Looking for that perfect spot to tie the knot? Something secular with an air of formality but not too stuffy?
How about Victoria City Hall?
Victoria councillors last week gave their blessing to new guidelines that will allow rental of various spaces in city hall — including council chambers — for functions such as weddings, meetings and receptions.
“I totally want to be here for the first wedding,” said Coun. Marianne Alto, who originally proposed expanded public use of city hall. “It’s a wonderful move forward to open the doors to city hall.”
The guidelines, which will be piloted for six months, allows for events such as community group meetings, non-profit events, workshops, seminars, arts and culture-related events, documentary screenings and private weddings.
Several types of events will not be allowed, including those run by registered political groups, commercial activities, and activities that aim to recruit someone to join a religion, cause or group.
Coun. Jeremy Loveday called the new policy exciting.
“This is a public building and it’s great to have a policy in place where the public can now use it,” Loveday said, adding that he hoped policies could be developed to open up all civic buildings for public use.
Under the guidelines, spaces available for rent include council chambers, the antechamber, meeting rooms, the city hall foyer and the Douglas Street entrance space. Meeting space, if available, will be provided free of charge during regular business hours. After hours, there’s a fee schedule designed to cover costs.
Fees range from free for events on weekday evenings to $1,500 for weekend events longer than eight hours.
Private weddings can be booked during regular business hours in council chambers, but are subject to cancellation should city operations cause a time conflict. Up to 25 guests will be allowed.
Finger food is allowed, but don’t expect to toast the bride and groom with champagne — alcoholic beverages are not allowed.
