If you're engaged and haven't picked a venue yet, you can see one of Bloomington's bigger ballroom options this month without booking an appointment. The JW Marriott Minneapolis Mall of America, at 2131 Lindau Lane, will be open for the Minnesota Bride Venue Tour from noon to 4 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 8.
The mall's listing says couples can walk through the space, talk with wedding vendors and meet certified wedding planners. There will also be champagne and appetizers. The hotel is hosting with Minnesota Bride, the magazine that also brings its Unveiled wedding show and fashion event to the mall's rotunda each spring.
The Bloomington stop is part of a statewide open house. Organizers say more than 40 venues are taking part on the same afternoon, from city spots like the Machine Shop, the Uptown Theater and The Oceanaire to resorts up north like Cragun's, Grand View Lodge and Superior Shores. Tours are self-guided, so you can fit in a few stops if you plan your route, though driving to Brainerd and back by 4 p.m. would be a stretch.
Admission is free for engaged couples, their guests and wedding professionals, but you have to register ahead of time through Eventbrite. Organizers ask for a ticket for each person in your group, so if you're bringing a mom, a maid of honor and an opinionated cousin, register all 3. Organizers also note that your registration info may be shared with participating venues for promotional purposes. Expect some follow-up emails.
Organizers say many venues are offering booking incentives for the day, with discounts from $500 to $2,000 if you sign within a set window, usually 7 to 30 days after the tour. Refreshments vary by venue. Each venue sets its own deal, so if price matters, ask the JW Marriott's staff what's on the table before you leave.
