When asking yourself about something to do near me in Salt Lake City with a group of friends or family, consider
Ember SLC
Why Ember SLC is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Ember SLC is a standout urban-boutique event venue located in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City. The venue offers an inspiring 2,700 square feet of space featuring 14-foot ceilings, crisp white walls, raw wood beams, and historic exposed brick that create a stylish and versatile backdrop perfect for any occasion. Natural light streams through front floor-to-ceiling windows, enhancing the warm and inviting atmosphere. With spacious accommodations, Ember SLC can host up to 300 guests for cocktail events, 200 for seated theater-style gatherings, and 150 for seated banquet-style meals. The venue boasts modern amenities such as high-speed WiFi, built-in butcher block bar, AV equipment including speakers and projectors, and two restrooms. It also offers thoughtfully designed areas such as a private suite with a spiral staircase, customizable lounge spaces, and a prep kitchen. Flexible layouts, an open vendor policy, and á la carte rental and service options allow guests to tailor their event experience. Ember SLC is ideal for weddings, corporate events, social gatherings, and nonprofit functions, with special half-day pricing and nonprofit rates available. Its unique blend of contemporary and historic features combined with a dedicated award-winning team to assist in delivering turnkey event experiences makes Ember SLC a top choice for memorable meet-ups with friends and family in Salt Lake City.
Here's what people think of Ember SLC
As of recent, Ember SLC holds a 4.3-star rating based on 135 reviews.
User reviews of Ember SLC consistently highlight the venue's beautiful and unique aesthetic that blends historic charm with modern design elements, making it an attractive setting for a variety of events. Positive feedback often mentions the versatile and spacious layout, which allows for creative customization, and the abundance of natural light that enhances the ambiance. Many reviewers appreciate the helpfulness and professionalism of the staff, praising their support in planning and executing successful events. Additional commendations include the venue's well-maintained facilities, good acoustics, and the convenience of amenities like the built-in bar and AV equipment. However, some negative reviews focus on logistical challenges such as limited parking options downtown, occasional coordination issues during busy event days, and higher costs when additional services are added à la carte. A few guests noted that certain rental items or décor require advance booking to secure availability. Despite these concerns, the overall consensus in the reviews is positive, with most users recommending Ember SLC for its ambiance, location, and flexible event offerings. The professional team and customizable environment help make each event distinctive and enjoyable, maintaining the venue's strong reputation among local event spaces.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Vinhson Pham
We reached out to Ember based on numerous glowing recommendations, but unfortunately, our experience did not live up to the hype. We were exploring venues for our company party, and one of my colleagues initially connected with a point of contact who seemed enthusiastic and promised a proposal by the end of that week - two weeks ago. Despite several follow-ups, we received no response. Another colleague later filled out the inquiry form and was able to schedule a tour of the space last week. They were also told a proposal would be sent and to expect follow-up this week. Yet again, we were met with complete silence. We’re honestly shocked and disappointed by the lack of communication and professionalism. The venue itself looks beautiful, but consistent unresponsiveness makes it incredibly difficult to trust Ember with an important event. We’ve since begun conversations with other venues that have been far more responsive and professional. If you’re looking for a reliable and communicative event space, I’d strongly recommend looking elsewhere.
Violet Gross
Planned an amazing 30th birthday party for my clients fiancé! So fun. Casey, Victoria, and her team were extremely easy to work with, and very helpful. Ember has a variety of tables, chairs, and soft seating for rent, as well as some event lighting! We used all of their soft seating and tables and chairs for this event. I look forward to planning an event at Ember in the future. Thank you! - Wilhelmina Events
Megan Robinson
Ember is the #1 venue I recommend to anyone and everyone looking for event space in Salt Lake. As a local wedding photographer, I have hosted several events there over the years and have always have had nothing but positive experiences with the booking, day of logistics and everything in between. My attendees have always raved about the beauty of the space and their experience there. Casey and Ashlee are so kind, generous and helpful and truly want everyone to have the best experience possible. Already looking forward to hosting future events at Ember and being able to share it's unique beauty with many more people. xx
Vinh Lu (Vinhgetsin)
Came here for Utah Fashion Week, it’s decent size for events and such but parking is awful if there’s a lot of people. The venue didn’t feel like it had a strong enough air conditioning unit to sustain large parties. We were sweating like crazy during the fashion show. The venue has an almost “rustic/modern” vibe to it, so it’s cool for pictures and such.
Brent Uberty
Ember was a great event venue for a corporate meeting space. The space was very unique and has a very urban and industrial feel with a lot of exposed brick. They had a really great staff, were fairly priced, booking was really easy, and there event coordinator keep in constant communication with us. They provided in-house furniture and a/v rentals and were able to suggest a great caterer. I will definitely be using them again and highly recommend others look at their space.
How to reach Ember SLC
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Why Ember SLC may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Ember SLC with your friends?
Ember SLC is an exceptional urban-boutique event venue nestled in the heart of downtown Salt Lake City, making it an ideal gathering spot for friends looking to host a memorable meetup. The space boasts a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, with soaring 14-foot ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large floor-to-ceiling windows that flood the venue with natural light, creating an inviting and vibrant atmosphere. Its flexible 2,700 square foot layout provides ample space for a wide variety of activities, ensuring your group won’t feel cramped or restricted. Whether you’re planning a casual get-together, an intimate celebration, or a lively party, Ember SLC’s versatile design enables you to tailor the environment to fit your exact needs. Additionally, the venue offers an open vendor policy and á la carte rentals and services, giving you the freedom to customize every detail. These factors come together to make Ember SLC not just a venue, but a dynamic experience that caters perfectly to group meetups with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Ember SLC, and why is it perfect for a group meetup?
Ember SLC offers a host of activities and options that make it a premier choice for group gatherings. With capacity for up to 300 cocktail-style guests and seating options for 150 to 200 people, the venue accommodates both small and large groups comfortably. The space’s architectural charm — including raw wood beams and original brick walls — creates a stylish backdrop suitable for socializing, games, and live entertainment. The built-in butcher block bar allows your group to enjoy a variety of drink options, and bartending services are available to elevate the experience without hassle. Lounge areas with customizable furniture provide cozy corners to relax, chat, and unwind, fostering intimate group dynamics even within a larger event. The outdoor patio area gives you the added benefit of fresh air and an escape from indoor crowds, perfect for candid conversations or casual mingling. On the technology front, Ember SLC is equipped with high-speed WiFi, projectors, speakers, and microphones, enabling multimedia presentations, group games, or even karaoke sessions that bring everyone together. This mix of amenities ensures that organizing a seamless, entertaining, and fully engaging event for your group is effortlessly achievable.
How does Ember SLC’s design contribute to the atmosphere for friend and family meetups?
The thoughtful design and architectural aesthetic of Ember SLC significantly contribute to its appeal as a venue for friends and family to gather. The combination of pristine white walls contrasting with exposed brick and rustic wood beams provides a warm yet contemporary ambiance that blends sophistication with comfort. The 14-foot-high ceilings create an open, airy feeling that prevents any sense of crowding even in large groups. Large floor-to-ceiling windows not only brighten the interior with natural daylight but also allow guests to feel connected to the downtown energy without being overwhelmed by it. The venue’s layout is deliberately flexible, with spaces that can be adapted for dining, dancing, or conversation clusters, supporting a dynamic event flow. Additionally, features like the private suite with a spiral staircase add visual interest and intimate spaces for smaller group activities or photo opportunities. Lighting options such as bistro lighting further enhance moods, helping transform the venue from lively daytime socializing to cozy evening gatherings. This intentional design fosters an inviting setting conducive to meaningful and enjoyable interactions across all ages.
What services and rentals make hosting an event at Ember SLC hassle-free and customizable?
Ember SLC stands out by offering a robust suite of services and rental options that address the practical needs of hosting group events while allowing for personalized touches. The venue’s open vendor policy empowers event organizers to bring in preferred caterers, entertainment, and decor specialists, avoiding restrictive rules and enabling bespoke event styles. For added convenience, Ember provides á la carte options including bartending, coat check, and additional furniture rentals such as padded folding chairs, banquet tables with linens, and artisanal 3’ x 6’ banquet tables that combine functionality with style. The in-house prep kitchen supports efficient food service and catering logistics, keeping your event running smoothly. AV equipment like speakers, projectors, and microphones are available to enhance presentations or entertainment without requiring separate rentals. Furthermore, non-profit rates and half-day pricing provide budget-friendly options, making this sophisticated space accessible for various types of gatherings. These thoughtful provisions relieve much of the hosting burden, enabling you and your friends to focus on enjoying the experience together without undue stress.
Why is Ember SLC’s location ideal for gathering friends and family?
Ember SLC’s prime location at 623 South State Street in downtown Salt Lake City lends itself well to group meetups, benefiting from excellent accessibility and the vibrancy of an urban setting. Being right in the city center, the venue is easily reachable via multiple transportation options including public transit, ride-sharing services, and car travel, with parking options nearby for convenience. This central location places guests within reach of local attractions, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it easy to extend your meetup before or after your event at Ember. The urban vibe complements the venue’s modern-meets-historic atmosphere and offers guests the lively pulse of city life without sacrificing the privacy and comfort of a boutique space. Its proximity to downtown’s amenities appeals to diverse groups with varying interests, from those who appreciate culinary explorations to those seeking cultural outings, enhancing the overall social experience. The convenient setting encourages attendance and makes arriving and departing simple, which is a critical factor when organizing group events.
What kind of events and occasions can Ember SLC accommodate perfectly?
Ember SLC’s versatile space and flexible amenities enable it to accommodate a wide array of events and occasions, particularly those involving friends and family meetups where customization and atmosphere matter. Its capacity and layout make it suited for celebrations like birthdays, anniversary parties, engagement gatherings, bridal or baby showers, and reunions. The venue also works equally well for more structured events such as workshops, seminars, or creative group activities, allowing organizers to configure seating and technology as needed. The built-in bar and elegant event space elevate casual parties into stylish social affairs, suitable for cocktail receptions or intimate dinners. Seasonal gatherings or holiday parties benefit from the cozy lounge areas and outdoor patio where guests can mingle comfortably. Ember’s reputation for excellent service paired with the dynamic space allows hosts to craft memorable, personalized experiences that cater to the specific vibe and size of their group, ensuring everyone feels welcome and engaged.
How do customer reviews reflect the Ember SLC experience for group meetups?
Customer reviews of Ember SLC reflect a generally positive experience, especially highlighting its unique ambiance and flexible event space. With a solid rating around 4.3 from over 135 reviews, many guests appreciate the venue’s architectural charm and downtown location, noting how these features help set the tone for memorable social events. Reviewers often commend the ability to customize setups and the spaciousness, which comfortably accommodates groups large and small. However, some feedback points to potential issues such as limited air conditioning, which can affect comfort during summer events, and occasional logistical challenges related to staff availability or building layout. Despite these occasional concerns, the overall consensus recognizes Ember SLC as a stylish and thoughtfully equipped venue that enhances group gatherings with a blend of historic character and modern amenities. The feedback underscores the importance of planning around seasonal factors and communicating with the venue team to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all attendees.
What are the technical and accessibility features that facilitate group events at Ember SLC?
Ember SLC is equipped with technical and accessibility features that enhance the ease and enjoyment of group events. High-speed WiFi supports connectivity for guests and event needs, which is essential for presentations, music streaming, or social media sharing throughout the event. Audiovisual amenities including speakers, projectors, and microphones enable hosts to incorporate multimedia elements like slideshows, speeches, or live-streaming, enriching the overall experience. Accessibility is an important aspect of Ember’s design — the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility challenges. The venue also features two restrooms to accommodate groups comfortably. These practical features ensure that Ember SLC not only looks appealing but also functions effectively during diverse gatherings, providing a space where all guests can participate fully and comfortably.
How can Ember SLC’s event support team enhance your meetup?
Ember SLC’s award-winning event support team plays a vital role in transforming a simple venue rental into a comprehensive, enjoyable experience for your group. The staff’s expertise in event planning means they can assist with layout design, vendor coordination, and execution details tailored specifically to your group’s preferences and needs. From helping organize linens and furniture to coordinating bartending and coat check services, the team ensures logistical aspects are handled professionally and efficiently. Their support reduces stress for hosts, allowing the focus to remain on enjoying time with friends and family. Their collaborative approach invites you to bring your own vision while benefiting from expert guidance, creating an environment where creativity and comfort blend seamlessly. This partnership guarantees a smooth experience from start to finish, enhancing the overall satisfaction and success of your group meetup at Ember SLC.