The Exchange, Glasgow’s newest and most glamorous wedding venue in the heart of the City.

I really like to do my homework over here at Eliza T Photography, so when I continually heard the name ‘The Exchange’ over and over again at a recent trade show, my eyes were well and truly opened.

A bit of background about this new venue. Previously 29 Private Members Club, The Exchange is Glasgow’s newest wedding and event space. Located on Royal Exchange Square, right in the heart of the city, this venue is surrounded by some of the best restaurants and bars in the city. It’s close proximity to all my major photo op areas; The Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) and The Duke of Wellington, George Square, Montrose Street and John Street Arches. I also love the backdrop of Hutchesons; if you don’t know, get to know.

The Exchange can host anywhere between 60 to 140 guests for wedding ceremonies and up to 200 guests for the evening reception.

The venue is accessed by a lovely doorway tucked in the corner of Royal Exchange Square and it’s one of those instances when you walk through the archways into Royal Exchange Square, you just have one of those ‘Ohhhhh’ moments. The entry way is so chic and classy, a pair of lanterns adorn the doorway sign, 2 stunning floral displays stand on each side and the thick, plush carpet runner leads you to the top of the stairs and in to the venue. There’s also a private lift access and internal lifts to access each floor.

You’re immediately greeted by the sound of jazz music and their dreamy signature scent, sandalwood and vanilla fills the air. It just takes you back to the glamorous era of the 1940’s and 50’s but with a completely modern twist. As soon I entered, I was greeted by the reception staff who showed me to the seating area to wait for the wedding coordinator Rebecca coming down to meet me. The seating area was lovely; beautiful grey curved seating with small tables and singular upholstered stools; the perfect little area for guests to meet before the wedding day.

Up a few stairs (or internal lift) was the entry into their bar area; The Exchange Bar; again in keeping with their decor, this space was gorgeous. and a very welcoming space for cocktail hour. With a selection of high bar tables and stools and lower tables and chairs, this area is absolutely perfect for mingling whilst the couple are out having their portraits taken.

I was then shown their ceremony and reception space ‘The Gallery’ and wow, what a space! Flooded with natural light, this light and airy room is literally every wedding photographers dream. With that 75 foot statement aisle and ornate chandeliers, this space truly has the wow factor. The windows run the full length of the room with views out onto Royal Exchange Square and they have a few decorative mirrors on the opposite wall which contribute towards the light and airy feeling in this space. I was pleased to hear the opinions of Rebecca with regards to the layout of the room for the meal, and from a wedding photographers perspective, she understood perfectly what we as photographers need to get the best shots. The room is either set up with the top table to the fireplace end or facing towards the window, not in front of the window. This was music to my ears because no one wants to have backlit subjects when they have this amazing light available and I certainly will eliminate flash and opt for natural light 98% of the time. So this team really does think about absolutely everything about your day.

I have a thing about venue chairs; it’s a wee personal thing for me and I just absolutely love a nice chair. And this venue have delivered on the chair front. King Louis style chairs which look absolutely stunning and need no decoration whatsoever.

The next space I was shown into was ‘The Print Room’ and my jaw literally dropped. Think New York loft meets super chic city bar; like something straight out of a Marvel or DC movie. It’s absolutely out of this world stunning and I can understand why this is a favourite with couples. And our moody editorial style group shots will look fabulous in this space. The Print Room has access to an outside terrace area which is another fabulous space to escape to. There’s ample seating to accommodate as well as the option for it to be covered over. You just never know the minute with our unpredictable Scottish weather.

Unfortunately ‘The Parlour’ was being used for filming on the day of my visit, but I can see from the pictures online how special this space actually is. Wedding mornings here will be epic for my couples. This Penthouse space boasts individual dressing rooms, 4 bathrooms, lounge seating and a bar, and gives something that no one else around offers. It truly is spectacular.

After being shown around by Rebecca I had a chat and she told me a bit more about the venue. I discovered that The Exchange is the sister hotel to Citation which is a super popular wedding venue close by. Rebecca also wants the absolute best in everything for all the couples who book this venue and this was evident from the conversations I had about the photography part alone; she just understands what works and what to advise her couples with regards to room setups, positioning, group shots and a whole lot more.

So if you want a venue that is truly spectacular, oozing in glamour and sophistication with that little bit of something special and with staff who will truly care, The Exchange is the place for your big day.

And we cannot wait to come back to shoot our first wedding here.

The wedding brochure can be downloaded from the link below.

https://theexchangeglasgow.co.uk/weddings/

https://theexchangeglasgow.co.uk/

29 Royal Exchange Square
Glasgow
G1 3AJ

info@theexchangeglasgow.co.uk
0141 225 6654