Elegant Outdoor Wedding at Monroe St Abbey
If you’re looking for a wedding venue that blends historic charm with open-air elegance, Monroe St Abbey is a hidden gem in downtown Phoenix that offers just that. We recently had the pleasure of providing event rentals for a stunning wedding in the outdoor courtyard of this unique space—and every detail came together beautifully.
From a well-balanced mix of light ash wood and moody dark wood tones to statement lounge seating and a show-stopping circular bar, this wedding was a perfect blend of modern style and timeless romance.
For this particular wedding, the couple wanted the space to feel warm, welcoming, and elevated—so we curated a mix of furniture styles and finishes that added dimension without overpowering the natural character of the venue.
One of the standout pieces was our Colette Sofa, upholstered in soft velvet and available in a range of colors. For this event, it helped anchor the lounge areas while giving guests a cozy spot to relax and mingle. Paired with our Dot Ottomans, the lounge zones struck the perfect balance between comfort and style.
The design also included our Ash Wood Lounge Collection—featuring light-toned wood pieces with a modern silhouette. These helped lighten up the space while providing a cool contrast to the venue’s aged brick and darker architectural elements.
To tie everything together and bring a little depth to the design, the planners mixed in dark wood accent pieces, giving the entire layout a layered and sophisticated look. The contrast between the ash and dark woods made the event feel intentional and custom—without being overly styled.
The ceremony space was truly something special—intimate, romantic, and visually stunning. The couple opted for a unique setup that broke away from traditional ceremony seating. Instead of rows of chairs, most guests stood, creating an organic, inclusive feel that brought everyone closer to the moment. A few carefully placed Colette sofas added just the right amount of cozy lounge seating for family and close friends.
Dozens of candles in various heights of clear glassware surrounded the altar area, creating a warm, ambient glow. To elevate the look, clear acrylic podiums were used to stagger the candles at different heights, adding dimension without distracting from the overall aesthetic. Above it all, a statement chandelier hung directly over the couple, casting a romantic light as they exchanged vows. The combination of minimal seating, soft candlelight, and a dramatic overhead centerpiece made for a ceremony that was both modern and timeless—an unforgettable setting for a very personal “I do.”
Instead of tucking the bar off to the side, this couple opted to make a bold statement by placing our Ash Harper Full Circle Bar right in the center of the event. This modular bar is a favorite among planners for good reason—it’s functional, beautiful, and completely unique.
Placed in the middle of the courtyard, it acted as both a visual centerpiece and a natural gathering spot for guests. The light ash wood finish complemented the rest of the lounge furniture while standing out against the darker elements of the historic venue.
This layout created an immersive, interactive vibe where guests could grab a drink, enjoy the lounge, and stay engaged with the celebration from any angle.
This wedding perfectly showcased how thoughtful design can bring together different textures and tones for a seamless, stylish celebration. From the soft velvet of the Colette sofa to the natural grain of the ash wood pieces, every detail was intentionally chosen to complement both the space and the couple’s vision.
The open-air courtyard provided the perfect backdrop for the mix of modern rentals and vintage charm. With lounge vignettes scattered throughout the space and a circular bar drawing guests together, the layout encouraged connection, comfort, and celebration—everything you want from a wedding day.
