FREQUENTLY ASKED
What's your max capacity?
230 -this includes the couple and wedding party. At max capacity, the entire Great Hall will be dedicated to dinner table seating- we recommend a plated meal service or setting up the buffet, bar and DJ in the Fireplace Hall. You will work with your assigned coordinator once your headcount is finalized to come up with a seating plan.
What's included with the rental?
Do you have preferred or exclusive vendors
We have exclusive partnerships with Howard Lake Wine & Spirits for bar tending and Instant Request for DJ and sound services. The DJ services are included in our pricing. You will pay HLWS separately and the amount will depend on your bar package. These partnerships allow us to operate consistently and efficiently for your big day and they allow us to offer the best pricing packages to our couples! We are open to your choice of other vendors including caterer. We also have some great recommendations, please inquire for these.
How long does my rental go and can I add time?
Depends! We have shorter reception only packages, or full day packages that run from 8a to 11p. If you have a specific time frame request, please reach out so we can discuss!
We end the party at 11pm with the expectation that items and vendors will have left the premises by midnight.
Do you allow for rehearsals the day before?
Depends! Please check our availability calendar three months prior to your event date to see if the venue will be available for your rehearsal. The cost is outlined on our pricing page depending on your date. There is a two hour minimum. This also allows couples time to bring in any necessary decor, beverages/ice, etc. the night before.
How do I reserve my date?
Your date is officially booked once we've received your deposit -you can let us know when it's in the mail :)
Where's the nearest lodging
There are several AirBNB options close by, otherwise the nearest hotel options are in Delano, Buffalo, Long Lake and Wayzata. We recommend establishing a room block as soon as you've picked your date.
Do you have preferred vendors? When can they come to start setting up?
You're free to hire any properly licensed catering service you'd like! We have a partnership with the city of Howard Lake for alcohol packages and bartending -super convenient for all of your bartending needs and a great group to work with! We also have a partnership with Instant Request for all of your DJ and sound needs. Your florist or decorator can start setting up at 8am if you reserved the full day package. Please be sure to let us know if you plan to utilize the rigging hooks for any hanging decor -we do not have scaffolding or ladders capable of reaching the ceiling.
Is the space wheel chair accessible? What about pets and service animals?
Yes, the venue is entirely ADA compliant and all one level. We've designed our patio and outdoor ceremony space with wheelchairs in mind and we'll work with your coordinator to ensure your guests are comfortable outside during the ceremony.
Pets and service animals alike are welcome, just please let your coordinator know if your furry friend(s) will be part of your big day so that we can properly accommodate.
Should we hire a shuttle service?
It is highly encouraged! We have 64 parking stalls and no street overflow parking- this translates to ~150 person wedding. We highly recommend hiring a shuttle service to and from the hotel/lodging of you choice, not only for limited parking, but also to prevent any unsafe driving. Your guests will appreciate having transportation taken care of :)
Do you allow open flames?
Yes, however any candle flames must be contained within a glass hurricane whether inside the venue or outdoors. If you'd like to do a sparkler sendoff, this needs to take place in the parking lot.
Can I bring yard games? What's outside like?
We have those! Giant connect four and corn hole will be provided at no extra cost, just let your coordinator know if you'd like either or both of these games set up! In addition to a large side patio, we also have a smaller back patio, both partially shaded in the summer with seating. We will have a fireplace in the back patio and outdoor space heaters at your disposal as well, free of charge. Just be sure to let your coordinator know so that we can properly accommodate.