Planning a wedding is a momentous journey filled with countless decisions to make. One of the most crucial choices is selecting the perfect venue that encapsulates your dream day. As a West Michigan Wedding Photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing some of the most magical moments at various wedding venues, and today, I want to introduce you to a hidden gem – The Grosse Pointe War Memorial.

Nestled in Grosse Pointe Farms, this historic venue, lovingly known as the War Memorial, offers a breathtaking backdrop for your wedding day. Let me walk you through why you should seriously consider The Grosse Pointe War Memorial as your dream wedding venue.

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The Spaces

The Alger House

The War Memorial boasts a rich history, and its stunning architecture reflects the opulence of a bygone era. The Historic Alger House, dating back to 1910, is a picturesque Italian Renaissance estate that oozes character and charm. The three adjoining rooms, with hand-carved moldings and grand stone fireplaces, offer a cozy and intimate setting for your reception. Imagine your guests being greeted by French doors overlooking Lake St. Clair and lush gardens – a dreamy scene for an outdoor ceremony and unforgettable photography opportunities.

Capacity

This charming Italian Renaissance estate built in 1910 offers a cozy setting for your reception. It can accommodate up to 125 seated guests throughout its three adjoining rooms. Alternatively, it can be used as a strolling cocktail hour space when combined with the Ballroom.

Cost

The room rental for the Historic Alger House is $1,500, and there is a food and beverage minimum of $8,000.

The Community Room

For those desiring a more contemporary setting, the Community Room, added in 2022, offers a fresh and modern ambiance. With herringbone hardwood floors, glass chandeliers, and a grand Colonnade Entrance, it’s an ideal space for up to 150 guests. The state-of-the-art accent lighting sets the perfect mood, making it a fantastic choice for your reception and cocktail hour. The Community Room is a shining example of The War Memorial’s commitment to merging history with modernity.

Capacity

The brand new Community Room, added in 2022, is ideal for weddings of up to 150 guests. It offers ample space for a comfortable dance floor and provides a modern ambiance with glass chandeliers, herringbone hardwood floors, and a beautifully designed ceiling.

Cost

The room rental for the Community Room is $2,000, with a food and beverage minimum of $10,000.

Crown Jewel: The Ballroom

The piece de resistance is The War Memorial Ballroom. This crown jewel, part of the newly redesigned Fred M. Alger Center, offers panoramic lakefront views through its floor-to-ceiling windows. Your guests will be in awe of the two-story exterior patio, creating a unique space to take in the breathtaking views of Lake St. Clair. The Ballroom can comfortably seat over 300 guests and offers ample space for a dance floor, DJ or band, and other elements to make your wedding truly unforgettable.

Capacity

The Ballroom is the crown jewel of The War Memorial and provides a panoramic lakefront view through floor-to-ceiling windows. It can comfortably seat over 300 guests and offers additional space for a DJ or band, dance floor, and cake and gift tables. The two-story exterior patio overlooks the house, gardens, and water.

Cost

The room rental for the Ballroom is $2,800, with a higher food and beverage minimum of $25,000.

All-Inclusive Wedding Packages

The War Memorial understands the importance of every detail in your wedding planning journey. Their wedding packages include every detail necessary for a perfect day. With their expert culinary team, you’ll experience responsibly grown and fresh food that’s sure to impress your guests. See why you need me to be your photographer!

Wedding Reception Package Includes

• One-hour cocktail reception.
• Four tray-passed hors d’oeuvres.
• Four-hour deluxe bar.
• Sparkling wine toast for the head table.
• Choice of salad.
• Plated entrée.
• Cake cutting & service.
• Coffee & tea service.
• Dinnerware & glassware.
• In-house tables & chairs.
• White floor-length table linens & white linen napkins.

Food and Beverage Policies

• All food and beverages, except the wedding cake, must be purchased through The War Memorial.
• Alcoholic beverage service is regulated by the State of Michigan.
• Food and beverage charges are subject to a 24% service charge and 6% Michigan sales tax.

Additional Details

• Friday & Sunday events of Memorial Day & Labor Day weekends are booked at Saturday pricing.
• Changing rooms for the wedding party are provided at no additional charge if the ceremony is held on-site.
• Simultaneous events may occur on the premises, which doesn’t impact your event.

Tastings

• One food tasting for the bride and groom is offered as early as six months prior to the scheduled wedding, with additional guest options for a fee (up to six guests).

Service and Support

The professional staff at The War Memorial goes above and beyond to ensure your wedding day is truly memorable. Their attention to detail and anticipation of your needs are unmatched, allowing you to relax and enjoy your special day. Plus, they offer assistance with all your planning questions, making your wedding planning journey smoother.

Event Set-Up & Break Down

• Set-up may begin two hours before the start of the reception. Plenty of time for your first look!
• TWM staff can assist with arranging specific items.
• All non-TWM decor, including flowers, must be removed after the event.

Floor Plans and Table-scape

• TWM provides various table settings, linen, and decor options.

Unique Wedding Ceremony Options

The War Memorial offers various ceremony options, whether it’s an outdoor celebration on the back lawn, accommodating up to 500 seated guests, or an indoor ceremony in the Community Room for a maximum of 300 seated guests. With exclusive use of the Terrace, Back Lawn, and Trial Gardens during the wedding ceremony, you can say “I do” against a backdrop that suits your style.

Wedding Ceremony

• Ceremony fees for on-site ceremonies include ceremony coordination, one scheduled rehearsal, use and setup of ceremony chairs, two changing rooms, and exclusive use of designated outdoor areas.

Event Schedule & Duration

• Room rental is based on four hours and thirty minutes of service, with additional hours available for a fee.
• Evening events can begin no earlier than 4:00 PM and end no later than 12:00 AM (midnight).
• See my guide to creating a timeline!

Easy Booking Process

Booking your wedding at The War Memorial is a seamless process. They offer a complimentary seven-day hold, with no obligation, on your desired date. Afterward, a deposit is required, and payments are structured to make planning convenient for you.

Booking Process

• A complimentary seven-day hold is offered, with no obligation.
• After the hold period, a non-refundable deposit of $6,000 is required, consisting of a $4,500 reservation fee and a $1,500 security deposit.
• Payment options include cash, certified check, or credit card (with an additional 1.75% service charge).
• The security deposit will be returned within one month after the event, subject to deductions for damage or expenses.

Guarantee

• A guaranteed guest count is required ten business days before the event, and a 10% service charge will be applied to guests added after the Guarantee Date.

Cancellations or Transfers

• Cancellations or date change requests must be submitted in writing.
• Date change requests are considered based on availability within the same fiscal year.
• Don’t miss a thing with my checklist!

As a West Michigan Wedding Photographer, I can confidently say that The Grosse Pointe War Memorial is a venue that encapsulates the perfect blend of history, luxury, and elegance. It offers diverse spaces to suit your preferences and a dedicated team to ensure your wedding day is nothing short of magical.

The War Memorial’s commitment to honoring veterans and armed forces members adds a meaningful touch to your wedding. So, if you’re looking for a unique and memorable wedding venue that will leave your guests amazed, consider The Grosse Pointe War Memorial. It’s not just a venue; it’s an experience that will make your special day truly unforgettable.

Let’s discuss your wedding today!