The Inside Scoop - Retro Suites Hotel
Retro Suites Hotel has a little bit of everything for it’s guests. When you first step into the lobby you can’t help but be awestruck. As you walk up the original staircase from 1895, you become transfixed by the the intermingling of modern amenities and old-world charm. With 45 individually designed rooms, there is certainly something for every taste. What we love most about that initial entrance you may ask - the warm hospitality radiating through the hotel staff. Found on King Street in Chatham, Ontario, this gem of a boutique hotel is not only a great getaway location, but perfect venue for all of life’s special events.
A Brief History
Originally built in 1888 as a hardware store for George Stephens, the architecture of the building well advanced its time. Through the years, the building went through many changes, until it finally came into the hands of Rob Myers, the owner of RM Sotheby’s, the largest specialty automobile auction house in the world. With a big plan for his clients coming to town, the dream came into fruition to create a truly remarkable place for those to spend their time.
The Atmosphere
Everywhere you turn inside the hotel, you find yourself staring at incredible artwork and sculptures, each with their own story to tell. You could spend hours just looking around! Known for loving collectables, Rob Myers has filled the hotel with incredible pieces of history and funky memorabilia for all to enjoy. Just off of the lobby, you will find the famous Nutcracker statues originally from FAO Schwartz in New York City. Some of you may recall seeing these in the famous movie starring Tom Hanks, entitled “Big”. It is so much fun to venture through the halls to discover all the interesting memorabilia Retro Suites has to offer!
The Accommodations
The hotel boasts 45 individually designed rooms - from a Sports themed room, to feeling as though you are a million miles away in Nantucket, you feel as though you have stepped into a new world walking into each room. The Log Cabin is famous for it’s woodsy smell - the wood being repurposed from the original building. Whether you are looking to take a trip to South Beach, or possibly Santa Fe - all you have to do is head to the Retro Suites to be transported. In addition to the wide range of rooms, the Presidential Suite, along with a few other glamorous rooms, come equipped to hold numerous people - perfect for wedding parties to get ready!
Wedding Ready
The Derby is where all of the Retro Suites weddings dreams come true! The room can be designed and decorated to your choosing, from rustic to contemporary. It is the perfect space for a great party for up to 200 guests. You can work with their wedding specialist team to customize the menu for your Big Day – buffet, plated, canapé styled meals are available. This venue is the perfect place to host an out-of-town wedding, that allows guests the convenience of the hotel facilities, and a full service restaurant The Chilled Cork. After a long night of partying, there is nothing quite like hopping on an elevator and ended up in your cozy room!
Wedding photos taken here are known for their unique flare. With so many different decor styles, and backdrops for your photos, Retro Suites offers something for everyone! Photos outside on the suite balconies, or along Retro Way, it’s South Beach look make for some incredible shots! The staff at Retro Suites go above and beyond to ensure your Big Day is everything you dreamed it to be - down to all the final details!
Hospitality
The hospitality of Retro Suites is second to none. The Suites are impeccably maintained and continue to surprise guests - whether it be their first visit or not. If you have not made your way out to see the Retro Suites in Chatham, I would highly recommend it! Not only is it a great venue for weddings and celebrations, but also a great spot for a weekend away from the Windsor-Essex area, without even needing a plane ticket!
Wedding Photos of Nicola & Chris Courtesy of Manifesto Photography
All Retro Suite Hotel Photos Courtesy of Retro Suite Hotel