We are grateful that our wedding turned out beautiful, but we want to be honest about our experience with Vista Lago Ballroom. The venue is beautiful, the food was good, and Gladys... Flowers did an incredible job transforming the space. The hors d'oeuvres were delicious, especially the churrasco with chimichurri. Catalin was also wonderful and genuinely attentive to us throughout the planning process and on our wedding day.
However, the planning experience was much more stressful than it should have been.
The initial package is reasonably priced, but be prepared to pay for many extras if you want a more elevated wedding. We added four white bars, additional bartenders, and liquor glassware. Even after paying extra, glassware was only available indoors; during cocktail hour on the terrace, guests were given disposable cups.
Communication and customer service from the owners, Raquel and José, were inconsistent. We often felt pressured regarding vendors outside their preferred list. We also had a major issue with our DJ. We hired a stage, dance floor, and full sound package with LED screens for our 126-person wedding. We understand that outside equipment needs approval, but the way it was handled was uncomfortable, especially when the venue contacted our DJ directly before communicating with us.
Our tasting was also a very unpleasant experience, and the payment process was confusing because the requirements changed multiple times. During our final meeting, José rushed us through the timeline and final details because he had a personal commitment, which we found unprofessional.
Unfortunately, there were also issues on the wedding day. Dinner was delayed because the buffet was not ready, reducing our dancing time to about two hours. Requested tablecloths were not placed on all cocktail tables, and the charger plates were removed before dinner without notice. Most importantly, when our cousin, who was helping with the timeline, asked for dinner to be served, Raquel responded in front of guests, “I control the timing here.” We found this unnecessary and unprofessional.
The waitstaff also lacked attentiveness toward the bride and groom unless Catalin was personally checking on us.
Overall, the wedding itself was beautiful, but the planning process was stressful and disappointing at times. If you choose Vista Lago, get everything in writing, confirm what is included, clarify all policies, and expect to pay for extras. We love the memories we created, but we would not describe our experience with the venue as easy or stress-free.