Brides & Weddings Magazine
By Jennifer Lazzo
Farm Brew Live is the place to go for locally-crafted beer, craft food, and live entertainment. With spaces both big and small – and everything in between – it’s the perfect destination to host a special occasion. The eight-acre campus is the home of the historic Thomasson Barn, built in 1929 on a former dairy farm, as well as new buildings that have been completed in phases.
The first phase included 2 Silos Brewery, the Pour House and the Yard. The Living Room at the Pour House, located on the mezzanine level overlooking the 2 Silos tasting room; the brewery’s processing area, when available due to the production schedule; and the VIP area of the Yard, with seating for 50, are smaller spaces perfect for bachelor parties, bridal showers or rehearsal dinners.
Next came the Great Hall, a large, white permanent tent that also has an outdoor patio. The space in the Great Hall can be reduced or modified as needed, accommodating 162 seated or 280 standing guests, an ideal location for a wedding reception.
“It’s a blank slate,” said Meredith Arnest, director of brand development for the Villagio Hospitality Group. “We can transform it to adapt to what the guest needs.”
The third and final phase slated to open later this year includes the renovation of the Thomasson Barn itself, which has exposed-beam vaulted ceilings. It will house the Black Sheep restaurant, emphasizing seasonal fare and extensive wine and whiskey menus; the Barrel Room, with a large family-style table made from reclaimed wood from the farm and seating for 32; and the Thomasson Room with seating for 72 guests and an adjacent patio.
A full menu for special events is still being determined, but Farm Brew Live will work with the client’s theme for a customized menu. There’s an emphasis on local. The food is sourced locally, the beer is brewed on site and hops grown on the campus are used for a seasonal variety. “You can’t get more local than the building next to you!” said Arnest.
In addition to focusing on locally-sourced ingredients, the Farm Brew Live campus is dog- and family-friendly and has a playground on site.
“It’s just a great setting for many experiences – a great place to celebrate with friends and family,” said Arnest. “It’s a wonderful backdrop to your special event.”
Farm Brew Live is located at 9901 Discovery Blvd., Manassas, near the intersection of Routes 28 and 234. For additional information, visit farmbrewlive.com/special-events-and-catering/.
Jennifer Lazzo (jlazzo@princewilliamliving.com) is a freelance writer and editor who earned a B.A. in technical journalism and political science from Colorado State University. She lives with her husband and twin girls in Montclair.
