Encore Event Center - San Diego, California

Jo

We’re far enough out I finally feel comfortable speaking about this. This venue almost ruined my brothers wedding. First, when the bridal party arrived there were a few final pieces they had to put on and when the manager was politely asked to close the door to his office so they could change he angrily exclaimed it was his office and refused to give them privacy for even a few minutes. There was nowhere else for the bridal party to finish changing even though they had been reassured there would be space for that. The office behavior was so sketchy the MOH felt necessary to check for hidden cameras. Then their DJ was just an older gentleman who clearly didn’t know what he was doing. He was just playing whatever and ignored the bride and grooms playlists entirely. We had to beg him four or five times to turn the music down because people literally couldn’t hear themselves think much less have a conversation. He would turn the music down and then crank it back up to max after a few minutes. The staff were hard to track down when needed and unresponsive to questions. The food was decent for us unlike other reviews.

Diana Miguel

Encore made my event very special, Tanya, Betty and overall every staff member were very nice. I will be definitely coming back again and considering future events. Their taco station was delicious, bar and drinks on top notch. I really recommend! DM

Rya Li

Had my ~60 person wedding here the other day, doing my best to write a thorough review.
TL;DR: A great all-inclusive venue at an affordable price, if you aren't too hung up on the details.

Small snags: We had requested our audio guestbook be put out at the cocktail hour, and we had brought some additional desserts of our own--both things were forgotten about until I pulled someone aside and reminded them. The requested gluten-free meal was given to the appropriate guest, then taken away(?), but given back again once we found our coordinator and let her know. The DJ (DJ BodyRawk) was ok; he took requests and shook the tip jar to play them, though I had already tipped him as part of the overall bill. I thought parking would be available, but we had to park in the available lot across the street, which we weren't told ahead of time. The venue can be a little hard to get a hold of; their automatic answering service is a bit weird and they don't leave messages when they call you back, but our coordinator Tanya was pretty good about calling/texting back. Keep in mind the bridal suite is very small (this was perfect for me). There was another event going on but it didn't affect my wedding in the slightest--people were very sweet and offered me congrats. The rehearsal was apparently self-guided; this was never communicated to us. These weren't huge issues for me, but if you're the type to NEED a totally perfect dream wedding, they are things to keep in mind.

The Highlights: My guests LOVED the gorgeous fountain courtyard as well as the decor of the room, especially the light-up willow tree. 99% of our own decor (arch, pictures, Mr/Mrs signs, centerpieces, accent flower petals, party favors) were laid out as requested and looked lovely. As I said the food was excellent, they worked with me on gluten-free and vegan options at no extra charge (for under 5 people), the bartender truly had the patience of a saint and made fast, delicious drinks, and the photobooth from the venue was a HUGE hit and we have some really fun pictures. It was AWESOME having an all-inclusive venue, I had very little to worry or think about; they also have decor accents, lights, arches, and centerpieces available to rent if you'd like. And of course, the price was outstandingly affordable. The incredible price was the biggest draw for us and honestly it was worth it, I'd do it again. Overall, I'd recommend Encore for anyone who wants a great, fun wedding!

Chloe Cain

Jamie is FANTASTIC! She not only helped provide me with many different options for my event, but she also helped me vision the future result! So quick to respond, I feel zero worries with my upcoming event with her help. The venue spaces are perfect for anything and everything! If I could leave more than 5 stars, I would. I more than recommend booking with Encore Event Center. You will feel lucky and happy if you get the help of Jamie. Incredibly grateful for an easy and fun experience.

Its Reyzo

As soon as I arrived to the venue the owners demeanor was as rude as one could be on a Friday night for pre-paying customers . He asked me and my friends to leave because someone in the crowd behind us said a statement he did not approve of (exact statement: “finally this has been taking forever”). In all honesty it seemed very racist even though they claim they are “black/latino owned.”Along with the owner, security was being very unethical towards everyone including my friends and I in the crowd. Keep in mind the whole crowd including us had paid for pre sale tickets and most never made it past security because of their narcissistic demeanors, leaving everyone including the people who rented the venue with a horrible experience. If you don’t want to have the most stressful night of your life please do not book this disrespectful event center. Or at least do not allow the owner on sight when your event is happening.

Moriah Gaines

I just hosted a family reunion at this venue last night. Biggest problems I experience were: 1) our event manager was MIA majority of the time. When we needed something it was extremely hard to track her down. I waited over 30 mins for a microphone and Bluetooth instructions for music which delayed the entire event. 2) Food was not only delayed but they forgot to make 3 items that were supposed to go with the main dinner. They tried to fix this by making the 3 items later but by the time they served it people weren’t interested. It was wasted food, therefore a waste of money. 3) I was told we would be able to adjust lights for when it’s time to dance, last minute was told they couldn’t adjust the lights at all. 4) I confirmed 55 chairs when I visited 2 days before the event. I show up and there’s only 48 seats. One of the seats were broken.

I wish the people that worked here were more professional and efficient. I am big on things being done in a timely manner. I understand things get delayed but it should have been delayed because of me or my family not because of the owner and event manager. It was stressful hosting an event where I am constantly running around looking for the event manager because something is missing or not working… I just wish the experience was better!

Karla N. Harris-Miller

Ms. Tanya and her staff treated us respectfully and professionally. Tanya and her staff made sure our needs were met. The food was yummy and the drinks were delicious. The DJ kept us dancing the whole time we were there. Very impressed, I would highly recommend them.

L I

This place is the best kept secret for summer camps. My son has attended 2 years in a row and has had an amazing time. The teachers are enthusiastic and love what they do and it shows through the children. Now because so much of the Arts have been removed from our schools children hardly get to have fun and learn something at the same time. Encore provides that for kids during the summer and I am so happy that I found them.