Design lends flexibility to banquet center
The Reserve opens, complements Big Rock
May 25, 2006 Birmingham Eagle
By Rebecca Jones
C & G Staff Writer

BIRMINGHAM — Purposeful decision-making went into construction of The Reserve, a new banquet center from the people who run Big Rock Chop and Brew House on Eton.

With décor inspired by California’s wine country, state-of-the-art illumination and doors big enough to drive a Hummer through, The Reserve isn’t just a wedding and retirement party place. Owners Norm and Bonnie LePage hope to fill the days with the business conference crowd, said Vera Rizer, general manager.

The Reserve, at 325 S. Eton, can accommodate 280 guests, and the 3,600-square-foot main dining area can be divided into two rooms or opened into a single large room, including the reception area.

Stemming from the LePages’ long history of hosting special automotive events at Big Rock, the banquet room was designed with a reinforced floor to accommodate cars for display.

For weddings and social affairs, a 15-foot-by-30-foot portable dance floor will be installed.

“We didn’t want to be pigeon-holed,” said banquet manager Stefan Ringgenberg. “It’s worked out well so far. It’s flexible for meetings and weddings.”

LED lighting fixtures can be programmed to create any mood or fit any color, such as a bride’s theme. Two large-screen plasma TVs can be put into play for business presentations or to show a video at a roast, Rizer said. Or, they can be covered by artwork.

Commissioned artwork and a blown-glass chandelier decorate the lobby. Large windows, vaulted ceilings, mahogany wood, and a granite fireplace were chosen for their residential feel.

Everyone should visit the women’s restroom, said Norm LePage, who with a smile claims it as his favorite room.

The continental staff includes a French maitre-d’, Swiss banquet manager and renowned pastry chef Tanya Fallon. The menu changes, but right now she likes chocolate and banana together, and crunchy layers.

Executive Chef Jeff Rose, formerly from Tribute, puts together seasonal and regional menus and accommodates requests for ethnic food. “You name it. We can do it,” he said.

Open for just a few weeks, the center has hosted weddings, a chamber music ensemble and business affairs, Rizer said. Another 70 events have been booked. Organizers also planned an event to welcome neighbors.

Prices are “well within the norm,” Rizer said, declining to give a per-plate estimate. “You could expect for a wedding to spend $20,000 to $30,000 for a wedding in this area. We’re in that range.”

LePage said he expects Big Rock and The Reserve to complement each other and help people plan more extensive events.

“When people host a wedding or bar mitzvah, it’s more than just a one-day affair,” he said. “We see a real plus in being able to host a complete weekend of memorable events within one location. For example, families can enjoy a Friday evening rehearsal dinner for the bride and groom at Big Rock, prior to a Saturday night wedding at The Reserve, followed by drinks at our popular martini bar, Got Rocks, or a Sunday brunch back at Big Rock.”

For more information about The Reserve, call (248) 647-1290 or visit www.thereservebirmingham.com.