(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by the Bride)

Crystal would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

The most awesome place and Rene was the best. It is a beautiful place that I would recommend to everyone. We had the wedding/Reception there and it was a night that we wished would of not ended. Everyone said that they never had as much fun as they did there.

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by the Bride)

lfredeen would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

The staff of the Jefferson Street Mansion made wedding planning a breeze, as well as the actual day! I enjoyed every minuite of it and never had to worry about ANYTHING! Renee is amazing and she really knows what she is doing. All the staff was so helpful with smiles on their faces. My guests say it's the best wedding they have ever been to. Beautiful atmosphere and flawless wedding coordination! I would recomend this venue to anyone!

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com)

Liz would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

JSM was amazing! I wish the day didn't go by as fast because I could have spent all night there! I would highly recommend this venue for your reception :)

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by the Bride)

Kristi would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

The staff felt like family and helped keep this bride's worries at bay, being that I'd put it all together myself. It really was the day I'd imagined and I couldn't have asked for more.

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by a Vendor)

Kelly, of Glass Slipper Gourmet, would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

I can't say enough about Reed and Jefferson Street Mansion. I LOVE them! I've worked many events there (providing cake) and it's always a breeze! They run everything so smooth and easy - it's like a well oiled machine. I always know everything will be prepared and waiting for me just as the bridal couple has requested and receive a warm welcome from Reed and staff upon arrival.
Again, can't say enough... =)

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by the Bride)

AdriaBani would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

The JSM is not inexpensive, but it is a very good value. Our wedding cost around $20,000, but several guests estimated it to be a $50,000 or even $100,000 wedding. The JSM provides a truly unique and extremely elegant location for both the ceremony and the reception.

(as posted on ProjectWedding.com by the Bride)

Erin would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

Reed at Jefferson Street was amazing! She provided tons of contact information for local vendors. She was kind, very relaxed and so helpful. Her staff was amazing and very attentive throughout the whole day. She made us feel welcome and like we were at home. The grounds are spectacular and gorgeous. The food was wonderful and the wine was top notch! After looking for a location for almost 2 years, the moment I met Reed and took a tour of the house & grounds, I knew this was the place.

(as posted on Yelp! by a Corporate Event Client)

Dave C. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My company  had its holiday party at The Mansion.  It couldn't have been better.  We had the entire Pavillion and Mansion to ourselves -- touring The Mansion is an experience on its own.  The authenticity of all the artifacts is amazing.  For a history buff like me, I could have spent weeks looking at everything.  The holiday decor (according to my wife) was beyond a Dicken's fairy tale.

While this venue is mainly used for weddings, it has the ability to welcome corporate groups with ease. We will come back time after time....for retirement celebrations and for off-site meetings.

Food is fabulous and the staff superb.

Thank you, Jefferson Street Mansion, for making our company's event memorable.

(as posted on Yelp! by The Groom)

Chad A. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

Myself and my wife had our reception at Jefferson Street Mansion on September 24, 2011.  What an AMAZING experience! Not only is the location beautful, but the staff is excellent as well.  Everything went smoothly and it could not have been any better.  We have been highly recommending the location to anyone who we have run into that is getting married or thinking about getting married.  The location is perfect., there are great views of the straight, and the mansion is beautiful.  Everything feels so modern yet there is a classy feeling that you have been set back in time.  What a wonderful and memorable experience! Both myself and my wife cannot say enough about the Jefferson Street Mansion.  If anyone is reading this and is thinking about getting married or having their reception here, you should book it today.  The experience could not have been any better :)  Thank you, Jefferson!

(as posted on Yelp! by The Bride)

Daniela M. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My husband and I had our wedding here on October 8, 2011. This was truly a day to remember and one we will cherish forever. When judging whether or not a wedding was successful people normally look at the following:
1) Ambiance
2) Food/beverage
3) Entertainment
4) Location

Throughout the wedding and even till this day I've heard nothing but great things from our guests. They used words like PERFECT, AMAZING, COULDN'T ASK FOR MORE.....the list of positive comments goes on and on.
It's hard to find a place that offers a caterer that actually serves GOOD food....seriously.  We had the braised short ribs and salmon for the main course. The short ribs were amazing....the salmon was ok. The side of potatoe soufle was to die for....and the salad was delicious.  The best part was that we had open bar all night!!
The mansion allows for entertainment other than a DJ. We had a six piece Latin band who rocked the house all night!
Location..location..location. Our family is all over the bay area and this was a perfect central location for all.

What didn't make the list was the coordinator.  She deserves special recognition of her own for going above and beyond what we could have ever expected. We didn't have to pay an extra fee for her services although I would have if we had to!! Renée made our day seamless. It went so smooth and I did not stress for one minute that day because of her and her wonderful staff.  

Thank you Renée!!!

If you are looking for a wedding venue where you don't have to do the leg work yourself you should seriously consider this place.  And if price is a concern.....this place gave us more for our money than any of the country clubs around the bay area could offer (no extra cost for nice utensils, table clothes, chairs, center pieces, decor, etc).

(as posted on Yelp! by Cousin of the Bride)

Becky U. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My beautiful cousin Daniela was set to marry her prince charming, Phillip specifically here.  I must say, this beats any hotel ceremony/reception unity location.  Very intimate, personal, classy, yet simple and elegant.. need I say more? LOL.  Food style was great.. buffet..open bar.. (oh yeah OPEN BAR!). LOL.  The mansion was very well kept, except it does look a little creepy.  =/ but being a wedding made it all worth expierencing a great time with great people.  From what I hear, you were able to tour the mansion.  But I passed, because one, I was scared SH**less, two, being tipsy I probably would of scared myself. I cannot put into words what my experience was like here... it was all in all just PERFECT. (setting, ambiance, décor, weather, staff members, food, drinks, guests, PHOTO BOOTH, family and friends).  I don't think Phillip and Daniela could of asked for anything more.  Congrats to the newlyweds MR. & MRS. PARASIDIS.  

And of course, FABULOUS OUTCOME JEFFERSON STREET MANSION.

(as posted on Yelp! by the Groom)

Sean D. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

I was just married there in Sept 2011. The venue was amazing for the ceremony and reception. The grounds were beautiful for all the photos. The mansion was a cool place for guests to explore. The preferred caterer's food was excellent. The overall experience was wonderful. It was worth the price for my wife to say that she was totally satisfied.

The thing that set it over the top for both of us was the wedding coordinator, Renée. She was fantastic. She did everything and more than we expected. She catered to all of our needs and took care of issues that arose discreetly with us only finding out about them after the wedding.

Great place to get married.

(as posted on Yelp! by a Wedding Guest)

lr in Antioch. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

The mansion was beautiful, bathrooms and bar were both in first floor which was very accomodating.  The service was great, no rushing to get your plate and the food was good. Renée was very helpful and cooperative. Beautiful pictures of bride/groom were taken on side of mansion where ceremony occurred.  Reception area was located close to mansion so no far travelling involved. It was a BEAUTIFUL wedding in a BEAUTIFUL place! :)

(as posted on Yelp! by a Wedding Guest)

Carol F. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

We attended a wedding here and we just loved it.

The grounds are beautiful, there are statues and benches snuggled in under large shade trees transporting you back to a time when life was slower and lovely things were cherished.

The mansion itself is beautiful inside and out. There are so many lovely things to look at. Every room is amazing with period pieces and rich lovely tapestries and polished wood.

The food was served in an outdoor tent with chandeliers and statues throughout. I loved the table decorations which alternated with large ostrich feathers and roses immersed in water in clear vases. I particularly liked the caprese salad; it was beautiful to look at and tasted wonderful.

Renée and her staff were wonderful. They were professional, prompt, and incredibly helpful.

I had a lot of fun; I would celebrate an event here in the future.

(as posted on Yelp! by a Wedding Guest)

Victoria F. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

Just attended a Wedding in August 2011 at this beautiful site.  Reed and Renée did everything first class.  Everyone around me commented how good the food was, and the staff was so friendly and helpful. If you want to enjoy a Mansion that is like a museum of beauty and have every detail covered, this is the place to have a Wedding.  Wish I had had my wedding here.   Victoria Fiore

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

Janelle H. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

As promised in my last review I am telling you about my wedding on August 26th at the Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia. WOW....I am still reeling with excitement and you couldn't take the smile off my face if you tried. From the minute I stepped onto the property I was guided and treated like royalty. I was escorted to the bridal chamber where my veil and gown were draped from the four poster bed and it looked more beautiful than I could ever imagine. The owner of JSM greeted me with a team of professionals who took over and were at my beck and call every moment of the day. It seemed like I thought of something and before I could ask, it was there...now that is service! As I approached the veranda to make my appearance I observed the guests arriving and being guided to their seats beneath the beautifully decorated arbor and the Delta waters were giving off a serene and peaceful aura. The atmosphere with its elegance and beauty set the tone for what was to be the most perfect day in my life. Cocktails flowed, hors d' were passed and the dinner was absolutely delicious. The caterer met all of my pallet expectations. I thought I would have to direct the reception with all my requests but once again the JSM coordinator who choreographed everything with my DJ Josh (Strawberry Fields) and photographer Ken Perkes did not have to bother me or my parents for any details. I didn't have to worry about ONE thing. Each and everything I had on my itinerary was met with professionalism. I want to thank every person on the JSM team from the owner, coordinator and waitstaff for giving me the "Perfect Wedding".

(as posted on Yelp! by a Wedding Guest)

Liz F. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

We attended a wedding at the Mansion last weekend. It's absolutely stunning! The grounds are meticulous. The Mansion is uniquely and perfectly restored. You feel as though you're in someone's gracious and exquisite home. Additionally, the food served was over-the-top great as was the waitstaff! What a PERFECT venue....

(as posted on Yelp! by the Mother of the Bride)

K.H. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride To Be)

Janelle H. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

T.R. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My husband and I got married as JSM July 2010 and had an absolutely amazing wedding!  Everything about the wedding (the staff, location, business interactions) was phenomenal.  JSM was so flexible in working with me to ensure that I had the wedding I had always envisioned.  To that end, they helped make sure all of our guests' cultural dietary needs were met (as we had three different caterers/international cuisines served that day!).  Their attention to details (like mine!) was impeccable!  All of our guests mentioned what a great time they had!  The location is beautiful (which is what we fell in love with and sold us on the place)!  Overall, JSM makes wedding planning a great and easy experience.  I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND JSM for your wedding venue due to their excellence in service and standards!

From the Mother of the Groom

July 17, 2011
Hi Renée & JSM Staff!
 Thank you so much for all your help Sunday for my son Garrett & Cheries’ wedding. It was so much fun and you did a wonderful job with everything!! You will come well recommended.

 Sincerely Wm & Margo McDonald

(as posted on Yelp! by the Mother of the Bride)

Valerie J. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

Paula W. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by the Mother of the Bride)

Tara D. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by a Guest)

Christine V. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

We attended a wedding here June. It is an amazing place. The grounds are beautiful and the Mansion is as elegant as any place we've ever seen.

Unfortunately the weather didn't cooperate and when the outdoor ceremony had to be moved inside. The Coordinator, Renée, with her staff made it happen seamlessly. Before we knew it, the ceremony was moved to the Pavillion, an absolutely amazing setting.

There isn't one square inch of the Mansion that isn't appointed beautifully and authentically.

Renée and her staff are top notch. They are professional and pay attention to every detail. We would recommend The Mansion to anyone!

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

Awisa M. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

(as posted on Yelp! by the Mother of the Bride)

Claire B. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My Daughter and her husband were married at JSM on 4-9-11. It was a most magical day for all. The grounds and the mansion are maintained to perfection. It is like stepping into living history, How wonderful to have this incredible venue in my own hometown. Benicia is proud and lucky to have a woman like Reed that has been so involved in the preservation of this town's history. Not only with the mansion but other projects and commitees she has been involved with over the years.

The food and the service were 5 star. Everything was fresh, delicious and displayed beautifully. The venue was large enough to accomodate our party of 190 easily. Our guests were comfortable and at ease to enjoy the entire poroperty. Which they did while waiting for the photo's to finish so the real party could begin.

Don't know what I would have done without Renee'. She answered questions, answered e-mails and was totally available during the months leading up to the wedding. Day of......She was everywhere. I didn't have to worry about a thing. I was able to enjoy the day and to remember each moment. I thank them both for helping to create the perfect wedding for my Daughter and my new Son.

(as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

Christine D. would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My husband and I were married at JSM on 4/23/11. The entire day was absolutely magical. I couldn't have asked for a better dream wedding. The mansion is stunning, the grounds are beautifully green and in bloom and the photo opportunities there are uncomparable. My photographer showed me just a few shots of what she took and I am thrilled to see how fantastically they turned out. Can't wait for the rest!

Our wedding was planned in a matter of 5 1/2 short months (with Christmastime and the holidays in between). My grandma was terminally ill and we wanted her to be with us on our special day, so we picked a date only a few months after we were engaged. Anyone can imagine the stress of planning a fairly good sized wedding (125 ppl) in less than 6 months... Renee, the coordinator, was exceptionally helpful. I often referred to myself in our e-mails as "the pest" because of the amount of questions I had. She was always so kind, so willing to help, and extremely quick with her responses. In the beginning, when we first booked our date and put our deposit down, she said to me, "Welcome to the JSM family!" Boy was she right. She treated all of us, bride, groom, parents, bridal party, vendors, etc., as nothing but family. We got the 'red carpet treatment.' Unfortunately, my grandma passed away about 4 weeks before the day of the wedding, but I know she was BEAMING up there watching us get married in such an incredibly fantastic place, with the best people.

Jefferson Street Mansion, and the people who work there, made our wedding everything that I was ever imagining it to be and so much more.

Moore Wedding

(Letter from the Bride)

Subject: Thank you doesn't feel like enough
Date: Mon, 28 Mar 2011

You are incredible! If it wasn’t for you, I can’t say our wedding day would have been so incredible. You helped so much. I honestly did not feel like I had to worry about a thing that day. I've heard stories of brides who are stressed out so badly the day of their wedding they can't enjoy it. That was not the case at all. I didn't feel rushed, I knew our guests were having a great time, that everything would be simply wonderful. And thank you so much for whomever found Bella's necklace & put it with James' mother's corsage. I had personally made hers & mine matching necklaces & felt awful when I realized I had forgotten it on our table. I had thought for sure something so small had just been swept up in all of the cleaning, so you can imagine my surprise and delight when I was unpacking everything and found it. Thank you, now I can save it for her for when she is older.

Words will never be able to convey how truly grateful I am for everything you did for us, and how you made me and my family feel incredibly special on our wedding day.

~D

Tyson-Peterson Wedding

From the Happy Couple...

From the Mother of The Bride...

Click here to see their full note.

I wanted to thank you again for such a perfect day. If you know a website for event venues, could you let me know.
This would be my review:

"If you want a wedding that far exceeds your idea of a PERFECT wedding, with no stress, the Jefferson Street Mansion should be your wedding venue. The site was beautiful, the food superb and the staff treated us like royalty. The owner is very detailed oriented, down to a rose on each butter dish.

"We had such a good time (imagine leaving your daughter’s wedding and just thinking I had a wonderful time, not 'I’m glad it’s over'). Our guests told us that this was the best wedding they had ever been to.

"If you want a stressful wedding, with mediocre food, service & venue, the Jefferson Street Mansion is not for you.

"The most stress we had was making sure our shoes were on the right feet.

"I would recommend going with the recommendations of the Jefferson Street Mansion for your flowers and cake as nothing but perfection would be acceptable."

I have sent you and Tom a small token of our appreciation for all of your hard work making this the most wonderful day. Please enjoy.

I can never thank you enough.

        -- Karen Tyson

Salby Wedding

I can't express to you just how wonderful my wedding was.  It went off without a glitch, at least to my knowledge.  Every last detail was taken care of, and I didn't have one worry.  Your staff was so professional and went out of their way to be so welcoming. We just loved everything about it ...

Our guests are still talking about how wonderful the food was, in fact, I have had several people tell me that was the best food they have ever had at a wedding.  The reception area was amazing, the setup of the tables was done fabulously. The flowers, oh my god, the flowers were just gorgeous and how they were set up.  All of it .. china, glasses, linens.. everything ... thank you ...

I thank you from the bottom of my heart for making my wedding day the most wonderful day of my life. I have nothing but fond memories and great stories to tell, and all because of you and your wonderful staff ... Thank you again ...

Thank you again for the most beautiful wedding a girl could ever dream of having!

Warmest,
Kristin & Bryan Salby

Doolittle-Dekker Wedding (as posted on Yelp! by the Bride)

Christine would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My husband and I were married at the mansion on July 17, 2010. Everything was perfect! The mansion's catering is delicious with incredible attention to detail in the way the food is presented. The service staff was friendly and attentive. The location is gorgeous and well maintained. When my husband and I arrived at the mansion on the day of our wedding, even we were surprised at how beautiful and fairytale-like it was.

The mansion's coordinators are extremely professional and experienced in wedding planning, so my husband and I were able to do all of the planning from San Diego, where we live. We did not have to worry about anything during the planning process because the coordinators had thought of everything and contacted us when specific deadlines were approaching. The coordinators also worked closely with our other vendors to make sure that everyone was on the same page and everything ran smoothly on the day of the wedding. There were no surprises regarding the costs of the wedding, but remember that any venue you select does have a substantial service charge that needs to be included in the budget!

On the day of the wedding, my husband and I were able to relax and have fun without any concerns... which was great because we knew absolutely nothing about wedding schedules or traditions when we got engaged! The mansion staff guided us through the entire day and they were not at all invasive. All of our guests had a fabulous time; many told us that it was the best wedding they'd ever attended. We have nothing but fond memories (and magazine-worthy photographs) of our wedding day and it wouldn't have been possible without Jefferson Street Mansion.

Also if you decide to get married at this venue, don't be afraid to ask the coordinators for their advice about anything wedding-related... they have planned so many weddings at the mansion that they know what works the best and will ensure that your day is just as perfect as ours was.

Doolittle-Dekker Wedding (as posted on Yelp! by Mother of the Bride)

Tara would like to share this review with you:
Jefferson Street Mansion

My daughter and her husband were married at the Jefferson Street Mansion this summer. They chose the perfect location for their wedding and reception.

The Mansion looked spectacular. We had not imagined that it could look any more beautiful than when we first saw it. The veranda made for a comfortable gathering spot for our guests before the ceremony, as well as a grand entrance for the bride. One guest called it "The hidden gem of Benicia."

Reed, you have done an amazing job restoring the mansion and we thank you for sharing it. The attention to detail in each room is incredible. It was fun to see Facebook pictures of guests posing inside the mansion. 

The food both looked and tasted fantastic. Excellent presentation! The dessert bar was to die for. The champagne got rave reviews.
And Renee, thanks to you for guiding us through the entire day and taking the time to make sure all our guests had a great time. You have an incredible staff. The vendors you work with are first class. It was the perfect wedding. We truly enjoyed working with both of you. You are the best.

We would do it all again, and we might. Our other daughter has said that she’d like to have her wedding reception at the Jefferson Street Mansion!

Tara Doolittle

Mike and Michelle Munn

(Parents of the Bride)

Dear Reed and Renée,
What a perfect wedding reception!  The event was flawless!  Renée - you did such a great job anticipating needs - like a glass of champagne as soon as I arrived,  searching me out so I could bustle the bride’s dress, and making sure the Grandmothers were taken care of.  You were like VISA - “everywhere you need to be”!  The event flowed - not rushed nor dragged. Everything was seamless.  Your staff was professional,  very accommodating, attentive, but not intrusive. 

Thank you for having Van Noy’s catering on your preferred list!  The food was delicious and we received many favorable comments.   Mike especially liked the baked brie and apricot cheese display and found his way to that table several times.  The raspberry in each champagne glass was an elegant touch which added a delightful delicate flavor and colorful display. 

The setting was storybook from the bride’s dressing room to the mansion and grounds.  Mike and I were thoroughly able to relax and enjoy our family and friends.   Many people told us it was the best wedding reception they had ever attended - that’s quite a statement.  
 
Even my brother commented, “that lady really knows what she’s doing”.  Thank you for our preparation meetings and tastings, they really gave us a complete sense of confidence that you would have everything covered - and you did.    The preparation process also provided an opportunity to know you both which helped create a personal connection.  Your enthusiasm for your work and genuine excitement for Kaitlin and Paul meant a great deal to us.

Thank you for making a once in a lifetime event - our only daughter’s wedding- such a memorable and cherished experience.  We will proudly and enthusiastically recommend you to anyone who asks.

With much appreciation,
Mike and Michelle Munn

DeMers Wedding

I don’t know how to say thank you enough for making our wedding day absolutely perfect! It was flawless & absolutely stunning! All our guests commented on how wonderful the mansion, food, service, etc. was. Many even said it was the best wedding they’d ever been to. We certainly echo that! Thank you for all your hard work, patience with me (smile face) and your perfection! (heart)

Kaitlin & Paul DeMers

Griffiths Wedding

Dear Renée,
Thank you so much for all of your expertise and assistance with our wedding. Your positive attitude is a Godsend! This is just one of many events for JSM, but you’ve always made us feel like the only wedding.

The Griffiths

Behnam Wedding

Dear Reed, Renée and the entire Staff,
Thank you for helping us create the most amazing wedding day. I realize you do this all the time, but believe me what you all do is very much appreciated. Everyone was in wonderment of the location, and totally enjoyed themselves.

Thank you again,
Joanne & Mahmood Behnam

Henss Wedding

Dearest Reed, Renée,
I finally have gotten around to addressing wedding stuff once again after a 4 month hiatus. One of the 1st things I’ve wanted to do was send this Thank you card to you.

Your efforts & attention to detail on our most special of days made the day not only beautiful, but absolutely memorable. Everyone had a great time. To this date I still hear from friends and family about how wonderful their visit to the mansion was.

Renée, you and your staff are the absolute best! With all the little mishaps that happened throughout the day (the broken vase, the mis-sharpened cake, my un-bustled train) it all went unnoticed with your help and quick fixes. I only heard about the problems later - except for the train.

Reed, Thank you for providing such a beautiful site for our reception. The Jefferson Street Mansion is a unique and wonderful
place to celebrate with friends and family. One of the happiest days of our lives.

Sincerely,
Vee Hernando Henss

Davis/Lemire Wedding

(Parents of the Bride)

You said you wanted to see the pictures of the wedding. The photographer put together a slide show of some of the pictures and also I think you can view all the proofs after that if you want to. The mansion gave the pictures such a BEAUTIFUL setting, evidenced in what Lukas put together. Below I have pasted the link. Enjoy!

http://www.lukasvandyke.com/?p=2059

Reed, thank you for your kind words; they meant the world to us. Carolyn did have her fairy tale wedding and you and your staff made that possible. I'm sure, as you said, all the brides are beautiful on their special day - and all are so fortunate to be married in such a lovely setting. I have been getting emails all week regarding the wedding, the mansion, the music, the cake, the flowers, etc. Everyone enjoyed themselves tremendously and I just wanted to again say "thank you."

Regards,
Susie & Ron Davis

Aoanan-Menendz Wedding
(Uncle of the Bride)

My wife and I attended my niece's (Melissa Aoanan-Menendez) wedding reception at your place on Saturday, September 12, 2009. We are from St. Catharines, Ontario, Canada and it was a wonderful opportunity for us to witness a church wedding and  reception California style. We happen to be wedding planners preparing the church marriage ceremony (Catholic liturgy) and emceeing the reception usually held in one of our local hotels' banquet halls. We never held a wedding or an anniversary celebration at a mansion like your beautiful and historic place.

The first thing we observed as we arrived at your location was the overall courtesy of your Staff in welcoming guests and answering questions about the reception and the mansion. We were made  comfortable and ushered to the "tent" reception hall which was appropriately decorated for the happy celebration to follow.

We saw a beautiful and professional lady--whose name we did not know at the time--walking to and fro the banquet hall and the mansion making sure everything was all right. We correctly guessed that she must be in charge of the banquet. She was also conferring with the personnel in charge of the "punch bowl" and drinks, the table servers and the Dee Jay when he arrived. I was curious and spoke with the young gentleman Dee Jay who introduced himself to me and answered my queries. He showed me the program detailed with notes and sequences to follow during the reception as he was also the emcee.

From our experience as wedding coordinators and emcees, the person in charge has to think fast and act efficiently to make sure that everything happens according to plan; however, she/he has to adapt to circumstances that happen unexpectedly, for example, time when the bridal entourage arrives, getting all the guests arriving or touring the mansion gathered into the banquet hall at the right moment and talking to the table servers to make sure that everything was okay from guests being seated to the buffet-style dinner being ready to conferring with the Dee Jay for the introduction of the bridal party to checking her/his watch all the time.

This was Ms. Renée Bellison's multitasking with a friendly and welcoming smile. She always conferred with the bride's father (my youngest brother) and mother about everything and accommodated their desires and concerns. Renée had the flexibility to make timely adjustments to ensure that everything went well.

Indeed, the reception, dinner and celebration that followed were a success to the satisfaction and enjoyment of everybody, most specially the newlyweds, their parents, and their bridal party. The dancing and slideshow capped the wonderful evening.
One humorous thing happened. I thought people were calling me only to find out that they were asking for Renée. You see, my first name is Rene.

My wife and I saw a beautiful church wedding in Concord, CA and a wonderful reception in Benicia, CA at your historic mansion.
We have high praises for Ms. Renée Bellison and her Staff: " job well done!" 
  
Thank you and yours truly,
Dr. Rene and Tessie Aoanan 

Greenberg Wedding

Harriet Greenberg (Mother of the Bride)

Dear, dear staff at Jefferson Street Mansion,

I want to thank you for a truly magical night. Our daughter’s wedding was amazing. The minute the guests arrived, they were warmly greeted, cared for in every way, seated and ready for our event to begin. The walk down the aisle felt so special—I think every woman walking felt like a queen, that is, until my little girl descended with her dad. What a gorgeous sight. The tulle, the petals, the flowers, the background of the hills and water—all contributed to an ethereal experience that was way beyond our expectations. The evening continued in this fashion. Drinks were flowing, hors d’oeuvres were delicious—and when the bridal party was announced there was so much excitement in the air, I think we could have made our own lightening!!  The tent was spectacular—candles, tiny lights, flowers—everyone felt beautiful, and thrilled to be a part of the experience. THE FOOD—presentation was incredible—so luscious and grand, and, of course, delicious down to the cake and chocolate covered strawberries. The kids danced until dawn, the older guests danced, relaxed outside the marquee and inside the mansion. I don’t think our wedding could have been more perfect. What I know, that the guests didn’t, is all the behind the scene work that was going on in order to provide a luxurious, flawless wedding. Toledo is abuzz with tales from the wedding of the century!!! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

Here is a picture we took...

Dalisay Wedding

Michael & Gina Dalisay (Bride & Groom)

We are sending you a card regarding our wedding on Sunday, 5/24/09, but Gina and I both felt compelled to send you an email expressing our gratitude for the staff.

RENE WAS AWESOME! We could not have asked for a more easy going, fun person with excellent time management! She was perfect! She made sure the two of us (and all our guests) were relaxed and content at ALL times. Rene is very professional and personable.

We have received numerous compliments on both Rene and Perry, the DJ. Our wedding was so smooth and free flowing. Many of our guests have commented, "This is the best wedding we've ever attended!"

Thank you again!

Sincerely,
Michael & Gina Dalisay

Dalisay Wedding

Gabriella Dalisay (Mother of the Groom)

I had to write to express our sincere appreciation for everything you Aden Rene did to assure the Dalisay-Sadler wedding was perfect! It couldn't have been more perfect. We are still getting raving reviews from family and friends in regards to the venue, service, Rene in particular, and the wedding altogether. We couldn't have been happier. Rene always went out of her way, throughout the course of the day, although very busy, to ask if we needed anything, and made sure all was going well. We couldn't have been happier with the service Rene and her staff provided. It was excellent! Rene works very hard to assure everything is in order. With her being "on it" every step of the way, there was no margin for error or dissatisfaction. We would definitely recommend your venue, staff and service, to our family and friends.

Thanks again for making the Dalisay-Sadler wedding a huge success - a day I'll never forget! We appreciate all you, Rene, and the staff did that day to assure a perfect memory.

Please let Rene know how much we appreciate all she did.

Gratefully yours,
Gabriella Dalisay
(Mother of the Groom)

P.S. Please share my email address with Rene, as I told her I'd love to stay in touch; she is now part of our wedding "family."

Eddie and Alison Howard

(Parents of the Bride)

I can't thank you enough for making the wedding of Heather Howard and David Martin so special. Every detail was absolutely beautiful and so precisely executed. Even the flowers around the fountain reflected the palette of colors that Heather had chosen.

Moreover, the warmth and love that was generated by you and all your staff was absolutely amazing! I have to particularly mention Renée; she was incredible from start to finish. Her ability to organize, direct and choreograph each person or group with just the right touch and always with a smile felt as if she was part of the wedding party! Your prep staff was so efficient and your serving staff, especially Kendra, was so "spot on:, while distributing appetizers, paying particular attention to those people who were seated or not quite as quick to circulate. And at dinner, there was Renée, serving the elderly members of our party a sumptuous sampling of the buffet, in spite of everything else she was doing! Truly incredible!

You have created such a magnificent venue for those truly memorable events with your attention to detail. One can only appreciate that all your endeavors to create a piece of history is truly a labor of love.

Again, we can not thank you, all of your wonderful staff and especially Renée enough for making this wedding so incredibly special! The beauty of the setting was amazing, but, the beauty of you and your staff's enthusiasm, positive attitude, warmth and hard work was what really made this wedding such a joyous and memorable event.

With love and respect,
Eddie and Alison Howard
Parents of the bride

Liz and Drew Wattles

I was married there 6 years ago. I just wanted to tell you that I am still hearing random rave reviews about the incredible wedding my guests experienced there! Thank you for a very memorable day. I knew the moment I walked into Jefferson Mansion that I wanted to get married there.

Everything, from the DJ to the food was perfect. I have heard from multiple people that it was the most beautiful and elegant wedding they had ever attended.

Once again, thank you for a very memorable and perfect day!
Liz and Drew Wattles

Larry S.

Larry S.
San Ramon, CA
Internet Review

Our wedding at JSM was on 6/27/09. It was only one of two wedding sites we visited. We didn't have to see anymore.

I can't say enough about the venue, owner, coordinator or staff. They were all wonderful. Comments from our guests (150) were all positive -- from "the best wedding I've attended" to "being at the Mansion seemed like being part of a movie".  I'm still surprised that the price was so reasonable.

Reed (owner) and Renée (coordinator) had every detail covered and they were a blast to work with. Staff members were always checking with us to see if we needed anything else.

If I could give more stars to this review, I would.

One more thing... provided a list of preferred vendors to hire.  All were good, except the florist.  But, if they are available, I suggest you choose DJ Tony Sparks (this guy is incredible) and photographer Eileen Fahy (pictures are beautiful).

Jennifer G.

Jennifer G.
Pacifica, CA
Internet Review

I was recently married her at the Mansion September 6, 2008. I can only say wonderful things about Reed and Renée.  

The grounds are beautiful and Reed is always making improvements and assuring everything is groomed and clean. The inside of the Mansion is gorgeous and the guests can tour the house inside and out while you are having photos taken.

The staff was amazing, everyone was so nice and accommodating, to me and all my guests. Every guest there told me how wonderful the staff was. The particular Saturday we got married was very very hot, over 100 degrees. I had some older guest, that were very overheated and the staff made sure they had a cool cloth for them and checked on them periodically.

Reed and Renée coordinated every move for the ceremony, which I totally appreciated. They made it real easy and fun for me. I was afraid I was going to freak out but they made sure the only thing I needed to do that day was get dressed and have a good time.

One of the standouts for me was in all the craziness leading up to that day i had forgotten to make table names for my tables, so my place cards had particular table names, but the tables only had numbers. Renée manned the table where the place cards were and had a map that directed my guests to the proper tables. She saved me from freaking out.

I think my only regret is that I did wish I had booked another hour of the reception. But my guests thought it was perfect as far as time wise.

As far as money is concerned, the average cost of a wedding here in the Bay area is $40,000. I spent ALOT less than that and Jefferson Street Mansion was worth every penny spent.

Bonnie H.

Bonnie H.
El Sobrante, CA
Internet Review

My best friend's daughter just got married this last Sunday (6-14-09) at Jefferson Street Mansion. My best friend and I coordinated most of the wedding details, and throughout all our meetings/emails/and the wedding we could not have asked for better.  Reed Robbins, the owner, is friendly yet professional, and her number one person, Renée, is very focused on making your wedding day as wonderful as you want it to be. The Mansion is absolutely beautiful, guests are invited to walk around the mansion, the grounds are kept spotless, and Reed is always making improvements to the property. Our first reaction when we saw the site was WOW!  The staff on the wedding day were so very kind to everyone and genuinely showed an interest in what they were doing. Two staff members even suggested a spot where we could put our extra flowers and took care of it for us! I cannot say enough good things about our experience at Jefferson Street Mansion. If  I could give them 10+ stars I would!  Truly, I have coordinated quite a few weddings, and this is the best experience I have ever had! Book your wedding here -- you will not find a better venue!

Erika and James Keys

We want to thank you for helping make our wedding day the best of our lives. Everything about that day was magical. Jefferson Street Mansion is the perfect place for a wedding. We would recommend JSM to any couple. The location is wonderful and the venue is so much more personal than a hotel or country club. Obviously, anyone who considers JSM for their wedding is captivated by the mansion’s beauty, charm and personality. The beautiful antique furniture, the pristine grounds, the breathtaking views, the lovely architecture are impressive. What they might not see, but is even more impressive is the highest level of service, the attention to detail, and most important a stress and worry free day.

You have a true treasure in Renée. She is the epitome of professionalism. She was absolutely wonderful! She was on top of every detail, handled everything we threw at her, and she did it all with a smile. She and the staff work so well together and made our day run unbelievably smooth. We can’t think of one thing that could have gone better. And we’re not just referring to our wedding day. From the menu tasting, to the planning meeting, to the rehearsal dinner, Renée took care of us every step of the way. We would do it all over again, just the same way.

If anyone is unsure whether Jefferson Street Mansion is the place for them, please have them read this letter. We had numerous guests tell us that ours was the best wedding they had ever been to. You far exceeded our expectations! We knew that e picked the right place and people and yet you still blew us away!

We deeply appreciate your willingness to let us come back and take pictures with Erika’s parents since they were unable to make the wedding. It is extremely generous of you and it means a lot to us to be able to retake the photos. Yet another example of your world class service!

            What else can we say but THANK YOU! Thank you for making our special day everything we wanted it to be and more!

Sincerely,
Erika and James Keys

Kristi & Anthony

Thank you guys for helping to make my day a real dream come true!! Here's a little peek at how good it turned out...I've been blogged!! http://www.ilovelolliblog.com/

I had so much fun!! I kind of wish that it hadn't happened so I can do it all again.

Thanks,
Kristi

Glass Slipper Gourmet

Hope everyone is doing well!!
Just finished my blog post on your event! Thought you might like to see...=)
http://wp.me/p6NaN-iL
Take care -
-K

Best regards,
Kelly O'Brien
Glass Slipper Gourmet

Phone: 925.685.9042
Email: glassslipper@earthlink.net

Ramos-Black Wedding

This last Saturday September 13, 2008 my Grandson Greg Ramos, and Kacey Alexandria (Black) Ramos, were married in the Catholic Church in Benicia... Following that was the reception ceremony's and dinner at your Mansion... Just being there was an exhilarating and wonderful experience that I will not soon forget, [ if I were not 85 I would wish to have married, my dear deceased spouse Virginia there, as she deserved something special, "It is the graciousness which you possess in abundance" ]... I spoke to many of your employees, as I encountered them from time to time, and received a genuine courtesy in return, not often found these days, you are to be commended for that... Your dining experience was a absolute pleasure, it is not often that the table service, is of the refined quality you have strived to, and reached... So, I wish to thank you once again, for the wonderful, delightful few hours I spent as your guest... If some others do not appreciate the hospitality you rendered, then they are the losers...

Thank you,
Norman A. Ramos

Costa-Castillo Wedding

Just a note to thank you for the great party. Our Daughter's wedding, was so beautiful, and everything she had dreamed it would be. The location is spectacular, and the weather could not have been more perfect. Our family and friends are still raving about the grounds, the food, the flowers, the music, and the organization. Cathy, and Roberto, and the people that love them will never forget the memorable day. I also wanted to mention how impressed I was with your staff. They were all incredibly kind and courteous. One woman took the time to get some coffee for a cousin who had traveled several hours to the wedding, and the same woman served me coffee out in the garden before the wedding. But the most impressive staff, were the young people directing traffic and greeting guests in the parking lot. My parents, who are in their 80's, and were running late, were greeted by your staff, allowed to park close to the building, and were offered help, to get my Mom, and her wheel chair into the court yard. One young man made a point to watch my Dad park, and then offered him help getting out of the car. Many people noticed, and we will never forget the kindness. Thank you again for the amazing day, and please thank the staff.

Sincerely,
Christine M. Costa

E-Mail from "Here Comes the Guide"

Subject: Here Comes The Guide, compliments we received about you

Just wanted to commend you on compliments we heard about the fabulous wedding you did for Renée Powell in September. When a wedding coordinator compliments one of our clients, we know you did a super, amazing, over-and-above job for them because, well, who could be pickier?

We know you've an incredibly hard job and just acknowledge your good work by passing this along to you. We're very proud to have you as a client, and congratulate you.

Sincerely. Really. Truly.
Allison

*************************
Allison Bliss
510-864-8500 direct
Here Comes the Guide

Location Scout, Account Exec.
http://www.herecomestheguide.com
Hopscotch Press
Long on Content. Short on Fluff

For those who have read the bizarre statements made by Fraulein J.,
the following is from the Bride and her mother, our ‘real’ customers.
We have never had any contact with this Fraulein J. person,
just the typical follow up with one of our customers,
the true merit of any professional organization.
The review site chose to remove the positive feedback from
our customer and to leave the diatribe of this one unhappy guest.

From: kyraann…… The Bride
Sent: Tuesday, May 20, 2008 9:42 AM
To: info@jeffersonstreetmansion.com
Subject: Re: we...

Wow, I am so sorry! Where did she post this review? I have heard nothing but great things about the wedding and how exceptional everything was. My apologies, I would like to look at the review myself and post a retraction, after all it wasn't her wedding so I have no idea why she would do that. 

From: Kathy S.  The Mother of the Bride
Sent: Wednesday, May 28, 2008 10:21 AM
Subject: RE: we...

I am a bit flabbergasted. I had no idea that someone was dissatisfied. Please know that my daughter’s wedding was perfect in every way.  Everyone, with the exception of one, was totally enjoying the evening and the one person to whom it counted the most (my daughter, the bride) was satisfied beyond compare. Your staff is fabulous, your facility is romantic and well worth all the time and expense that you and your staff and my family put into it. My daughter has been on cloud nine since then. Please do not let one person put a damper on your confidence as she has done to my daughter. I want nothing but good memories for her from her special day.  I would highly recommend you to ANYONE who asks. 

Reverend Gerald W. Christiansen

(Also guest at this event)

I recently had the great honor to officiate at the wedding of friends at the Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia. Along with this honor came the pleasure of being a guest at this exceptional wedding site. Among my many endeavors I have been an interior designer for 30 years and was almost knocked of my feet by the wonderful decorating that had been done to this Civil War period mansion.  It is abundantly clear that the owner drew her design inspiration from mid-nineteenth century New Orleans style.  It is grand and elegant without that "over the top" Hollywood feel.

The ceremony was held in the South Garden under a pergola where the guests were seated to have a view of the Carquinez Straight and the rolling hills of Martinez and Port Costa. Everyone had a panoramic view. After the ceremony I led the guests to the East Garden where we were offered hors-d' oeuvres and a sumptuous buffet dinner under a tent with more views of the water.  I came away from the event feeling well feed and well served. I am truly pleased for my friends. I feel that the bride and groom chose an especially wonderful place to entertain their guests and in doing so got a truly good value for their money.

With blessings to all,
Reverend Gerald W. Christiansen