After much research and analysis into the data - we decided to book the Radisson Hotel Minneapolis/St Paul North. And when I say analysis... yep... there was a spreadsheet with ea...ch amenity broken down so I could put venue's side by side and compare cost with what we got. For the size of our wedding - 300 invited, 170 attended - it was the not only the best value, but a great choice overall. I am very happy with the way the day ended up in all ways.
We went with the Platinum package which included hosted bar for an hour and appetizers, the dinner, the cake, the DJ, the flowers on the tables, chair covers, use of the hotel shuttle, a champagne pour, and more. You may think, 'Oh, that is included in a package, so I will have little choice.' WRONG!
We had a full meal tasting with Axels (amaze-balls food!), a full cake tasting with the bakery with full options on decorations (cake was so yummy, and I got a lot of comments!), flower consultation which included what would go on the tables (beautiful) and if I wanted them to do my bouquets what they would look like (again, beautiful! I did choose to use them as well), consultations with the DJ / DJ company who were very gracious in answering my hundreds of questions (super fun!). All in all I had complete creative license with each of the vendors, but it was all included in the price of the package (which is done per plate).
So, why the package, you may ask. While I got to talk to each vendor and make my individual choices, I didn't have to worry about paying each one, coordinating with each one, or anything like that on the day of. The event staff did it all! We could enjoy our day without the worry of getting everything where it needed to be. We had an amazing Event Captain that ran the event and when I had a question or a need, he was right there to help.
I cannot say enough about the event coordinator that I worked with. She answered my many questions with the patience of a saint. When I asked for something, she came back quickly with a response. The communication was GREAT - and I am picky about that!
We utilized the room block with the hotel as well. It was a good rate and was nice knowing that people could drink and not have to drive to where they were spending the night if they were from out of town (even had a few from in town choose to stay). The hotel staff was very helpful and accommodating when there were any issues or questions.
What else might you want to know? After talking to many of the people who came to the wedding, I have gotten nothing but rave reviews for the evening. Everyone had fun, loved the food, music, and fellowship (that last one is on you! hehe.)
The only constructive criticism that I have is that many people were unsure where the bar and appetizers were being served. The doors were shut and there was no signage. I have to go on my attendees comments to me because I was not there during that portion of the night. (full disclosure)
Overall, a fantastic night and I would definitely choose to do another event with the Radisson Hotel Minneapolis/St. Paul North!!
Hope this helps you and good luck in your own research and decision! Congratulations!