I recently attended a wedding (and post-wedding dinner and dance) here. It was a splendid occasion,…read moreand the historic house certainly added to its memorableness. It's a beautiful and well maintained house.

Great for weddings (indoors and out), receptions and large meetings…read more The mansion is like stepping back in time to a fine country estate. After climbing a full set of stairs (handicap accessible only on the first floor thru a side ramp), you enter a grand foyer lit by brass chandeliers with a dramatic staircase on each side. Entering thru double doors, you are in the main ballroom that has two fireplaces and crystal chandeliers. The main ballroom leads to an enclosed Veranda that offers great views of a wooded back yard and grounds. There is a small exhibit room up stairs and a parlor where we all gather for a family member's wedding ceremony and big reception afterwards, outside. All was great on the location and venue choice tip. My only gripe with this venue, was the poor planning for a large wedding party. My cousin had her wedding here in August (dog days of summer) and the venue provided a really nice tent set up for an outdoor reception. It really fit the bill until you walked inside and realized it felt like a greenhouse! The outdoor AC units were running on high and useless. The venue management should have planned better given the weather and knowing it's the dead middle of the summer in MD....which is always HOT! The tent was apparently setup shortly, hours before their wedding and the AC units did not have time to cool the place. Instead, they should have been running overnight because it was extremely uncomfortable and everyone was sweating bullets in the place--drenched. lol. It definitely dampened the occasion for such a nice venue. Other than this, I have nothing but good things to share about this venue. The staff were friendly, helpful and guest felt at home....despite the AC issue. If you are looking for a place that feels inviting, relaxed and a bit like home for your next engagement, I would suggest this place as a "potential" option....just make sure it is not in the dead heat of the summer.

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.

The Manager very polite . Address our questions, parking in that star s little tight, a large event…read morewould be a problem parking . But something like an engagement party or bridal shower would be perfect !

Seems like a very useful space to have for a conference. Parking can be an issue though if the…read moreevent is large as the parking lot did not have enough spaces and we had to circle around a bit.

Receptionist - one who attempts to provide service to customers seeking out information. Typically…read morehas a friendly and helpful disposition. This is my understanding, broadly, of a receptionist or administrative assistant's duties and responsibilities if they frequently interface with the public, (though I know they have infinitely more tasks to accomplish than just greeting guests). This has never been my experience at Oakland Mills Interfaith Center - The Meeting House. I have interacted with the young lady sitting at the desk no less than 6 times, maybe as many as 10 in the past 4 years or so and her disposition 99.98% of the time has been really nasty. I do my best to be sympathetic, understanding or give people the benefit of the doubt, if I meet them for the first time and they seem grumpy, but if I speak with you upwards of 6 times over 4 years, different seasons, rain or shine and you are always pissed, perhaps you've sought out a career in the wrong lane. The attitude some businesses have toward customer service, perhaps, has evolved over the years, but I would still think there is modicum of courtesy that is expected of staff when they meet people who potentially may be interested in doing business with their establishment. I don't know what the protocol is when you see the receptionist, but, typically, I don't like to just interrupt them and tell them what I want, or why I'm there because they're usually typing something that I'm assuming they need a reasonable degree of focus on, and I don't want to break their concentration. I could tell this receptionist was pissed, per her usual, so I just started talking as soon as I got to the desk. The space I was interested in was not available for the date I wanted which was no problem. I asked if I could look at one of the other rooms I could see from her desk. (I wasn't sure if it was being used). She said "Yes". When I walked over, I saw a room to the left of that room, which I couldn't see when I asked to see the first room, so I invited myself to look at that room to (there was no one in it). When I turned back around the corner, the receptionist shot me a look that could cut through a thousand tons of Philadelphia street on the coldest of December nights. She was in the middle of eating her lunch, and stopped, mid-chew, to try and stare me down as if I was trying to usurp her authority. I ignored the vibe and just asked if the 2 rooms were available to which she immediately retorted "I said no"....First of all, she didn't. Second of all, she needs to park all that attitude at the curb before she enters her place of business. I understand being a receptionist may not always be the greatest position because you have to deal with whatever walks through your door, but if you can't be friendly, at least be professional. I understand that the objective of this house of worship is, by no means, solely to make money, but I would think, even a billionaire wouldn't look a gift horse in the mouth if it took little to no effort to get it. Anywho, there is another lovely place where, if you're looking to hold a smaller event, that could probably accommodate your needs. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Church is also located in Howard County. As I recall, they do rent by the hour and I don't think it's more than $70/h. Seeing as I'm looking for a new venue to hold my event, I thought others may be to. I tried to include pictures of this venue below.

10/10 I found this place on a whim trying to find something close enough to home! And affordable…read morefor my moms surprise 60th birthday (as i was doing everything alone ) the owners are super professional and answered any and all questions I had! Via email or in person ! .If you want to support black woman owned business this is the place for you not only do they offer tours regularly but this space is very C L E A N everyone at the party couldn't get over how spotless the space was down to the bathrooms! Also very straightforward contract nothing hidden everything is in plain black and white no hidden or unnecessary fees you would find at other halls. I also loved the fact that you can rent different linen and decorative services that you can add on before you pay! Don't hesitate and book EARLY I booked in December 2023 for this June 2024 party! Dates go by quick! (obviously because of how amazing this space is ) I mean what place do you know you can get two rooms for the price of one AND full kitchen access ???

If I could rate this place 1000 stars, I would. Thank you so much for making my birthday party…read morespecial. Everything from the first venue tour to the decor, set up and clean up, amenities, customer service, etc., was amazing. I booked a decor package and the place was designed so well. Hats off to the team for the hard work. I will absolutely be back!!

Such a beautiful building for hosting the Welcome Home Veterans of Foreign Wars, especially those…read morethat served in Vietnam. It was an annual ceremony given for Veterans and their families, who have served and were not recognized and given thanks for all they contributed for freedom. Especially interesting was a POW soldier who was in an enemy prison for 6 years. There were many stories shared. All branches of the armed forces were there and they were key note speakers. Also some political representatives (local). They had a fantastic buffet meal for all.

I haven't been to Martin's West since senior prom, well over 20 years ago. The decor kinda looks…read morethe same but it's still so clean, nice, vintage elegance, the service is top notch and so is the food! My family celebrated a 90th birthday dinner at Martin's West, June 2025. Zero complaint. As appetizers we chose Swedish meatballs, chicken tenders, meat and cheese fruit. For dinner we chose mini crab cakes, jerk chicken, turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, veggie lasagna and rolls. We chose an open bar option with plenty of wine, champagne and beers. I wish I could have taking some of the jerk chicken, crab cakes, turkey, mashed potatoes and stuffing home! It was THAT good! Homemade good! Highly recommend, wheelchair accessible!

This venue is visually beautiful, but the customer service, cleanliness, and professionalism were…read moreextremely disappointing.i would not recommend this venue. I chose this space for my baby shower because I loved the blank canvas aesthetic. At the time I was booking, they were running to specials, a $200 new customer discount and an end of the year special. The End of the Year special was a better deal, so I inquired with the owner if I could use that even though my event was in February. The owner declined (which was completely fine), but offered a $300 if I booked the same day after my tour...which I did. In hindsight, there were red flags I should have paid more attention to when booking. During the tour of the venue we saw a bug on the floor and the chairs looked dirty. I brushed it off as a one-time issue. Unfortunately, that just foreshadowed my experience that was to come. When we arrived at our contracted time of 9:00AM on the day of the shower, the venue smelled like bleach, yet was still dirty from the night before. My family spent a SIGNIFICANT amount of time cleaning tables and chairs before they could even start setting up. Several chairs were also damaged upon my family's arrival -- something the owner tried to blame on my family at the end of the event. We also experienced electrical issues with this venue. My DJ arrived around 12PM noon to begin her set up and we learned shortly after that all the outlets on one side of the venue did not work. After spending a large amount of time trying to troubleshoot, I had to call the owner TWICE to ask her to come troubleshoot. She arrived just before 1PM to start troubleshooting while guests were already arriving. This further delayed the start of my event. Although the venue advertises it can hold over 100 people, we had approximately 80 guests and the space felt very crowded and hot. At one point, my husband had to ask the owner -- who was sitting in her car outside the venue -- to turn off the heat completely because of how uncomfortable both myself and my guests were. This was in February on a day it was snowing -- it was so hot we did not want heat in the middle of winter. When we brought our concerns to the owners, they became argumentative and placed blame on us rather than taking accountability. She offered NO meaningful resolution. When I requested a $200 refund due to the multiple issues (less than one hour of the rental rate) the owner refused, said I shouldn't get anything since she already gave me a $300 discount when booking, and finally offered a mere $50. As a new business, customer service and accountability are critical. While the venue photographed beautifully, the lack of professionalism, cleanliness, and lack of support on the day of my event left a lasting negative impression.

We used this venue for my sister's celebration of life and it was lovely…read more I just wish it had more bathrooms. Great location: plenty of parking.

Space was used to host a Repast/Celebration Meal / Reception. There is space upstairs and…read moredownstairs. Space was beautifully transformed. Parking was limited, depending on the size of your party.

Needed the space for a repast and they were available. Very accommodating and budget friendly. The…read moredownside was the place was not setup for service. We had to carry chairs up stairs to set the table. Secondly, we spoke about the bathroom being cleaned and it was not. Aside from those things I'm rating this highly because, the owner was professional accommodating and responsive. He sounds like a young man in business and I would want to give him the chance to improve upon rather than tear down. Respectfully.

Well everything! From the moment we went in, the owner was so accommodating and hands on. The place…read morewas set up beautifully for my son's 40th birthday celebration. I highly recommend booking this venue because you won't be disappointed.

A nice venue ... I think they need better signage . The space was nice and the management was…read morehelpful and responsive