Things to Consider When Picking a Party or Event Venue

Mar 26, 2020

Celebrate the memories, the milestones and the special moments in life at Skytop Lodge. From birthdays to anniversaries, engagements and more, Skytop is an ideal grand destination for all your catered event and banquet needs. Our extraordinary menu choices, along with our stunning facilities, will create the perfect awards dinner, fundraiser, function or special event.

If you’re visiting a potential party or event venue, make sure you make the most of your tour. Ask the right questions and take notes while you are there. That way you can refer to your notes when you’re deciding which venue to choose.

Before you begin searching for an event venue, have a general idea of your own criteria. You want to go to a site visit with as much information on your end so you can gather the most you can from the venue.

  • Budget
  • Guest count
  • Available dates
  • Style and setting you want (casual vs. formal)
  • Type of catering you want (sit-down dinner vs. picnic)
  • Whether you’ll need overnight accommodations

Things to Consider When Picking a Party or Event Venue

What types of events can be hosted at the venue?

Depending on the size and location, the venue might be limited to hosting certain events. Larger venues, like Skytop, will be able to host a variety of events, including:

  • Weddings
  • Family Reunions
  • Corporate Retreats
  • Business Meetings
  • Team Building
  • Birthdays
  • Anniversaries
  • Engagements
  • Fundraisers
  • Awards Dinners

What’s the weather like?

Especially if you’ll be hosting your event outdoors, you’ll want to ask the venue about weather conditions. If your event will be held during the rainy season, check to make sure the venue has a contingency plan. Most venues offer outdoor tents that can be put up in the event that it rains. For winter events, you might ask about heaters. In general, spring and summer are popular seasons for hosting outdoor events, especially weddings, because of the beautiful weather.

What should I know about catering?

You’ll need to know if the venue offers catering. Whether you’re planning a business meeting or a large family reunion, knowing what your options are when it comes to feeding your guests is imperative. Some venues may only offer one or two choices, while others, like Skytop, will work with you to create a personalized menu.

Is there an event coordinator on-site?

Having a designated coordinator on-site has many benefits. Often times, if a situation arises on the day of your event, it can be confusing to know who to go to with your problem. Having one point of contact helps alleviate these kinds of communication barriers. An event coordinator often acts as a liaison between various staff members, allowing you to do less orchestrating and more hosting.

An event coordinator can also help you plan out your itinerary. With so much to do here at Skytop, you’ll want to have a plan of action so your guests don’t miss out on anything. A detailed schedule will ensure you have a more organized and successful event.

What makes the event space unique?

Planning a large group event is a lot of pressure. It’s difficult to please so many people! Finding a venue that offers unique amenities is your best bet at making everyone happy.

Skytop Lodge is located on 5,500 acres. It’s unbelievably picturesque. It’s truly a worry-free atmosphere with lakes and mountain views. Not to mention, the 5-star cuisine. Skytop Lodge is a pristine environment where you can make memories to last a lifetime.

Any tips for planning a destination event?

When planning an event that requires your guests to travel, it’s important to be intimately familiar with the location and property so you have the ability to share this information with your guests. Also, develop a close relationship with your coordinator or manager, so you’re not afraid to ask questions when they come up.

Weddings at Skytop Lodge

At Skytop Lodge, all wedding packages include a selected menu, four-hour open bar, customized wedding cake, champagne toast, and complimentary overnight stay for the bride and groom. Choose to have your ceremony site in the garden, on the porch, or on the lawn. You can’t go wrong with the views high up in the Poconos!

We’re also happy to plan your rehearsal dinner, bridesmaid luncheon, or brunch, and can complete your wedding experience with spa services, private wine tastings, event rentals, and more.

With 5,500 acres of enchantment, Skytop Lodge is one of the most coveted wedding destinations in the Northeast and offers everything you need to plan a large group event, including a wide range of memorable settings and amenities at our luxury hotel in the Poconos.

Catered Meetings at Skytop Lodge

Our meeting spaces inspire your team to work together. Skytop Lodge offers 17 meeting rooms including the Skytop Executive Center, the Evergreen Ballroom and many distinct executive suites. All include high-speed Internet, the latest in audio/visual equipment, and countless other amenities.

Explore the grounds and take in the views with the Treetop Adventure Course, award-winning golf course, hiking and biking trails through the scenic Pocono Mountains. Our complete banquet menus offer buffet breakfasts and lunches, plated lunches and dinners, and receptions with hors d’oeuvres and carving stations.

In addition to enjoying world-class cuisine and stunning views at your event, here are a few outdoor activities you and your guests will enjoy at Skytop:

  • Hiking and biking
  • Indoor and outdoor pool
  • Lakeside Beach
  • Fishing
  • Shooting
  • Boating
  • Golf
  • Rock Climbing
  • TreeTop Adventure Course
  • Tennis

If you’re interested in planning your wedding, meeting or event at Skytop Lodge, call us at (570) 595-8939 or email [email protected] to arrange a tour.