Believe In Books Literacy Foundation — Local services in Bartlett

DO NOT BOOK YOUR WEDDING HERE! We initially booked this venue for its stunning views, budget-friendly options, and welcoming atmosphere. Our first coordinator promised a smooth, organized experience for our big day, but after she left, everything quickly fell apart.

The second coordinator frequently failed to respond to emails and acted inconvenienced by simple requests, like scheduling a second tour. Key details, such as our rehearsal dinner time and the fact that we would be bringing our own arch, were forgotten or ignored, despite repeated discussions. With each change in coordinators, we had to fight to re-establish even the most basic arrangements.

When a third coordinator took over less than a month before our wedding, we were devastated to learn that everything previously promised was stripped away—including our rehearsal time. At that point, we insisted all communication be in writing, as verbal conversations no longer felt reliable. The Director eventually got involved and agreed to honor most of the original promises, which we appreciated.

At the rehearsal, a fourth coordinator showed up, confused and unfamiliar with key details. We clarified our plans again, only for a fifth coordinator to later dismiss them, claiming we "never mentioned" certain things. When I, the bride, corrected her, she laughed at my frustration, an unprofessional and deeply hurtful response.

On our wedding day, the weather brought 30-40 mph winds. Given the hazardous conditions, we expected staff to offer help or adjustments, but no support was provided. Staff were largely absent, and while one coordinator was briefly helpful, she left mid-day. The fifth coordinator explicitly stated she had "other work to do" and wasn’t present for much of the event. Ultimately, the wind forced us to end our wedding 90 minutes early.

From the moment our original coordinator left, this venue became a nightmare. The staff were disorganized, unprofessional, and dismissive of our concerns. They failed to assist with critical details, laughed at our frustrations, and made us feel like our wedding was just another transaction.

We deeply regret choosing this venue. What initially felt like a beautiful, welcoming place turned out to be nothing but a facade. I have since reached out to the Director for follow-up, and even now, we have yet to receive any response.

Avoid this venue if you want a stress-free, professional experience for...

Complete Scam Beware — My family and I have gone on the trip to the North Pole the last few years. Before Covid I would have recommended the event. Due to Covid this event has been canceled. This past year they sold tickets but said in their terms and conditions that if canceled due to Covid you would receive a refund. On 11/1 they sent an email stating they were canceling due to Covid. On 11/16 they sent another email stating it was due to the Hobo Railroad canceling due to Covid and that a refund would be made to all riders. It is 1/13/22 and still no refund. I tried calling the office and sent emails trying to get an update. Not a single email or phone call back. Getting frustrated with the lack of communication I put in a dispute through my credit card. Their office replied immediately declining the claim stating that because the Hobo train company canceled due to Covid that was not them canceling and declined my refund claim. So not only did they promise a refund when I bought the ticket, and promised again that a refund would be made when they sent the cancellation email they now have retracted and I am out of $312. I will never donate or spend another dollar with the believe in books literacy foundation. They are a complete scam. In looking at the reviews it looks like I am not alone. Everyone should file a claim with their credit card. Their office responded immediately to my credit card dispute denying my claim. If they want to screw over the consumer then litter them with credit card claims. Let the big credit card companies go after them.

Do not waste...

My grandson benefited educationally recreational and entertainment at or through this organization. They visited his Headstart class and were given books. We attended performances such as The Lorax and Cat in the We've done the Storybook Trail and my grandson ran from page to page to read. He experienced The Polar Express, now The Journey North. We saw how maple syrup, the good stuff was made in their Sugar Shack. That was his experience. Grammy and Grampy are retired elves having enjoyed the whole experience and seeing those kids eyes when they got off the train to a sea of jolly elves. We also love the Summer Concert series and you won't find a more breathtaking outdoor venue. The hiking trails are great, nothing very difficult. So, make a point to check this out. You won't be sorry. PS Buy maple syrup at office while...