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Many couples planning their wedding in MA are often searching for a unique space to host their ceremony and reception. I wanted to take some time and interview one of the most unique spaces I’ve seen so far, Oceans Explorium at New Bedford Seaport in MA. Abbey Sparro, the Education and Events Coordinator at Oceans Explorium took some time to introduce us to this truly creative wedding venue.
For anyone who hasn’t had the chance to visit you, what would guests expect to see and experience at the Ocean Explorium?
Ocean Explorium: One’s first impression upon entering the Ocean Explorium is the magnificent space – the former New Bedford Institution for Savings Bank lobby is a marble-lined Great Hall with soaring ceiling and fabulous arched windows. Second – the exhibits, with a 24 sq ft Blue Ocean Cube surrounded with aquaria and media booths. To the right, a cluster of touch tanks invites interaction. End-wall murals by famed local artist Arthur Moniz depict a Salt Marsh and the Working Waterfront of New Bedford harbor. A winding marble stair, exquisite etched vault doors and opulent architectural appointments make this space very special.
Ocean Explorium is such a unique and creative venue for a wedding. Can you describe the space available for couples to use either for their ceremony, cocktail hour or reception?
OE: The Great Hall can be configured in a number of ways: for instance, guests are seated before the Salt Marsh mural as the bride descends the marble stairs for the ceremony. The reception begins with cocktails at the Ray and Shark touch tank, followed by dinner in the adjacent Education Center. Finally, all return to the Great Hall for dancing.
What sort of access do guests have to the living exhibits at Ocean Explorium and what sort of staff is needed to be there at the time of their wedding?
OE: Generally, staff and volunteers are on hand for all events. Guests are welcome to mingle amid the exhibits. Ocean Explorium educators interpret the touch tanks for guests while volunteers are available for logistical support.
What can a couple expect from Ocean Explorium in terms of help planning their wedding?
OE: Abbey Spargo or her designee will meet with the couple to help them create a memorable event. The Ocean Explorium offers a number of options and additional services, while Russell Morin Fine Catering provides food and beverage guidance and can advise on event rentals.
Are couples able to have a dance floor and live band or DJ at Ocean Explorium?
OE: Absolutely! We have hosted individual and groups of singers, jazz combos and a blues band. Any professional musician or D.J. can set up a sound system to work in our space.
Are there any additional items that the couple might need to rent? For example, are tables, chairs, linens, china etc. included with your location?
OE: The Ocean Explorium has padded folding chairs for a ceremony if requested only. Anything else would have to be provided or rented, either through the caterer or an event rental vendor.
Ocean Explorium has an exclusive partnership with caterer, Russell Morin Fine Catering. What have been some reviews that you’ve heard back from couples on how easy they are to work with? Do you often have couples request to bring their own caterer and what is your reply?
OE: Our relationship with Russell Morin Fine Catering is advantageous because of their depth of experience and breadth of offerings. Their staff works with couples to ensure everything is perfect. This arrangement does not permit exceptions for social events.
Give us one of your favorite memories of working with a couple to plan their wedding with you.
OE: We had a great deal of fun working with a couple who wanted a slide show of photos from their courtship projected on our focal exhibit, the Science on a Sphere®. Guests can sit in the Blue Ocean Cube and enjoy the show, creating another level of sharing and celebration.
What has been the feedback from couples and their guests about having their wedding in such a unique space?
OE: We have had a great many wonderful comments, especially from guests who had never been to the Ocean Explorium and did not know quite what to expect! Most say they plan to return with their children and their grandchildren.
What advice would you give couples planning their wedding in a creative venue, either at Ocean Explorium or anywhere else that’s not your typical reception hall?
OE: We like to think we offer almost everything a couple could need – something old, something new, and something blue!
The bottom line is – it is your day! As long as your guests are comfortable and have something to eat and drink, the theme and decor are whatever you want them to be. So why not surround your friends and family with life – beautiful, graceful, colorful life!
Budget is a major consideration for most couples planning their wedding. How do you work with various budget limitations?
OE: Cost is a consideration for everyone, and we are happy to work with a couple to realize their dreams. In addition, Russell Morin Fine Catering can tailor their menus and levels of service to suit the couple’s taste and budget.
Russell Morin also offers cost savings for couples who book two or more wedding-related events at the Ocean Explorium, the New Bedford Whaling Museum and/or Shining Tides in Mattapoisett – a package deal for your showers, brunches, rehearsal dinners, weddings and receptions!
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Source by Christine Bemko
