man stands behind the woman, both smiling, as he embraces her in a pose. The scene is in black and white.
A man and woman stand together in an urban park with tall buildings in the background. The man stands behind the woman, both smiling, as he embraces her in a pose. The scene is in black and white.

Similar to The Machine Shop venue, The Mill City Museum stands as a testament to Minneapolis’s rich flour milling history. Housed in the ruins of what was once the world’s largest flour mill, the museum offers a fascinating journey through the city’s industrial past.

My Style of Photography

A bride and groom stand under a clear umbrella on a rainy day, sharing a close moment. The bride holds white roses and wears a strapless dress.
A bride and groom smile joyfully while embracing each other and holding a colorful bouquet of flowers.
Close-up of the faces of two people, focusing on the left side of the man's face and the right side of the woman's face. Both are looking straight ahead.
A couple stands by a large window; the woman wears a ruffled white gown, and the man stands behind her in a dark suit, both looking out through sheer curtains at the machine shop in minneapolis
Close-up of a couple's hands, showcasing their wedding rings. The woman's hand has a diamond ring and manicured nails, while the man's hand wears a simple band.
Bride in a white strapless dress with a voluminous train holds a bouquet of white flowers, standing in a dimly lit indoor setting.

When it comes to wedding photography, I’m all about keeping it real with candid and documentary style photos. Think of it like capturing life as it happens, without all the fuss of posing or staging. Candid shots are all about those genuine, unfiltered moments. You don’t have to worry about posing, as I’ll guide you through it all with fun prompts and subtle suggestions to feel and look your best. I aim to freeze-frame those unforgettable moments, from belly laughs to heartfelt hugs, so you can feel like you’re right back in the thick of it whenever you look back at your wedding photos.

The Machine Shop in Minneapolis is more than just a venue, it’s a piece of history that offers a perfect blend of industrial charm and modern elegance. So, if you’re planning a wedding, The Machine Shop provides a stunning backdrop that will leave a lasting impression on your guests! 

Needing a Photographer for your Wedding at The Machine Shop in Minneapolis?

This is seriously one of my favorite venues and I hope you consider your wedding at The Machine Shop in Minneapolis! Also, If you are in search of a documentary wedding photographer, hi I’m Heidi! A wedding photographer capturing those candid moments throughout your special day! If you’re interested in working together you can fill out my contact form here! I can’t wait to hear from you!

A woman sits on a chair next to a large potted plant, holding a camera in one hand and touching her hair with the other. She is wearing a light-colored top and ripped jeans.

See more of my work on Pinterest!

Dress: Ivory Bridal CO 

Makeup: Tracy Johnson 

Hair: Hope Cardinal 

Jewelry: DJ Bitzan 

Cake: Bake Them Happy 

Flowers: Studio B floral

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