By Rochelle Maruch Miller
Nestled amid 40 acres of Hudson Valley nature, Hilton Westchester is the perfect venue to begin your happily ever after or celebrate any special event. Combining a lush woodland setting with modern elegance, it creates a gorgeous oasis, a world away from the rigors and routines of everyday life.
Featuring grand crystal chandeliers and unobstructed views, the Hilton Westchester’s two world-class ballrooms offer a stunning backdrop to simcha celebrations of all styles, small and large. Creating a breathtaking fusion of the traditional and modern, Hilton Westchester is the place where dreams are brought to fruition and precious memories are made.
Life’s greatest moments happen at the Hilton Westchester, and your special day is no exception. With over 40 years of experience hosting kosher weddings of distinction, Hilton Westchester looks forward to having the pleasure of orchestrating your celebratory event to perfection.
“Hilton Westchester was purchased by Fred Manocherian last January and the impact was immediate and significant. During the past few months, the hotel has undergone a transformation, with major renovations,” said Brian M. Finneran, director of catering at Hilton Westchester.
Personable and proficient in matters concerning the special requirements of the kashrus-observant community, Finneran is CEO of BmF Hospitality Group,LLC, CEO of Boutique Hospitality/Food & Beverage Management Company, and president of the Intermedia Event Group, LLC. Previously, he was vice-president of The 21 Club; vice-president dining and sales at Tavern on the Green; and director of catering at the Waldorf-Astoria. A distinguished leader in the hospitality industry, he looks forward to affording all segments of the kosher market the ultimate kosher simcha experience.
“One of the unique aspects of Hilton Westchester is the elegance, natural beauty, and tranquility of its setting. Under Mr. Manocherian’s ownership, we are taking a new direction and restoring Hilton Westchester’s grandeur as the ‘Hilton of the Woods,’” said Finneran, who has hosted some of the most noted weddings and events, many of which were glatt kosher simchas, over many years.
As director of catering at Hilton Westchester, he brings his unparalleled experience, creativity, and standards of excellence to what is fast becoming the premier kosher wedding venue. That Hilton Westchester’s client base spans the five boroughs, Five Towns, Long Island, Westchester, and throughout the Metropolitan area is not surprising.
With guests arriving from locations near and far, location and ease of access becomes a key factor. Hilton Westchester alleviates your burden with complimentary shuttle service to Westchester Airport, as well as to the Port Chester and Rye train stations. Along with shuttle service, the hotel is happy to offer valet parking and ample complimentary self-parking.
To assist you in creating your dream wedding or other special event, Finneran, renowned for his uncompromising level of personal service and meticulous attention to detail, will work closely with you to plan and orchestrate an unforgettable simcha that reflects your unique taste and style.
“Hilton Westchester is the perfect choice for anyone who is looking for a truly unique and beautiful venue for their simcha,” said Rabbi Avi Feldman, director of kosher marketing for the hotel. “Brian Finneran has a good understanding of Jewish sensitivities and he is dedicated to satisfying them. Brian and his staff do everything possible to accommodate these sensitivities. Hilton Westchester has a dedicated second kitchen available for outside catering and food preparation, and all kashrus standards will be honored.”
Rabbi Feldman, who served as a rav in Atlanta, Georgia, and in Columbus, Ohio, has been actively involved in kashrus for 20 years. Describing the hotel in detail, he noted its exquisite grounds as being a picture-perfect setting for an outdoor chuppah. For an indoor ceremony, Hilton Westchester’s open chuppah ceiling in the dining room sets a beautiful chuppah under the stars.
Stunning and spacious, the ballrooms are two of the largest in Westchester County and can accommodate 300–800 guests as well as a mechitzah with ease. Creating a memorable bar or bat mitzvah at Hilton Westchester is a pleasure. Their team is delighted to help and plan an unforgettable celebration.
Flexible space allows for easy configuration, whether a sit-down lunch or dinner, separate areas for adults and children, or a standing reception. Outdoor receptions are available as are weekend bar mitzvahs and sheva berachos, with 445 elegantly appointed guest rooms, all with metal keys, most with double beds.
A separate room is designated for a shul, shiurim, and lectures. In honor of Shabbos, Hilton Westchester has created an eruv. They want to make sure that your simcha has all the elements to create the ideal experience for you and your guests.
Brian Finneran and his staff cordially invite you to experience the grandeur, hospitality, superb service, and amenities that are the hallmark of Hilton Westchester — the Hilton of the Woods.
Rochelle Maruch Miller is a contributing editor for the Five Towns Jewish Times. She is a journalist, creative media consultant, lecturer, and educator, and writes for magazines, newspapers, websites, and private clients. She welcomes your comments at Rochellemiller04@aol.com.
