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

Color of the Year- incorporated into WNY weddings

Incorporating the Color of the Year into your wedding can create a modern, cohesive aesthetic.  Benjamin Moore embraced the beauty of quietly colorful hues with Cinnamon Slate, a purple-ish color.   Pantone color of the year,  2025, will be released soon.  2024 color was peach fuzz. Any color looks fabulous in the Admiral Room http://www.admiralroom.com

 

Here are some ideas on how to include it in various aspects in your wedding:

  1. Bridal Attire

– Bridal Gown Accents:  If the Color of the Year is bold, you could add subtle touches, like a colored sash, shoes, or embroidered details.

– Bridesmaid Dresses: Having your bridesmaids wear the Color of the Year is a popular way to integrate it.

– Accessories: Consider jewelry, shoes, or even your bouquet ribbon in the color.

 

  1. Floral Arrangements

– Work with your florist to select flowers in or close to the Color of the Year.

– Incorporate colored vases or table runners to complement the flowers if the color doesn’t naturally occur in blooms.

IMG_6631

  1. Stationery

– Use the Color of the Year in your invitations, RSVP cards, and even place cards.

– Incorporate it into your wedding website and save-the-dates as well.

 

  1. Table Settings and Decor

– Use the Color of the Year in your table linens, napkins, or charger plates.

– Accent your centerpieces with candles, glassware, or other decorative elements in the chosen color.

 

  1. Cake and Desserts

– Your cake can be decorated with the Color of the Year through colored frosting, sugar flowers, or painted details.

– Desserts like macarons or cake pops can also feature the color.

 

  1. Lighting

– Colored uplighting or projections in the reception space can set the mood in line with the Color of the Year.

 

  1. Signage and Backdrops

– Incorporate it into your ceremony backdrop, photo booth, or welcome signs for a statement piece.

 

  1. Reception and Cocktail Hour

– Signature drinks can be designed around the Color of the Year, especially if it’s a fun, vibrant hue.

– Use colored accents like glassware, coasters, or stir sticks in your cocktail hour setup.

color of the year, incorporate to a wedding in wny

 

Do you have a specific Color of the Year in mind for your wedding?

When you choose 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.

https://www.mayberrymeadows.com/blog.html

https://www.lovegroveestates.com/blog

https://withinsodo.com/weddings-within

https://www.blackriverlodge.net/news

THE JOURNAL

Balancing traditions on your wedding day

Balancing tradition with personal style in a wedding can be a beautiful way to honor your roots while making the day uniquely yours. Never have we seen such a time we you can do just about anything.  Make it your love story!!

Here are a few ways to approach it:

1. Prioritize Meaningful Traditions Focus on traditions that resonate with you and your fiancé, whether they hold family significance or have a cultural or religious meaning.  Couples are finding creative ways to balance traditions and modernity in their ceremony and reception.

photography by http://www.lovelydayphoto.com

2. Blend Old and New Mix traditional elements with modern touches, like adding classic decor but with a contemporary twist.

3. Personalize Rituals If there are rituals or customs that don’t fully align with your vision, consider modifying them. 25 years ago everyone participated in the garter toss.  This is where the groom would remove the garter from the bride and tosses it into a crowd of single men.   We have not seen the toss but a few times at the Admiral Room. Instead, you could have a photo taken of the single guests and look back on this a few years later to see the differences.  Make it your own!

photo:http://www.moonshinestudiosofphotography.com

4.  Incorporate Personal Elements:

When you think of your wedding day, it is easy to focus heavily on the reception, but incorporating traditional elements can help anchor the day for its deeper meaning. A first look or first touch with a prayer or private vows, a unity event during your ceremony, a traditional blessing, or a private dinner can be beautiful ways to uphold the day’s significance while still leaving room for dancing and celebration.  We have seen a variety of wonderful ideas.  Let us know you are interested in any of these, and we will assist you in the planning.

When you choose 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.

Lovegrove Estate — Charleston Wedding & Events Venue

http://www.thebougainvilleas.com

http://www.themamaison.com

http://www.rosehaven.com

http://www.vistawestranch.com

 

Thank you

 

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

 

 

 

Including your PET in your wedding venue in Buffalo

We here at the http://www.admiralroom.com    love our animals.
photo credit- http://www.moonshinestudioofphotography.comWe allow your dog or cat to participate in your special day.  If they can’t make it here, there are other ways to make sure your dog’s presence is seen and felt, how about:
  • Name a signature drink after your dog and place the sign at the bar.
  • Include your dog in your engagement photos
  • Ask your dog walker or sitter to bring your dog at an appointed time for photos.
  • Request your bakery to include your dog, cat, pig, horse in the cake design or cake topper
  • Feature a life-size photo cutout of your dog at the reception
  • Commission artwork of your dog to include on invitations, the event program, or other signage
  • Have a drawing on your cocktail napkins
Attention couples of fur babies: We’ve compiled some of the most adorable pet wedding photos from the http://www.admiralroom.com .
See some of the ideas so you can include your favorite best friend, your dog, into your special day.   Whether you own a cat, dog, rabbit, reptile, there are many ways to have your animal play a special role in the big day.
When considering pet wedding ideas, first take into account your pet’s demeanor and whether your venue, http://www.admiralroom.com allows pets on the premises.
Many couples choose to have their furry companions present for the “I dos” and reception festivities. Have your dog walk down the aisle with the bridesmaids, or stand with the groomsmen as you say your vows.
We have seen dogs here dress in bow ties or a tutu.   Give your pup a bowtie that matches those of the groomsmen, or a little dress so your fur baby can be an honorary flower “dog”.
We have a wonderful recommendation of a pet sitter for your animal (just not dogs):
Alexa’s Angels Petsitting LLC
She has an entire brochure on wedding packages she offers.  Here’s an example:
     Happy Taills Furever Package-
     Meet and greet
    Pet chauffer service from your home to venue, venue to home
    Assistance during the first look photos, ceremony and walking down the aisle and reception
   Coordinating with the photographer
   Brushing and dressing the  animals and cleaning touch ups
   Treats and Hydration throughout the day
     and potty breaks
   And walks
 Alexa Angles Petsitting LLC
585-483-1688
Alexanglespatsitting@gmail.com
We love our doggies.

Here’s a dog coming to see his mommy and daddy.

 

 

 

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.

photo credits- http://www.moonshinestudioofphotography.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

 

 

Popular Wedding Dates in 2025

The Most Popular Wedding Dates for 2025

Planning a wedding can be an exciting.  Once you are engaged you need to choose a Buffalo venue.  Being flexible with your date is the best way to book with us at the Admiral Room. Let’s talk dates.

While some couples may have a specific date in mind that holds sentimental value, others may be looking for the most popular dates to ensure their guests can attend and that vendors are available. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular wedding dates for 2025 to help you make an informed decision for your special day.

One of the most popular wedding dates for 2025 is May 25th 5/25/25.  This date falls on a Sunday, making it convenient for both you and your guests. May is also a beautiful time of year with blooming flowers and pleasant weather, making it a wonderful backdrop for your wedding festivities. Additionally, May 25th falls during Memorial Day weekend, which means you and your guests may have an extra day off work to celebrate. April 25th of 2025, 4.25.25 is a Friday.

Another highly sought-after wedding date in 2025 is July 4th. Independence Day is a festive holiday in the United States, making it a fun and memorable day to tie the knot. Many couples choose this date for its patriotic significance and because it allows them to incorporate fireworks into their celebration. Keep in mind that venues and vendors may book up quickly for July 4th weddings, so be sure to plan ahead if this date appeals to you.

If you’re looking for a romantic and charming wedding date, consider October 10th, 2025. Known as “Perfect Ten Day,” this numerical palindrome date symbolizes unity and harmony – qualities that are often associated with marriage. How about Oct 15th, 10/15/20-25. lol Fall weddings are becoming increasingly popular due to the stunning foliage and cozy atmosphere they provide. October is also typically less busy than summer months, allowing you more flexibility in terms of venue availability.

For those who prefer winter weddings, December 12th is an enchanting option for tying the knot in 2025. The holiday season adds an extra touch of magic to winter weddings, with twinkling lights, festive decorations, and warm fires creating a cozy ambiance. December 12th falls on a Sunday in 2025, giving you the entire weekend to celebrate with your loved ones before starting your new life together.

Finally, New Year’s Eve – December 31st – is another popular wedding date for couples looking to ring in the new year as newlyweds.AND ITS OPEN FOR 2025! CALL 716-842-0502 to book it ASAP. Celebrating your love at midnight as fireworks light up the sky can create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. New Year’s Eve weddings often feature glamorous themes, champagne toasts, and plenty of dancing to kick off the new year with style.

Choosing a wedding date is one of the first major decisions you’ll make when planning your big day. By considering some of the most popular wedding dates for 2025 like May 25th, July 4th, October 10th, December 12th, or December 31st (New Year’s Eve), you can ensure that your special day aligns with your vision and priorities as a couple. Whether you prefer a springtime celebration surrounded by blooming flowers or a winter wonderland filled with holiday cheer, there are plenty of options to choose from that will make your wedding day truly magical.

Interested in a wedding planner to assist in every aspect of your wedding, Weddings by Gianna http://www.weddingsbygianna.com

Do you have friends and family across the country looking to get married? Here are some locally owned wedding venues that are ready to assist you.

https://degashouse.com/     located in LA

https://www.mainstreetevansville.com/      located in Evansville IN

https://vasegt.com/      Located in Georgeville SC

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