Site Visit - Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium

Venue: Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium

Address: 1301 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington, DC

Neighborhood: Penn Quarter, National Mall

Venue Type: Auditorium, Government Building

Best for: Large-scale networking functions, Mid-sized Galas; Large wedding Receptions

Capacity: There are five unique spaces in the venue, allowing for small receptions (70 standing) to seating for 700+ at banquet rounds. The Auditorium itself can hold 1,000 people standing (max capacity allowed due to fire code).

Rental Fees: $$$. Weekday or night rentals can run $12K. Weekends will run more.

Catering: Outside caterers are welcome but must meet the 'Approved Supplier Guidelines' found here: http://www.mellonauditorium.com/supplier.htm

Transportation: Valet is highly recommended. There are limited self-park garages in the area (Ronald Reagan Building lot is closest). Metro accessible via the Federal Triangle station (blue and orange lines), then a block walk towards Constitution Ave. Cabs will always be plentiful here too.

Venue Website: http://www.mellonauditorium.com

What We Love:

• The open space. Few facilities (hotels, aside) in Washington offer so much open floor space.
• The built-in stage. Using the existing stage will allow for maximum table/dance floor capacities on the main floor.
• The beautiful interior architecture. The Mellon was designed by Arthur Brown, Jr. who adorned each room with rich, gilded visuals. Guests will be entranced by the stunning interior.

Planner's Tips:

• Plan to budget for ample lighting for the Auditorium. The space is gorgeous but the soaring ceilings don't allow for much ambient light. Use bold hues to brighten your affair by adding up-lights to the columns, color washes on the stage and dance floor and pin-spotting dinner tables.
• Pre-reception space is at a minimum. The Lobby will fit 200 persons maximum, less with registration tables and magnetometers. The space also gets very loud when full.
• Don't underestimate the seriousness of security's rules and regulations. This is, after all, a government building in the heart of DC.