Opinions needed please, went to look at the Aquarium in Baltimore about the wedding

[pope1982]

Let me start out by saying both options I was shown are absolutely stunning and provide their own charms and a completely different experiences.

Option 1:
The dolphin viewing room. It is almost a sunken, underground room. Very intimate, romantic lighting and a large luminous blue dolphin tank. The lady said she wouldn't want to put us in front of the dolphins so we wouldn't have to "compete", I told her I loved the idea of getting married in front of them. It would only add to the beauty!
Reception area directly off, very nice. Cafeteria like area, tall and spacious. Sky lights and a staircase in the center with shops surrounding. She said the shops would be closed up and drawn in. Tables pushed together and draped with table cloths. Floor is sturdy, good for dancing.

Runs about $3,000. to rent these two adjoining areas for 4 hours, after 7pm (these hours are the same for each option).

Option 2:
Think up. The only way I can think to describe this area, is an outdoor cathedral feel. We would be in the center, surrounded by windows with views of the harbor at night. We would have to rent the chairs for this area...
The reception is a great idea. The guests are invited to walk the exhibits to the 4th floor where is is a long rectangular room surrounded by glass on three sides. Grey upholstered chairs would be put in here and round tables. The ceiling is lined with little round bulbs.

Runs around $3,200. to rent this option.

Catering, would have to be provided by them. At around $30 something dollars a head. Bar, an additional $20 something dollars (for wine and beer, never mind the hard stuff) would have to tip them, and pay state tax as well. But not to the facility itself, just the caterers.

Am I crazy, or do these prices sound reasonable? I was told that my sisters fiance's cousin recently paid $5,000. on hall rental alone!

The groom to be was unable to be there, so it was me and my mother in law to be. Our priest met me there, and I absolutely love him! He was so helpful and full of great ideas. Just as great in person as through emails... The Aquarium lady wanted a bunch of his cards since he was actually willing to marry us on sight.
I told her she better not dare to recommend him for March the first, 2009! I need to give this man his deposit to reserve the date on his calendar

The best part of all, the fiance' did not have heart failure when I quoted prices to him. Maybe he really did mean "whatever you want, as long as it makes you happy."!