ACE Conference Center News & Events

We were so excited to see our clients, Angela Duncan and James Montgomery, featured in the Philadelphia Inquirer’s Love in Philly section!  It’s a heart-warming story of two people destined to find each other in this crazy world!  We certainly enjoyed hosting their September wedding celebration here at ACE!  To see the full Love in Philly feature, click here.

Tags: Main Line Weddings, Military Weddings, philadelphia weddings

Juliya and Armand’s autumn wedding was held at the ACE Conference Center in Layfayette Hill, Pennsylvania. Wolfgang Puck Catering created a classic seated dinner for the newlyweds and their loved ones. The menu featured French Onion Soup and Wolfgang’s signature chopped Vegetable Salad to start, followed by a Pumpkin Spice Sorbet before Entrées were served table side. Guests had the option to go with the Filet Mignon or Roasted Black Bass for their Entrée selection, followed by a trio of desserts that included Seven Layer Red Velvet Cake, Banana Spring Rolls, and French Macaroons.

{Photos Courtesy of Cliff Mautner}

The bride and groom took their formal wedding portraits outside on the lush grounds surrounding the facility.  Naturally, Mother Nature was at her best, offering gorgeous autumnal foliage for the photo backdrops.

The new Lafayette Ballroom was decorated from top to bottom by the talented team from Beautiful Blooms in Philadelphia.  The event designers layered champagne linens with gold-beaded chargers, sparkling stemware and elegantly folded napkins.  High and low floral centerpieces were dramatically filled with a mix bouquet of blooms, pheasant feathers and dripping jewels.  The back wall of the space was draped with ivory fabric and soft amber lighting added that little extra touch of romance.

Congratulations to Juliya and Armand, it was a pleasure collaborating on your special day!

Tags: fall weddings, philadelphia weddings

Have you seen our new Lafayette Ballroom and Event Deck?  Take a peek at these two exciting new spaces available for events, parties, meetings and weddings!  The Lafayette Ballroom is a high-ceiling, rustic loft space that offers a large group and intimate warmth that’s hard to find in the Philadelphia area.  Immediately adjacent to the Ballroom is our brand new, fully enclosed Lafayette Patio that allows your guests to experience the outdoors in a fully shaded, heated or air-conditioned manner.  Located just below the Lafayette Ballroom and Patio is our new Outdoor Event Deck; yet another stunning location for an open-air party, celebration, ceremony or meeting.  For weddings, should you wish to exchange vows in an outdoor setting, the Event Deck can be set in an “in-the-round” ceremony style or with traditional auditorium-style seating which works beautifully with the rolling green hills as your backdrop!  Anyway you slice it, the Lafayette Ballroom, Patio and Event Deck are fantastic party spaces that can be used together or individually for any type of special event.

Thank you to our event partners from CinemaCake Wedding and Event Filmmakers for producing this fantastic video; Arrangements Unlimited for styling the spaces; and EventQuip for providing the custom-made awning tent.

You can experience more photographs of the Lafayette Ballroom and Outoor Event Deck here and here but there’s nothing better than seeing it in person!  Our Sales and Catering Department would love nothing better than to introduce you to these incredible event spaces.  To discuss your event in further detail and to schedule your tour of these new amazing party spaces, please contact one of our Sales Representatives by calling 610-825-8000 or 800-523-3000.

Tags: Corporate Event Locations, Main Lin, Main Line, outdoor event spaces, Outdoor Weddings, philadelphia weddings, Special Event Venues

One of our most popular event spaces, the Marquis Ballroom and Dining Room, began the first exciting stages of its complete renovation this week!  Although we’ve hosted many fabulous weddings, meetings and celebrations in the Marquis over the years, it’s time for a little sprucing up!  First, the demolition of everything but the windows and ceiling!  All the current surfaces, such as the carpeting, draperies and flooring, were ripped out to make way for updated finishes and modern decor.  As teh week progresses, the catering and sales teams are excited to see the new tile flooring, modern coil drapery, chic foyer furnishings and modular buffet pieces come in one by one!  Once complete, the Marquis should be even more sought-after by wedding planners and event producers as a unique party space in the Philadelphia suburbs.  We’ll share photographs of the completed renovation soon, but by all means, we’d love to introduce you to the Marquis Ballroom and Dining Room in person at your earliest convenience!

Tags: Meeting Facilities, Philadelphia Conference Centers, Philadelphia Event Venues, philadelphia wedding venues

ACE Conference Center is proud to introduce our new Executive Chef, Chris Stevens!

Christopher Stevens, Executive Chef of Wolfgang Puck Catering in Philadelphia, discovered his passion for the culinary arts while experimenting with a cast iron pan, spatula and two eggs at the age of four.  By the time he turned thirteen, Chris knew that he was destined to become a chef and immerse himself in the world of food.  As our new Executive Chef, Chef Chris oversees all culinary operations and catering services for the ACE Conference Center.

BIOGRAPHY AND CULINARY CAREER

Chris’ culinary career officially began after he completed his education at the renowned Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, NY. He also accomplished special training with Certified Master Chef Ed Jano in Garde Manager, where he attained instruction in Ice Sculpting and Advanced Italian Cuisine.  In order to fulfill his culinary education, Chef Stevens accepted an internship with world-renown Chef René Mettler at the Hyatt Waikoloa in Hawaii.

With intensive training from very talented chefs, Chris flew to Aspen, Colorado where he worked at the famous Poppies Bistro Café.  Within two years the restaurant attained Four Stars.  Chef Stevens’ career has since been shaped by experiences at numerous restaurants and catering companies along the East Coast:  Executive Chef at Cherry Calley Country Club in Skillman, New Jersey; Chef and Owner of the Casabona Restaurant in Princeton, New Jersey; Chef and Owner of La Mezzlauna  Restaurant; and Executive Chef of the Paris Catering Company based in Princeton, New Jersey.

AWARDS AND ACCOLADES

Chef Chris has received accolades for his talents, including 1998 recognition as the New Jersey Chef of the Year by the Chaine des Rotisseurs, and honors from the American Culinary Federation for participation in both the James Beard Awards
and the Governor’s Inauguration Ball.  He has written articles featured in Bloomberg News and Life of a Chef.  Chef Chris Stevens has had the opportunity to personally cook for celebrities including Cher, Chevy Chase, Bill Walton, Bill Joel and celebrity Chef Tom Colicchio.

THE WOLFGANG PUCK FAMILY

Chef Chris Stevens is now a part of the Wolfgang Puck Team.  Wolfgang Puck Catering, founded in 1998, continues to set the standard for culinary excellence, bringing our team’s legendary combination of innovative cuisine and refined service to the worlds’ most renowned and demanding corporate, cultural and entertainment settings. Delivering a restaurant-quality experience in a special event setting, Wolfgang’s experienced team caters intimate weddings, convention galas, family occasions, and such noteworthy events as the Academy Awards® Governors Ball.  In keeping with Wolfgang’s culinary passion, Wolfgang’s Eat, Love, Live ™ (WELL™) philosophy is a commitment to provide fresh, natural and organic ingredients and celebrate local farmers, sustainable seafood and humanely
treated animals.  Wolfgang Puck Catering co-founded the Seafood Savvy Program with the Georgia Aquarium, inspired by the Monterey Bay Aquarium, to raise awareness about the importance of buying seafood from sustainable sources.  For additional
information, visit wolfgangpuckcatering.com.

Tags: Chef Chris Stevens, Food & Beverage, Philadelphia Event Venues, philadelphia weddings, Wolfgang Puck Catering

Please join us for a very special bridal event at the ACE Conference Center on Sunday, September 18th from noon until 3:30pm.  Featuring our new  in-house, award-winning caterer, Wolfgang Puck Catering, this bridal show will offer our existing wedding clients and potential brides and grooms the opportunity to sample delicious foods while exploring our incredible property.  This bridal show is produced by Bouché Productions who always ensures there are dozens of the Philadelphia area’s wedding professionals and vendors on hand who showcase fabulous floral displays, wedding cake tastings, prizes and giveaways, designer wedding gowns and wedding planning tips.  Additionally, bridal show attendees are able to enjoy free makeovers and hair trials from some of the areas top stylists.  Attendees will also receive discounts and incentives offered by participating vendors.

TICKETS for the September 18th Bridal Event may be purchased at the discounted price of $5 directly from the Bridal Event by clicking here or calling 610-917-9300.  If you have already booked your wedding at the ACE Conference Center, please enjoy two free tickets to this event by calling our Catering Office to be placed on our VIP Guest List.

Sponsors include:  Macys, Martha Stewart, Philadelphia Wedding, The Knot, VIP Magazine, Perfect Wedding Guide, Philadelphia Magazine, Brides.com, Shutterbooth, Crate & Barrel, Premier Bride, American Laser Center and City of Hope.

Tags: Bouche Productions, Bridal Shows, Main Line Weddings, Philadelphia Bridal Events, Philadelphia Event Venues, philadelphia weddings

Just this past weekend Brian and Kimberly celebrated their modern black and white summer wedding at the ACE Conference Center.

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Tags: Main Line Weddings, philadelphia wedding venues, philadelphia weddings

Just a couple of weeks ago we had the pleasure of hosting the wedding of Christine and Sid here at the ACE Conference Center.  A sweet couple that met at a mutual friend’s party and fell in love instantly.  (read more about the couple here).

Although traditional in nature, Christine and Sid’s wedding ceremony took place in a rather unusual location.  A helicopter pad!  The ACE Conference Center boasts its own helicopter pad; which, for the most part, gets used more for weddings these days than helicopters.  Why?  Because it just happens to be situated at the top of the most scenic hill here on the property.  Once our brides and grooms see the helipad, they fall in love with the view and gorgeous natural backdrop it provides.  Christine and Sid chose to exchange their vows in the early evening and the weather couldn’t have been more perfect!  A little steamy of course, but the couple had planned for that scenario right down to the iced bottles of water they had us offer their guests to keep them cool.

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Tags: Main Line Weddings, outdoor event spaces, Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies, philadelphia weddings, Unusual Wedding Locations, Weddings on the Helipad

Just goes to show you, even when it comes to love it might be based on “who you know.” Take Christine and Sid, who both just happened to know Christie.  Just not each other.  At least, not until their all-powerful friend Christie introduced them.

Christie was throwing a going away party at her Maryland home for her co-worker, Sid, the same weekend that her college roommate, Christine, was planning to be in Washington, D.C. for a job fair.  Inviting her dear friend to stay the weekend, meant Christine would be at Christie’s for the going away weekend for Sid.  Once Sid and Christine were introduced at the party it was obvious to everyone, they hit it off!  After a long party weekend of getting to know each other, Sid moved to Florida as planned and Christine returned home to Philadelphia.  They spent the next month talking everyday on the phone, sometimes for hours at a time, as well as chatting online.  After just a month of living in Florida, Sid decided to take a chance and moved back to Maryland to be closer to Christine.  Sometimes, you really just KNOW.  These two love birds sure recognized a good thing when they saw it!  Apparently, so did Christie and if not for that party at her house in Maryland, there wouldn’t have been a wedding this past Saturday.  That’s right, Sid and Christine were married at the ACE Conference Center this past weekend!  Congratulations to you both! (oh, and by the way, you owe Christie BIG)

Tags: Main Line Weddings, Outdoor Weddings, philadelphia weddings

Flowering Spring trees, rolling green hills and tempestuous weather provided a stunning backdrop for Chris and Lindsey’s May wedding at the ACE Conference Center.  {Photos courtesy of Barnyard Photography}

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Tags: Country Weddings, Main Line Wedding Venues, Main Line Weddings, Outdoor Wedding Venues, Outdoor Weddings, philadelphia wedding venues, philadelphia weddings, Purple Weddings

What finer way to recognize Kate and William’s Royal Wedding and the Obamas’ recent visit to Britain, than to put on a traditional British Afternoon Tea for a group of local attorneys meeting at the ACE Conference Center!?

Although a favorite, many Americans don’t know that the tradition of Afternoon Tea was created in the 1840′s by Anna Russell, the 7th Duchess of Bedford and bosom friend of the young Queen Victoria. The British aristocracy in those days would go hunting in the morning, then eat a hearty breakfast and then wait until
8:00pm to enjoy a multi-course formal dinner. The Duchess ordered hot tea, small sandwiches and little cakes to stave off her “sinking feeling” in the middle of the afternoon. Before long, her friends were joining her in what became a delightful, social event enjoyed around a low table on couches in the ladies’ sitting rooms across England. Quickly becoming a favorite social break in an otherwise quiet afternoon, the gentlemen started joining in as well.

Afternoon Tea (or low tea) is not to be confused with High Tea, which is a hearty meal served at about 6:00pm consisting of hot tea, crusty breads, meats and other savory pies, maybe sausages, eggs, potatoes and big cakes. This meal was originally enjoyed by laborers, miners and farm workers at the end of their work day.
Living in the damp meant these hardworking men would rush home after their day and eat their meal standing up resting their plates on the mantel piece in front of the fire to get warm. Hence the term “High Tea.”

Our Afternoon Tea service includes all the expected savories and sweets from mini cucumber, salmon and watercress sandwiches, to homemade scones, clotted cream, fresh fruit and pastries. Generally a light meal that is interactive and casual, many of our bridal and baby showers enjoy Afternoon Tea as do local ladies clubs and larger corporate groups. For more information on our Afternoon Tea please contact our catering department at 800-523-8000.

Tags: Baby Showers, Breakout Stations, Bridal Showers, Corporate Events, Main Line Party Venues, Main Line Weddings, Philadelphia Event Venues, philadelphia weddings

Oh, the times they are a changin’!  Today’s savvy brides and grooms are sharing their love stories and communicating their wedding details on their very own wedding websites!  There are several wedding website companies available online that allow users to design their site for free or for a reasonable fee.  Most of these online resources allow couples to customize domain names, backgrounds, layouts and photo formats to reflect the personal style of the wedding theme.  One of the most popular wedding website services is eWedding.com, which also provides user-friendly methods to track RSVPs, budgets and mailing lists.  But what we’re thoroughly enamored with is not just the organizational aspects but the speedy and thorough manner of storytelling in a visually appealing fashion.  Guests and family members can not only share where the bride and groom met, but watch a video of how he popped the question or hear the audio of her acceptance!  It’s an incredible way to share the joy of the private moment with friends and family!  Recently, one of our clients, Juliya and Armand, launched their own wedding website to share their engagement journey, including how they met in the first place:

“Way back when (Fall – 2003), we met in a Management Information Systems class at Penn State. But it wasn’t until 2007 that we started dating. It all began with a camping trip, where Armand took us fishing in a sinking boat. He caught a fish. I caught the motor….twice and dropped my sunglasses in the water. Armand’s outdoor skills were very impressive. He set up the entire site by himself (including building a fire) and told me I could sit in the folding chair and relax. I later learned that was guy-code for “Don’t touch or do anything because you’re going to kill us!” From that day on, we planned many trips together and have been traveling all over the United States as part of our “Seeing All 50 States Before We’re 30!” plan.”

Guests are encouraged to visit their website often to stay up on the wedding planning process, the bridal showers and bachelor/ette parties, as well as the funny stories and sweet moments that develop as they lead up to their October 8th celebration at ACE.   We applaud the idea and look forward to seeing photos of their Hawaiian honeymoon!

To read more about Juliya and Armand’s wedding on their wedding website powered by WeddingWire, go to http://www.weddingwire.com/wedding/UserViewWebsiteIntro?wid=322126603bb2ed71&pid=e60871413f111a30&themeCode.

Or, for more information on wedding website creation, we encourage you to visit the following excellent resources:  www.ewedding.com; www.weddingwire.com; www.weddingwindow.com.

Tags: Main Line Weddings, philadelphia weddings, Wedding Planning Tips, Wedding Websites

Our excitement about our new partnership with Wolfgang Puck Catering is off the charts!  After spending the day working on our new wedding reception menus we thought we’d share some menu planning tips and suggestions.

When it comes down to it, today’s weddings are all about hosting a fabulous party and FABULOUS begins with the basics – sensational food and a full-service bar. But contrary to popular belief, it is absolutely possible to have a well-designed menu and serve delicious food at your wedding.  Working with such famous restauranteurs-turned-caterers like Wolfgang Puck Catering only hammers that point home.  But where to start?  The first step a bride and groom should do is create their own ”foodie wish list” that details their personal food favorites, or the dreaded “ick, I hate that!” list, as well as foods that cause allergic reactions and foods that your families would expect to share at the wedding.  If you have trouble getting a handle on these items, start by writing down your favorite restaurants, cooking techniques, ethnic traditions or family recipes.  Have you discussed with each other or with your families what your guests would enjoy?  For instance, are your Italian relatives expecting to see some form of antipasto at the cocktail reception? What about your fiance’s Chinese grandparents, would they nibble on Wolfgang’s mini peking duck rolls or is a whole dim sum station a must-have?  And if your Uncle Joey only eats burgers, well, that’s certainly possible, even if they are slider-sized and oozing with melted cheese (see below and prepare to salivate).

Something else to consider when conceptualizing your reception menu is the season in which you are celebrating the wedding.  A dramatic plated first course for Summer could be Wolfgang’s Roasted Beet and Herbed Goat Cheese Napolean!  (see below). Wow, what a first impression that makes on a crowd!  For Fall or Winter weddings you may want more hot hors d’oeuvres than cold, and including seasonal produce into the dinner service might be interesting.  For instance, we love mini shooters of butternut squash soup paired with grilled crostini. Wolfgang’s well-known philosophy is to design their catering menus with the freshest, organic and humanely-raised food they can get their hands on so sharing your seasonal preferences is not only welcome but crucial from the get-go.

Aside from the types of foods you hope to enjoy at your wedding, you’ll also have to decide the service style.  Specifically, whether your reception will be buffet-style (large displays with multiple selections), food stations (several mini buffets) or a sit-down plated meal (tableside service).  Buffet-style tends to be more casual, food stations can be entertaining and sit-down is certainly the most formal.  Most wedding menus are designed with a mixture of these food service styles over the course of the 5-hour event.  For instance, during your cocktail reception a combination of passed hors d’oeuvres and food stations followed by a sit-down plated dinner keeps the grazers and talkers equally happy.  After dinner, why not repeat the cocktail-style service with passed mini-desserts, a plated dessert and a sweet dessert station?  Doesn’t this Chocolate Lava Cake look divine?

Once you have some idea as to your own personal food tastes and preferred service styles, it’s time to pour through the carefully crafted sample WPC menus.  Designing your wedding menu is a process and you’ll have to study the sample menus and compare them to your “wish list” before your final menu plan is realized.  Luckily, at ACE you have a fantastic team of professionals to help guide you through what could be a challenging process!  Particularly, when each hors d’oeuvre, stationery display and plated course tastes and looks better than the last!  Remember, the golden rule is to balance the menu with a variety of foods that have different flavors, textures, colors and temperatures to keep things enjoyable for all.  Ugh, it’s overwhelming, we know! But don’t fret!  Our ACE Planning Team will be able to take your ideas and preferences and use them to design a menu that is just right for your wedding.

Tags: catering notes, Chef Notes, Food & Beverage, Main Line Wedding Venues, Main Line Weddings, menu planning, Philadelphia Hotels, philadelphia weddings, weddings

It’s official! We’re thrilled to announce our exclusive catering partnership with Wolfgang Puck Catering. The ACE Conference Center is collaborating with esteemed chef, Wolfgang Puck, to further enhance the ACE Conference Center’s reputation as one of the area’s premier special event locations. “We are pleased to join forces with Wolfgang Puck Catering and their legendary, innovative cuisine, to bring a unique dining experience to our customers,” says ACE General Manager, Daniel Briones. “It’s a win-win situation – this collaboration with Wolfgang Puck Catering will further extend the public’s awareness of both our brands throughout the Greater Philadelphia region and beyond.”

Wolfgang Puck’s illustrious name carries an undeniable cachet, and is synonymous with a bold, innovative style of cooking that has redefined the essence of fine dining in America and around the world. Founded in 1998, Wolfgang Puck Catering continues to set the standard for culinary excellence, bringing its team’s legendary combination of creative cuisine and refined service to the world’s most renowned and demanding corporate, cultural, and entertainment settings. Delivering a restaurant-quality experience in a special event setting, Wolfgang’s experienced team caters intimate weddings, convention galas, family occasions, and such noteworthy events as the Academy Awards® Governors Ball. His trademark dishes, coupled with his unmistakable panache and passion, have, in fact, revolutionized the culinary industry. Guests at the ACE Conference
Center can also expect Wolfgang Puck’s menus and dishes to reflect his philosophy of incorporating fresh, natural and organic ingredients in every recipe.

With more than 25 years of event planning and production experience, the ACE Conference Center regularly hosts groups and conventions for up to 500 guests. Located just a few miles from Center City Philadelphia, ACE offers distinctive, state-of-the-art facilities situated on 300 picturesque acres of inviting woodlands and rolling hills. ACE Conference Center provides a secluded, yet highly accessible venue for any type of event, indoors and out. It perfectly combines the fast pace of urban life with the serenity of the countryside in a suburban setting.

Together, ACE and Wolfgang intend to offer guests a creative culinary experience unlike any other in the Greater Philadelphia region.

To learn more about events at the ACE Conference Center, please visit www.aceconferencecenter.com

Tags: Celebrity Caterer, Main Line Hotels, Main Line Party Venues, Meetings & Events, Philadelphia Event Venues, Philadelphia Hotels, philadelphia weddings

The place where your wedding ceremony will be held can also influence the style and type of ceremony you choose to plan.  Have you dreamt of a grand ballroom ceremony with a long dramatic candlelit entrance?  Or a casual outdoor ceremony with only wispy green trees and blue sky as the backdrop?  Certainly knowing that every ceremony needs a spiritual center and a visual focus, it’s important to look creatively at your wedding venue to determine the best options available for your wedding ceremony.

Over the years we’ve planned and orchestrated hundreds of wedding ceremonies here at the ACE Conference Center.  We find that where the ceremony takes place and how the ceremony is presented is crucial to your experience, not to mention how your family and friends witness your promises to each other.  The ceremony area where you will stand together to exchange vows and rings — whether it’s under a traditional Jewish Chuppah on a stage, in front of a fireplace, or in front of a floral-covered arch on a terrace — should be the focal point and yet still convey a sense of intimacy.  Don’t be afraid to seat guests up close to where you will stand or to turn and face your guests during the service.  Ultimately, you and your fiance are responsible for your wedding ritual and how it suits the surroundings you’ve chosen.

There are many ceremony settings available at the ACE Conference Center: in the Marquis Ballroom, the American Ballroom, the ACE Golf Club, or on the helipad overlooking the golf course.  But we’re EXCITED and proud to announce two additional wedding ceremony areas now available here at ACE!   The Lafayette Ballroom and the Lafayette Event Deck.  In fact, our event planning staff wanted to share these new amazing spaces with other event professionals as soon as possible!  This past Monday we invited local area wedding planners and event designers to a preview party to introduce them to our new fabulous ceremony areas.  Needless to say, they loved them and we heard many sensational ideas on how they would use the spaces for their clients.  We also featured our new catering services provided by Wolfgang Puck Catering.  Arrangements Unlimited designed the ceremony settings for us; their black iron chuppah frame was set up on our stage in the Lafayette Ballroom for a more formal indoor set up and their natural birch chuppah was placed outside on our Lafayette Event Deck.  Both were stunning and incredibly inspirational!   We thank Party Rental Ltd., Bredenbecks Bakery, EventQuip, The Total Table, and The Papery of Philadelphia for partnering with us on the event and look forward to working on many events together!

The high ceilings and warm exposed brick walls of the Lafayette Ballroom were formally dressed with ivory drapery in full “wedding” mode!  The Lafayette Ballroom comfortably seats 250 for a wedding ceremony.  As seen above, wedding ceremonies can be set up with a long wide aisle ideal for dramatic ceremony processionals!

Our new Outdoor Event Deck is a stunning location for an open-air or tented wedding ceremony for up to 500 guests!  Traditional auditorium-style seating works beautifully with the rolling green hills as your backdrop but a ceremony “in the round” is also possible on the Event Deck.  For many bridal couples, being surrounded by their family and friends is tremendously appealing for its intimate style of presentation.

As a ritual, the wedding ceremony is the only part of the wedding day where the engaged couple, together with their family and friends, are removed from the outside world both literally and figuratively.  Through the wording, traditions, music and symbols of the wedding ceremony the bride and groom can truly be transported out of their everyday world and into a magical place only they know.  We can’t wait to help you plan your wedding ceremony in our new ceremony settings!

Tags: jewish weddings, Main Line Hotels, Main Line Weddings, Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies, Outdoor Weddings, Philadelphia Hotels, philadelphia weddings, wedding ceremonies

More and more wonderful changes are happening every day at the ACE Conference Center!  This week was no exception with the completion of our new tented event space!  A tented party can take place almost anywhere, but not every outdoor area can handle a tented party.  We’ve made sure we’ve covered all the bases to make our tented terrace ideal for any party or meeting.  Come take a look!

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Tags: Main Line Weddings, Outdoor Wedding Ceremonies, Outdoor Weddings, philadelphia weddings, Rustic Event Venues, Tented Event Spaces, Tents, Urban Loft Venues

Oldies but Goodies :: From Soulful Swing to remake’s of 70′s Classic Rock

• Comes Love (Billie Holiday)
• Our Love is Here to Stay (Billie Holiday)
• Cheek to Cheek (Ella Fitzgerald)
• This Will Be, An Everlasting Love (Natalie Cole)
• You’re My Best Friend (Queen)
• Betcha By Golly Wow (The Stylistics)
• Overjoyed (Stevie Wonder)
• Wild Horses (The Rolling Stones)
• Cruisin’ (Huey Lewis and Gwyneth Paltrow)
• How Sweet it is, to be Loved by You (James Taylor)
• Crazy Love (Van Morrison)
• The Best is Yet to Come (Frank Sinatra)
• You’re Nobody Til Somebody Loves You (Dean Martin)
• Chances Are (Johnny Mathis)
• Ain’t No Mountain High Enough (Ashford and Simpson)
• Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You (Frank Valli)
• I Only Have Eyes for You (The Platters)
• Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps (Doris Day)
• You’re My First, My Last, My Everything (Barry White)
• Love Me Tender (Elvis)
• You’re in My Heart, You’re in My Soul (Rod Stewart)
• I Will (Beatles)
• In My Life (Beatles)
• Something (Beatles)
• May This Be Love (Jimi Hendrix)

Modern Day Music :: Sexy Blues to California Pop Rock and Alternative Rock

• When I First Saw You (Jamie Foxx and Beyonce)
• 24/7 (Kevon Edmonds)
• Marry You (Bruno Mars)
• Blue Eyes (Cary Brothers)
• You and (Lifehouse)
• Finally Forever (Chris Cornell)
• You Want to Make a Memory (Bon Jovi)
• This Never Happened Before (Paul McCartney)
• A Million Ways (The Nylons)
• All That I Am (Rob Thomas)
• Ever the Same (Rob Thomas)
• Bubbly (Colbie Cailet)
• Angels (Robin Thicke)
• The Way I Am (Ingrid Michaelson)
• If I Ain’t Got You (Alicia Keys)
• I’m Yours (Jason Mraz)
• Glitter in the Air (Pink)
• So High (John Legend)
• Beloved One (Ben Harper)
• Wonderwall (Ryan Adams)
• Somewhere Only We Know (Keane)
• Everlong (Foo Fighters)
• When I See You Smile (Bad English)
• Marry Me (Train)
• Underneath it All (No Doubt)
• Everything (Michael Buble)

Country Twang :: Classic Country and Contemporary Nashville

• Come a Little Closer (Dierks Bently)
• Bless the Broken Road (Rascal Flatts)
• Here (Rascal Flatts)
• There You Are (Martina McBride)
• Look at Us (Vince Gill)
• She’s My Kinda Rain (Tim McGraw)
• Crazy (Patsy Cline)
• Your Everything (Keith Urban)
• Amazed (LoneStar)
• Me and You (Kenny Chesney)

[Photos courtesy of Susan Beard Design and Rebecca Barger]

Tags: favorite first dance songs, music for weddings, philadelphia weddings

What’s a cocktail party without a signature cocktail? Although the concept of a personalized beverage or cocktail isn’t a new one in the world of events, it’s still a fun way to add a personal “splash” to the party scene. Personalized or “branded” cocktails can be served as guests arrive or throughout the event in a manner that incorporated the party color, theme or location.  For instance, for an April wedding where flowering cherry branches are used as centerpieces a pink signature cocktail called a “Love Blossom” may be passed on pretty silver trays.  Or, for a tropical themed anniversary party, displays of Tequila Sunrise’s are displayed on the corners of the bar and named a “Forever Honeymoon.”

Certainly, some enthusiastic brides and grooms embrace the signature drink concept with gusto; putting various concoctions together in the hopes that one magical elixir will spring forth with their own unique twist.  However, before you don your chemistry aprons or head out to the bar to sample recipes, think about what you would want to drink at your own event.  Do you prefer martinis?  Champagne Cocktails?   Wine?   What would you be tempted to drink if you saw it coming your way on an elegant tray?   The answer might surprise you!   For many guests, they reach for a martini or champagne glass if the color itself if pleasing to the eye.  Red, pink and pale orange drinks are welcoming.  Other get excited when a simple glass of champagne is handed to them.  When in doubt, go with what you know.  Rather than deciding on a complicated, new recipe with a thousand different ingredients, you might want to consider classic cocktails you, and many others, already enjoy and are sure to identify as it passes.  Such as a pale pink Cosmopolitan Martini or a vibrant Mango Mojito.  You can serve something that is a family favorite and simply call it what it is, like a Manhattan, a Side Car or White Russian.  Or, you can put our own playful name on it and VOILA!  It’s your own, personalized signature beverage!  Corny for some, never-ending fun for others.

Of course, for those of you who enjoy something new, original and a tad adventurous, there are many intriguing new mixes to tempt you!  Our in-house mixologists are always coming up with delicious seasonal beverages that not only look good but taste sensational!  Here are some of our favorite specialty cocktails for Spring, CHEERS!

The ”Red Cloud” is a sophisticated but simple martini using vodka, pomegranate juice, fresh lime juice, honey syrup and a orange twist.  Served in a standard martini glass it’s a sure thing for everyone AND an easy pour for the bartenders.

A “Spring Fling” is made with spiced rum, fresh ginger syrup, tonic water and fresh whole raspberries.  We prefer to serve it in a rocks glass or small snifter, but it could be served in a highball piled high with ice on a hot day.  Light and refreshing with a bit of effervesence, it’s a popular drink with the ladies.

{Photos:  Evantine Design, Melissa Paul, Mallory Samson}

Tags: party planning, signature cocktails, wedding tips

Months, if not years, of careful organization go into planning a wedding. Yet, years ago wedding planning wasn’t as complicated as it is today.  Traditionally, mothers of the bride were the planners, making straightforward black and white decisions based on her taste, budget and social standing. The bride had relatively little to do with it!  But not anymore.  Modern day engaged couples are making decisions themselves or collaborating with their families on how the wedding is shaped and designed. 

Weddings aren’t cut-and-dry these days; they’re more detailed and complex than ever before!  From the moment their engagement is announced, a bride and groom’s normal everyday routine is overtaken with endless options requiring countless hours of research, evaluation and planning.  Lists beget more lists and so on. For many couples, by the time the wedding day actually arrives they’re so consumed with information and expectation that the emotion of the experience is overwhelming.  All those months of planning every noticeable detail just flies by in a blur!  So much so that it’s only after the wedding, when they watch their video, that they relive every moment of the day as it unfolded.  (a HUGE wonderful reason we love working with videographers and cinematographers).  But stepping back and remembering that’s it not about perfection is the healthy perspective to take.  Instead, allow the wedding day to be about that elusive ecstatic feeling of committing for life to the person you love, and having your closest family and friends there to share in that commitment.  No doubt, planning a wedding celebration can be exciting and enjoyable but infinitely stressful as well.  But the real trick is to coordinate without getting buried alive in the process. Particularly when there is much that will be out of your control.  It’s the reality of life. Things may or may not go wrong on the day itself: Grandpa Joe may go on-an-on (and on) with his blessing, the wedding cake may not have the right flowers on it, or the band may play a song that you had on your “do not play or die list”.  Whatever. Who cares? No one will notice goofs or slip-ups but you. Ask any of our Planners here at ACE or any independent wedding planners, and they’ll tell you that no matter how much you coordinate ahead of time SOMETHING will still go awry.  How could it not?  Humans are involved from start to finish and that includes YOU. On the morning of your wedding, take a deep breath, look around, appreciate your friends for traveling from afar and acknowledge the support your family has provided. Let the details zipping back and forth in your buzzing head just fade away.  Trust and believe that the professionals you’ve carefully secured carry the burden of making your dream vision come to life.  The rest is up to you.

All that matters is that the two of you are there and present in the moments that make up the day.  Moments where it’s just the two of you absolutely blissed out with joy: seeing each other for the first time in your wedding garb, grabbing hands as you recess down the aisle, or stealing away for a private kiss away from the crowd.   The wedding day is just the beginning of your marital journey. 

[Photo courtesy of Rebecca Barger]

Tags: philadelphia weddings, wedding coordination, wedding planning

February is the “Month of Love” and right smack dab in the middle of it you’ll find Valentine’s Day!  Traditionally, that means flowers, chocolate, maybe a candlelit dinner for two or tickets to the latest romantic comedy.  In fact, when you see our list below of  some of the best quotes from romantic movies you might be inspired to spend Valentine’s Day cuddled up on the couch with your sweetie tucked under your arm.  Or, one never knows, you might be inspired to use one of these sentimental quotes in your wedding ceremony.  Who knows where they’ll take you?   

• “No, I don’t think I will kiss you, although you need kissing, badly. That’s what’s wrong with you. You should be kissed and often, and by someone who knows how.”  {Gone With The Wind, 1939}

•  ”Make of our hands one hand. Make of our hearts one heart. Make of our vows one last vow. Only death will part us now.” {West Side Story, 1961}

• “Love means never having to say you’re sorry.”  {Love Story, 1970}

• “The man of my dreams has almost faded now. The one I have created in my mind. The sort of man each woman dreams of in the deepest and most secret reaches of her heart. I can almost see him now before me. What would I say to him, if he were really here? Forgive me, I have never known this feeling. I’ve lived without it all my life. Is it any wonder, then, that I fail to recognize you? You– who brought it to me for the first time. Is there any way I can tell you how my life has changed? Any way at all to let you know what sweetness you have given me? There is so much to say…I cannot find the words. Except for these– I love you! Such would I say to him, if he were really here.” {Somewhere in Time, 1980}

• “Listen to me, mister. You’re my knight in shining armor. Don’t you forget it.” {On Golden Pond, 1981}

• “I love you. Not like they told you love is, and I didn’t know this either, love don’t make things nice–it ruins everything. It breaks your heart. It makes things a mess. We aren’t here to make things perfect. The snowflakes are perfect. The stars are perfect. Not us. Not us! We are here to ruin ourselves and to break our hearts and love the wrong people and die…Now I want you to come upstairs with me and get in my bed!” {Moonstruck, 1987}

• “I love that you get cold when it’s 71 degrees out. I love that it takes you an hour and a half to order a sandwich. I love that you get a little crinkle in your nose when you’re looking at me like I’m nuts. I love that after I spend the day with you, I can still smell your perfume on my clothes. And I love that you are the last person I want to talk to before I go to sleep at night. And it’s not because I’m lonely, and it’s not because it’s New Year’s Eve. I came here tonight because when you realize you want to spend the rest of your life with somebody, you want the rest of your life to start as soon as possible.” {When Harry Met Sally, 1989}

• “It seems right now that all I’ve ever done in my life is making my way here to you.”  {The Bridges of Madison County, 1995}

• “I would rather have had one breath of her hair, one kiss from her mouth, one touch of her hand, than an eternity without it.” {City of Angels, 1998}

• “When you fall in love, it is a temporary madness. It erupts like an earthquake, and then it subsides. And when it subsides, you have to make a decision. You have to work out whether your roots are become so entwined together that it is inconceivable that you should ever part.” {Captain Corelli’s Mandolin, 2001}

Tags: favorite romantic movies, valentines day, wedding music