Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Site Visit: Hotel Monaco

Yesterday I had the pleasure of visiting Hotel Monaco in Old Town Alexandria. I always love exploring different venues- and this was a real gem. Although I have dined at Jackson 20, their restaurant and in house caterer, I have never really explored the boutique hotel. The catering manager Joi Funches is a delight- very kind and excited to show off this Kimpton Hotel.


The lobby is gorgeous. Deep teal walls- vibrant, warm and welcoming colors. From the moment you enter off King Street, you feel as if you've found a gem!





What I love most about Boutique Hotels is their attention to detail, flair of individuality. Upon check in, guests are offered a goldfish for their room, to make them feel a bit more at home. Housekeeping will take care of feeding and caring for the fish while you are out and about exploring!


Jackson 20, attached restaurant and in house caterers. Beautifully decorated- and the food is fantastic! They specialize in Americana- and southern comfort food. They do offer lighter fares, and menus vary seasonally.




We also popped into a guest room so you can get a feel for the atmosphere:





Next, we stopped by the outdoor garden courtyard/patio. Here's a glimpse of the standard chairs- very comfortable, and neutral for events. Love the detail of the brickwork!





This corridor connects to the patio. Perfect for processional, and especially recessional- the bridal party has plenty of time to either escape to the holding room- or head directly into Old Town for some post-ceremony photos!














The parlor in the Bombay Room. I love the details of the lattice work dividing the space. The Bombay room is just off the outdoor courtyard patio- and is the perfect size for a cocktail hour. The chocolate brown linens are their standards for events- and they have a plethora of runners that they will match to coordinate your colors and style preferences. I love that the standard for cocktail rounds and serving tables is not white! Something different, it goes well with the room- and it's included in your contract!


Standard chair, tuxedo linen for guest tables.

They offer both high and low cocktail rounds.

Leaving the Bombay Room, the great hallway towards the Paris Ballroom.






Did I mention that as soon as you step out the door, you are in the mix of all things Old Town! Just half a block from City Hall- with historic architecture and a beautiful fountain, perfect for photos, and two blocks from the Alexandria waterfront- Torpedo Factory, the pier, so many great photo ops! Hotel Monaco is centrally located making it a perfect place for one or all of your wedding events. Even if you are not having an event there- consider blocking rooms there- your guests will love it, and so will you!

I forgot to mention, as soon as you step outside from the Hotel, there is a Trolley Stop- free trolley that runs from King Street Metro, all the way down King Street to the waterfront ( and back!)


For more information:
Hotel Monaco
480 King Street
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-549-6080

website: http://www.monaco-alexandria.com/

Joi Funches, Catering Manager join.funches@kimptonhotels.om
703-842-2278

Looking forward to my client's upcoming November wedding at this beautiful venue!

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