The Colony Club Detroit: Your Complete Guide to Detroit’s Most Elegant Historic Ballroom
Are you dreaming of a Detroit wedding venue that combines timeless elegance with modern sophistication? The Colony Club Detroit, operated by Forbes Hospitality, stands as one of Michigan’s most prestigious wedding destinations, offering couples an enchanting blend of 1920s glamour and contemporary luxury, backed by over 30 years of hospitality experience.
Why Choose The Colony Club Detroit for Your Wedding?
Historic Elegance Meets Modern Romance
Built in 1927 and originally opened as a women’s club in 1929, The Colony Club Detroit has been meticulously restored to showcase its original Georgian-style architecture and breathtaking Louis XVI décor. The venue offers two unique ballrooms able to fit any style of event, with the Petite Ballroom on the fourth floor providing a more intimate setting for couples hosting 100-120 guests, while the Grand Ballroom on the third floor can include up to 350 of your closest friends and family.
What Makes The Colony Club Special?
Stunning Architecture & Design Features:
- Gold leaf ceilings that shimmer under crystal chandeliers
- Glimmering crystal chandeliers throughout the venue
- Louis XVI décor with Versailles cream and gilt finishes
- Antique carvings and elegant draping
- Expansive windows offering natural light and city views
- High painted ceilings with intricate architectural details
Prime Downtown Detroit Location: Located at 2310 Park Avenue at the corner of Montcalm and Park Avenue, The Colony Club sits in Detroit’s Entertainment District, offering couples and guests easy access to the city’s vibrant downtown scene with stunning skyline views right outside your door.
The Colony Club Detroit Wedding Cost
2025 Wedding Package Options
- Grand Ballroom: $2,500 (for up to 350 guests, including mezzanine seating)
- Petite Ballroom: $2,500 (for up to 120 guests)
- Ceremony space: $1,500 (Grand Ballroom) or $1,000 (Petite Ballroom)
- All-Inclusive Wedding Packages: Choose from four tailored packages ranging from $149 to $199 per person.
It’s important to note that Saturday weddings have a minimum spending requirement (food, beverage, rental, tax, and service charge) of $34,000 in the Grand Ballroom and $15,000 in the Petite Ballroom. Saturdays in May, June, September, and October in the Grand Ballroom have a $40,000 minimum guarantee.
All-Inclusive Wedding Package
Forbes Hospitality offers four distinct packages to suit different styles and budgets. All packages include 4.5 hours of premium bar service, chiavari chairs, linens, a dedicated event manager, and much more.
The Madison Package ($149/pp): A plated meal with a champagne toast for the head table and four passed appetizers.
The Grand Package ($159/pp): Features a plated duo entrée (two choices on one plate), a champagne toast for all guests, four passed appetizers, and your choice of a late-night station.
The Versailles Package ($199/pp): The most luxurious option, including a duo entrée, house wine pour with dinner, a pasta course, sorbet intermezzo, a lamb chop and shrimp cocktail station, plus four passed appetizers and a late-night station.
The Park Avenue Buffet ($156/pp): A strolling buffet service featuring a beef tenderloin carving station, a champagne toast for all guests, and multiple entrée options.
A customary 24% service charge and 6% sales tax are additional to all package prices.
- Premium bar service for 4.5 hours
- Champagne toast for all guests
- Elegant appetizer selection
- Fresh salad course
- Choice of plated dinner or buffet service
- Deluxe coffee and tea stations
- Professional cake service
- Custom floor layouts and linens
- Dedicated event manager
- Complimentary menu tasting for the couple
What’s Included in Your Wedding Package
Professional Service Team:
You will work with a dedicated Event Manager from the Forbes Hospitality team, such as Director of Sales Amber Sharp, who typically responds within 24 hours. The team provides professional setup, a dedicated venue manager on-site, and comprehensive planning support.
Catering & Bar Services:
- Full-service catering with customizable menus
- Premium bar featuring wine, beer, liquor, and champagne
- Professional bartenders and serving staff
- China, glassware, and flatware included
Wedding Ceremony & Reception Spaces
The Grand Ballroom – Perfect for Large Celebrations
The crown jewel of The Colony Club is the stunning Grand Ballroom on the third floor. This magnificent space features:
- Capacity for up to 350 guests
- Soaring ceilings with intricate moldings
- Multiple crystal chandeliers
- Elegant neutral color palette that complements any wedding theme
- Professional lighting and sound capabilities
- Dance floor space for 150+ guests
The Petite Ballroom – Intimate Elegance
For couples planning a more intimate celebration, the fourth-floor Petite Ballroom offers:
- Cozy capacity for 100-120 guests
- Romantic atmosphere with rich draping
- Perfect for both the ceremony and reception
The Colony Club building often hosts multiple events simultaneously. Unless you purchase the optional Building Buyout for an additional $7,500 (which grants exclusive access to both the Grand and Petite Ballrooms), your event will be limited to your contracted ballroom. The first-floor hallways, elevators, stairwells, and restrooms are common spaces shared with other events.
Ceremony Options
The Colony Club offers flexible ceremony options:
- Indoor ceremony in either ballroom
- Elegant backdrop with antique carvings and architectural details
- Professional lighting for stunning photography
- Climate-controlled comfort year-round
Photography at The Colony Club Detroit
Picture-Perfect Venues for Your Wedding Photos
As a photographer’s dream venue, The Colony Club offers countless opportunities for breathtaking wedding photography:
Interior Photography Highlights:
- Grand staircases are perfect for bridal portraits
- Crystal chandeliers create magical lighting
- Ornate architectural details for elegant couple shots
- Multiple ballroom settings for variety
- Rich textures and luxurious backgrounds
Exterior & City Views:
- Detroit skyline backdrop is right outside
- Historic building facade for classic shots
- Urban sophistication meets timeless romance
- Golden hour lighting through large windows
Best Photo Locations at The Colony Club
- The Grand Staircase – Perfect for dramatic bridal portraits
- Under the Chandeliers – Romantic couple shots with stunning lighting
- The Ballroom – Reception candids with elegant backdrop
- City Views – Modern Detroit skyline for a contemporary feel
- Historic Details – Close-ups of architectural elements
Planning Your Colony Club Detroit Wedding
What Brides Need to Know
Booking Timeline:
- Book 12-18 months in advance for peak season (May-October)
- Spring and fall dates fill quickly
- Winter weddings offer potential cost savings
To secure your date, a signed contract and a non-refundable deposit of $5,000 are required. The remaining balance is paid in installments, with the final payment due in full one week before your event. A refundable $500 security deposit is also required to cover any potential damages. Be sure to review the contract’s cancellation policy carefully, as all payments are non-refundable.
Vendor Policies:
- Outside vendors are welcome but must adhere to specific load-in policies.
- Vendors for the Colony Club must load-in from the alley north of the building on Park Avenue and use the freight elevator only.
- Vendor meals are available for $65 per person.
It’s important to note that outside desserts and bakers are not permitted, with the sole exception of your wedding cake
Guest Accommodations: The Colony Club’s downtown location offers convenient access to multiple hotels:
- Aloft Detroit at The David Whitney (0.3 miles) – Modern luxury hotel
- Siren Hotel Downtown Detroit (0.3 miles) – Boutique accommodation
- Element Hotel Downtown Detroit (0.3 miles) – Extended stay option
Transportation & Parking
Parking Solutions: While The Colony Club doesn’t have on-site parking, several convenient options are available:
- Convenient parking is located in the attached Comerica Garage.
- The venue will provide you with a 4-digit PIN to distribute to your guests for access.
- Valet service is not permitted at any Forbes Hospitality location.
Transportation Tips:
- Detroit People Mover is accessible nearby
- Uber/Lyft is readily available in the downtown area
- Consider shuttle service for hotel guests
Why Brides Choose The Colony Club Detroit
Real Bride Reviews & Testimonials
Recent brides consistently praise the venue, with one noting: “My wedding size was about 91 people, and I can honestly say it turned out perfect! BEST wedding venue in Detroit!” Couples particularly appreciate:
- Exceptional service from coordinators like Nikki and Alex
- Attention to detail in execution
- Stunning photography opportunities
- Elegant atmosphere that wows guests
- Professional staff who handle every detail
Perfect for Different Wedding Styles
Classic & Traditional Weddings:
- Timeless elegance with historic charm
- A neutral color palette works with any theme
- Formal atmosphere perfect for traditional ceremonies
Modern & Contemporary Celebrations:
- Downtown location with city views
- Sophisticated styling opportunities
- Modern amenities in a historic setting
Intimate & Romantic Weddings:
- Petite Ballroom for smaller guest lists
- Cozy atmosphere with rich textures
- Perfect for couples wanting elegance without overwhelming grandeur
Planning Your Visit to The Colony Club Detroit
Schedule Your Tour
When visiting The Colony Club, be sure to:
- Schedule during a similar time/season as your wedding
- Bring your photographer to scout locations
- Ask about recent renovations or updates
- Discuss layout options for your guest count
- Inquire about preferred vendor relationships
Seasonal Considerations for Colony Club Weddings
Spring Weddings (March-May)
- Mild weather is perfect for city exploration
- Beautiful natural light through large windows
- Popular season – book early
Summer Weddings (June-August)
- Peak wedding season with the highest demand
- Air conditioning ensures guest comfort
- Stunning sunset views from upper floors
Fall Weddings (September-November)
- Gorgeous autumn colors in downtown Detroit
- Comfortable weather for photos
- Romantic atmosphere with shorter days
Winter Weddings (December-February)
- Cozy indoor elegance
- Holiday lighting adds magic to city views
- Potential cost savings during off-peak season
Making The Colony Club Detroit Your Wedding Venue
Next Steps for Interested Couples
- Research & Initial Contact
- Visit the venue’s website and social media
- Call to check availability for your date
- Schedule a tour during your preferred time
- Tour & Decision
- Bring your partner, parents, or wedding party
- Take photos during your visit
- Ask detailed questions about policies and pricing
- Booking Your Date
- Review contract terms carefully
- Understand cancellation policies
- Secure your date with the required deposit
Budget Planning Tips
Cost Considerations:
- Base venue rental: $1,500-$2,000
- Per-person packages: $142-$189
- Additional hours: $600 per hour
- Gratuity for service staff: 18-20%
Money-Saving Tips:
- Consider Friday or Sunday weddings
- Book during the off-peak season
- Utilize included items to reduce outside costs
- Take advantage of complimentary tastings
Conclusion: Your Dream Detroit Wedding Awaits
The Colony Club Detroit offers brides an unparalleled combination of historic elegance, modern amenities, and professional service in the heart of downtown Detroit. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration for 100 guests or a grand celebration for 350, this stunning venue provides the perfect backdrop for your most important day.
From the moment you walk through the doors and see the glittering chandeliers and gold leaf ceilings, you’ll understand why The Colony Club Detroit is considered one of Michigan’s premier wedding destinations. The venue’s rich history, combined with its impeccable restoration and professional service, creates an atmosphere where your wedding dreams become reality.
Ready to see if The Colony Club Detroit is the perfect venue for your special day? Contact their experienced event team to schedule a private tour and begin planning the wedding you’ve always envisioned.
For more Detroit wedding venue inspiration and photography services, explore our complete guide to Michigan wedding venues and discover how to create the perfect wedding day timeline.
