The Pilgrim Center and its predecessor have been building community in midtown, Kansas City, Missouri for nearly 50 years. In the late-1960’s, a group of involved neighborhood leaders first gathered in Westport to address the issues of violence and crime that were overtaking their historic neighborhood. Out of their discussions, the Westport Allen Center was born, and two young seminarians, Roger and Liz Coleman, were invited to lead this organization. The Westport Allen Center purchased a building and began offering the space free to groups interested in improving the community. Before long, the first Free Clinic in the area opened, rehearsal space was provided for what would become the Kansas City Ballet, the Allen Edison school was founded, and affordable housing for seniors created in the neighborhood. Making childcare, education, healthcare, senior living, and arts programming available to the area were big steps in rebuilding a healthier community for Westport.

Housed in the restored Fire Station No. 31, Fire House KC has been meticulously renovated with tradition and elegance. Throughout the entire space, several preserved accessories and artifacts from the era are showcased, including the original fire pole, antique fire hose cart, and fire hose shaft. Blending the history of the area with modern infusions, Fire House KC is now a classy, elegant, and charming event space. The main hall showcases original brick walls and windows, with antique chandeliers adding a touch of elegant refinement. The second floor, which once housed the offices and sleeping quarters for one-duty workers, now features multiple suites for the wedding parties to prepare as well as a perfect intimate ceremony room. A private courtyard space is also available, making an ideal area for a ceremony, cocktail hour or for guests to enjoy a breath of fresh air. Newlyweds-to-be can host both ceremonies and receptions at Fire House KC and have access to the entire space.

Hawthorne House is Kansas City's premier wedding and event venue. Located on 11 beautiful acres in Parkville, Missouri (the perfect location between the airport and downtown!), Hawthorne House has been specifically designed with your wedding needs in mind. We offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony options with no room flip or Oscar style seating required! Being in the midwest, a built in plan B is vital! We offer glassware AND bartenders included in our beverage packages as well as tables, chairs and linens included in our rental rates! With two dressing suites that were renovated in March of 2019 and a maximum capacity of 300 our space can accommodate weddings with guests counts ranging from 100-300. We are the perfect venue for the timeless couple that wants to have an absolute blast. Come see why, for 23 years, couples have rated Hawthorne House as one of the top wedding venues in the Kansas City area!