Westin River North - reviews/thoughts?

lrosenth

Hi!  I am newly engaged and starting the process of finding a venue.  Does anyone have any reviews of the Westin River North?  I appreciate any help!

Lisa

cjohnsen2010

We started off with them, and ended up going with the Hyatt Regency on Wacker.

The Hyatt threw in a lot of things - complimentary rooms for the bride & groom and both sets of parents with complimentary parking (the Westin refused to give any of the rooms complimentary). 

The Hyatt gives you so many nights free at certain Hyatts worldwide, depending on how much you spend.  We're getting 5 nights in Cancun free that we're using them for the honeymoon, plus we're getting Hyatt points for the whole wedding cost.  The Hyatt also discounted the pp cost of the reception, etc., plus free dinner at Stetson's and free hotel room on your one year anniversary. 

I was surprised at how the Westin wasn't willing to be flexible on anything, but the Hyatt seemed to really want our business - and they got it.

Remember, when you decide on a venue and they ask for a guest number guarantee, give the lowest number they'll accept.  You can always add to this number, but if the number comes in lower, you still have to pay that amount.

lrosenth

Thanks so much for this information!  I was just looking at the Hyatt Regency today (online) .....when is your wedding?  How much did the discount the pp for the reception?  We are going to be between 170-200 ppl.....great advice on the lowest number - I appreciate your input!  I've been engaged for 4 days now and it's a bit overwhelming to figure all of this out