The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg is half full for its restaurant and event rooms according to the pandemic guidelines. (Photo provided by James Liebau)
The Lafayette Hotel in Marietta has adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic with changes to provide social distancing for guests and visitors. (Photo provided by Launa Holden-More)
The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg is half full for its restaurant and event rooms according to the pandemic guidelines. (Photo provided by James Liebau)
PARKERSBURG – Many hotels managed to stay open during the COVID-19 pandemic, but that doesn’t mean the protocol has stayed the same.
The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg and the Lafayette Hotel in Marietta are local hotels known for their function rooms.
Launa Holden-More, Sales Manager at Lafayette, took over her role in January 2020, just before the pandemic began. Holden-More spent much of spring canceling or rescheduling events as the coronavirus situation moved on.
However, the Lafayette was still able to provide safe celebrations.
“We follow all rules and restrictions of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health and are in constant contact with the local health department.” Holden-More said.
The Lafayette Hotel in Marietta has adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic with changes to provide social distancing for guests and visitors. (Photo provided by Launa Holden-More)
Restrictions include reducing the maximum capacity, mask protocols, restricting the gathering at tables and in the lobby, a restriction on dancing, and a new rule from November 17: only family members or members of the same household can sit socially distant at tables with a maximum eight.
“Our guests that we had at these events were able to keep the rules pretty well.” Holden-More said.
According to the Lafayette, 240 events were held in 2020. By comparison: 447 events took place in 2019.
“People were happy and thankful that we made it [their event] and do it by following the rules. “ She said.
Most of the Christmas parties have been canceled and weekly meetings postponed.
“As soon as some of the COVID restrictions are lifted and we can reopen the restaurant, lounge and banquet services, we would like to welcome everyone who visits us for the Lafayette experience.” Holden-More said.
The Blennerhassett Hotel in Parkersburg has implemented similar protocols.
“We have seen many drastic changes and are always up to date with what state and local health authorities are allowing.” said James Liebau, event sales and marketing supervisor for the Blennerhassett.
According to Liebau, the Blennerhassett is half full for both its restaurant and event rooms.
“We had a lot of rescheduling [at the beginning of the pandemic] or many Zoom or Skype meetings with customers. “ Liebau said.
However, Liebau believes that Blennerhassett’s commitment to safe practices has boosted business.
“We were really very grateful and I was pleasantly surprised at the business we were able to bring in.” he said.
According to Liebau, many common events such as B. Company dinner, canceled due to company policy. However, other popular events persist.
“We can usually accommodate up to 200 guests at weddings. Unfortunately, with the current protocols and guidelines, we can reach a maximum of 100 guests. “ Liebau said.
Staff precautions include providing masks and gloves, and daily temperature controls.
“Instead of your traditional buffet, we make a serving station.” Liebau said in relation to meals.
This type of catering is intended to reduce personal contact with food, as only one employee is responsible for it.
“We make sure that the tables are dismissed appropriately and properly so that no groups or groups of people stand in line.” Liebau said.
Some long-standing wedding traditions like dancing have been preserved as weddings are private events.
“We’re thankful for that, it’s kind of a big event when it comes to a wedding reception.” Liebau said.
Due to the nature of private events, masks are required in public areas, but guests can go maskless once they are in their designated private area as per state guidelines.
“Our main focus is on safety, not only for our employees here, but of course also for the guests and the public.” Liebau said.
With the distribution of a vaccine, there is renewed hope that events will soon normalize again.
Jenna Pierson can be reached at jpierson@newsandsentinel.com
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