When barrow-hire entrepreneur, Maggie McIver, decided to organise a Saturday market on waste ground off Kent Street in 1923, she probably had no idea that it would become an east-end institution etched into the city’s psyche. At the height of its popularity, the Barrowlands Market, or the Barras as it’s affectionately known, was the largest open-air market in Europe and although its popularity has somewhat receded in recent years, the market is still going strong in 2018.
BAaD is located directly behind the Barrowlands and when Celebrant, Phyl Wright, married Dionne and Rebecca back in September, the entire Fuze team fell in love with it. Upon entering the elephantine courtyard with its spectacular glass roof, which is perched aloft rows and rows of steel arches, you become acutely aware of a distinct trading atmosphere. A bakery, dressmaker, pizzeria amongst other traders line the courtyard and BAaD’s stalwart refusal to turn its back on its Barras heritage, choosing instead to wholeheartedly embrace it, is exactly why we love it so much.
From the shipping containers to the ginormous spaces complete with arches, exposed brick and tonnes of steel, BAaD is packed with industrial character; however, where the remains of the Barras trading past are still very much in abundance, it somehow manages to exude an elegant and exclusive charm to rival or even exceed that of any other wedding venue. It was, therefore, no surprise at all that BAaD took the title for ‘Most Stylish Venue’ at this year’s Scottish Style Awards.
With all the light and industrial chic trappings, BAaD makes a truly magical place for a wedding photoshoot. Del and Jay, who photographed Dionne and Rebecca’s fabulous September wedding said: “the venue was like a massive light box, we loved shooting there, and the Barrowlands location was great to get creative with their photos”.
Depending on the size of the guestlist, couples can choose between saying their vows within the courtyard or up on the mezzanine, which overlooks the space below. The same flexibility can be offered when it comes to catering as couples can choose from enjoying an intimate celebration with their nearest and dearests in the award winning A’Challtainn fish restaurant or having a street food inspired spread for up to 230 guests in the courtyard.
In true Glasgow style, the venue comes into its own after dark where there is ample room for a band, DJ and up to 800 guests to dance the night away. The venue oozes party vibes, is fully licensed and can be hired from 3pm until midnight.
With warehouse and industrial wedding venues growing in popularity and set to become huge in 2019/20, we would recommend getting in there fast as it truly is a complete one-of-a-kind venue.