When the original downtown Detroit J.L. Hudson’s was still the pinnacle of the retail experience, people would come from all over Michigan to shop. The sixth-floor bridal salon was the place to go for wedding dresses, veils, shoes, and makeup — in other words, a one-stop shopping destination. Wedding season is still a big deal at Hudson’s Detroit, but instead of helping before the wedding, the focus is now on making the big day extra special for the happy couple.
The Department at Hudson’s Detroit offers couples the glamour of a downtown Detroit venue for their wedding and reception, with versatility to spare. Its 56,000 square feet of event space spans three floors, with five customizable areas for up to
2,000 guests.
Each hall can be separated by guillotine doors, providing ample room for grand reveals and surprise entrances. The doors can also create a more intimate space for guests to enjoy the special day together.
Wedding day amenities at The Department are designed to take as much off the party’s plate as possible. Forte Belanger, the venue’s exclusive food and beverage provider, can handle all reception needs, from building a custom menu to arranging table decor and flatware procurement. The team will also develop a craft cocktail selection, giving guests a chance to try the couple’s favorite drink, or stick to the classic crowd-pleasers.
Unlike the original J.L. Hudson’s department store, there’s no shortage of balcony views at The Department, with five covered balconies on the second floor. Each one makes the perfect backdrop for solo shots and family photos. The largest balcony is in Woodward Hall, stretching an entire block, and connects to Bowtie Hall for an easy transition space.
And while the amenities aren’t identical to its predecessor’s, The Department still does what J.L. Hudson’s prided itself on — making the most important moments even more spectacular. 
