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.

If you are looking for a place to hold a Wedding or commemorative event, Kentlands Mansion should…read morebe on your consideration list. The staff were very responsive and helped us plan the layout of the rooms and educated us on how our event might flow. Great job!

I am an owner of Russian Piano Studio in Potomac. We have held student's piano recitals every year…read moreat this place. Antonia and the stuff are very professional, easy to communicate with and accurate. My students and parents love to come there for our events. We feel very welcomed. Beautiful facility and well organized.

I came for a banquet and was surprised at how nice the space was. On the outside, it's tucked in…read morethe corner in a shopping center. There wasn't enough parking though, but the space itself was very nice. There's a balcony and a chandelier as well as a dance floor. This space would be great for a gala, a small wedding reception, and great for gathering 100+ people.

My experience with The Royal was really good. Starting with Janise I can't say enough about her,…read morethe professionalism and the friendly kind smile just sold everything for me. The food was so so good, excellent staff very attentive the whole time serving the guest. I will definitely recommend The Royal and plan on using them again very soon. Thank you so much Janise for everything.

This place has improved over the years. Looks like they are redoing some green surrounds and…read morebunkers soon too. I heard rumors they are redoing their fairways next year as well. Affordable memberships considering the area. I have friends who have been members for years and still enjoy it. The golf course is really solid. They have a great mixture of holes. A couple of drivable par 4s and all the par 5s are reachable from certain tees. Two tough par 3s on the back that can make or break a round. Green surrounds are tough if you're in the wrong spot. The greens themselves are always in fantastic shape. They are severely sloped at times, so you must be accurate with your approach shots. I couldn't find the golf course architect on their website, but they did a good job considering the hilly topography and small footprint of the property. But I can also see one hitting pretty much the exact same shots every time no matter what tee box you're playing. Favorite hole: Par 5 12th, except for the yellow range balls that litter the left side. Downhill the entire way. Range on the left, trees and then the 18th hole on the right. Reachable for many with usually a blind-ish to a peninsula green with water right and long. The very tall red stake frames the front right of the green. Very cool hole before the brutally tough par 3 13th. The driving range is good and they have really nice Titleist practice balls to hit. The short game area is outstanding. I could spend hours out there with a few wedges. They have two small-ish putting greens on either side of the clubhouse. The restaurant is a great space and they have an area for bigger events. The food and service are both good too. Sadly, I have not enjoyed the pool area. Just a solid club overall. The members I have interacted with have all been great. I have had and heard somewhat mixed interactions with the people that run the place, but nothing bad enough to write about here.

Not a member, but apparently, people can purchase a restaurant membership for a yearly fee. That's…read morewhat the in-laws did, otherwise I wouldn't be going. Anyhoo, I've been a few times, and the food is pretty good. Not great, but good. The service is very good, and the overworked staff do a heck of a job considering the obnoxious people they have to wait on.

This is an interesting and pretty place to walk and relax, hidden away from the main roads but…read morestill conveniently placed in the middle of Rockville...I believe you can schedule events in the main building which I've never been in but have often seen groups visiting...the lawns are spacious and bordered by woods and a trail system (which I have been on and recommend) and there is a nature center, the Scott Fitzgerald theater, and two old cemeteries nearby...definitely worth a visit if you're in the area...

Beautiful old historic building in Rockville. They host events (and I believe rent space out for…read moreevents) in various sections of this large structure that has the feel and sound of decades and decades of time. The grounds are lovely as well. And it is adjacent to the F. Scott Fitzgerald Theater where community plays and many events are also hosted.

Whimsical, thoughtful, elegant, and delightful. Fresh cut flowers, hot tea, tasty scones and…read morecream...every detail of today's Mother's Day tea was just ah-mazing!!!! Thank you Mrs. B and your lovely team!! Can't wait to be back!

Such great ambiance, they did a great job with this place! The employees were so kind and helpful…read moretoo. The food variety was great. They were able to offer great GF options too

Went there for a Monday early luncheon. Food was ok .There…read morewe're hummus and two kinds of bread .Taste was ok . Appetizer we're spring roll with lamb stuffing . Pretty bland no spice at all . Needed some Greek spice in the stuffing to make it better tasting .Mushroom mini pie were very good .Tasty enjoyed . Lunch we had Yellow rice very dry tasteless. Then salad ok . Grilled vegetables again no spice bland .Bit of oregano & basil would make the vegetable better . Grilled chicken same story . Dry & bland . Salmon was soft and served with white sauce it was more liquid very bad taste .Not Bechamel sauce . Mushroom soup was ok .That's the only thing that tasted good . Tiramisu & fruit tart were good . Wouldn't recommend this place .

I'm not a member but came with family members for dinner. We ordered a bunch of items from the…read moregrille menu. They bring you a bread basket for the table. I ordered the pan seared salmon, which was a great choice because I was hungry and it came with soup and 2 sides. I also enjoyed the mini crab cakes appetizer. Dining area is large and comfortable space. Serving staff was attentive. Overall great experience.

This review is being left three months after our event. While the venue setting was nice, and the…read moreservers were pleasant and on point, we have had lingering issues after the event for three months, trying to wrap matters up. Checks for the bar staff written the night of the event were not cashed. We sent inquiries each month, offered to bring cash to settle up, were then told the checks had been found, but they still did not make it to the bank. We were trying to close the event bank account by year end of 2022. We have received so many conflicting instructions from management that it has been totally frustrating.

Great space to hold any events or weddings. They have a nice back area and the staff there are very…read morewelcoming.

Cara and her team are fantastic!! I would recommend STDLLC to anyone planning an event. My wedding…read morewent off without a hitch thanks to Cara and Christine. Cara was ALWAYS by n credibly responsive and I couldn't have planned my wedding without her. Thanks STDLLC!

I am very glad that we used Save The Date to plan my daughter's Bat Mitzvah, which was thoroughly…read moreenjoyed by all who attended. Christine was great to work with and listened to our goals for our celebration and tailored our event to exceed them. All the vendors she recommended also exceeded our expectations and we enjoyed working with them. I would not consider having another event without her assistance.