Go: Clarendon Ballroom

11 02 2009

The Clarendon Ballroom in Arlington, Virginia is still an often overlooked special events venue. Since I had my own reception there, I am a bit biased. I recently went back for a tasting with a client and was reminded of how great the food and service are there. Although the maximum capacity is 200 for a sit-down event, I think 150-180 is the most comfortable. We have a great experience every time we work there: Suzann & Michael, Jane & Kevin, Greg & Haiying. Did I mention they do off-site catering too (Katie & Chris)! Executive Chef Patrick can cook up just about anything but he does a great BBQ and is excellent at using seasonal products. We are looking forward to working there again in April and October.

Advantages:

  • Location: in the heart of Clarendon, it is also located across from the Clarendon Metro Station
  • Valet parking included in package
  • Chivari chairs, tables and standard linens included in package
  • Unlimited a la carte menu choices (good for those who want variety in their food choices)
  • Want a big dance floor

Disadvantages

  • Unlimited a la carte menu choices (not good for those who have difficult making decision … you know who you are)
  • You need to be OK with the art deco style decor
  • You need to be OK with the fact that it is a bar at other times (although you would never know it since they clean everything top to bottom before a private event)
  • No hotels within walking distance
Clarendon Ballroom.

You can have your ceremony in the front lounge section.

Photo above courtesy of Limelight Photography.

Clarendon Ballroom

Or you can have the ceremony inside the ballroom area.

Photo above courtesy of Imijination Photography.

Clarendon Ballroom wedding

How about a sushi station?

Clarendon Ballroom wedding

Or a Hawaii Station?

Clarendon Ballroom wedding

Or a Traditional Comfort with Cuban Pork Loin and Roast Turkey?

Above 3 photos by Emilie Inc.





Site Visit: Mexican Cultural Institute

16 12 2008

I recently attended my husband’s company holiday party at the Mexican Cultural Institute in the Columbia Heights area, just north of Meridian Hill Park. What a magnificent building! Built in 1910, it later served as the Mexican Embassy. Main Event catered the event and did an excellent job (loved the prosciutto and brie mini sandwiches!) and the Moonlighters band kept up the festive atmosphere. I hope to be able to post some pro photos soon from Tony Brown of Imijination Photography.

Advantages: about 4 block walk from Columbia Heights Metro station; great for 100 people or less. Could do wedding ceremony and reception in same location; elevator available for those who could not climb stairs.

Challenges: no on-site parking. only a 2-stall ladies room; some of the lighting could not be dimmed.

Mexican Cultural Institute

Mexican Cultural Institute entrance

dsc02709Amazing murals all along the stairwell

Amazing murals all along the stairwell

Spacious foyer

Spacious foyer could be good for cocktails. Art exhibition space to the right.

Another beautiful room which was used for cocktail hour

Another beautiful room which was used for cocktail hour. One side has a piano and pipe organ.

The room between the ballroom and cocktail room was were the bar was located.

The room between the ballroom and cocktail room was were the bar was located. Note the beautiful fireplace and mirror.

Main ballroom, looking back into the hallway.

Main ballroom, looking back into the hallway.

The magnificant tiled alcove, which is attached to the main ballroom. Perfect spot for a band and dancing.

The magnificent tiled alcove, which is attached to the main ballroom. Perfect spot for a band and dancing.