what is your guest count?

We do not have a minimum guest count. Our maximum is 225 guests.

how do i reserve my wedding date?

A 25% non-refundable payment + signed contract are required to officially book your wedding date. A second 25% payment is due 2 months later, and the final balance is due 6 months before the wedding. We do not place dates on hold. 

Do you provide tables/chairs?

Yes! We provide all of the tables/chairs for your entire day (ceremony, cocktail hour and reception). Our staff will set up/tear down as well.

Frequently asked questions

Do you provide linens?

No, but we work with many catering and rental companies that are happy to assist you with linen rentals.

can we bring our own alcohol?

Yes, however all alcohol must be served by an insured bartender.

Is there an option to add additional time to the day?

No, due to noise restrictions the beginning and end times detailed in your wedding package are to remain unaltered.

Do you provide decorations or assist with decorating?

No, however we do work with many rental companies and design teams that are happy to assist you! Our staff sets up/tears down tables/chairs, maintains the appearance of the venue and assists guests, vendors and wedding parties throughout the day.

Do you allow pets onsite?

Absolutely! The couple is welcome to have pets in the wedding suites while getting ready and they are welcome to remain onsite for the entire rental period.

Do you allow candles/sparklers?

Yes! You are welcome to use open-flame candles for decoration at your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception. You are welcome to do a sparkler exit at the end of reception.

do you require insurance?

Yes, all couples must supply Historic Shady Lane with a special event endorsement policy for the day of their wedding, with coverage up to $1,000,000.

can we bring decorations/rentals to the venue early or pick them up after our event?

No. All decorations and rentals must be dropped off and picked up the same day as the rental period.

Are the ceremony sites and tent an additional charge?

No, all ceremony sites and the tent are included in the cost of the rental. ​

Do I have to have an appointment to visit the venue for any reason?

Yes. The property is a private estate. All visits are to be scheduled with the Venue Director, this includes but is not limited to: tours, meetings with vendors, taking photos, stopping by to show family, etc. ​

Are live bands allowed for weddings/events?

Due to a noise ordinance, we cannot allow live bands or amplified instruments. However, we do welcome acoustic music and singers for ceremony and cocktail hour. DJs are required to use our sound system in the reception tent.

Do you have an onsite coordinator?

We do not have a wedding coordinator onsite, however we do require that our couples book 90-day coordination services through exclusive planning partner, Blake Events. Their team is comprised of full time planners and designers. These savvy, creative powerhouses pour their hearts into every couple they work with. Their large bench strength guarantees you get personal attention from a planner who is not overbooked or overwhelmed.

why is the venue director not my coordinator?

Historic Shady Lane's Venue Director manages all aspects of the business including, but not limited to, sales, marketing, tours, site visits, final walkthroughs, contracts and invoicing, event and photo session scheduling, venue and event staffing, floor plans, venue logistics, vendor communications, property needs, and more. For Historic Shady Lane to provide the overall BEST experience for all of our couples, the Venue Director works closely with our couples, their vendors, and their planner at Blake Events to ensure a positive and seamless wedding and event experience for all that celebrate at Historic Shady Lane.

Wedding Budget & Venue Tours

Before touring with us, we send out a pre-tour questionnaire which includes budget questions. Knowing your overall wedding budget before touring any venue helps ensure your experience is productive, transparent, and enjoyable. Our wedding venue plays a significant role in shaping your wedding day—from guest count and layout to catering, rentals, and overall flow. When couples arrive with a clear understanding of their budget, we are better able to answer questions more honestly and accurately, discuss what’s included versus additional investments, help you determine whether our venue aligns with your priorities. 

If you are having trouble forming a budget, we highly recommend consulting with Blake Events.