Brynn Carnesecca | Lehi Free Press

Many have seen the magnificent building that is Northampton House. Elegant stained glass windows, a spacious interior, and beautiful outdoor areas have served as the backdrop for many weddings and events over the decades. In recent years, many repairs have been needed to keep the space open. On July 10, Northampton House reopened its historic doors to the city.

The Northampton House was built in 1903 for the American Fork 3rd Ward Meetinghouse. In 1938, additions and upgrades were added to the space to accommodate larger social events and ever-growing needs. After serving as a daycare center for a short time, the Northampton House was purchased by Brent Hawker to convert it into a full-time event center.

As explained in a brochure: “The Northampton House is now home to thousands of memories, with hundreds of people who happily claim this beautiful location as part of their story. Our location continues to thrive in the heart of Utah County and now finds its way into the hearts of every resident.”

Northampton House was closed for events and weddings for a few years, until entrepreneur Daniel Driggs decided to bring the space back.

“I own a catering company, Crisp Catering, and we’ve had it for about three years now. I’ve been in the wedding business for six years and we’ve done a lot of events at Northampton House. I love this place as a caterer,” Driggs said. “That’s when I started seeing what this place could be and what potential it had. When the previous owner said they were going to sell it, it was an instant ‘Yes!’ I want to be a part of it and it’s the new home of Crisp Catering.”

When renovating, it was essential to preserve the charm and history behind the iconic building, and Driggs was dedicated to every element of the space.

“This building has everything in it historically,” Driggs said. “It has everything you could possibly want for an event space or a reception center. This was a venue in the past, but we gave it the facelift that it deserved. It hadn’t been updated since 2001, so bringing in new chandeliers, paintings and art from Utah and Mormon Trail artists really gave it that life and homage to what this is and the history behind it.”

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The renovation is more than just a business venture: Northampton House is special to many of the residents who have used the space.

“There’s a long history of love for this building. It’s pretty evident in how it’s been brought up in city councils, in the American Fork Chamber of Commerce, and the mayor showing up at grand openings,” Driggs said. “The community already loves this building. In the many times that people have tried to tear it down, everyone has come out to support and preserve this great historic building. We hope to give life to those sacrifices to keep this building alive and give back to the community as best we can.”

The venue’s grand opening included a bouncy castle, DJ, complimentary refreshments, cake tastings, and tours of the building. The community is thrilled to have one of American Fork’s few wedding and event venues back and staying. For more information or to book the venue, visit www.northamptonhouse.com or follow @thenorthamptonhouse on Instagram.