As a wedding photographer, I've had the pleasure of capturing love stories in various venues, but few match the special feeling of a wedding at Alumni Memorial Hall! Nestled within the historic campus of McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, this venue offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity, making it an ideal setting for couples seeking a memorable wedding experience.

History
Alumni Memorial Hall was constructed in 1951, funded by a $100,000 campaign led by the McMaster Alumni Association. The building was named in honor of McMaster students and alumni who gave their lives in the two world wars, with two plaques inside commemorating these individuals. Originally, the hall housed a cafeteria, lounges for men and women, a common room, and the offices of the McMaster Alumni Association. Affectionately known as "The Buttery" by students, it served as a popular gathering spot until 1961, when Wentworth House opened. Today, the University Club of McMaster occupies most of the space in Alumni Memorial Hall.

Great Hall
Services Offered & Unique Features
What sets Alumni Memorial Hall apart is its seamless fusion of historic elegance and modern amenities. Notable features include:
- Catering Services: In partnership with Hospitality Services, the venue offers world-class dining options tailored to your preferences, including customizable menus to suit various tastes and dietary requirements.
- Audio-Visual Equipment: State-of-the-art audio-visual equipment is available to enhance your event, with additional charges applying for these services.
- Outdoor Balcony: Available during spring and summer, the balcony offers patio seating for up to 36 guests, allowing for intimate outdoor moments amidst the celebration.
- Picturesque Campus: The surrounding campus features Collegiate Gothic architecture, lush gardens, and manicured pathways, providing stunning backdrops for wedding photos. Note that a photo permit is required for photos on the campus. More info can be found at https://housing.mcmaster.ca/conference-event-services/film-tv/.
- Sentimental Value for Alumni Couples: For couples who met at McMaster, hosting their wedding on campus adds a personal and sentimental touch, creating new memories in a place that holds special meaning.

Available Spaces
Ceremony Spaces
- Great Hall: Accommodates up to 140 guests in a majestic and historic setting, ideal for couples looking for a grand space to say their vows surrounded by beautiful architecture.
Reception Spaces
- Great Hall: With a capacity of up to 72 guests, the Great Hall offers a refined space for your wedding reception. Its spacious layout and elegant design create the perfect atmosphere for dining and dancing, celebrating the start of your married life.
- West Room: A great choice for smaller, more intimate receptions, the West Room accommodates up to 30 guests in a banquet-style setting. It provides a cozy yet elegant atmosphere, perfect for couples seeking a private and intimate celebration.
- The Buttery: Once the heart of McMaster as its cafeteria, The Buttery now offers an intimate reception venue with a menu that celebrates local and sustainable ingredients. While specific seating details are not publicly available, The Buttery’s warm and historic setting is perfect for couples looking for something unique.

The Buttery
Pricing & Packages
Alumni Memorial Hall at McMaster University offers a range of event spaces with pricing tailored to your specific needs.
- Great Hall:
- Full Day (Monday-Friday): $1,026
- Full Day (Saturday-Sunday): $2,122
- Half-Day: $533
- West Room:
- Full Day: $345
- Half-Day: $173
Additional charges apply for audio-visual services, equipment, and extra event labor and setup. A minimum spend of $750 on food and beverages is required for all events after 6:00 p.m., and a $2,000 minimum applies to weekend events.
Please note that these rates are effective from September 1, 2024, to August 31, 2025, and are subject to change in the future. For more detailed information or to discuss your specific event requirements, please visit https://stay.mcmaster.ca/signature-venues/alumni-memorial-hall/.