The Ben

The Ben, Autograph Collection, located at 251 N Narcissus Avenue, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401, is a chic 4-star boutique hotel offering a luxurious wedding venue in Florida’s vibrant downtown. Overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, this stylish retreat blends contemporary design with coastal sophistication, creating an unforgettable setting for couples seeking a modern, waterfront wedding. Its prime location, steps from Clematis Street and Rosemary Square, and a short bridge from Palm Beach Island, ensures guests enjoy West Palm Beach’s lively culture, making it ideal for a memorable destination wedding.

Wedding Venue Highlights:

• Event Spaces: The hotel features 7,500 sq. ft. of versatile indoor and outdoor venues, each with a distinct, upscale vibe. The rooftop Spruzzo, an Italian-inspired lounge with panoramic views of the Intracoastal Waterway and Palm Beach Island, is perfect for intimate ceremonies or cocktail receptions for up to 150 guests, offering a stunning sunset backdrop. The Blue Heron Ballroom, with its sleek design and floor-to-ceiling windows, accommodates up to 200 guests for grand receptions, with pre-function areas showcasing waterfront vistas. The Library, a cozy, book-lined space, suits rehearsal dinners or bridal brunches for up to 50 guests. The Waterfront Terrace provides an outdoor option for cocktail hours or relaxed gatherings, hosting up to 100 guests with views of the marina and city skyline.
• Dedicated Event Support: The hotel’s experienced wedding specialists offer personalized guidance, collaborating with couples on everything from decor to vendor coordination. Praised for their attentiveness and creativity, the team ensures a seamless experience, with reviewers noting their ability to handle last-minute adjustments, such as weather-related venue changes, with ease.
• Ambiance and Aesthetics: The Ben’s modern aesthetic, with nautical-inspired decor, marble accents, and curated art, creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Spruzzo’s rooftop vistas and the ballroom’s waterfront views provide photogenic backdrops, while the terrace captures West Palm Beach’s coastal charm. Nearby Clematis Street and the Intracoastal Waterway offer urban and scenic settings for wedding photos, blending city vibrancy with waterfront allure.
• Catering Excellence: The culinary team, led by chefs at Proper Grit, the hotel’s signature restaurant, crafts bespoke menus featuring modern American cuisine with Southern influences and local ingredients. Options range from elegant plated dinners to interactive stations, with highlights like fresh seafood and craft cocktails. Guests rave about the “delicious” food and “stunning” presentations, with menu tastings ensuring a tailored dining experience. Proper Grit’s stylish dining room or outdoor patio is ideal for rehearsal dinners or post-wedding brunches.
• Accommodations for Guests: The hotel offers 208 elegantly appointed rooms and suites with plush bedding, free Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and mini-fridges. Many rooms feature balconies with Intracoastal or skyline views, perfect for the wedding party. Suites, with spacious living areas and luxurious bathrooms, provide a romantic retreat for couples. Accessible rooms ensure inclusivity, and guests praise the “chic” design and “spotless” comfort.
• Wedding-Friendly Amenities:
  • Rooftop infinity pool with waterfront views for guest relaxation, ideal for pre- or post-wedding downtime.
  • 24-hour fitness center with modern equipment to keep guests refreshed.
  • Free Wi-Fi throughout for easy coordination and sharing of wedding moments.
  • On-site Proper Grit and Spruzzo for dining and drinks, with rooftop and patio spaces for casual wedding-related gatherings.
  • Electric vehicle charging stations for eco-conscious guests.
  • Complimentary beach shuttle to nearby Palm Beach for guest outings.
• Services Enhancing the Wedding Experience: A 24-hour front desk, room service, daily housekeeping, and concierge services ensure guest comfort. The staff’s “exceptional” and “friendly” service, often described as going “above and beyond,” enhances the wedding experience, with event teams creating a personalized, welcoming atmosphere.

Guest Feedback Relevant to Weddings:

• Couples and guests highlight the hotel’s “gorgeous” rooftop and ballroom spaces, “breathtaking” waterway views, and “impeccable” service, noting the venues’ modern charm elevates wedding photos. The culinary offerings, stylish accommodations, and prime location are frequently praised, with Spruzzo’s rooftop being a standout for its romantic ambiance.
• Some guests mention minor issues, like occasional noise from downtown events or limited parking, which couples should consider when planning guest logistics. The pool’s smaller size may not suit large poolside events.

Practical Information for Wedding Planning:

• Nearby Attractions for Guests: The hotel’s downtown location offers access to Clematis Street’s restaurants and nightlife, Rosemary Square’s shopping and dining, the Norton Museum of Art, and Palm Beach Island’s upscale beaches and boutiques. Intracoastal Waterway activities, like boat tours or watersports, add adventure for wedding weekends.
• Transportation: A complimentary shuttle covers nearby beaches and attractions. The hotel is 5 miles from Palm Beach International Airport (10-minute drive), with no airport shuttle but easy access via taxi or rideshare.
• Parking: Valet parking is available, with some guests noting costs as unexpected, so couples should clarify arrangements for guests.
• Pet Policy: Pets are allowed (policy details vary), accommodating guests with pets.
• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in at 4:00 PM, check-out at 11:00 AM, offering flexibility for wedding preparations.

Why It Stands Out for Florida Weddings:

The Ben, Autograph Collection, shines as a Florida wedding venue with its stylish rooftop Spruzzo, elegant Blue Heron Ballroom, and scenic Waterfront Terrace, blending modern luxury with Intracoastal charm. The dedicated wedding specialists, exceptional catering, and upscale amenities like the rooftop pool create a curated, unforgettable experience. Its prime downtown West Palm Beach location, near vibrant attractions and beaches, makes it perfect for destination weddings, offering guests a mix of urban energy and coastal allure. As part of Marriott Bonvoy, it provides loyalty benefits, adding value for couples and guests.

Note: West Palm Beach’s warm climate can be humid, especially in summer, so couples planning rooftop or terrace events should consider evening timings or indoor backups, as the staff excels at quick adjustments. Booking early for spring or winter ensures availability for popular venues like Spruzzo.