Written and photographed by: Laurette Veres
A city with huge on music and huge guitars.
Memphis is having a moment. New construction is everywhere and historic buildings are being rehabilitated. Not only is Memphis the birthplace of rock-n-roll and the hub for barbecue and civil rights history, it’s now one of the few places where you can get married at the train depot. Yes, the old train station in downtown has been born again. The Central Station Hotel, Curio Collection by Hilton, has taken everything that is cool about an old train depot, tuned the guitar, turned up the stereo, and set Memphis’ South Main District on fire.
Built in 1914 by the Illinois Central Railroad, the 105-year-old property is now a 123-room boutique hotel featuring mid-century architectural design, Memphis- influenced music programming, expansive event areas and dynamic downhome dining. At one time there were 26 train tracks and some of the original signage is still in tact. Don’t be surprised to hear a train whistle, the “City of New Orleans” train still stops here on the way to Chicago.
You know you’re in Memphis. The Central Station’s daily playlist greets you as you enter your room on custom designed, in-room EgglestonWorks speakers. Each room has unique photos on the wall, all images are scenes taken on the train route.
The central meeting area is the bar, 8 & Sand. Each evening welcomes the house DJ who spins records from a booth creatively designed from an old church organ. He has a collection of over 200K albums; his selections broadcast throughout the bar and lobby.
Behind the bar, a separate, acoustically constructed Listening Lounge waits to be discovered. Chad Weekly curates the music as well as over ten podcasts on specific Memphis styles of music. The speakers here are so good, it’s as though you are hearing the music live.
Get married here! With picturesque views of the Mississippi River and downtown Memphis, your guests will love staying in the heartbeat of downtown. The Central Station offers 8,000 square feet of event and meeting space, including a 6,500 square foot Grand Hall ballroom that occupies the transportation hub’s former waiting room space. You can literally close your eyes and imagine waiting to catch your train. Or simply dance the night away with family and friends. The Grand Hall features the original train marquee, soaring 33-foot ceilings and light fixtures inspired by train lanterns.
Award-winning chefs Michael Hudman and Andy Ticer head up Bishop, a bold Southern French brasserie showcasing locally and regionally sourced menu items; perfect for rehearsal dinners and wedding catering.
While your guests are in Memphis, they’ll want to explore. A few iconic destinations are a must. Stax Museum is one of them. Learn Memphis’ music history while you support the music school. Sun Studios (where Elvis was discovered) is another. Take the tour and sing Love Me Tender into the same microphone as the King. Step back in time at the National Civil Rights Museum, and pay homage to Elvis at Graceland.
Memphis’ famed Beal Street is several blocks of lively bars featuring live music and libations. If you meet up with any locals, they’ll expect you to know what makes their BBQ so special. Hint meat here is slow smoked with a dry rub. Slaw is served on the sandwich, never on the side. What a perfect way to kick off your wedding festivities.
554 Main Street Memphis, TN 38103 www.centralstationhotel.com.
Beautiful Skyline through the streets of Memphis
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