Wedding Planning Update #6A - Reception Site visits!
Today Mom and I got out to see two possible reception sites. Well, techincally we only saw one, as the first one is still under construction (the Imperia on Easton). Anyway, here’s my overall views. They’re still kinda preliminary, as they were both seen today…
1) Imperia on Easton - Although we could not see the actual site, they had very realistic images, in addition to the artistic sketches they had sent me in the mail. I got to see everything they’ve picked out - and took pics of (will get posted soon, sorry!) - the carpet samples, the drape fabric samples, the tile, the marble, the mahogany for the bars, etc. We saw the tableware and china, as well as the chairs (got to sit in it, it’s really comfy!). Since we didn’t see the place, we have no idea how long it will take to get there - and since it is not done, of course that could be a problem.
It included everything - premium liquor, several entree choices, ice sculpture, valet, maitre’d. They had great pricing because they consider August an “off” month, and the place is brand new. There’s a hotel VERY close by (like across the street), with a shuttle going between the hotel and the reception site all night. They included tax AND service charges in their price, as well as flower centerpieces for the table. The room for bride and groom is included, and breakfast comes with the hotel rooms.
2) The Grand Summit Hotel - the place was great. We got to see all the rooms, including the regular guest room, a junior suite, and a bridal hotel suite. Then we saw the hotel’s resturant/pub, as well as the ballroom, and the front area (Atrium/room with a fountain) where the cocktail hour would be.
Again, it included almost everything - premium liquor, several entree choices, ice sculpture, valet, maitre’d. They also consider August an “off” month, and the place is being remodeled a bit as well. It IS a hotel, although the rooms may be slightly pricy, but there’s a shuttle to Newark airport and a full hot breakfast is included. They included tax and candle for the table in the pricing, and a bit flexible with it as well. The executive suite for bride and groom is included.
Off to David’s with my sister and cousin and then a reception site in Somerset tomorrow! 
