Meet Your Host

About Ray:
I always find it amusing when I meet people who might not realize I'm not who they expected for their tour. No, I'm not a woman, and no, I’m not in my 20s; I'm a passionate 56-year-old guy who truly loves hosting events. I take great pride in getting to know my clients and strive to help create one of the best venues in town for smaller celebrations — "From strangers to best buds."

With over 20 years of experience opening restaurants as a bar trainer in places like New Mexico, Seattle, Hawaii, Las Vegas, and San Diego, I know that attention to detail is crucial. I’ve also worked as a wedding photographer in this area, so when I set up or offer suggestions, I think about the best angles and lighting for photographers.

I’m a huge Green Bay Packers fan — GO PACK GO!

I have a love affair with New Orleans, and all three of my rescue pups are named after that amazing city.

Fun fact: I hung out with Shaq and Kobe while I was living in Hawaii!

Belle Vue Wilmington is veteran-owned, and I served in the U.S. Army from 1988 to 1992!

Relief work runs in my veins; I always say I have two hands, two feet, and a big heart, which is far more valuable than just having deep pockets to give money. So, when something happens, I jump in and figure out how to help.

Oh, and I’m a Jeep enthusiast!

Chatting on the phone isn't my favorite thing, but I want to assure you that I’ll give you my full attention and put in my best effort for your special day. Feel free to reach out via email, or even better, come see me in person. Remember, choosing the right venue is not just about the space, but also about the wonderful person who’s helping make your dreams come true.

Happy Planning! I look forward to meeting you and doing everything I can to make your event perfect.

Shannon

SHANNON Belle Vue Wilmington was a wonderful experience for our whole family. Ray is so helpful from the beginning to the end of your party/gathering. My daughter decided to have a quick wedding within 3 weeks of her engagement. And the process was so seamless, thanks to all of Ray's help and guidance. The venue had everything we needed to have the wedding in one place. There was a storage area with refrigerators for all of the things we brought along with us. A place for the bride to get ready, and take nice pictures in the back. A beautiful bar and lounge area. And there were tables, chairs and linens included. Along with great lighting and sound system. Which made things so easy. They even have a nice little fenced courtyard for guest to mingle in outside. Oh, and the parking lot is a plus too! Out friends loved it so much, they booked their rehearsal dinner there, as well.

Nicholas

Where do we begin?! Belle Vue and Ray both exceeded our expectations. Ray is kind, helpful, and nothing short of invested and engaged. I honestly don’t know what we would have done without all of his help on the day of our wedding. He has an eye for every detail and really knows how to make the experience extra special! We got married on the beach and had our reception at Belle Vue. We only had 15 people all together and the space did not feel too big at all! It was so intimate and special, yet had plenty of room for everyone. The kitchen area in the back helped a lot to store things and the bar area is a great addition. I’m so glad we found this gem in Downtown Wilmington! It was very affordable and exactly what we needed for our special day.

Kirstie Harrison

Absolutely beautiful space for any event! My family has used Belle Vue for a wedding in Oct and most recently a baby shower this past weekend. Here’s a few of my favorite things about this breathtaking event space. (1) There’s free parking for your guests and lots of space for any event you have in mind. (2) There’s even a secret garden for a nice little outdoor seating spot. (3) Ray most definitely loves what he does, you can tell by how welcoming and helpful he is in every aspect! (4) I was late to my sisters shower this weekend and forgot to buy a card. Ray ran eastwards so fast that the Earth spun the opposite direction, turning back time and allowing me to pick up a card and make it to the shower with plenty of time to spare! (5) Belle Vue is affordable but worth every penny.

Destiny Esch

I can not say enough positive things about this place!! I am so thankful I found Belle Vue to hold my small wedding reception (32 people). I reserved it for the full day & used the space as a bridal suit but also a first look before the ceremony, left for our ceremony, then came back for the reception. From the second we walked through the door, Ray (the owner) was worth his weight in gold!!! You see, I planned my dream wedding from 13 hours away, with zero help & zero clue what I was doing. Hands down, Ray saved the day! He was the missing piece who put it all together, effortlessly, & I can honestly say if it was not for this man - my wedding would have been a disaster. He went above and beyond for me & he felt like family. Ray made sure I didn’t need anything all day, he truly is an amazing person, who clearly LOVES his job. This place is the full package! The space is BEAUTIFUL!!! Pictures do not do it justice, how could they? It’s literally art. The lighting was perfect. The venue is open & spacious, lots of room outside as well. The windows & the chandeliers were so beautiful next to the brick walls. Really with how beautiful the space is, you don’t need a lot of decor, mine was simple & I loved it!! The blue exterior was surprisingly my favorite part, it’s truly a beautiful space inside and out. The music system is perfect, my kids had fun picking songs & dancing the night away. 1000/10 recommend! It was without a doubt the perfect location for us - thank you for the perfect wedding. Thank you for everything. I wish you the best!!!

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