admiral room set up room design

Top questions to ask your wedding venue before booking in Western New York

Newly engaged? CONGRATULATIONS!!

Here are some key questions couples should ask the ADMIRAL ROOMhttp://www.admiralroom.com before booking to ensure it’s the right fit:

photos- http://www.nicolegattophotography.com

NEWLY ENGAGED? CONGRATULATIONS!!

AVAILABILITY AND LOGISTICS

HOW MANY OTHER EVENTS WILL YOU HOST ON THE SAME DAY? You are our only event!!

WHAT IS YOUR VENUE’S MAXIMUM CAPACITY? Varies depending on set up, usually 350 people.  Our job is to make your guest count look like the venue was made for it!

photo credit- http://www.wearethebowsers.com

IS THERE A MINIMUM OR MAXIMUM RENTAL TIME? Wedding packages are for 5 hours, the bar package is 4 hours. You may extend the bar package.   You can pick the time frame, as long as you end by 12 midnight.

COSTS AND PAYMENTS

WHAT IS THE RENTAL FEE ?  2026, the room rental fee is $3000.00

WHAT ARE THE PAYMENT TERMS AND DEPOSIT REQUIREMENTS?

$4000 INITIAL RETAINER AND SIGNED CONTRACT- (NON REFUNDABLE)

APPROX EVERY 6 MONTHS- A MINIMUM OF $2000 IS DUE

100 DAYS PRIOR 25% OF REMAINING BALANCE DUE

10 DAYS PRIOR FINAL PAYMENT DUE

PLEASE REFER TO YOUR CONTRACT PAYMENT  TERMS.

SETUP AND FACILITIES

WHEN CAN VENDORS AND DECORATORS ACCESS THE VENUE FOR SETUP? Anytime- have them call us to arrange.  We are a 24/7 building.

DO YOU PROVIDE TABLES, CHAIRS? YES, included in the package.

WHAT COLOR LINENS DO YOU HAVE?   Included in the price is white, ivory and black- all floor length linen.   We have an abundance of specialty linens- metallic, floral, damask, crunch, lace and much more.  We also have a variety of napkin colors as well.

IS THERE A BRIDAL SUITE AND GROOMS ROOM?  YES, the bridal suite has the most fun balcony for B/G introduction.  The room is available for 4 hours prior to the reception but if interested in longer, we can discuss arrival times.  We also have a groom’s room- on the first floor.  Each room is $200 unless you purchase a ceremony package and then it’s included.

 

VENDORS AND CATERING

DO YOU HAVE AN APPROVED OR PREFERRED VENDOR LIST? YES, because sound is so important to us, you must choose the top 25 in Buffalo.   We do offer you in our wedding handbook our top 5 DJ’s/Bands.

CAN WE BRING OUR OWN VENDORS (PHOTOGRAPHER, FLORISTS)?  YES, We can assist you if requested.

CEREMONY AND RECEPTION DETAILS

CAN WE HOST BOTH CEREMONY & RECEPTION? YES, We can accommodate a ceremony of up to 200, with seating for approx. 160ish people.

DÉCOR AND CUSTOMIZATION

ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS ON DECORATIONS ( CANDLES, HANGING ITEMS)?  ALL CANDLES MUST BE CONTAINED WITH GLASS. IF A CYLINDER VASE DOES NOT HAVE A BOTTOM OF GLASS, YOU WILL NEED TO PROVIDE A CLEAR PLASTIC DISK TO PREVENT WAX SPILLAGE.  THE ONLY LOCATION YOU MAY HANG ANYTHING FROM IS THE MARBLE WALL IN THE FRONT OF THE ROOM.

CAN WE CUSTOMIZE THE SPACE LAYOUT?  YES, Every event is customizable, we use a digital program.

ACCESSIBILITY AND PARKING

IS THE VENUE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? YES, We have a special lift and there is a ramp in the room as well as a portable ramp.

WHERE IS PARKING ? On-street parking is free on side streets after 5pm, there a 87 spots across the street, 200+ next door to us/Glenny Building, 200 on Main & Swan and 800 spots in the garage on Washington/Exchange. You can offer pre-pay, park on your own or valet.  We see a lot of ride shares.

IS VALET OR SHUTTLE SERVICE OFFERED? There is a shuttle service for guests staying at the Embassy Suites on Delaware Ave.  There are also two companies that offer valet service.  This information is found in the wedding handbook.

ENTERTAINMENT AND TECHNOLOGY

IS THERE A SOUND SYSTEM, PROJECTOR? We have 12 speakers surround sound JBL speakers, a projector for the ceiling /wall design upgrades and microphones.  Ask about details

ARE THERE RESTRICTIONS ON LIVE MUSIC OR DJS?  We will give you our recommended listing of great companies.

GUEST EXPERIENCE

ARE THERE NEARBY ACCOMMODATIONS FOR OUT-OF-TOWN GUESTS? Our sister property is the Embassy Suites on Delaware Ave.  All rooms are suites.

MISCELLANEOUS

IS LIABILITY INSURANCE REQUIRED?  YES, we can give you suggested companies.   Most vendors submit liability forms in January, if they haven’t, please inform them we need a copy.

THESE QUESTIONS WILL HELP COUPLES GET A CLEAR UNDERSTANDING OF WHAT THE VENUE OFFERS, ITS POLICIES, AND ANY POTENTIAL LIMITATIONS.

Congratulations and we can’t wait to celebrate with you and make your day truly unforgettable.

Its true,  a locally owned wedding venue you are helping to develop and improve the local economy? It’s true, your locally owned wedding venues are small business owners who not only create hundreds of jobs for the local wedding industry every year, we actively support our local economy. Please consider a locally owned venue, you can find locally owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.

 

http://www.vineyardatstcharles.com

http://www.adlerranch.com

http://www.sageviewranch.com

http://www.montagumeadows.com

http://wwwthevenue112.com

 

http://www.vonerichranch.com

Your engaged in WNY, now what should you do.

Congratulations!  After getting engaged, there are several exciting steps you can take to start your wedding planning journey:

  1. Celebrate Together

– Take some time to enjoy the moment with your partner. Plan a special celebration, whether it’s a romantic dinner, a weekend getaway, or simply time to reflect on your journey together.

  1. Share the News

– Share your engagement with family and friends in a way that feels right for you. This could be through a personal announcement, phone calls, or social media posts.  There are some adorable ideas on TikTok.  Wedding Announcement | TikTok

  1. Get Your Ring Insured

– Make sure your engagement ring is insured in case of loss, damage, or theft. This step is often overlooked but important to protect such a valuable keepsake.  Frank R. Pelosi Jr. Agency Insurance, Buffalo: (716) 882-0909 | Progressive Agent

  1. Discuss the Big Picture

– Start talking with your partner about what your ideal wedding looks like. Discuss the style, the season, and the type of venue you both envision. This will help set a general direction before diving into detailed planning.

  1. Create a Budget

– Have an open discussion about your budget and how much you’re comfortable spending on your wedding. Decide whether family members will be contributing, and prioritize aspects that are most important to you.

  1. Draft a Guest List

– Make a preliminary guest list to get an idea of the number of people you want to invite. This will influence your choice of venue and overall budget.

 

  1. Choose a Wedding Date

– Decide on a wedding date or a few potential dates that would work for both of you. If you’re flexible, this will help with venue availability and vendor bookings.http://www.admiralroom.com

  1. Hire a Wedding Planner (Optional)

– If your budget allows, consider hiring a wedding planner. They can be invaluable in keeping the process stress-free and ensuring that your vision comes to life.  http://www.weddingbygianna.com 

http://www.evlevents.com   http://www.scarlettagency.com  

 

  1.   Start Researching Venues and Vendors

– Look at the ADMIRAL ROOM, caterers, photographers, florists, and other vendors. Reach out to get quotes and availability for your preferred dates.  WNY books approx. 18 months out.  We book 24 months out at the Admiral Room.  Most vendors will not book that far out there booking window is commonly 12 months out.

  1. Engagement Photoshoot

– Plan an engagement photoshoot if it appeals to you. This is a great way to capture this special time and can be used for your wedding website or save-the-dates.

https://www.conti-media.com/Engagement/Darcy-Vince/i-zj4cfn8

 

  1. Enjoy Engagement Parties (Optional)

– If you’d like, plan or attend engagement parties hosted by family or friends.

  1. Create a Wedding Website (Optional)

– Setting up a wedding website can help keep your guests informed and organized. Include details like venue location, accommodation options, and your registry.

 

Have Fun and Don’t Stress!  Finally, enjoy the engagement process. Take time to enjoy being engaged.  We are here if you need anything.

 

When you look for a wedding venue near you, consider a locally owned venue.

Here is my shout out to other great locally owned wedding venues:

https://thehiddenabbey.com/weddings/

http://www.butlerscourtyard.com

http://www.rosehaven.com

 

Should I choose a First Look for my Wedding Ceremony

Doing a first look before your wedding ceremony can have several emotional and logistical benefits.  We have seen everything here at the Admiral Room.  Here are a few examples.
  1. Private, Intimate Moment: A first look gives you and your partner a chance to share an emotional moment alone, without the pressure of an audience. It allows you to fully express your feelings without being rushed.
2. Calming Nerves: Seeing each other beforehand can help ease pre-ceremony jitters, making you feel more relaxed and present for the actual event.
3. Extra Time for Photos: Doing a first look before the ceremony gives you more time for portraits, bridal party, and family photos. This can free up more time after the ceremony for you to enjoy your cocktail hour and reception with your loved ones.  The time goes so quickly, why not enjoy it.
4. Captures Authentic Reactions: Photographers love first looks because they can capture genuine emotions in a more controlled setting. You won’t be distracted by the crowd or the formalities of the ceremony.
5. Enhances the Ceremony: Many couples worry that a first look will diminish the moment of walking down the aisle. However, seeing each other beforehand often heightens the emotional impact when the ceremony begins, as you’re more relaxed and able to fully appreciate the experience.
6. Flexibility in Timeline: A first look can make the day run more smoothly, reducing stress for both the couple and vendors. It allows for more flexibility and helps avoid a time crunch later in the day.
We have seen different variations of first looks.  Some with just the couple, some with the bridal party lined up and the bride is at the end of the line to meet each other.  Some where the parents are in the room with the couple.  It is your day- you choose what you like best.
This option is great for couples looking to create a relaxed and emotionally connected day from start to finish.
Tradition is usually what is holding people back from choosing a  first look, many prefer to stick to the tradition of seeing each other for the first time at the altar.     It is untimely your decision and personal choice on what is best for you..
It is your day- you choose what you like best.
This option is great for couples looking to create a relaxed and emotionally connected day from start to finish.
The Admiral Room is a locally owned and managed business. We encourage couples to learn more about the value and importance of choosing a locally-owned business when it’s time to book your wedding venue & vendors. With locally owned venues you will often see a higher level of hospitality, better communication, and a greater desire to truly ensure your wedding exceeds expectations. We are thrilled to support wedding venue owners nationwide with a weekly shout-out in our blog.  You can find locally-owned wedding venues featured on this wedding venue map.
https://www.hanoverreserve.com/
http://www.swanlakeoverlook.com/

Why indoor venues are best in Buffalo NY

Indoor wedding venue over an outdoor or outdoor/indoor venue in Buffalo

Choosing an indoor wedding venue offers several advantages:

  1. Weather Control- One of the most significant benefits is protection from unpredictable weather. Rain, wind, extreme heat, or cold won’t disrupt your plans.
  2. Don’t have to manage space/One Space- this is your wedding and you spend a lot of time and money. Managing the flow of guests between rooms is very difficult. Maintaining the atmosphere and experience across rooms/space is complicated. By having one room for the guest to stay and hang out ( dance, bars and food) it doesn’t loose the consistence of fun! Think 1/3of the guests are outdoors playing games, 1/3 talking and hanging near the bar and the other 1/3 are on the dance floor.  Have a picnic the following day and play games. file:///C:/Users/17169/Downloads/IMG_5496.MOV
  3. Comfort- Indoor venues typically offer climate control, ensuring that guests are comfortable regardless of the season.photocredit http://www.samrenaudphoto.com
  4. Decor Flexibility-Our indoor spaces often provide a blank canvas that allows for more extensive and detailed decoration, with no need to worry about elements like wind or rain damaging delicate setups.
  5. Built-in Amenities- Indoor venues come equipped with essential amenities like restrooms, kitchens, sound systems, and lighting, making it easier to manage the event.
  6. Privacy- Indoor venues usually offer more privacy compared to outdoor spaces, which can be important for intimate or high-profile wedding.  photo credits: Lovely Day studios http://www.lovelydayphoto.com
  7. Logistics- Mainly for us and your vendors- It’s easier to manage logistics such as setting up tables, chairs, and decorations without concerns about uneven ground, outdoor lighting, or insect control.
  8. Security- we have better security, with controlled access points and secure spaces.

These factors make indoor venues a reliable and versatile choice for weddings.

When you look for a wedding venue near you, consider a locally owned venue.

Here is my shout out to other great locally owned wedding venues:

https://thehiddenabbey.com/weddings/

https://roundbarnfarm.com

https://lavenderonthelakeevents.com

 

 

 

Officiating a Wedding Ceremony at your wedding venue

Officiating a wedding is a special responsibility that can be both exciting and nerve-wracking. Here are the top 10 tips to help you at the Admiral room http://www.admiralroom.com 

1. Understand the Legal Requirements

   – Make sure you’re legally authorized to officiate weddings in the location where the ceremony will take place. Check the local laws regarding officiants and ensure all paperwork, such as your ordination or license, is in order.  Mail in Officiant licenses are sufficient. Getting Married | Buffalo, NY (buffalony.gov)

2. Deciding on the Officiant

– are you interested in a family member or friend or a local officiant.  Reach out to us and we can help you. Our favorite in Buffalo is . http://www.jcofficiants.com

3.   Get to know the couple 

   – Understand the couples vision with their ceremony. Learn their preferences, religious or cultural elements, and any special requests they might have.

4. Prepare and Personalize the Ceremony Script

   – Write a draft of the ceremony script, including the welcome, vows, exchange of rings, and any readings or rituals. Personalize it to reflect the couple’s relationship and personalities.

 5. Rehearse the Ceremony

   – Practice delivering the ceremony aloud to get comfortable with the script. Try very hard to make it to the wedding rehearsal to familiarize yourself with the venue and timing.  Do you want a microphone?  Do you want a podium.  This all has to be determined prior to the day.

photo cred www.moonshinestudio.com

photo credit by www.moonshinestudio.com

6. Speak Clearly and Confidently

   – Project your voice so everyone can hear you, especially if you’re not using a microphone. Practice speaking clearly and at a steady pace.

7.  Engage the Audience

   – Make eye contact with the couple and the guests. Create a warm, inclusive atmosphere by acknowledging the importance of their presence.  MAKE SURE to tell guests what to do after the ceremony concludes.  Are you getting photos or going right to the cocktail hour?  How do they get there?

 8. Handle Emotions Gracefully

   – Weddings can be emotional. If you or the couple becomes teary, pause briefly, and allow everyone to collect themselves before continuing.

photo credit Stefan Lugwig

photo credit http://www.stefan-ludwig.com

 9.  DONT BE IN THE FIRST KISS PICTURE

   – move out of the way for pictures.  PLEASE move!  As soon as the couple turns to face the crowd, move to the side .

10. Sign the Marriage License

   – After the ceremony, ensure the marriage license is signed correctly by the couple, witnesses, and yourself. Return the license to the appropriate authority as required.

These tips should help you feel prepared and confident when officiating a wedding!

We recommend working with local owned wedding venues.  Here are a few top family owned venues around the county:

www.blissfulbarn.com

http://www.blissfulbarn.com

www.thegladevenue.com

http://www.thegladevenue.com

www.thegatheringplace6.com

http://www.thegatheringplace6.com

www.lakefrontacres.com

http://www.lakefrontacres.com

 

 

Newly Engaged…. Now What?

Congratulations on your engagement! The first vendors you should book are usually the ones that can only handle one event per day, as they tend to get booked quickly. Here’s a list in order of priority:

1. Venue: This is the foundation of your wedding date and style. Many other decisions hinge on this, so it’s best to secure your venue first.http://www.admiralroom.com

    
photo credit: Conti Media
2. Church: If you are planning on a church ceremony, check availability with them.  If you aren’t a member of a specific church there is a bit more flexible.  At the Admiral Room, we offer ceremony packages up to 175-200 person weddings.

3. Photographer/Videographer: These vendors also tend to book up quickly, especially the more popular ones.4. Wedding Planner: If you’re hiring a wedding planner, month of or day-of coordinator, it’s helpful to have them on board early to assist with other vendor recommendations and logistics.http://www.weddingsbygianna.com

 

5. Entertainment: Whether you’re looking for a band or DJ, book your entertainment early, especially if you have a specific style or performer in mind.

6. Officiant: If you’re not getting married in a place of worship that provides an officiant, you’ll want to secure one as soon as possible.

7. Florist: Florists usually only handle a few weddings a day, so book them early to ensure they can create your desired arrangements.


8. Hair and Makeup Artists: Popular artists book quickly, so secure your stylist once you know your wedding date.

If you would like recommendations for any vendor category,  please reach out and we will assist you.

After these, you can move on to other details like transportation, décor, cake, and other specialty vendors.
photo credits Alyssa Landri

The Admiral Room is dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venue. In every blog we write, we will include 5 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support fellow locally owned wedding venues, find more locally owned wedding venues featured on our wedding venue map.
https://willowskyranch.com www.willowskyranch.com
https://bellarosa-venue.com
https://www.mainstreetevansville.com
https://vasegt.com
https://lavenderonthelakeevents.com

Top 10 reasons why couples book the Admiral Room for their wedding

The Admiral Roomhttp://www.admiralroom.com is a popular venue for weddings, and couples often choose it for a variety of compelling reasons. Here are ten top reasons why couples might book the Admiral Room for their special day:

  1. Elegant Atmosphere: The Admiral Room offers a sophisticated and elegant setting that can enhance the overall ambiance of a wedding, making it ideal for creating a memorable and stylish event.photocredits: Kristy Tasca photography
  2. Exclusive use of space: You are our ONLY event, no shared space.  You have our undivided attention. Private bathrooms, elevator and STAFF.  No shared managers.
  3. Spacious Layout: The venue features a spacious floor plan, allowing for a comfortable and flexible arrangement of seating, dining, and dancing areas to accommodate varying guest lists and event styles.
  4. Luxurious Amenities: High-end amenities such as high-quality sound systems, sophisticated lighting, and modern furnishings can add a touch of luxury to the celebration.
  5. Excellent Location: Often situated in prime locations, the Admiral Room may offer convenience for guests traveling from different areas, and easy access to nearby attractions or accommodations.  Map
  6. Customizable Spaces: The flexibility to customize the décor and layout allows couples to personalize the space according to their theme, preferences, and vision for their wedding day.  Every bride is different, and every room design is different.
  7. Top-notch Food: Chef Tommy has been with the Admiral Room since we opened.  He will assist you in creating your meal. He will ensure a high standard of food and beverage offerings for the event.
  8. Professional Staff: Experienced and professional staff can provide exceptional service, helping with planning, coordinating, and ensuring that the event runs smoothly.  Our Management company, http://www.brookwoodhospitality.com, was the original creator of the menu.  They bring consistency, all four managers have been with the company prior to opening the Admiral Room.  75% of all staff have over 5 years with the Admiral Room. 7 team members have over 15 years with the company.  This shows during an event.
  9. Ability to use any vendor:  We believe there are so many great vendors in WNY, so we allow you to work with any of them with one exception …. SOUND.  You must use one of the top 25 DJ/Bands in town.  All companies are not created equally.  When you sign a contract with us, we will give you our Wedding Handbook and it helps assist in finding the best DJ for your wedding. One of our favorite is http://www.soundwavedjandphoto.com
  10. Reputation and Reviews: Positive reviews and a strong reputation for hosting successful and beautiful weddings can make the Admiral Room a sought-after choice for couples looking for a trusted and reliable venue.

These factors contribute to why many couples find the Admiral Room to be an appealing option for their wedding day.

We support local owned venue over corporate owned.  Here are a few Wedding Venues across the United States that are locally owned and are supporting locally owned wedding venues:

Wedding Venue Owners

http://shfweddings.com/
https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__www.thevenue112.com_&d=DwMFAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=JZdKEgql44OgP0AG0Kb89seU8au9MBJnN0PH2LVMeGISp18f6r_nifnh4Boq7bOz&m=ExoYqxjNnkDCoaRBU3XEb6aHEZjkRyzAd6k48mC-9kDw-5g9xUYF4C-0FMQgb0yW&s=IgRg4RbHHU8_HQSDDHgZJto7bjiabmeyfpBsaUL6hsg&e=
http://5familyranch.com/
https://urldefense.proofpoint.com/v2/url?u=https-3A__rosehavenvenue.com_&d=DwMFAg&c=euGZstcaTDllvimEN8b7jXrwqOf-v5A_CdpgnVfiiMM&r=JZdKEgql44OgP0AG0Kb89seU8au9MBJnN0PH2LVMeGISp18f6r_nifnh4Boq7bOz&m=ExoYqxjNnkDCoaRBU3XEb6aHEZjkRyzAd6k48mC-9kDw-5g9xUYF4C-0FMQgb0yW&s=zQHVuGW5VUaPsRU08uKsivII5kwN0FnTQsflYLuA7fU&e=

Say Yes to the Dress- Top Luxury Bridal Shops in NY

So you are engaged and you’ve booked us, http://www.admiralroom.com for your venue.  What is the next step in planning your dream wedding.  One of the most exciting and memorable parts of the process is finding the perfect wedding dress.  We can jump on a train or drive 5 hours to some of the most luxurious and high-end wedding dress shops in the world. Make a weekend out of shopping in NYC with friends and family.
We’ve curated a list of the top 10 luxury wedding dress shops in New York City to help you find that perfect dress for your special day.
  1. Kleinfeld Bridal: Located in Manhattan, Kleinfeld Bridal is famous for being featured on the hit TV show “Say Yes to the Dress.” They offer a wide range of designer dresses and personalized appointments with expert stylists.
  2. Mark Ingram Atelier: This upscale bridal boutique in Midtown Manhattan carries couture gowns from top designers such as Vera Wang, Oscar de la Renta, and Marchesa.
  3. Bridal Reflections: With locations in Manhattan and Long Island, Bridal Reflections offers a selection of handcrafted gowns from renowned designers like Galia Lahav and Reem Acra.
  4. Gabriella New York Bridal Salon: Located in SoHo, Gabriella New York specializes in modern and fashion-forward bridal designs from both international and emerging designers.
  5. The White Gown: This boutique in Brooklyn Heights offers a curated collection of elegant and sophisticated dresses for the modern bride. They also provide customization options for a truly unique look.
  6. Saks Fifth Avenue Bridal Salon: Known for their luxury designer clothing, Saks Fifth Avenue’s bridal salon offers an exclusive selection of high-end wedding dresses from brands like Carolina Herrera and Monique Lhuillier.
  7. L’Fay Bridal: Situated in downtown NYC, L’Fay Bridal showcases European-inspired gowns with intricate detailing and luxurious fabrics for brides who want a touch of glamour on their big day.
  8. Panache Bridal & Beauty Lounge: Located on Staten Island, Panache Bridal & Beauty Lounge caters to brides looking for a diverse selection of styles ranging from classic to trendy. photo credits:  http://www.stefan-lugwig.com

 

9. Designer Loft: This boutique near Union Square features an array of chic and contemporary wedding dresses from both established designers and up-and-coming talents.

10. Amsale Flagship Salon: Amsale is known for her clean lines and modern aesthetic, making her flagship salon on Madison Avenue a go-to destination for brides seeking sophisticated simplicity

Apart from these top 10 luxury wedding dress shops in New York City, there are also many other options available for brides locally.
 Bliss Bridal, Victoria Bridal, Dalia’s Bridal Inc, Bridal Chateau and Made by Anatomy
Finding your dream wedding dress should be an exciting part of your wedding planning journey! Whether it’s classic elegance or modern sophistication, these luxury wedding dress shops have something for every bride-to-be.
Happy shopping!

Contact Us

Interested in hosting an event at The Admiral Room? Call or fill out the form for more information.

237 Main Street. Buffalo, NY. 14203 P: (716) 842-0502