The Delaware, at 125 S Main Street in Independence, Missouri, is a converted 1920s auto shop that hosts weddings, receptions, corporate events and private and community rentals for up to 230 guests. It stands in the historic Independence Square and keeps exposed beams and polished concrete floors.
Seminars and company events
The venue lists corporate, private and community event rentals alongside weddings. The main hall is open plan, which allows a day set up as a conference with rows of chairs, a banquet dinner or a standing reception. Tables, chairs, high tops, wooden head tables and floor-length linens are available. The website does not list audio-visual equipment, so ask what a presenter can use before booking a meeting or a launch. A venue manager is present for the event and handles setup, breakdown and cleaning.
Weddings and receptions
Weddings are the main business. Three packages offer 8, 12 or 15 hours of venue access, and the Intimate Experience is for up to 60 guests. Each package includes a venue manager, a ceremony and a reception, setup, breakdown and cleaning, and a one-hour rehearsal. A bridal suite and a groom loft provide getting-ready spaces, and a custom welded staircase serves as a ceremony feature. A separate coordination service is available. An organiser planning a company dinner or a holiday party can use the same hall for a reception, a seated meal and dancing. The bar sits inside the hall, so guests do not need to leave the room between courses and drinks. The bay garage doors can be opened in fine weather to link the hall with the outdoors.
Rooms and capacities
The main space is a 3,000 square foot warehouse hall with 16 foot ceilings and operable bay garage doors. An outdoor covered patio extends the space. The stated maximum is 230 guests. The Intimate Experience limits the group to 60.
Catering
A catering prep kitchen and a built-in bar are on site. The venue has an open vendor policy, with a preferred vendor list on its website. Bar packages include licensed bartenders for 4.5 hours, and a full coffee bar with baristas can be added.
History and setting
The building began as an auto shop in the 1920s and was converted into an event venue. It sits on Independence Square. Parking is described as ample, which helps when guests arrive by car. Ask the team about loading times for decorators and caterers before the day.
Getting there
The address is 125 S Main St, Independence, MO 64050, with ample parking.
