A modern and colorful Mass MoCA wedding in the Berkshires is always one of our favorites to plan. Mass MoCA is a funky and world famous modern art museum located in the small town of North Adams, Massachusetts. Drawing in visitors from all over the world, Mass MoCA is an unique and exciting venue for a wedding celebration. As New England wedding planners, the Aligned Events team has planned weddings at Mass MoCA on multiple occasions and we’re always thrilled to be there. If you’re considering a wedding at Mass MoCA, here are some expert tips to help you on your planning journey.
Why We Love Mass MoCA
We love how easily Mass MoCA sets the vibe for any event – colorful, modern and stylish while still be rooted in it’s past as a 19th-century mill building. Beautiful exposed brick, and striking architectural details blend perfectly with statement art installations. As a wedding venue it allows couples to set a distinct tone without having to do tons of heavy lifting – the art and architecture are the decor.
One bonus reason we (and our couples) love Mass MoCA? No rain plan! As a fully indoor and climate controlled venue – there’s no need to be stressed about rain plan logistics or constantly checking your weather app as the wedding approaches.
What Makes Mass MoCA So Unique?
With 26 interconnected buildings Mass MoCA has endless exhibits to explore. Choosing it as a wedding venue also creates an exciting destination for guests to visit throughout the wedding weekend. Though the Berkshires is known for it’s pastoral beauty and charming small towns, Mass MoCA feels like a big city venue without all the crowds and logistics.
What Ceremony and Reception spaces are available at Mass MoCA?
Most events at Mass MoCA occur in Building 6 – a newer wing of the complex. Ceremonies can be held in a variety of galleries, but the most popular is the stunning Cosmic Latte exhibit by Spencer Finch.
Cocktail hours are typically held in an area of Builcing 6 known as the Prow – with stunning high ceilings and windows that really showcase the architecture of Mass MoCA.
Receptions are usually held in the South Hall of Building 6. Featuring a floor to ceiling mural that brings energy and personality to the space. As a wide open space – the South Hall can host easily host events of 300+ but is equally at home with a more typical wedding guest count of 125-175 guests.
What Type of Couple will Love Mass MoCA?
Mass MoCA is a great fit for creative couples who love modern and industrial style. Effortlessly cool, Mass MoCA is a perfect fit for those who want a wedding that is elevated but not traditional. Mass MoCA tends to attract creatives, designers and (you guessed it) – artists!
Some Insider Tips To Consider
Since Mass MoCA is a museum that is open to the public, events are held when the museum is closed – post 5 pm in the fall, winter and early spring, and after 6 pm in the summer.
Having a pro team of vendors is especially important in a venue like Mass MoCA as setup and breakdown is required to take place in a short window just before and just after the event, and many elements (including the kitchen) have to be fully brought in. This is not a DIY space!
While a wedding at Mass MoCA does present some logistical challenges, the benefits far outweigh the concerns. A team of strong vendors will take this work off of your shoulders – allowing you to celebrate with your guests in a unique and memorable space.
Mass MoCA Wedding Costs
For our team to plan a wedding at Mass MoCA we highly recommend a budget of at least $750 – $1000 per guest. This includes venue fees, catering, florals, entertainment, rentals, photography and planning. As planners, we provide our couples of detailed budget breakdown for their chosen venue – including Mass MoCA.
How We’ve Transformed Mass MoCA In Different Ways
Recently, we worked with a couple who had fallen in love with a all blue gallery at Mass MoCA that had never been used for an event before. Working with the museum, we were able to transform this gallery into their dream ceremony location. As guests entered the space their eyes lit up seeing this unique and fun space that set the tone for the night to come.
That event was one of many that we’ve planned that has utilized the aesthetic of the museum in varying ways to tie into their own design and vision. From soft neturals that compliment the natural textures of the brick and wood to vibrant floral installations that nod to the colorful murals – there are endless ways to have a wedding at Mass MoCA – and all of them will be memorable.
Mass MoCA At-A-Glance
- Address: 1040 MASS MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247
- Phone: (413) 662-2111
- https://massmoca.org
- Venue Capacity: Spencer Finch Gallery = 200+, Building 6 = 400+ (though equally at home with a more modest guest count).
- Venue fee: Includes space for 4 Hour-Reception (Ceremonies may be added for additional cost, additional reception hours available for additional cost), venue access for a ceremony rehearsal and pre-ceremony photos. Lighting, tables, chairs and other event enhancements available for a la carte cost. Mass MoCA provides all bar services.
- Catering: Mass MoCA has a short list of approved caterers, other caterers allowed if approved by venue, additional ($500) outside caterer fee applies
If you are looking for a wedding venue that leans into bold artwork, industrial vibes, and non-traditional layouts, then we can help you plan a Mass MoCA wedding! We delight in bringing our clients wedding vision to life with our planning and design partnership. You can learn more about how we handle all of the planning logistics and translate your ideas into action on our Services page. We cannot wait to hear from you!
