I got married exactly one month ago on a perfect summer day. My ceremony was at a church and Doolan's hosted my reception and accommodations for our out of state family members. And I'm still getting compliments on it!
Pros:
The food was de...licious. I'm not really a fish person. I eat shellfish and tilapia on occasion. But their salmon is mouth watering. My husband and almost half of the family got the filet mignon wellington. They all said it cut like butter and melted in their mouths. The staff were on top of everything. What I couldn't finish, they boxed up for us to take in our private suite. Everything we wanted was laid out perfectly. Our seating table looked gorgeous. And the wishing tree was a hit. They even took the images from my invitations and incorporated it onto the menus as well as our signature drink from my bridal shower.
We had the large banquet hall and the atrium for cocktail hour. There was plenty of room in the hall for eating and dancing. The atrium, although lovely, was a bit snug for our 130-140 guests. It took a while for a staff member to announce the extra outdoor space and seating being available. But the presentation was phenomenal.
Another pro is the lobby itself. The grand staircase and chandelier that lead to a private cocktail area and on into the hotel are breathtaking. The lobby made for great photos.
Cons:
I only have one or two things that I should voice. They didn't bother me, but I feel it fair to give others warning of what to expect.
First, although the banquet halls are gorgeous, the hotel rooms are not top of the line. It is an older hotel. And it has gone through some renovations. And there's a chance they'll have another one between now and your wedding. The bathrooms, including the bridal suite, are small and snug. But for what they are, they are clean and efficient. It has a homely feel to it so if anything, the quality of the room is much like a holiday inn. And considering its on a busy road only a few blocks from the beach, I have little to complain. There are other hotels in the area, but Doolans is the nicest of them all that will work with your budget. My rooms came with my wedding, which during the summer near the beach is not an easy thing to get.
Because Doolans is also a restaurant, there is a possibility of you getting party crashers. I did, but to tell the truth I didn't know they showed up until after security had already escorted them off the premises. All they went for was the open bar. But then, you face that at any wedding.
I've been planning this wedding since 2011. I looked at other vendors before booking with Susan and her team. She was flexible, while being practical. Some people would view her as snobbish or rude. And to a point, she can be intimidating. But that's because she is running an aggressive business. But once you talk to her and show her your interest, she'll help you with a warm smile. I went to her for at least 3 open houses before I decided. And it was the best decision I made.
The short of it is if you want anything of a beach themed wedding, Doolans can give you that and work with your budget. And you do get what you pay for, if not more. As for naysayers, you forgot to do two very important things. Do your research, thoroughly, and read the fine print.