Site Visit: The Fairfax at Embassy Row (formerly Westin Embassy Row)

16 01 2009

I recently visited the Fairfax at Embassy Row for a client looking for a venue for their February 2010 wedding. Formerly, the Westin Embassy Row, the Fairfax is now part of Starwood Hotel’s Luxury Collection, of which there are only 16 properties in the U.S. designated as such.

Their main ballroom is beautiful, with an attached salon. There is a stage where you could stand for your ceremony or your band can be situated for your reception. After the ceremony, your guests can proceed up to the balcony for cocktail hour. Once the ballroom is “flipped”, they open the wall on the balcony which overlooks the ballroom for the surprise reveal (oohs and ahhs abound!) The space is well appointed and you don’t necessarily need to do much to it. Take a look at the photos below. Their wedding packages are basically a la carte, which is different than most hotels. The Fairfax is also home to the newly renovated Jockey Club. Perfect for a post-rehearsal dinner or post-wedding gathering, the Fairfax Lounge, which a lovely fireplace, has an old-world feel.

Advantages:

Location: just 2 blocks from the Dupont Circle metro
Only one major ballroom means yours will be the only wedding that day.
Ornate ballroom means you don’t have to spend a lot of your budget making the space pretty
You will be well taken care of by catering manager, Scott Button, a pro in this business.

Challenges:

Parking: Valet parking only. Otherwise, guests can park on the street.
Starwood Luxury Collection hotel means the sleeping room prices will be on the higher end, which may not be palatable for some guests.
The ornate ballroom may not be your taste/style.

My friend is getting married there at the end of January. I shall bring you the wedding guest report then! Stay tuned!