Maureen C
Google
I wanted to share some feedback regarding a recent retirement party we hosted at Happ Inn. We had high hopes for this event, especially given the glowing recommendations we had received about your venue. While there were aspects of the evening that we truly appreciated, the planning process and overall experience left us disappointed.
Our initial contact with your former private event manager was warm, responsive, and accommodating. We had a clear verbal agreement and were in the process of finalizing a contract when our emails suddenly went unanswered. After several attempts to reconnect, we learned that the manager was no longer with the restaurant and were directed to a new contact.
Unfortunately, our experience with the new private event manager was markedly different. From our first interaction, we found her demeanor to be unfriendly and abrasive. It quickly became clear that our event date had not been reserved, and we were forced to restart the process under much less accommodating terms. The pricing we were quoted was significantly higher than what we had initially agreed upon—both the per-person cost and the event minimum. Our original plan, based on the initial verbal agreement, included heavy appetizers priced per dozen, non-alcoholic drinks, and a bartender to open drink tabs for guests. None of these elements were honored as expected.
Despite our efforts to work collaboratively and respectfully to find a resolution, our interactions with both the event manager and GM remained frustrating. While they eventually agreed to meet our maximum budget, the final package was disappointing. For our group of 35, we were offered 8 dozen appetizers and one oversized platter serving 20 people—barely enough food for the number of guests, and at a rate that worked out to approximately $58 per dozen. Additionally, the event included an open bar with very limited beer and wine selections, which we did not want, and were not given the option to remove.
On the day of the party, the event manager greeted us in a similarly cold manner. Thankfully, the rest of the staff was professional and welcoming, and we appreciated their efforts throughout the evening. The space was beautifully set up and the food, while limited, was delicious. That said, many guests left the party hungry—something that should never happen at a catered event.
We truly believe that the person planning private events for your restaurant should reflect the warm and welcoming atmosphere you hope to offer your guests. Unfortunately, the current event manager does not possess these qualities, and her demeanor and handling of our event have left a lasting negative impression.
While we understand that businesses face economic challenges, treating potential customers with respect and consideration should remain a priority. Given our experience, I will not be returning to Happ Inn nor recommending it to others—despite the great things I had heard prior.
