Blackstone Caterers of Newport, RI, Gourmet Galley of North Stonington, CT, Russell Morin Catering & Events of Newport, RI and The Catered Affair of Hingham, MA have been named as accredited Caterers of Choice for The Preservation Society of Newport County. Only these four caterers are allowed to provide food service for most events held in the Newport Mansions.
“After a competitive bidding process, these four companies were selected not only because of their ability to provide the outstanding service to which guests at our properties are accustomed, but also because they understand the limitations of working in a museum environment,” said Preservation Society CEO & Executive Director Trudy Coxe. “Private events held in our houses are an important source of revenue for us, but our primary concern and responsibility is to protect the fragile interiors of these century-old historic buildings. These caterers have shown they have the sensitivity and experience to operate in this unique environment.”
“With this Caterers of Choice program we’re providing an important service to the brides, corporate meeting planners, and others who want to use Rosecliff or one of our other properties for a private event,” said Special Events Director Philip Pelletier. “By pre-screening these caterers, we have assured our guests that they will get the kind of first-class service and hospitality they expected when they chose the Preservation Society as their venue.”
The chosen caterers have met several key criteria:
- Ability to provide catering services with a variety of menus at different prices to a variety of different clients;
- Ability to introduce prospective new member rental clients to the unique educational opportunities available at the Newport Mansions;
- Reputation and relevant experience at similar venues and/or at the Preservation Society;
- Quality of food and service;
- Financial strength and stability.
There are essentially two types of catering required at the Preservation Society’s properties. Private events held in the houses by members – either individuals or organizations – and Society-sponsored events. These may range from evening balls with hundreds of guests, to smaller gatherings including lectures, luncheons, receptions and breakfasts.
“Blackstone Caterers has been a Caterer of Choice for the Preservation Society since inception and we couldn’t be more honored to carry on that tradition going forward,” said owner John Edick. “We’re very fortunate to partner with such an upstanding organization dedicated to preserving the Island we all call home. We are eager for the 2018 season and look forward to continuing our strong and prosperous partnership far into the future.”
“Celebrating 20 years of doing what we love, Gourmet Galley Catering is thrilled to be welcomed as a Caterer of Choice for these grand historic houses. Thank you, The Preservation Society of Newport County, for placing your trust in Gourmet Galley. Whether you’re planning an intimate celebration, or an elegant affair, we look forward to creating the event of your dreams at the Newport Mansions,” said owner Anna Lathrop.
“The Preservation Society and Russell Morin Catering & Events share a very high standard of excellence. As Caterer of Choice, we will continue to make a difference in the lives of our clients, employees and the Newport community through a sound yet innovative hospitality experience,” said Russell Morin.
“The rich history, the gorgeous Gilded Age architecture, and the stunning water views make the Newport Mansions New England’s most magnificent and inspiring destination for weddings, festivals, and corporate gatherings,” said Holly Safford, founder & president of The Catered Affair. “We are delighted to be selected by the Preservation Society to provide catering and event services at these iconic mansions.”
The Preservation Society of Newport County, Rhode Island, is a non-profit organization accredited by the American Alliance of Museums and dedicated to preserving and interpreting the area’s historic architecture, landscapes, decorative arts and social history. Its 11 historic properties–seven of them National Historic Landmarks–span more than 250 years of American architectural and social development.
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