Frequently Asked Questions
Venue
How can we tour the venue(s)?
We offer tours by appointment. Click here to schedule a tour.
How many guests can the venues accommodate?
We are able to accommodate up to two-hundred (200) guests.
What dates do you have available?
We list our available dates on our website. Click here to see a list of our available dates.
Do you have a waiting list for canceled dates?
We do not keep a cancellation waiting list, but as soon as a date becomes available we will post it on our available dates page. Click here to see our available dates.
How do I book my wedding date?
You can secure your wedding date in three easy steps:
- Check the most recent date availability (click here for available dates)
- Email us to confirm your chosen date
- Mail your signed contract and first payment
Dates are booked on a first come basis. Once the contract and first payment are received, we’ll send a welcome email confirming that the date is secured.
Can I book without touring?
While we'd love for you to tour in-person, some brides have booked before visiting. If you would like to do so, please contact us via the tour page here.
What is your payment plan?
Payments are due at booking, then nine (9) months, six (6) months, three (3) months, and one (1) month prior to your wedding date.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept ACH, Venmo, Zelle, check, cashier checks, or cash.
What is your inclement weather plan?
We designed our venue to be beautiful both inside and out, so no matter the weather, you can rest assured you’ll always have your perfect day. Our open air chapel is suitable in light rain. In case of inclement weather, your vows will take place in front of our picturesque windows overlooking the valley.
May we bring our dog(s) on wedding day?
Unfortunately, no. We know your pet is family so we encourage you to include them in your engagement photos. Due to health codes and safety concerns, pets are not allowed on property.
When may we arrive at the Bride and Groom suites?
The bridal suite opens at 10:00am. The Groom’s suite will be open three (3) hours prior to the ceremony start time.
What time is my rehearsal?
Rehearsal times will depend on what kind of rehearsal you choose. The options are:
- Day-Of Rehearsal: Day-of Rehearsals are included. They begin three (3) hours prior to the ceremony. This frees up your evening prior, allows for everyone to be in-town, and to rehearse at the correct site based on that day’s weather. Rehearsing takes 15-20 minutes, so there’s more time for photos and relaxing throughout the wedding day. The bride is tucked away in the bridal suite and may enjoy a few quiet moments to reflect, to shoot bridal portraits, or to read a love note from her groom.
- Off-site: Off-site Rehearsals (local hotel, restaurant, Airbnb, home) may be coordinated with your wedding planner.
- Opt-Out: Everyone will be guided step-by-step by your wedding planner on your wedding day.
Will there be another wedding the same day?
We host one wedding each day to ensure that each couple’s event is special and receives our full attention.
What time do you suggest we start the ceremony?
To make the best use of outdoor photography and natural sunlight, we suggest starting March - November weddings at 5:00pm prior to daylight savings ending. For winter weddings we suggest starting at 4:00pm.
What are wedding end times?
Wedding end times are 10:00pm on Friday/Saturday and 9:00pm on Sunday. There are several after-party options we’re happy to share with you if some of your guests would like to continue the celebration.
Are there overnight accommodations nearby?
Yes. There are several hotel options about twelve (12) minutes away in Canton, Georgia.
How many cars can your parking lot accommodate?
Our paved parking lot can accommodate approximately eighty-five (85) cars and we have additional gravel parking available.
Does your fee change if the ceremony is held off-site?
Since we host one event per day, our fee structure remains the same whether you hold your ceremony on or off-site.
Is a seating chart required?
We require a seating chart because it provides a smooth process that allow couples and families to sit together and eliminates extra costs for additional seating and tables.
How far in advance do you need our final guest count?
We’ll need your final guest count and floor plan at your final planning meeting which is typically scheduled three (3) weeks prior to your wedding.
May we leave vehicles, rentals, personal belongings, etc. until the next day?
To ensure we are able to properly clean and prepare the venue for the next event, all items and vehicles must be removed from the venue the night of your wedding.
Is Event Insurance Required?
Yes. Event liability insurance is required and may be purchased here: TheEventHelper.com
Decor
Do you include table decor?
Yes. We have upscale, elegant decor including centerpieces, votives, candleholders, easels, signs, card boxes, and more. Our selection is included in your package and we will set up and break down the decor for you.
May I come play in the decor closet?
We know it’s fun, but to protect our decor, we can’t permit it. No worries though, you can click here to see photos of our decor.
Are candles allowed?
Yes, candles are allowed as long as the flame is completely contained in a candle holder. Open tapered candles are not allowed for safety reasons.
What are the sizes of your tables?
Our estate tables are nine (9) feet long each. Our round tables are sixty (60) inches wide in diameter.
Are table linens, table settings, etc. included?
Yes. Linens and table settings are provided through our exclusive caterers and are included as part of the package pricing.
May I bring in my own DIY silks?
Yes. We offer silk table centerpieces. However, if you prefer, you may bring your own pre-made ones. You may also bring silk bouquets and boutonnieres. You may also bring your own ceremony backdrop, but for safety, we suggest that ceremony items (cross, arbor, etc) be installed and removed by licensed, insured vendor. The venue may have some options, too.
Vendors
Is a wedding planner required?
Yes. We include online planning forms to guide every step of the way. We share our list of favorite coordinators who offer special pricing for our brides. Your planner will work with you beginning 6 months from your wedding to create your timeline, communicate with your chosen vendors, and be with you during your big day to ensure your event runs smoothly.
Must we use one of your exclusive caterers and DJs?
Yes. The caterer and DJ are a key component to the success of your day. With our exclusive caterers and DJs, you can be assured of professional and excellent customer care.
What are the catering options?
Click here to see our exclusive vendor page for more information including menus and pricing.
May we bring in outside vendors?
Yes. We require that you select your caterer and DJ from our Exclusive caterers. Other licensed and insured vendors may be brought from outside and approval is required. To make it easy, we provide a “Vendors We Love” list of suggested vendors..
May we have live music?
Yes! While we do not host bands, the following live instruments are permitted: violins, cellos, harps, flutes, keyboards, and non-amplified guitars.
May we bring food/desserts from home?
For food safety, outside desserts are welcomed from a licensed baker. Caterers include cake cutting in their services, but please discuss other desserts with them. We want to be prepared so your day runs smoothly.
May I bring in a food-beverage truck or cart?
Food and non-alcoholic beverage vendors are required to be licensed by the health department, provide proper insurance, etc. We do not allow dinner or bartender service vendors. These services are provided through the caterer to ensure smooth and timely service. If you’re looking for a late night treat but want to keep the dance floor full and avoid weather issues, consider delivery options like Chick-fil-a or Krystals. Alternatively, your caterer is happy to serve a late night snack or set up a coffee bar.
May I bring a friend or family member as a vendor?
We get nervous when you’ve chosen friends or family to be your vendors. We want your day to be a huge success, so we suggest that while it might sound like a great idea to accept offers from friends and family to be your photographer, videographer, florist, etc., it might also be the riskiest decision you make. Here’s why: If it’s mom or someone in your bridal party, they will miss out on important time with you. Also, you’re putting your relationship on the line. What if you don’t like their work on wedding day? What if that work is something like photography that you’ll have for the rest of your life? You won’t get a second chance.
If you do want to “hire” a friend or family member, it’s a good idea to put your expectations in writing. There are so many assumptions in the wedding process. It’s important to clarify expectations to lessen the opportunity for misunderstandings. As a business, we will need a signed vendor agreement and day of liability insurance if they are filling one of the spots on your vendor list where this is required.
Is tipping required?
Tipping is optional, but always appreciated. Customary suggestions are below:
- Hair and Makeup 15 - 20%
- Transportation 15 - 20%
- Bartender $50 - $100 per
- DJ $50 - $100 per
- Wedding Planner $50 - $100 per
- Caterer Servers $20 - $50 per
- Venue Managers (2) $20 - $50 per
Alcohol
May we bring our own alcohol?
Yes! We welcome you to bring beer, wine, and two signature drinks. Bartending services are provided through the exclusive caterer you've chosen.
How much beer or wine should we bring?
Our Bride Guide will have a Bar Notes section for guidance.
Do you allow liquor to be served?
Yes. Liquor may be served in up to two signature drinks. To keep the bar moving quickly, the bartender will premix signature drinks in urns. If using a carbonated mixer (i.e. soda), one signature drink may be hand poured. For liability reasons, no shots or straight liquor can be served.
What are some ideas for signature drinks?
Below are some of our bride’s favorite signature drinks:
- Arnold Palmer: Bourbon, Tea, Lemon Juice, Orange Juice (no pulp)
- Whiskey Sour: Whiskey, Sour Mix, Simple Syrup
- Whiskey Lemonade: Whiskey, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup
- Margarita: Tequila, Triple Sec, Lime Juice
- Tequila Sunrise: Tequila, Orange Juice (no pulp in fruit juices)
- Cosmopolitan: Vodka, Cranberry Juice, Lime Juice
- Summer Squeeze: Cruzan Rum, Lemonade
Do I need an off-duty security officer?
Yes, if alcohol is being served.
May we bring in a keg?
No. In the past, we have seen the bar slowed down by keg lines, broken handles, malfunctioning kegerators, and other unforeseen events that can leave you and your guests beerless. To ensure smooth bar operation, we have opted to no longer permit kegs.
May we have a champagne toast?
Yes. Discuss this with your caterer so they have adequate staff to pour and serve.