Venue Review and Recommendations
The venue we chose for our event was stunning and accommodating to our needs. They allowed us to self-cater and we were able to hire a top-tier DJ, which I highly recommend for anyone planning an event.
Venue Capacity and Rooms
This venue can support three weddings simultaneously, with capacities of 250, 218, and 150 guests respectively. Here are a few tips based on our experience:
Book Three Rooms: It's beneficial to book three rooms, using one for storing items before the wedding.
Utilize the Top Floor: The top floor can add more space to the second floor.
Meetings on the Bottom Floor: The bottom floor is ideal for meetings.
Apartments and Amenities
The apartments at the MEC venue are very nice and apartment-like. They include amenities such as:
Steam-simulated Fireplace
TV
1 to 3 Beds and 1 Couch: Some closets also contain cots, though space is limited by the fire code.
1 to 2 Bathrooms
Rooftop Access: The rooftop is gorgeous but note that photos may not turn out well during peak times in the morning and at dusk due to extreme lighting conditions.
The Montvale Hotel and The MEC are connected through the business center and there are several community centers and a fitness center. Gated parking is also available, which is beneficial for security.
Fee Structure and Payment Plans
The venue's fees are on the higher side but they do offer a payment plan. Here are some suggestions for improvement:
Improve Communication on Fees: Ensuring clear communication about all fees beforehand would help avoid unexpected costs.
Add a packages for people and communicate based on those packages only.
Offer Budgeting Options: Introducing options like subscriptions, monthly fees, or payment services such as Klarna, Affirm, or PayPal could assist in budgeting.
Event Coordination
The event wedding coordinator was exceptional, helping us manage everything smoothly before and during the event. Their assistance allowed us to enjoy the day without any worries.
Conclusion
Overall, our experience was positive, and the venue is highly recommended. By addressing the suggestions regarding fee communication and payment options, the venue could enhance its services further.
