A Venue Review with a Wink, a Wiggle, and Wedding Know-How from Cherry Pop Events
Well hey there, sweetheart! You ever walk up to a place and think, “Hmm, this ain’t exactly the Plaza Hotel?” That was yours truly strutting up to the Courtyard by Marriott in Baldwin Park, CA—right next to a Home Depot and a long-gone Sizzler that looks like it gave up sometime around prom night ‘98.
Now hold on to your pillbox hat, ‘cause I’m here to tell you: while this spot doesn’t scream “storybook romance” from the outside, the savings? Oh honey, they sing. 🎶
✨ First Impressions: From “Hmm” to “Hello, Gorgeous!”
Yes, the location’s got a bit of that mid-century strip mall chic (and not in the intentional way). But sugar, once you stroll up to those double glass doors under the covered drive, it’s a whole new world.
Step into that freshly-renovated lobby, and you’re greeted with new carpeting, updated décor, and an airy layout that says, “Let’s get this party started.” A year ago it was all beige blah, but now? Darling, it’s giving upscale conference glam with potential.
🍒 Thinking about transforming an overlooked venue into a dreamy “I do” moment? That’s where Cherry Pop Events shines like rhinestones on a poodle skirt.
☕ Lobby Life: Coffee, Courtyards, and a Touch of Class
Just off the lobby: a surprisingly open business center, a cozy Starbucks, and a bar area with lounge seating to boot. Step through the lounge and you’ll find a cute little courtyard with a built-in firepit, tables, and lounge sets. Back in the day, this rose-filled nook was their go-to ceremony spot.
But here’s the twist: that firepit? Cute, but planted smack in the middle like an awkward chaperone at prom. Ceremony-wise, outdoor options here are out—for now.
Still, it’s a sweet spot for pre-dinner mingling or a nightcap under the stars. With the right lighting and a few Cherry Pop flourishes? Could be a real charmer.
🛋️ Getting Ready Like a Queen (or King)
Need a spot to zip up your gown or straighten your bowtie? This venue’s got tower rooms perfect for prepping the party, along with spacious suites ideal for a Bridal Suite or Groom’s Lounge. There’s enough room to get glammed up with your gang without stepping on each other’s patent leather shoes.
🍒 Need help creating the ultimate pre-ceremony vibe? Cherry Pop Events knows how to turn a standard suite into a glam squad HQ.
🎉 The Ballroom: The Star of the Show (With a Little Help)
Now let’s talk ballroom, sugar. This beauty can host up to 250 seated guests with space for dancing and a stage. If you’re dreaming of something grander, you can squeeze in up to 400—but you’ll have to kiss the dance floor goodbye (and who wants that?).
The space can also be split into quarters, which is a big win if you want ceremony and reception in the same space. Rent the whole room and tuck your ceremony into one section? Chef’s kiss. 💋
That said, it’s still a hotel ballroom—think blue carpet and “neutral” walls. But don’t fret, kitten. The venue is totally open to draping, lighting, and all the glitter your heart desires—as long as it doesn’t leave a mess.
🍒 Want to zhuzh up those ballroom blues? Cherry Pop Events can turn ‘blah’ into ‘ta-da!’ faster than you can say “uplighting.”
🍸 Cocktail Hour: Two Paths, One Vibe
Thinking about a cute little cocktail hour between the “I Do” and the dance floor? The lounge area is your gal. But you’ve got two options:
- Use it as-is: It’s shared with hotel guests, no décor allowed, and it’s free. Great for budgets, not so great for ambiance.
- Rent it private: Gives you the whole shebang—décor, control, and guest-only vibes. But darling, it’ll cost ya.
Still, it’s cozy. Comfy couches, bar-height tables, and a big ol’ TV for guests to gather and gab.
🚨 The ICE Effect: Real Talk, Real Impact
Now let’s talk brass tacks. I asked about the impact of recent ICE activity in the area, and the team was refreshingly honest. They’ve seen a dip in bookings, especially from folks who feel anxious celebrating in public spaces.
No incidents have happened at the hotel itself, but there was something next door at Home Depot. It’s a real concern, and they’re aware. If your guest list includes families from vulnerable communities, it’s worth a heart-to-heart.
🍽️ Food, Future, and What’s Next
As of now, everything’s à la carte, which is a dream if you like options, but might feel overwhelming if you like things neat and tidy. The 2026 wedding packages and menu are in the works and should debut by December 2025—and believe you me, I’ll be first in line to see them.
Catering? In-house only. Standard for hotels, but important to know.
🍒 Not sure how to build a dreamy day from à la carte chaos? Cherry Pop Events lives for this kind of puzzle. We’ll cherry-pick the best pieces and build something divine.
📸 One Last Note from Mama
Of course, I brought my son along for a few snapshots while I chatted up the venue staff—because a working mama’s gotta multitask!
And sweetie, it’s Proposal Season—so you best believe I’ve got more venues to explore, more insights to share, and more ways to help you plan your perfect day with flair, function, and fabulous style.
🍒 Stick with Cherry Pop Events, sugar. Whether it’s a hotel ballroom, a rooftop garden, or a roller rink (oh yes, we’ve done it), we’ll help you find the beauty in every budget-friendly corner.
Stay tuned, doll—this retro wedding ride is just getting started. 💍
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