The Manor, popular event venue in West Orange, will close its doors in July after 66 years
WEST ORANGE, New Jersey (WABC) -- A popular wedding venue and catering hall in New Jersey is closing its doors for good.
The Manor on Prospect Avenue announced it will close on July 5th after operating in the community for 66 years.
Owners blame the COVID-19 pandemic, inflation, and other unforeseen circumstances for the closing.
The venue first opened in West Orange on New Year's Eve in 1956.
It started as a three-room restaurant and became known for more than its lavish buffets and beautiful setting.
"They're very attentive there, they made us feel like royalty, very beautiful, very nice food, was amazing, just perfect," said Jaqueline and Maceo Watson who had their wedding at The Manor five years ago.
The Watsons planned to celebrate a vow renewal there in five years. They said it is the only place they would want to do it.
"We just always thought it would be there.. it's been there so long, it very sad, I'm so sad about it," the couple said.
Those who run the property say it was a very tough decision to make.
"As those who know us are certain, our hearts have always been (and always will be) with The Manor. It was the very first of our family's properties, grown year over year to something incredibly special to us. It has been an immeasurable part of our life's work for over 66 years. We've laughed, we've cried, we've labored side-by-side through it all," the Knowles family said on behalf of The Manor.
Couples and clients who had events scheduled after the July closing date have been contacted and refunds returned.
There is no word on what will happen with the property after it closes this summer.
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