My story is not usual, but it has a happy ending! When I was looking for a catering hall for my summer wedding the Lakeside Manor was already booked. So we booked my wedding at the Excelsior in Manalapan. Six weeks before my wedding, my parents got a call that the Excelsior was being closed in 2 wks. Talk about a nightmare.....but thanks to Syed and his staff I had my dream wedding. By fate, there was a cancellation same day and time at the Lakeside Manor b/c a bride had to postpone her wedding. IT WAS PURE FATE! When I met Syed he made us feel very welcome. He promised me I'd have a wonderful wedding and not to worry. The Manor is gorgeous- the ballroom was really breathtaking. The drapery on the ceiling is so elegant and with the special lighting looks even more amazing. Syed was very nice and easygoing to work with. I dont have one complaint. My ceremony was held inside and it was perfect. We used the wall dividers to hide the otherside and my florist added tulle to make it look pretty. It really came out great! All my guests have been complimenting the food and atmosphere. I hear the cocktail hour food was the best. As the bride, I didn't eat much that night. I was having a wonderful time and scared to stain my ballgown. LOL! The champagne toast was very cool with the sparklers. Our name in lights on the floor and the red lighting we used made it extra special. The dance floor was comfortable with our party of 200 guests. Our dramatic entrance from the staircase was incredible. It had a romantic look with the lights and tulle. My bridal suite was huge. Best suite I've ever seen. Syed is very professional and was visible throughout my wedding making sure there were no problems. His staff was also exceptional. The Vienese table is always a highlight with the chocolate fountain and assortment of goodies. I recommend this place to any bride looking for a romantic and elegant wedding. The outdoors is nice with the gazebo, I just didn't want to be outside in August in my ballgown with the heat. The Lakeside Manor has 1 wedding at a time...so there's no running into other brides or parties. Lakeside Manor is exceptional- check it out. :-)