Venue Reviews are Back! (a quick recap and something new)

It's been a while since I wrote a venue review or posted any updates so here's a quick recap of what I've been up to lately...

In March I did the benefit dinner for Take Back the Night (an anti-rape rally that takes place in April).  This year I did up lighting and provided the video screen and projector.  The first two photos are from the benefit dinner (at Weber's in Ann Arbor) and the last three are from the rally a few weeks later.

 

I also did a few teen birthdays in March and April...

One of my favorite events to do each year... Cinco de Mayo at Los Tres Amigos in Canton, MI...

The Project Green and White luncheon was rained out (it was supposed to be outdoors) but we made it work, inside a lecture room.

One of the first wedding of May took place at the Opera House.  I've got quite a few weddings there this summer.  Because I've reviewed it before, I'll just post a few pictures and refer you to my past review (catering was also done by CC Catering)

And now for a new venue... The Village Conference Center in Chelsea, MI.  Located just off I94 and M52, right next to the Comfort Inn, The VCC offers a nice clean and classy location for small to mid size weddings.  Their food was very good and service was excellent.  While I don't see this area as a prime location for many weddings, for those in the area, it's an excellent choice!

 

 

 

 

I also managed to get a copy of their menu and pricing...

 Look for new blog posts every Sunday throughout the summer!

Top Picks for 2013-14

These are my top picks for 2013-14. I tried to pick venues from various price ranges to help everyone out.  If there is anything you'd like to see added to this list next year, let me know!

Best Venues

Atrium at the Inn at St. Johns, Plymouth, MI (High budget)
While it may be very pricey, the Inn at St. Johns is my choice for best food, service and overall venue.  There is nothing quite as elegant as this location, but the price is quite staggering.  Food is 5 star all the way.  While I don't have a proper review written, here are some photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150237783587081.312158.305732127080&type=3



Webers of Ann Arbor may not be as unique, but the food is excellent and the remodel they did last year makes a world of difference.  Great service food and a classy, but relaxed setting.  Still a bit pricey, but far less than the Inn at St. Johns.

 










The Howell Opera House, Howell, MI (Medium budget)
For many, this may not even be on your radar as a venue, but the unique setting (brick walls, wood floor, and glass front entrance area) and historical upstairs area, create some excellent photos!  There are a few choices for caterers at this location.  I recommend Gerard's Catering (see below).  Up lighting can do wonders here, as the venue is a blank canvas.  I've done a few reviews, here is the most recent: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/06/2013-weddings-some-familiar-places.html

And for the budget minded, I have a tie between...
St Agnes of Fowlerville, MI and the American Spirit Center in Brighton, MI
Both are nice venues that can be improved greatly with the addition of up lighting and a few decorations.
Review for St. Agnes: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/09/venue-review-st-agnes-gerards-catering.html
Review for American Spirit Center: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2011/08/venue-reviews-are-back-american-spirit.html

Best Caterers

Gerard's Catering (Chef Joe) 517-548-1303
I've been told his prices are reasonable and the food is top notch!

 

 

Most Unique Venue

Fox Hills (Classic) in Plymouth, MI
The log cabin look, beautiful outdoor scenery (gazebo for ceremonies), top notch service and five star food make this not only a great venue, but my choice for most unique this year.  It's layout is a bit different, but still works quite well for sound and dancing.  Read my review here: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/10/venue-review-fox-hills-classic-fox.html

Best Photographer

Starting from the high end...
Bak Photography 734-429-1111
No one brings more to the table than Mark Bak.  His attention to detail and 30+ years experience are unmatched.  He's done Hollywood stars, politicians and professional athletes.

Lindsay Jane Photography (LindsayJBphoto@gmail.com)
Lindsay is a pleasure to work with and is reasonably priced.  She did our wedding 8 years ago and gave us exactly what we wanted.


Thanks for checking out my top picks and be sure to call me for all your entertainment needs...
DJ, photo booth and up lighting (517-404-0418) The DJ Guy


Have a great 2014!