FAQs

What is the average budget of a couple getting married at The Paddock?

Great question! In general, we believe the average budget of a couple getting married at The Paddock is between $15,000-$20,000 for all wedding expenses (venue, food, dress, DJ, photographer, etc.).  Some couples can get creative with smaller guests lists and host beautiful weddings in the $10,000 - $12,000 range and we have had lovely events here spending significantly more than the average. Our open vendor policy is intended to help curb unnecessary fees and allow you the flexibility to choose food, beverage, and extras that meet your specific budget.

Is there a food and beverage, or guest count minimum?

No.  Many venues have minimums because they make a 10 - 15% commission from the caterer based on how much you spend on food and drinks. We choose NOT to make a commission because we want our food and beverage options to be as elegant or affordable as your budget allows, and therefore we don't have a food and beverage or guest count minimum. 

Do we have to utilize your caterers and bar service?

We have an open catering policy to allow you to choose the menu and food selections that best fit your style and budget. We do require that all vendors be licensed and insured, but do not have any vendor fees or associated costs to you or the vendor.

If you choose to have alcohol at your event, we do require you to use our exclusive bar service for beer/wine/liquor. They are licensed, insured, and can provide the beverage service you desire! We also require security when alcohol is being served at any event to help ensure a safe environment for your guests and our staff.

And if you need help / guidance on caterers, just ask! We will help you with recommendations on who to check out.

What form of payment does The Paddock accept?

Cash or check.

Can we get married somewhere other than The Chapel?

Yes! You can choose the indoor or outdoor ceremony site that makes your heart happy! If you are looking for an outdoor option, brides love The Meadow with the pond as the backdrop. We’ve also had gorgeous ceremonies at the hand-built gazebo offering a hard surface for guest seating and walking down the aisle.

The Chapel will be the dedicated indoor ceremony space—coming in 2023. We can’t wait to show off all this space has to offer. It will be a stunning backdrop to say “I do” and will be super convenient for guests to transition straight into cocktail hour and reception.

We plan to have our ceremony offsite, or only plan to have our ceremony at The Paddock. Does your fee change?

Because we only host one event per day, our fee structure remains the same whether you hold your ceremony, reception, or both onsite.

If we choose a one day rental option, will we be able to access the location early to rehearse our ceremony? 

If you elect the one day rental, our venue will likely be reserved by another couple the night before. For that reason, one day rentals should plan for an offsite rehearsal. You are also welcome to to bring anyone who would feel more comfortable understanding the venue (such as your DJ or minister, or any little ones in the wedding party) to one of our monthly open houses.

What type of tables are included for guest seating?

We have both round (60”) and rectangle (8ft) tables for guest seating. We also have a few custom-built farmhouse tables that can be used for the head table and/or guest tables too! (And they are beautiful!)

Do you provided table linens, cups, silverware, etc? 

No. The Paddock provides an awesome venue, tables, chairs, and lots of decor for the allotted amount of time. Linens can be rented through us, but are NOT included in the rental fee. You are also welcome to bring/rent your own linens and are not required to go through us.

Other items such as plates and utensils are often included or can be provided by your caterer. And many of our brides choose disposable with their buffet style reception. (These days, there are lots of affordable and attractive options available!)

Can we take photos around the farm on our wedding day?

Sure!  Just ask us and we would be happy to make recommendations.

Where can I find pictures of the decor available from your Borrow Me, Beautiful collection?

We have so many amazing and practical decor pieces for you to use throughout your ceremony and reception! (Think arbors, doors, whiskey barrels, lanterns & vases galore, cake stands, and more!) We are working on getting it all photographed and available to view online and will update the website asap.

Do you include a "wedding day coordinator?"

Unfortunately, if you're trying to compare venues "apples to apples" we feel like this is a tricky question. Our answer is no.  We think its possible for the job duties of a "day-of wedding coordinator" to mean something different to you than it does to us, and the last thing we want is the opportunity for miscommunication.

However, we do have a team leader here onsite who stays with you throughout the duration of your big day. This member of The Paddock team is there to help you however they can (be an extra set of hands decorating, answer questions from your vendors and direct them as necessary, etc.) Their goal is to do everything possible to help the day go smoothly and ensure your day is as stress-free as possible! (But we still don't consider them a day-of wedding coordinator. You are welcome to hire your own planner and day-of coordinator though! We highly recommend it! ) 

Can vehicles be left overnight?

No vehicles can be left overnight. Please advise your guests of this policy.

What time does the music need to end?

Music on Fridays & Saturdays must conclude by 10:30 p.m. to ensure that you, all of your items, guests, and all of your vendors are off-property by midnight. Music on Sundays must conclude by 9:00 p.m. to be off property by 10:00 pm. 

We are using a rental company. Can they drop items off or pick them up outside of the rental period? 

We host events throughout the week and every day of the weekend. For that reason, all deliveries must happen during your contracted rental period. Please advise your vendors of this policy.

Is it possible to seat 9 to a table?

In a pinch, yes (especially if one is a child,) but we would not recommend it for your guests’ comfort. Guests prefer to be seated 8 to a table to have some extra elbow room!

How far in advance do you need our final headcount?

Three weeks.

What time will I have access to the venue to decorate?

You will have access to the venue at the time listed on your contract, not earlier. Please plan accordingly!

Are candles allowed?

Yes, candles are allowed as long as the flame is completely contained in a candle holder. Tapered candles and any type of hanging candles will not be allowed for safety reasons. 

Can we have fireworks on the property?

Fireworks are not permitted. This includes sparklers.  We don’t want to scare the neighbors and we want to keep the fire department happy!

Can we nail decorations to the walls or hang things like streamers or lanterns from the beams?

We request that holes are not placed in any walls or overhead beams. We will have areas where hooks are already placed that you are welcome to use for any additional decorations. If you have special requests for additional decor in The Barn or other event space, please work with us directly to see if we are able to accommodate the request. We hope that you will find the space beautiful on its own without a lot of extra work!

What is the event clean-up process?

The Paddock staff will handle all standard clean up and trash removal throughout and following the wedding reception. It is your responsibility (or someone from your party) to make sure all personal belongings and non-Paddock decor are removed from the reception area by the contracted end time.

Please refer to your Stay Agreement for instructions on vacating The Homestead and Rec Room prior to the ceremony start time.