Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors magazine prides itself on offering its readers the highest-quality content from our community’s most respected businesses and leaders. We take this commitment seriously because our reputation depends on it.
As we begin 2025, we are thrilled to usher in this new year of Bringing People Together by introducing you to our newest Sponsor: Finley Catering. For over 45 years, Finley Catering has consistently delivered Simply the Best culinary and event experiences in Philadelphia and the Western Suburbs. Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors is honored to announce that Finley Catering has chosen Newtown Square for not one but two of its premier venues—The Ballroom at Ellis and their stunning new masterpiece: The Ivy at Ellis Preserve.
The Ivy at Ellis Preserve is Finley Catering’s newest venue, built from the ground up in 2024. Since they first opened its doors, The Ivy has received nothing but rave reviews. This upscale barn- style venue offers modern lighting with industrial vibes, creating the perfect combination of elegance and simplicity for weddings and events. “It was a much-needed addition to the suburbs to host larger weddings and events,” explained Finley Catering’s President, Tom Finley. “Being conveniently located within walking distance to Newtown Square’s newest hotels and restaurants is definitely a bonus.”
With a 5,000-square-foot ballroom and an entire second story reserved just for cocktail hour, the contemporary farmhouse-style venue features indoor and outdoor space, stunning chandeliers, and a scenic garden with room for 325 guests for dinner and dancing. What sets The Ivy at Ellis Preserve apart is its versatility and ability to adapt to accommodate every type of event, from large or small weddings to corporate events and fundraising galas.
I was fortunate to be invited to The Ivy’s grand opening event back in November. From the moment I stepped inside, I could see why anyone looking to book their wedding or event would want it to be there. In true Finley fashion, guests were treated to the absolute best drinks, appetizers, dinner, live music and entertainment. The event brought together family, neighbors, community leaders and business owners, who were able to tour the venue, enjoy each other’s company, dance the night away and congratulate the Finleys on another stunning success.
The Finleys are no strangers to our hometown. The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, which opened in 2016, is Finley Catering’s fourth historical landmark and is a grand Greek revival facility with towering columns that honor the legacy of Charles Ellis. Returning to its roots, Finley Catering brought a new dimension to weddings and corporate clients in Newtown Square by combining culinary expertise and top-notch service with the idyllic grounds for an outdoor ceremony or cocktail hour, along with the state-of-the-art grandiose Ballroom for wedding receptions and special events.
Finley Catering has grown considerably over the last 45 years. Founder and CEO Steve Finley, teaming with his brother, Tom, has created an undeniable force in the area’s catering industry. It is a true family affair; Steve and Tom’s spouses, Carol and Trish, are integrally involved. Now, the next generation, Steve’s daughters, Michelle and Stephanie, and Tom’s son, Tommy, are working hard to make it a true family business.
Finley Catering is proud to operate five impressive venues throughout Philadelphia and Newtown Square. In addition to The Ivy at Ellis Preserve and The Ballroom at Ellis Preserve, they provide Simply the Best for their guests at the Crystal Tea Room, Ballroom at the Ben and Union Trust in Philadelphia, each with its own unique story and charm.
The Crystal Tea Room is situated in the heart of Philadelphia, just steps from City Hall. It is an elegant venue with a rich history, carved columns, an indoor conservatory and timeless decor. The Ballroom at the Ben is an iconic landmark known for its grand and luxurious ballroom space which is overlooked by its mezzanine level where cocktail hour is usually held. The Historic District of Philadelphia is home to Union Trust. Union Trust is one of the city’s chicest wedding and special event locations. It features soaring sixty-five-foot illuminated engraved ceilings, architecturally accented walls, multiple private rooms and a breathtaking wraparound mezzanine overlooking the whole site.
Finley Catering’s values and commitment to excellence have remained unchanged since 1976. Steve and Tom continue to strive for perfection in all aspects of their profession. They credit the success of Finley Catering to hard work, dedication to detail, exquisite cuisine and top-notch employees. Their accomplishments, small or large, have earned them a reputation that has resulted in notable weddings and corporate functions at their exclusive locations. On behalf of your Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors, we would like to extend a warm welcome and continued success in the new year.