I came on board as the event planner for a H.S. graduation party after this venue had already been…read morebooked. If I had been involved from the beginning, I would not have chosen Claret Hall. While we were able to pull off a beautiful event, it was in spite of the venue -- not because of it. Dated Look & Layout Challenges Claret Hall's interior leans towards modest and practical. The mirrored walls in the main hall add a dated look, along with the wood floors, and a layout that's more "community center". Despite this, the staff carries themselves as if this is some grand, modern ballroom with marble floors and crystal chandeliers. Let's be clear -- it's not. The lobby has several design limitations: a brown beat up leather sofa that can't be removed because they "have nowhere to store it," and a built-in desk with a counter that takes up valuable space. There's a fireplace in the lobby with exit doors on both sides, and nothing is allowed near or in front of them (something we were reminded of multiple times), including while inflating balloons. If you're hoping to create a dramatic or welcoming entry moment, prepare to work around all of this. The catering/banquet room also had scuffed walls in clear need of a paint refresh. The main event room layout wasn't very functional either, because my design included a large balloon display and DJ booth, I had to carefully measure and adjust to avoid blocking yet another fire exit door. Inflexible Rules & Overbearing Oversight We had planned a mocktail bar setup for the grad on the outdoor patio. However, we were later told that we'd have to go through an entirely separate entity (and pay additional fees) just to use the patio for a "bar" that was NON-ALCOHOLIC, because it's technically not owned by Claret Hall. We ended up relocating the mocktail bar indoors. Additionally, we were told that we could not use any of their high top 32" round tables on the patio. During one of the walkthroughs, their staff member with the British accent, Ms. Eudene, used a very no nonsense tone, was borderline rude and not collaborative. The morning after our final walk-through, I called to ask for the fireplace measurements I had forgotten to take. The woman on the phone said a church event was happening and someone would have to call me back the next day. When I asked, "Isn't there a yellow measuring tape right there on the desk?" she paused, begrudgingly put me on hold, and minutes later returned with the measurements--but with an annoyed tone. It was unnecessarily difficult and honestly, lazy. If you're sitting right there, how does a church service stop you from walking four feet to measure a fireplace? She wasn't involved in the service! On the event day, all my vendors and helpers arrived on time! Granted, we were 30 minutes early, but the building was completely empty -- no church service or event in progress as we had been told there would be. Still, the staffer on duty would not let anyone in even 15 minutes early, citing liability and the contract terms. While I understand the policy, it was frustrating in the moment, especially with no one else in the building, balloon vendors outside with balloons, furniture vendors standing outside waiting, and a tight setup schedule. To top it off, as we were packing up at the end of the night; already actively cleaning and breaking down, the same staffer came over to me with a printed checklist, pointing out everything that needed to be done. I was beyond annoyed. Not exactly the energy you want at the end of a very long day. Final Thoughts Claret Hall is fine for modest events with low design needs. It is not ideal for creative designers who need a blank slate, creative freedom, or flexibility. Be prepared to design around fire exits, some immovable furniture, and strict staff oversight. It is also worth noting that a church regularly holds its services at Claret Hall, which can impact availability. I wouldn't personally book it again.

Last month, I went to a Claret Hall project occasion. The region has easy services, a stable AV…read moresetup, and plenty of space. Parking became scarce, but the body of workers become pleasant. Excellent surroundings for business conferences, however the air conditioner had hassle at some point of busy instances. All in all, a very good choice for activities; simply get there early to guarantee parking.

awesome experience! We all really enjoyed the experience. It was welcoming everyone was very…read morehelpful.

Bon Secours is a lovely place to be. The grounds are beautiful and the accommodations well put…read moretogether for a comfortable stay. I want to highlight the wonderful staff, especially the kitchen staff. Wow! So kind and full of love and an example of Christ in our hearts. Plus the food was good!!! Highly recomendable!

We had our wedding there in October. There were a few hiccups, but the staff was very helpful in…read moreresolving our concerns. The staff the day-of was attentive and quick to respond to our changing needs as the weather turned from okay to terrible. I'd happily recommend Catering by Uptown to my friends and family, especially after having a chance to work directly with Rob of the management staff. Thanks to everyone who was involved in our event, especially Rob, for your dedication to the standards of excellence that your company upholds.

Hunt Valley had great food! The portions were great. Our service wasn't too bad. Everyone seemed to…read moreknow each other and it was a great environment. The food was fairly priced. There were plenty of options on the menu!

Came here for my cousins wedding. Was served a nice steak filet with mashed potatoes and asparagus…read more Good presentation and good taste, no complaints on that front. Few bumps along the way in terms of coordination and service, but overall good!

It was an amazing experience having our wedding at the Main Street Ballroom. We went for a sort've…read moremodern take on vintage theme and the interior fit what we looked for perfectly. We also loved that our caterer brought in their truck utilizing the parking spaces in the front, which really made the outdoor patio feel more private and connected to the party inside. Considering that all vendors are booked independently of the venue, it made DIYing our wedding easier. Scheduling walkthroughs and mapping out the venue floor plan with Rachel was a breeze and Gemma was quite responsive via email to answer any questions you had. Booking our date was especially easy given that we requested a weekday at their hourly rate. On the day of, Tyler was the acting venue manager and was also great and easy to work with. If we had to do it all over again, we would still choose MSB. Thank you for making our day the best day of our lives!

Main Street Ballroom is an amazing place to host a wedding! We chose Main Street Ballroom for our…read morewedding venue due to the flexibility of its catering requirements and gorgeous interiors, and we absolutely made the right call. The staff were flexible and communicative throughout the planning process. Because MSB is already so beautiful, we ended up saving a ton of money on décor. We also saved money by providing our own alcohol and caterer, rather than going through a venue approved caterer as many venues require. Everyone at our wedding remarked on the gorgeous setting and we loved getting ready in the bride's and groom's rooms! If you want to take first look photos, we recommend going to the Patapsco Female Institute, which is just around the corner.

I visited the Brooks Clinton Center recently for family member's baby shower. I have been to this…read morearea multiple times, but never realized that center was even there. Not sure how long they are been open, but they would different benefit from better signage. The baby shower I attended to location at the further room within the center. The room was wide-open, basically a clean slate, allowing you to decorate to your liking. There was one bathroom in the room, but it was small. This location is ideal for a small get together. Not sure how much it costs to rent, but the venue offers a great space to make your vision come to life. The parking situation isn't too bad, I think the parking lot could be set-up a little better, allowing for more parking spaces. But, its a safe area that is easily accessible.

From the owner: Be in business for 4 years read more

This was a great space for my birthday party in July. The host was gracious and very flexible with…read moremy needs and helped with everything from start to finish.

I recently attended to a 90s themed birthday party at Venue 112. Before the party invite, I was…read moreunaware of this hidden gem. It sits off the street with minimal lighting at the entrance so I initially drove past it. Once inside, I was really impressed with how the organizers transformed the space. It's really flexible & perfect for small to medium sized events. It's literally a blank slate awaiting your creative vision. You can comfortably seat roughly 100 guests. Free parking is available onsite and there are a couple outdoor areas available for ceremonies as well. Finally, the cost is reasonable. If you can host your event Monday - Thursday, there's even more cost savings. Staff members are available to help and man the bar. Check them out!

Loved this location and the people who run it! Highly recommend for events and receptions. Clean…read moreand attractive facility in a rural setting but close and convenient to downtown upper Marlboro. Reasonable prices. Friendly and professional.

Great place for any type of event! We attended a business meeting a few months ago. It was clean…read moreand parking was great.

It's a good venue for the last few events we've attended. They've all been work events, but for…read moreparties and such. The staff has been helpful when needed, which honestly isn't often. My only 'complaint' would be the sound system. The podium and microphone give feedback at weird variations. If you're not close enough: feedback. If you turn the volume DOWN: feedback. It's weird. Anyway, it's still a sizable location and pretty easy to get to. It's not far from US 29, but far enough away to be quaint and cozy (though the exterior doesn't really evoke this feeling). Great place for an office event, or probably an event of any kind.