Planning Your Corson Building Wedding in Seattle: Complete Guide
January 6, 2024
The Corson Building is one of my favorite Seattle wedding venues. From the moment you step into this hidden gem, you’re transported to a space that feels like a corner of Italy, with ivy-covered walls, garden lights, and a cozy atmosphere full of old-world charm. Originally an Italian stonemason’s home, the building now doubles as a restaurant and wedding venue, and the owners and staff bring exceptional warmth and hospitality, making it feel like home. Couples planning a Corson Building wedding can enjoy a family-style dinner in an intimate setting, surrounded by the people they love. The venue strikes a perfect balance between down-to-earth warmth and refined elegance, creating a timeless backdrop for a romantic, intimate Seattle wedding.
I’ve photographed many weddings here and across Seattle, and what I love most is capturing moments that feel real, personal, and meaningful. Its rustic interiors, bright natural light, and garden spaces make it ideal for couples looking for a wedding that is both intimate and memorable. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about planning a Corson Building wedding: cost, guest capacity, style, and a few tips to help your day flow beautifully.
Table of Contents
- Where Is the Corson Building in Seattle?
- Why Choose the Corson Building for Your Wedding
- Top Features of the Corson Building Wedding Venue
- Ceremony and Reception Spaces at the Corson Building
- Where to Get Ready Near the Corson Building
- Best Time of Year for a Corson Building Wedding
- How Much Does a Corson Building Wedding Cost?
- Hiring a Corson Building Wedding Photographer
- Corson Building Wedding Inspiration and Real Weddings
- Corson Building Wedding FAQs
Where is The Corson Building in Seattle?
The Corson Building is tucked in the heart of Georgetown, a historic neighborhood located in the southern part of Seattle, Washington. Georgetown is known for its industrial heritage, artistic community, and unique character. A 10-minute drive from downtown and 15 minutes from the airport, the venue provides easy access for your guests.
Why Choose the Corson Building for Your Wedding
The Corson Building is a wonderful fit for couples who want their wedding to feel intentional, personal, and guest-centered. This venue is especially well suited for you if:
- You’re drawn to a romantic, cozy, and welcoming atmosphere. The space feels warm and down-to-earth than formal or overproduced, which sets the tone for a relaxed, meaningful celebration.
- Food is a big part of your wedding experience. The Corson Building is known for its seasonally inspired, family-style dining. Meals feel thoughtful and communal, turning your reception into a true shared experience rather than just a dinner service.
- You love the idea of an outdoor wedding with built-in weather protection. The covered courtyards allow you to enjoy the garden setting while still feeling comfortable and sheltered.
- Your dog is part of your family. The venue is dog-friendly, which makes it a great option for couples who want their pup included in the day.
- You want a place you can return to. Because the Corson Building also operates as a restaurant, many couples love the idea of coming back to celebrate anniversaries in the same place they were married.
- You’re planning a smaller, guest-focused wedding. With a capacity of up to 80 guests, the space is ideal for intimate celebrations where connection and conversation matter.
- Photography matters to you. Between the lush gardens, historic architecture, and natural light, the Corson Building offers a beautiful, timeless backdrop for wedding photos that feel both candid and refined.
- The guest experience is a priority. The staff are known for their care and hospitality, handling details seamlessly so you and your guests can relax and feel truly at home.
- You want something unique without leaving Seattle. The architecture and gardens create a European-inspired feel that’s hard to find, while still being easy for guests to access.
Top Features of the Corson Building Wedding Venue
The Corson Building offers a thoughtful mix of historic charm and practical amenities that make planning an intimate wedding feel both easy and intentional. Some of the standout features include:
- Historic architecture and character. The home’s original details and old-world design create a setting that feels layered, warm, and full of personality.
- Lush garden spaces. Ivy-covered walls, garden lights, and greenery provide a beautiful backdrop for ceremonies, receptions, and wedding portraits throughout the day.
- On-site getting ready space. There is a private upstairs area in the home’s former living quarters, ideal for getting ready and taking a quiet moment before the ceremony.
- Seasonally inspired, locally sourced cuisine. Food is a central part of the experience here, with menus designed around the season and tailored to each event.
- Covered and heated outdoor courtyards. Couples can enjoy an outdoor wedding feel while staying comfortable in cooler or unpredictable weather.
- Dog-friendly policies. Dogs are welcome to be part of the celebration as long as they are leashed and off the furniture.
- Hands-on coordination and support. The team helps create a day-of timeline and provides on-site assistance before and during your wedding, allowing the day to flow smoothly.
- Warm, professional hospitality. The staff are attentive and thoughtful, helping couples and guests feel genuinely cared for throughout the celebration.
Ceremony and Reception Spaces at the Corson Building
One of the things couples love most about a Corson Building wedding is how smoothly the day flows. From the ceremony to the reception, everything happens in close proximity, creating a calm, connected experience for both couples and guests.
South Yard
The South Yard is most often used for ceremonies and is one of the most flexible spaces on the property. It’s covered and intimate, making it well-suited for ceremonies, cocktail hour, mingling, and dancing later in the evening. Many couples appreciate how easily this space transforms throughout the day without feeling overly staged or rushed.
The South Yard provides a beautiful, intimate setting for your ceremony and cocktail hour. Because the venue is in Georgetown, you might occasionally hear airplanes flying overhead. In my experience, it rarely disrupts the day or your photos. Some couples even make it part of the fun by telling their officiant to have a playful airplane joke ready, turning an unexpected flyover into a lighthearted moment.
North Yard
Dinner typically takes place in the North Yard, which is designed for communal, family-style meals. The main covered area works beautifully for longer tables and guest-focused dining, while another covered patio adds flexibility and breathing room. The setting encourages guests to settle in, linger, and enjoy the experience together. The lighting in this space is beautiful for photography!
Indoor Dining Space
The Corson Building also has a cozy indoor dining room that can accommodate up to 30 guests. Many couples choose to sign their marriage license here and enjoy appetizers and a glass of champagne before transitioning back outside to cocktail hour.
Getting Ready at the Corson Building
The Corson Building has one private getting ready space upstairs in the home’s former living quarters. Because the space is more intimate, I often see couples choose to do most of their getting ready off-site and then arrive at the venue for final touches.
A common and smooth approach is to put on your dress on-site, which allows for quiet moments before the ceremony and beautiful, natural photos in the space and gardens. It’s a great option if you want a relaxed start to the day without feeling rushed.
Where to Get Ready Near the Corson Building
Since there is only one getting ready space on-site, couples who plan to get ready separately will want to arrange an off-site location for one or both partners. The Corson Building’s proximity to downtown Seattle makes this easy.
Some of the most popular nearby hotels for getting ready include:
Lotte Hotel
Hotel Sorrento
Kimpton Palladian
Thompson Hotel
Hotel 1000
Hotel Alexis
Staying nearby keeps travel time minimal while giving you more space and flexibility as you start your day.
The Best Time of Year to Get Married at The Corson Building
The Corson Building hosts weddings year-round, making it a flexible option for couples. When choosing your wedding date, it’s worth considering Seattle weather, seasonal menus, and pricing to plan the best experience for you and your guests. Here’s a breakdown by season:
Summer
Summer is the most popular season for Seattle weddings, thanks to long, sunny days and generally reliable weather. The Corson Building’s garden is vibrant and full of color, making it perfect for outdoor ceremonies and photos. Seasonal ingredients often include heirloom tomatoes, eggplants, beets, corn, zucchini, peaches, pole beans, and summer berries.
Pro Tips for Summer Weddings:
Book early to secure your preferred weekend date.
Consider shaded areas or light canopies in the garden for guests during the hottest parts of the day.
Use seasonal fruits and vegetables to create fresh, colorful dishes for your reception.
Autumn
Autumn at the Corson Building offers rich, romantic colors as the ivy turns shades of red and gold. Cooler temperatures make outdoor gatherings comfortable. Seasonal ingredients include apples, carrots, radishes, potatoes, chard, cauliflower, and figs.
Pro Tips for Autumn Weddings:
Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage for your portraits.
Layer lighting, like string lights and candles, to add warmth as daylight fades.
Consider hearty, seasonal menu items to complement the cooler weather.
Winter
Both patios are covered and heated, allowing for winter weddings that remain comfortable. Winter weddings can also benefit from discounted venue pricing between October 1 and May 15. Seasonal produce includes beets, leeks, Brussels sprouts, delicata squash, cabbage, mushrooms, and citrus.
Pro Tips for Winter Weddings:
Schedule your ceremony during daylight hours for the best natural light for photos.
Incorporate warm drinks or small comfort-food appetizers to keep guests cozy.
Highlight winter seasonal ingredients in your menu for a fresh, flavorful dining experience.
Spring
Spring brings fragrant blooms like wisteria and lilac, offering a fresh and romantic backdrop. Mild temperatures make outdoor ceremonies and garden photos ideal. Seasonal ingredients include young lettuces, English peas, spring onions, mustard greens, fennel, rhubarb, and strawberries.
Pro Tips for Spring Weddings:
Feature spring vegetables and fruits in a bright, fresh menu to celebrate the season.
Time your photos to capture peak blooms in the garden.
Keep a few light layers or wraps on hand for guests during cooler spring mornings or evenings.
Corson Building Wedding Cost
How Much Does it Cost to Get Married at The Corson Building?
If you’re dreaming of a Corson Building wedding, one of the first questions is: “How much will it cost?” While every wedding is unique, here’s a guide to help you plan your day.
As a general range, couples can expect a wedding at the Corson Building to cost between $8,000 and $28,000, plus tax. This estimate includes the venue’s service fee but doesn’t cover extra rentals that may be required for larger weddings.
Factors That Affect Your Total Cost
- Time of year: Off-season weddings (October–May) are generally less expensive than summer weddings.
- Day of the week: Weekdays are more affordable than Fridays–Sundays.
- Food & beverage: Family-style meals and beverage packages vary by selection.
- Number of guests: Larger guest lists may require rentals, typically ranging $800–$5,000.
- Bar service & extras: Hors d’oeuvres, vendor meals, and beverage options can increase the total.
Because weddings are so unique, the most accurate way to estimate your costs is to contact the Corson Building directly via their contact form or by emailing events@thecorsonbuilding.com.
Detailed Corson Building Pricing
Venue Fees
- October 1 – May 14: $1,000 + tax
- May 15 – September 30:
- Weekdays: $1,500 + tax
- Fridays, Saturdays & Sundays: $2,500 + tax
Food & Beverage Minimums
- Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: $6,000
- Thursday, Friday, Sunday: $8,000
- Saturday: $12,000
All events include a 23% administrative fee, which covers gratuity and administrative costs—no additional tipping is required.
Family-Style Meals
- 4-course dinner: $125 per person
- 5-course dinner: $150 per person
- Hors d’oeuvres (4 varieties): $35 per person
- Vendor meals: $40 per person
Beverage Packages (up to six hours)
- Premium ($90/person): Beer, wine, cocktails, house-made soda, coffee & tea
- Standard ($70/person): Beer, wine, house-made soda, coffee & tea
Other Costs
Credit/debit card payments carry a 3% convenience fee. Weddings with 30+ guests often require rentals, typically $800–$5,000 depending on size. The Corson Building team coordinates these details.
What’s Included in Your Corson Building Wedding Package:
All packages include the following services:
– Set up and tear-down of tables and chairs
– Supply of all dishes, glassware, linens, and cutlery
– Full dinner and bar service
– Post-event cleanup
– Coordination of audio equipment rentals
– Creation of the day-of schedule
Corson Building Wedding Photographer
If you’re planning a wedding at the Corson Building, you want a photographer who knows the venue inside and out. I’ve had the privilege of photographing multiple weddings here, and I love how the historic architecture, lush gardens, and cozy courtyards create such a unique and timeless backdrop.
My approach focuses on capturing authentic, personal moments as they unfold naturally. I pay attention to the details, emotions, and connections that make your day yours—without over-directing or interrupting the flow.
I’d be thrilled to help you document your wedding at the Corson Building. You can view more of my work on my website, or reach out here to start the conversation. I’d be thrilled to help you tell your story at the Corson Building.
Corson Building Wedding Inspiration
The Corson Building provides a timeless backdrop for a variety of wedding styles, from intimate garden ceremonies to cozy, family-style dinners. Its flexible courtyards, lush gardens, and historic interiors allow couples to personalize their day beautifully, no matter the season.
See how real couples have brought their Corson Building weddings to life:
- Intimate Dinner Party Wedding at the Corson Building
- Summer Garden Wedding at the Corson Building
- Spring Elopement at the Corson Building
FAQ’s About The Corson Building Weddings
Hosting a wedding at the Corson Building typically ranges between $8,000 and $28,000, depending on factors such as guest count, day of the week, and menu choices. This pricing includes a 23% service fee, use of the facility, meals, bar service, dishes, glassware, cutlery, linens, day-of schedule creation, set-up, and tear-down. It does not include Seattle sales tax or additional rentals that may be needed if your guest count exceeds 30.
The venue is perfect for intimate gatherings and comfortably accommodates up to 80 guests. Smaller events create a cozy, personal atmosphere that couples and guests love.
Dinner generally takes place outdoors on the covered and heated patios, creating a warm and inviting setting even in cooler months.
Meals are served family-style, giving your guests a communal dining experience and encouraging conversation throughout the meal.
Absolutely! The Corson Building works with couples to design a personalized, seasonal menu that reflects your taste, style, and dietary preferences.
There is limited on-site parking, accessible by driving over the curb. Additional parking is available on Airport Way or in the alley east of the venue. Parking in the area is limited, so be sure to communicate arrangements to your guests in advance.
Yes! Tours are available for interested couples. Many couples also make dinner reservations to experience the food and hospitality firsthand while imagining their wedding day.
Yes, the venue has an experienced events team to assist with day-of coordination and logistics, ensuring your wedding runs smoothly. Outside wedding planners are welcome but not required.
Yes! The Corson Building’s South and North Yards can accommodate both the ceremony and reception, allowing your celebration to flow seamlessly without moving guests off-site.
Yes! Dogs are welcome as part of your celebration. Be sure to follow the venue’s guidelines regarding leashes and furniture.
The venue hosts weddings year-round, with options for all seasons:
Spring & Summer: Lush gardens and longer daylight hours for outdoor ceremonies
Autumn: Vibrant ivy and cooler, comfortable weather
Winter: Covered and heated patios allow outdoor seating even in colder months, and discounted venue pricing is available from October 1 to May 15
Yes! While the venue provides full-service catering and coordination, couples are welcome to hire additional vendors such as florists, musicians, photographers, and planners.
Yes, there is one private getting-ready space upstairs in the home’s former living quarters. Many couples choose to get dressed on-site while doing most other preparations at a nearby hotel or Airbnb.
The Corson Building is a truly special Seattle wedding venue, offering intimate gardens, historic charm, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for your celebration. Whether you’re planning a spring garden ceremony or a cozy winter dinner, this venue provides a beautiful backdrop for your day. If you’re looking for a photographer to capture every meaningful moment, I’d love to help—take a look at my galleries of Corson Building weddings and reach out when you’re ready to chat.
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Cameron Zegers is a Seattle wedding photographer specializing in candid, natural wedding photography. Serving couples in Seattle and throughout the Pacific Northwest, Cameron captures authentic moments, emotional connections, and the story of each wedding day.
