Into Indy: Guide with City of Shay

At The Sixpence, we know celebrating your wedding requires a lot more than just picking your catering package and finding the perfect gown. There are so many exciting and detailed elements that surround your big day, and we teamed up with Indiana expert guide City of Shay to highlight our favorite recommendations to help you soak up every second of your wedding season!

Rehearsal Dinner Spots

Anthony’s Chophouse

Whether you’re looking to host a formal rehearsal dinner or use this hosting opportunity to grab a more casual bite with your nearest and dearest, here are a few spots we would highly recommend, where ambiance meets menu perfection!

1. Spoke & Steele – This modern dining spot offers a midwestern take on French and European classics. The interior spaces are moody and beautiful, and the menu boasts offers like delicious pasta, classics, craft cocktails, and a canapé package perfect for anything from a full meal to casual hosting.
2. The Fountain Room – A stylish steakhouse with delightfully eccentric decor, The Fountain Room describes itself best, “supper club flair without the formality.” With offerings ranging from surf and turf to exquisite appetizers like the Brie Delight and raw oysters, this is a hosting spot that leaves an impression.
3. Anthony’s Chophouse – Steak lovers, this one’s for you. A no-nonsense steakhouse with stunning views of Carmel, Anthony’s is an excellent choice for big groups and big appetites. Their menu features delights like the Frenched Lamb Rack, Hawaiian Tuna, and a phenomenal Bourbon Bread Pudding, and more.
4. Gallery Pastry Shop – With 3 locations each offering distinctive and fantastic interiors and installations, Gallery Pastry Shop features bright and beautiful settings for your rehearsal meal, and a menu of brunch, dinner, cocktails, and European-style pastries.
5. Commission Row – Downtown elegance meets culinary artistry at this spot boasting delicious steaks, raw bar, seafood, and fine wine and spirits. “Be sure to head to the lower level to explore Mel’s, a sultry speakeasy with lots of seating and incredible drinks.” – tip from Shay
6. Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael – Immerse yourself in classic dining and live entertainment excellence at Feinstein’s in Hotel Carmichael, Carmel. Enjoy the stunning private atmosphere, curated menus, and the perfect setting for live music to elevate the evening.

Photo 1: The Fountain Room | Photo 2: Commission Row | Photo 3: Gallery Party Shop

Bachelorette Trips

Petite Chou

1. Flower Boys Indy – Spend the day surrounded by blooms by signing up for Flower Boy’s many flower workshop classes or reserve a table and have fun picking out flowers for a custom arrangement, while one of their designers helps you every step of the way.
2. Penn & Beech – Make a reservation for your private party to pour your own candle at Penn & Beech. With over 100 scents and support from scent specialists to help you design the perfect candle, it’s the perfect opportunity to make memories that will come to mind every time you strike a match! *enter to win a candle-pouring party at our Summer Open House on June 13th!
3. Indy Palm Pad AIRBNB – Who says the Midwest can’t be sunny all year round? Spend a few days in Indy Palm Pad’s retro-inspired short-term rental, and enjoy every corner of this ultra-instagrammable stay. Ideal for low-maintenance bachy trips – You can skip some decor when the space looks so cute!
4. 3UP Rooftop Lounge – IYKYK – 3UP is the hot spot for when you’re wanting some social time with the girls. Enjoy cocktails and a bite to eat with dreamy rooftop views, or rent out the whole space for the ultimate VIP experience.
5. Petite Chou – This bistro and champagne bar is a stunning reinvention of the iconic French neighborhood restaurant, with indoor dining and a gorgeous covered patio. The perfect spot for sips and photos with your crew, full or partial buyouts are available to perfect the ambiance.
6. Love Links – Visit Love Links for the perfect way to remember the weekend with your girls, or schedule a time for an artist to come to your group’s stay and beautify your wrists in comfort!

Photo 1: Petite Chou | Photo 2: Flower Boys Indy | Photo 3: 3UP Rooftop Lounge

Engagement Shoots

Honey Lens Imaging at The Sixpence

1. Eagle Creek Park – Take a trip to Eagle Creek Park, and you’d never know you were in Indy! A quick walk around shows off wooded trails to stunning lake views, perfect for an engagement photo backdrop.
2. Bottleworks Hotel – The Bottleworks Hotel is an iconic Indy location to have your Hollywood moment on the front steps. Dip for a kiss or park in front of a 1956 Rolls Royce for photos you’ll treasure forever.
3. Coxhall Gardens – Step into your session with limitless pretty scenery, from the outdoor pavilion, lake, and bright walkways!
4. The Sixpence Gardens – Love is in bloom at The Sixpence seasonal gardens by Bluebell House Flowers. Whisk away into the blooms with your beau for sun-kissed, flower-filled snapshots you’ll adore.
5. Carmel Palladium – The beautiful landscaping and photo-worthy steps at the Carmel Palladium are just a few of the best spots on the property. Explore the property for dreamy nearlywed photos!
6. Indianapolis Canal – Dive into downtown romance and walk along the canal through the heart of Indy for your engagement photos. Take advantage of the waterway by purchasing a boat ride for an unforgettable experience and beautiful canal backdrops.

Photo 1: Bottleworks Hotel | Photo 2: The Sixpence Gardens | Photo 3: Indianapolis Canal

Local Honeymoon Getaways

Bottleworks Hotel

1. Bottleworks Hotel – Stay the night in the heart of Mass Ave at the Bottleworks Hotel, with tons of walkable dining and shopping options to complete your stay in this fabulous district. Pop over to Blue Collar Coffee Co., Garage Food Hall, Sundry & Vice, Modita, or cozy up and order from the delectable room service menu.
2. Getaway House – Book a weekend away at the Getaway House and enjoy perfectly designed mini-cabins that have everything you need for a stay off the grid. “The perfect place to unplug, experience nature, and spend quality time with your new spouse.” – tip from Shay
3. Walker Getaway – Escape the hustle and bustle to enjoy a weekend on the lake at the stunning a-frame cottage, Walker Getaway. Located on Raccoon Lake, this gorgeous cabin features 3 bedrooms, a deck and hot tub, and the perfect blend of nature and luxury. *enter to win an overnight at Walker Getaway at our Summer Open House on June 13th!
4. Turkey Run Inn – All the comfort of home, at a beautiful historic location. Turkey Run Inn includes cozy amenities, an indoor pool, casual dining, and stunning outdoor spaces. Wake up and hit the trails at the Turkey Run Inn for some hiking among waterfalls and soak up your newlywed state in nature!
5. The Alexander – Be amazed by the contemporary design and art throughout this space and explore the bustling neighborhood outside. The perfect homebase for an urban exploration, The Alexander is definitely worth checking out if you two are inspired by art and culture!
6. Indy Mod Pod – The Indy Mod Pod AIRBNB is a totally unique contemporary home, designed in style and walkable to local restaurants, shopping, breweries, distilleries, and more. Ideal for a getaway that offers all the essentials and refined privacy within reach of the city’s activities.

Photo 1: Getaway House | Photo 2: Walker Getaway | Photo 3: The Alexander

Bridal Style Boutiques

Magnolia Boutique at The Sixpence

1. Nuova Vita Vintage – A spot offering vintage and sustainably sourced styles for mindfully beautifying your wedding season wardrobe. “I love this spot for curated vintage finds that are extremely high quality – check out their new location at the Stutz building.” – tip from Shay
2. Magnolia Boutique – Magnolia Boutique is perfect for online shoppers and brides alike! Whether you’re looking for *that look* or a full wardrobe refresh, Magnolia Boutique is definitely worth checking out. *enter to win $200 towards Magnolia Boutique at our Summer Open House on June 13th!
3. Lane 201 – From engagement photos to bachelorette trips to the honeymoon. Lane 201’s bridal line offers everything from elegant, classic looks to trendy seasonal styles and beyond.
4. Emmylou Boutique – Emmylou Boutique is the stop for glitz and glam brides! They also have a ton of cute graphic tees and lounge fits for a bachelorette trip!
5. Rose & Remington – If you’re a bride who wants a fresh white dress and outfit for every event (I mean, there are a lot of photos!), then you have to visit Rose & Remington for all the fashion staples you’ll desire for each bridal occasion!
6. Blue Peppermint – From pearl-studded pants to textured tops, Blue Peppermint has stunning unique pieces that will take your bridal style up a notch. Order online, or stop in and enjoy the stunning shopping experience, if you have time!

Photo 1: Rose & Remington | Photo 2: Nuova Vita Vintage | Photo 3: Emmylou Boutique

City of Shay is an expert guide to all things Indianapolis. Shay offers various curated services, now including day-of wedding content creation!

You’re not in it alone! We’re here to support your wedding planning journey with inspiration, resources, and suggestions. Follow @the_sixpence on Instagram to stay updated on all our guides, thoughts, and more. If you’re in need of planning and resource assistance, feel welcome to email us at hello@thesixpence.com.

Be sure to RSVP to The Sixpence Summer Open House on June 13th, featuring live music, light bites + signature sips, and a talented vendor showcase. Make sure to enter for a chance to win our luxe giveaway basket when you attend the open house, brimming with goodies from the day’s vendors and exclusive inclusions from some of the businesses showcased above.

If you’re looking for a space to say “I do,” book a private tour today to find out more about our packages, space, and services.

If you can dream it, we can host it.