Royalton vs. Carltun (Eisenhower Pk) - Need help deciding!

Hi Everyone!

I'm new to this site and the whole wedding planning process. I have looked at over 20 venues in the L.I., Westchester, and Queens area. I'm pretty sure I have narrowed it down to two places: the Royalton Mansion and the Carltun. I feel as though there are pros and cons of both and I am having such a hard time deciding!

Royalton - I looove the cozy, charming, elegant feel of the place. I really feel as though the staff will go above and beyond to make the day a special one for my fiance and I. I would totally choose this venue in a heartbeat, However, I am concerned that it might be too small for the amount of people I am inviting, which is about 200. Granted, I know that in reality I will probably have closer to about 165 -175 once everyone responds. I'm worried that the cocktail hr will be too cramped (although it will be a summer wedding so I am counting on having access to the outside area) and I also fear the ballroom being packed esp. with a band.
* If anyone has gotten married at the Royalton, or attended a wedding there with about 175-200 people, please give me your honest opinion.

The Carltun - I really like it here as well. It is obviously a beautiful venue and I've heard wonderful things about the food (just like i have heard about the Royalton). However, it is obviously alot pricier than the Royalton AND it doesn't seem as though you get as much in terms of food choices. I've also heard that they can be a little inflexible in terms of changing the menu options. However, I really love the cocktail hr room and the access to the outdoor patio. I also loved the size and style of the ballroom. But, then again, I don't like the fact that there isn't a bar in the ballroom (guests need to leave the ballroom and go into the CH room if they want to get a drink from the bar).

What are everyone's thoughts on the Carltun?

Thanks for your help!

i havent been to a wedding at either one - so im not sure how much help i will be...but
1 - we did look at the royalton. and we loved it - but it was way out of our price range. i definitely think you will be treated well here and your guests will enjoy themselves. becuase youre thinking about the summer, i definitely think your guests will have plenty of room during cocktail hour - it will be big enough. we're only having about 100 - of course the ballroom was big for us...how many does the room hold?
2 - we've eaten at the carlton restaurant. soo good. and such a beautiful venue. my moh's sister was married there a few years ago but i couldnt go. have heard wonderful things about her wedding though. i can ask for more details?

my opinion - for what its worth, is the royalton. i think you'll be fine with that many people.

I went to a wedding at the Royalton which had 200 people there. If you are not able to be outside (if it rains) the cocktail hour, in my opinion, will be very tight. I would speak to them and see if they will include a tent at no charge if the weather is not good. I honestly do not think 200 people can fit in the cocktail hour room.

The ballroom was tight for 200 people. The dance floor was not that big which I did not love but that may not be something that is important to you. There was a DJ at the wedding I went to so I am not sure how much space would be taken more if it was a band.

i had my bridal shower and have attended weddings at the CARLTUN....it is an awesome place.....the food is GREAT and the SERVICE is also at the the top....everyone goes above and beyond to make your day special....it is a tad pricey but maybe you can negotiate ....im pretty sure you wont regret picking the carltun :) hope this helps