Premier Event Hosting | Catering Service | Fort Wayne, IN

PUBLISHED IN FORT WAYNE WEDDING MAGAZINE '09

It’s obvious from the moment you step inside YOLO (shorthand for “You Only Live Once”) that this is not your typical reception hall. And, according to the venue’s general manager, that was exactly what owner Todd Smith and his team had in mind when they designed Fort Wayne’s newest banquet facility.

“Everything – from the interior design to the 60-inch flat screen LCD televisions to the LED lights and waterfall – works together to create the kind of venue that is more along the lines of what you’d find in Chicago or another urban setting.”

The walls of the large banquet room – it can easily fit up to 300 guests at a time – are a metallic gray liberally decorated with original artwork. The chandeliers and other lighting fixtures are modern and streamlined to give the space a sophisticated feel. State-of-the-art technology that includes not only LCD and LED capabilities but also WIFI access and a built-in DJ booth, allows for the room to transition quickly and easily from a wedding reception to an acoustic concert or a business function.

“We set out specifically to create a venue that could hold a wide variety of events, and that’s one of the things that makes us unique.”  Another feature that undeniably sets YOLO apart from its field is the waterfall that flows behind a wall of lit glass. The sound of cascading water can add ambiance to any event, but there is a surprise element to this feature: The glass is fitted with more than 72 different colors of lights, meaning brides-to-be, or even selective executives, are free to choose what they want their waterfall to look like. “It’s peaceful, it’s tranquil and we can match just about any color you can think of.” The staff at YOLO, which includes wedding planner Kristin Smith and a professional photographer, is more than happy to cater to the individual needs of their clients. And speaking of catering, Trolley Bar Steaks and Seafood provides the food. YOLO also has an onsite limousine service, Allure Limousine, making this venue much more than a great space for a party but a veritable one-stop shop for brides and grooms who want a stylish but affordable wedding with minimal hassle. “If you come here it means you don’t have to outsource your wedding to a lot of different people and providers. We take the stress out of the planning process and make it fun, affordable and exciting.” YOLO adjoins Early Birds, one of the area’s newest nightclubs, meaning it’s a convenient spot for wedding ceremonies as well as receptions. Following the ceremony, guests can be ushered into Early Birds’ many VIP rooms for cocktails while the staff transforms YOLO from a chapel setup to party central in a matter of minutes. “We very much believe that we can provide the kind of service and expertise you won’t get anywhere else. Life’s an event. Put it in our hands.”