Hi folks
Fiancé and I are getting married at 501 Union in Gowanus in October. Our host hotels are just north in Downtown Brooklyn. We want to have "welcome drinks" somewhere the night prior to our wedding, since plenty of family is coming in from out of town. We were thinking of paying for snacks/apps at whatever venue we choose, but guests would grab their own drinks. Keeping it casual for this event.
Has anyone done this in the area? I'm looking for a spot where 40ish people could gather in a casual setting, preferably in the Downtown Brooklyn area so that people could walk from their hotel.
My original thought was the Ace Hotel Brooklyn (one of the host hotels) in their Lobby Bar. However, you can only reserve one of their big banquets. I know folks can hover at other open spots in the bar or find available tables, but I'm worried that if I can only put food out in the one spot, that it will cause this massive cluster and won't feel right. Anyone have experience with this or other venues in the area for welcome drinks? Any and all guidance appreciated.