Now that Macy and Ethan have been named the winners of our Dream Day Giveaway, they’ve got a wedding to plan! You’re invited to accompany them as they plan each element of their big day with our partner vendors, leading up to one special celebration on September 10 at The Mason Dallas. If you’re planning your own wedding, be sure to follow along for tips and insight on what to expect with each step, what to know going into every meeting, and how to make sure your path to the altar is a smooth one.
Choosing a venue is often the first decision a couple makes in planning their wedding—and a crucial one in terms of determining the look and feel of their big day. Our Dream Day winners, Macy and Ethan, will say “I do” at The Mason Dallas, a restored Masonic Lodge that was originally built in 1920 and was reimagined several years ago into a stunning wedding and special event space. Kyle Hennigan, the venue director for The Mason Dallas, reveals a bit about his first meeting with our lucky couple and shares what couples should ask when touring venues.
How did the first meeting with Macy and Ethan go? What was their reaction to seeing the space?
Macy and Ethan are the perfect Mason couple. Their story and their love for each other and their families shines bright. My heart was overjoyed to meet them and introduce them to The Mason Dallas. I may have had a tear in my eye for a minute or two from their excitement and their sincere gratitude.
Can you give us a brief history of The Mason Dallas and the inspiration for its new look and feel?
The Mason Dallas is a truly unique venue within the DFW wedding market. With a century-long legacy, the building has been designated as a historic Oak Cliff landmark. Rich details like Gracie and Missoni wallcoverings, Farrow & Ball paint, and curated artwork give the venue a luxurious and very personal feel. Our guests are invited to experience a place of style and beauty with TNT (tiny noticeable touches) in every nook. Alan Dunn, the owner, has a passion for restoring old venues and creating new memories that will last a lifetime for our clients and guests.
What should a couple pay attention to when touring prospective venues? Do you feel it’s helpful for a couple to bring their planner on venue tours, and if so, why?
When touring any venue, you want to inquire about their preferred/required vendors and their services and offerings, i.e. tables, chairs, appliances, etc., as this will give them a better idea of any outside costs they may need to add into their budget.
While most couples rarely have a planner when they first tour, we do require that the couples have a planner or coordinator for their wedding. I suggest to our couples that once they have selected a planner/coordinator, we should schedule a tour with the professional. These meetings are crucial in the planner/coordinator connecting with the couple’s vision for their special day!
What questions should a couple ask of their prospective venue?
Again, couples should ask about inclusive items with the venue rental, i.e. tables, chairs, linens, china, silverware, etc. Confirm that the venue does not have a required caterer or other vendor list. Most couples do not know to ask whether the venue’s catering kitchen comes with appliances, ice machine, etc. These are items that, if not offered, may need to added to the wedding budget. Always ask about any additional fees that may not be covered by the rental. While all fees should be transparent, it is always reassuring to ask and confirm.
Do Mason couples have access to the space for engagement photos?
Yes! In addition to a 10-hour rental for the day of the wedding and one hour for rehearsal, couples who book their wedding at The Mason Dallas receive one complimentary hour for bridal portraits or an engagement shoot. Additional hours may be added, if needed.
How far out are you typically booked?
Our couples generally book their wedding nine to 18 months out.
