Frequently Asked Questions

What do people say are their reasons for renting space at Temple Emeth?
Our facility is perfect for Bar/Mat Mitzvah celebrations, weddings, birthdays, baby namings, Sweet 16s, reunions, meetings, lectures, performances, corporate outings and more—virtually any occasion to meet your personal, professional, or organizational needs. You do not need to be a member of Temple Emeth to rent space with us.

We rent rooms for special, one-time events, ranging from business meetings or lectures for a dozen people, to banquets accommodating hundreds. Temple. Emeth welcomes groups with longer-term rquirements, too. For example, a local Board of Education has rented our classrooms on a daily basis for years, as has an association that holds monthly luncheon meetings in our space.

How do renters describe their experience?
Many renters return. Our renters describe the benefits they experience as:

• Surprisingly affordable (particularly in comparison with other local options)
• Convenient – a perfect location that’s accessible to local highways
• Food-Friendly – the option to use a caterer of your choosing or bring in your own food
• Accommodating – with a Temple Administrator who provides caring, personal assistance
• Flexible – a customized experience offering various room options and set-up time
• Versatile – attractive spaces that are easy to decorate and offer a myriad of design options, from the traditional table seating to surprisingly different (such as a Bar Mitzvah party with pizza in the parking lot, a circus tent, and an obstacle course in the main hall)

What amenities do you offer?
Temple Emeth offers the amenities you want to help make your event a success.  For example: 

• Attractive outdoor areas and windowed indoor rooms of varying sizes, including a banquet hall with a cathedral ceiling, to accommodate any number of guests, type of event, and decorative design
• Huge private parking lot, with sidewalk for convenient drop-off and entry
• Newly renovated caterer’s kitchen with ground-level entry
• Dining tables and chairs
• Spacious dance floor and full-sized, raised stage

What specific outdoor spaces and indoor rooms are available for rent?

• Outside spaces include an interior courtyard accessible from the front hallway, a grassy side yard, and a large parking lot
• Inside windowed rooms include:
  * A long hallway leading to the banquet hall and other rooms for a cocktail hour or exhibits
  * A banquet hall with cathedral ceiling, dance floor and stage – table seating up to 300 people 
  * Smaller rooms for more intimate meetings and events
  * A pre-event family or bridal room including dressing/makeup area

What fees are charged for each room?
Fees are customized to the needs of our renters and based on various factors including the number of rooms desired and number of hours requested.

Can I bring in my own food and liquor or must I use a caterer?
We are very food-friendly facility and offer the maximum flexibility. You may use a caterer of your choosing or bring in food you either make yourself or purchase at a local store or restaurant (kosher or non-kosher). You are free to mix meat and dairy if you choose to do so. Our kitchen is not kashered;  if required, you must do that at your own expense. You may also bring in liquor, but it is your responsibility to obtain a permit from the town. We can help.

Do you provide a security guard?
Yes, we provide a security guard for large events. The cost is included in your fee.

Do you have a contract that I must sign? Do you require a deposit? Is there a security deposit for potential damage? What happens if I need to cancel?
Yes, we have a standard contract that you must sign. We require a 50% non-refundable booking deposit upon selecting a date and booking a room(s). The balance is due at least 12 weeks prior to your event. A security deposit and insurance certificate are also required. If you need to cancel, the return of your deposit is based on written notice and the number of days’ notice given.

What methods may I use for payment?
You may pay by check or credit card.

Are there any hidden fees? Should I tip the custodians?
No, all fees are discussed with the Temple Administrator and included in the contract. Tipping the custodians is at your discretion.

Is there anything else I must do as part of my rental arrangement?
No, there is nothing else except for our hope that you tag us on social media (@templeemethteaneck; #templeemethteaneck) with your photos and comments, and suggest to vendors you use and guests that they do so as well.

What is Temple Emeth?
Temple Emeth is a diverse congregation with a membership that draws from towns throughout Bergen County. We value inclusivity, community, and an interest in lifelong learning. Temple Emeth, which recently celebrated its 75^th anniversary, invites participation in all aspects of congregational life—our music, spirituality, traditions, holidays, and culture. We also present a range of adult education programs, social action programs, and programs focusing on the arts, culture, and heritage.

Temple Emeth’s indoor facility and outdoor courtyard is vast, encompassing a sanctuary, library, museum, meeting rooms, classrooms, caterer’s kitchen, and large cathedral ceiling event space. We are fortunate to be able to share these spaces with our community and welcome your interest in a rental for your event or special celebration.

For more information, contact Suzannah Mercado, Temple Administrator, at 201-833-1322 or smercado@emeth.org.