While I was a brother of a bride at this venue, I will be writing this review as an event planning professional with years of experience in the 5-Star luxury market. It is my hope that my words will not only inform future clients, but bring to ...light major staff challenges and ultimately improve the overall operation at The Regency at Dominion Valley.
First and foremost, the venue itself is wonderful. The grounds are well-kept and the building seems to have been recently updated. The hard product is great.
Sadly, the rest of the experience was not as positive and truly surprising for a space that surely serves several weddings a year. As silly and outdated as it sounds, “The client is always right” and “Never say no” are phrases taught in hospitality school for a reason. We, as hospitality professionals, serve with the goal of accommodating our guests and making sure that every aspect of their stay/event is thoughtfully planned. This simply was not the case and lead to unnecessary stress not only leading up to the wedding, but on the wedding day as well.
Moving on to the finer details and event logistics, I have never seen a family working an event as much as mine did. I was truthfully appalled that the mother of the bride had to become so involved, just to ensure that the program stayed on track. On several occassions, the MOB had to instruct staff herself to do the simple tasks that were arranged months in advance (ex: bringing out unity candles, moving flowers inside for reception, ushering guests to their seats, serving entrees...etc.) Instead of enjoying the pre-ceremony time with her daughter, she spent most of the time organizing these small details, missing out on the special moments. One challenge that stuck out to me personally was when the officiant was looking for the unity candle lighter. The MOB went to the planner asking if she had one to which she replied “You were supposed to bring it.” Seeing as she did not bring one, the MOB then asked if the venue had one and the response was “That’s a liability and we can’t provide one.” That response was unacceptable, especially 30 minutes before the ceremony. It doesn’t matter if the client was in the wrong, you provide alternatives and reassurance that everything will work out perfectly. In my opinion, this particular planner has no business being in front of guests. It got to the point where the MOB was physically upset and in tears before the director stepped in and sent her home. I appreciated the director’s efforts and assistance from another planner, however it was a bit too late given the prior challenges.
It truly all comes down to care and I heartily believe this property lacks it. It doesn’t matter the question, task, want, need — your guest deserves an individual who will work with them and do whatever it takes to make their dream come true.