More Than Words, a nonprofit bookstore nestled in the heart of Boston, has a lot to offer, including a unique twist as a wedding venue. We had the privilege of capturing their recent vendor showcase in September. It was an incredible opportunity to connect with many of Boston’s talented vendors and meet some remarkable couples planning their weddings at this venue for the coming year. We adore this venue and are proud to be one of their preferred vendors!

What truly sets this venue apart is that the proceeds from event rentals go towards a noble cause – empowering those who are in the foster care system, court-involved, homeless, out of school, parenting, or involved with the Department of Mental Health. So, not only can couples create unforgettable wedding memories here, but they can also feel good about contributing to a worthy mission.

About the Venue

Situated in Downtown Boston, More Than Words' location alone is enough to entice many to choose it for their wedding or reception. It offers an affordable option in the heart of the city. While it naturally appeals to those with an eclectic, bookish style, its spacious setting can cater to couples with diverse tastes.

More Than Words is not just a bookstore; it's an expansive haven located in the historic South End neighborhood, infused with the neighborhood's character and culture. Inside, visitors find an atmosphere that mirrors the area's charm.

What truly distinguishes More Than Words from other wedding venues in Massachusetts is its mission. The young individuals who run and manage the store come from various backgrounds, including the foster care system, involvement with the legal system, homelessness, being out of school, parenting, or dealing with mental health challenges. The paid work experience they receive here empowers them to set and achieve personal and career goals, with support for their personal development. In 2022, More Than Words supported 314 young people through its bookstore positions and other career services.

Wedding parties that choose More Than Words consistently praise the venue's professional staff, comprising both the young employees and their support team.

The Space

The expansive warehouse-style setting can be divided into smaller event areas: the Reading Room, The Smith Family Common, and the Main Bookstore. Most weddings opt to rent the entire store, allowing for ceremonies, dining, and dancing all under one roof.

The Reading Room is a charming corner suitable for intimate cocktail parties or as a staging area for full weddings. The Smith Family Common can be arranged in a theater-style setup for ceremonies or as a fantastic space for dancing!

A full rental encompasses all three spaces, including exclusive use of the retail area, closed to the public during your event. A full bookstore rental can comfortably accommodate up to 225 guests for a seated reception or ceremony. Groups planning both a ceremony and reception may need to consider a slightly smaller guest count.

More Than Words offers an hourly rental rate that includes setup and teardown time. Wedding parties should arrive fully dressed and ready to go, as there is no designated getting-ready space on-site. However, the venue is conveniently located just minutes away from some of Downtown Boston's finest hotels, ensuring easy preparations for all.

Catering and bartending services can also be arranged. Guests can conveniently park on the street or in the adjacent public lot for a nominal fee, giving them the opportunity to explore the area before settling in for the ceremony.

Attractions & Accomodations

The closest accommodation option is the AC Hotel by Marriott Boston Downtown, just a block away from the venue. Many couples arrange room blocks here for their guests. However, More Than Words is also conveniently located within two miles of various downtown hotels, including DoubleTree and the Four Seasons, allowing guests to choose their preferred hotel brand.

Exploring the vibrant SoWa neighborhood of Boston is a must, with its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and regular community events. It's a haven for shopping and dining, perfect for guests looking to make the most of their visit. A personal favorite is the SOWA open market which is open Sundays May through October. The market features handmade apparel, home items, produce, baked goods & sweets.