The Oviatt

My partner and I’s venue search ended the second we ascended in the historical elevator to the penthouse of the James Oviatt Building. The Oviatt venue is a multifaceted piece of beautiful Art Deco history that lends itself well to whatever event you are trying to throw. In our case, they hosted our wedding. We will forever be grateful for their immense care and kindness leading up to, on, and after the big day. We met the President Gabe first, who had his own wedding at this venue before he managed it. He made us feel right at home and answered every question we could muster. Our one hour showing turned into a two and a half hour conversation where his care and passion for the venue and his clients became very clear. We felt a connection right away. He shared a wealth of great advise and reassurances and gave us an impeccable pool of preferred vendors. We were sold in minutes. Every event is different, but my partner and I did not feel the space needed any help to become beautiful. The architectural art of the space is breathtaking and unique from the valet area outside of the Cicada Club all the way to the terrace. We saved a fortune on a florist. Who needs one when everything is already so classy? Speaking of class, the Director of Events Lindsey took point on execution and was our resource during the planning process. I as an individual am not the most communicative. I needed someone with that attention to detail and she delivered. After giving her all the venue required specifications (seating chart, insurances, etc,) two conversations was all it took for her to equip the venue with everything it needed and make it gorgeous. It seemed effortless for her. Not a spec of dust or dirt to be seen and the staff was respectful, efficient, and welcoming. I had a panic attack because I forgot to ask them for valet and she was able to get her people on it without issue the same week as the wedding. (Don’t be like me, but that is a perfect example of how on top of it they are.) They had EVERYTHING we could have wanted for a downtown metropolitan wedding and then some. If they didn’t have it? They knew exactly where to refer you. One of my personal favorite features was their completely customizable LED lighting strips on the hedges that lined either side of the rooftop. We had them a bright warm light for dinner and then a cycle of rainbow colors for dancing. They are inclusive and welcoming to any and all who come to visit. We felt valued, respected, and well cared for. It truly was the best day of our lives and we owe it all to The Oviatt. I implore to to reach out to them. I can say with certainty that you won’t be disappointed and whatever it is you are planning will become a memorable experience unlike any other.

My wedding day was the most fun I’ve ever had, and it all began with choosing the Oviatt as the venue. One of the best decisions my husband and I have ever made! It all started with our first phone call with Gabe. We were just a week or two into wedding planning, and quickly becoming overwhelmed with options and prices. When we expressed this, Gabe helpfully and realistically said “I’m going to give you a list of things we DON’T provide that you will have to budget for.” This was so refreshing after meeting with other venues that had hidden fees and aggressive sales tactics. We felt so comfortable right away, and when we scheduled an in-person tour, we fell in love. Not only were the prices competitive (we had all but ruled out being able to get married in LA proper on our budget), but the space was so unique that we knew it would provide a memorable experience for all of our guests, both local and from out-of-town. Gabe continued to lead with kindness as we reserved our date, throwing in a complimentary champagne welcome after I had expressed excitement over the idea on the tour and offering that we could split our deposit into two payments because he knew my union was on strike at the time. As we got deeper into the planning process, we worked closely with Lindsey, who much like Gabe was so fun to work with! She helpfully broke down all the little decisions we needed to make, answered all questions promptly, and was so helpful during our final walkthrough. What really worked for us with this venue is that aside from the bar, which you have to do through them (but the prices are very reasonable), you can bring in outside vendors as long as they fit the criteria. We were also able to rent linens and table settings through them and hire servers to bus and pour wine during dinner. There were never any hidden fees or surprises, and on the wedding day, everything went wonderfully! We even heard later that Lindsey gave some of our wedding party a tour of all the venue’s unique features during the reception, something our friends are still talking about. We felt so well taken care of, and the venue is so stunning minimal decor is needed! I am so happy we got married at the Oviatt. It is a gem, as are Gabe and Lindsey and the entire staff, and we are so grateful!

We really hit the lottery once we found the Oviatt! My husband and I were looking for an intimate space that had some history to it, and this space really took our breath away. Our guests felt like they were on a Hollywood movie set! The venue itself is so beautiful and the outdoor/ indoor space was ideal for our evening wedding. The highlight for us was working with Gabe and Lindsey (the entire staff was so kind and professional FYI) - but both Gabe and Lindsey are superstars! They're so courteous and made every step easy for us. They're extremely responsive and transparent about every detail of the event, we felt so secure with their team. Our wedding was extra special because they provided such attention and service to us and our families. Also, pricing is very reasonable for the location and the inclusions in their packages. We looked at a handful of different venues that offered much less in their wedding packages but cost was either comparable or much more than the Oviatt. Anyone who works with the Gabe & the Oviatt will surely enjoy their experience! 100% recommend!

On August 18th, my husband and I had our Wedding at The Oviatt Penthouse. Gabe and the entire team were beyond our wildest expectations. We had toured a previous venue; and lost said venue 3 months before the Big Day. Naturally, this was a very stressful event -- but upon calling Gabe, and explaining to him our predicament; we were able to come to The Oviatt on the same-day. We were given a tour of the (jaw-droopingly beautiful) space — complete with skyline views, vintage charm, and old LA atmosphere. As our previous Venue was also including a Day-Of Coordinator; we were very lost on how to proceed with a successful event. Gabe walked us through each and every detail in question. He also was able to give us a number for the event, to ensure it would fit into our budget. We knew we had found our location. In the months leading up to our Wedding Day, Gabe (and again, the entire team) were responsive, professional, and knowledgable on every aspect of what to expect — and when to expect it. They were very much our lifelines; setting us up with nearly every vendor we needed (Including catering and Photo Booth). One of the nicest features of The Oviatt was that their Open Bar policy is on a sliding scale; and charged as part of the Invoice of the location; no 3rd party alcohol vendors needed. When the Big Day finally arrived, the entire team was responsive and engaged with ensuring our Wedding Day was a memorable success. We truly cannot thank the entire Event Staff enough for making our dreams come true. As a Gay Couple, we were naturally cautious about certain aspects of booking vendors; we didn’t want any stain of negativity to touch this date. This entire experience gave me (personally) a stronger faith in humanity. The Venue was immaculate. The Staff was friendly, attentive, and genuinely happy for us. It’s not every day that your Dreams come true; thanks to Gabe and his team, when I look down at my left hand and see my ring, I’m able to remember the Perfect Day I shared with my friends, family, and the man I love. Thank you so much.