Frequently Asked Questions 

Do you allow engagement photoshoots? 

The historic Alger estate, newly renovated Fred M. Alger Center, charming front circle and lush gardens and back lawn, provide a tremendous assortment of unique views that guests can cater to their photography theme and needs. Please visit our Photography page for more information.

Does all food and beverage have to be provided by your in-house caterer? 

Yes, all food and beverage must be purchased through The War Memorial. The removal of food and/or beverage from The War Memorial is prohibited by Michigan law. The War Memorial takes great pride in providing all of our guests with the freshest and most authentic food and beverage experience possible. 

How do I secure the date? 

The mission of The War Memorial includes honoring members and veterans of the Armed Forces. Therefore, it is required that all clients have a family member (living or deceased) who has served, or is currently serving, in the United States military. Please download our Veteran/Service Member form

The War Memorial will extend a complimentary one-week hold with no obligation on the date of your choice. Your date will be permanently secured and considered definite upon payment of the deposit and signed contract. 

After one week, the date will be released if your deposit, signed contract, and military information form have not been received. 

What is included with the rental of your venue? 

An event coordinator to assist you with your planning needs. We will provide standard tables and chairs, white floor length linens and dinner napkins along with our house place setting to include china, silverware, salt and pepper, bread and butter plate with knife, water, and wine glasses. 

What size are your tables and how many people can be seated at them? 

The rental of the space includes the setup and tear-down of tables and chairs for your event.  We have the following tables available: 

  • 60” rounds—Typically seats eight guests, with a max of nine 

  • 72” rounds—Typically seats ten guests with a max of eleven – Minimal Inventory 

  • 6’ rectangle tables—Seats six guests – Minimal Inventory 

  • 8’ rectangle tables—Seats eight guests – Minimal Inventory 

Is the food and beverage minimum inclusive of tax and service charge? 

A minimum food and beverage spend will apply and varies depending on the date and desired space. The food and beverage minimum is the minimum amount that must be spent before service charge and tax is applied. Any shortcoming regarding the food and beverage minimum amount will be charged as a rental fee.   

Is there a charge for offering more than one entrée selection? 

There is an additional entrée per person fee with a two-selection maximum. 

Is the deposit refundable? 

All cancellations or requests to change the date of an Event must be submitted in writing. Date change requests shall be considered based on availability, within the same fiscal year. Date change requests to a different fiscal year or event cancellations will result in forfeiture of all amounts previously paid including but not limited to non- refundable deposits.