Frequently Asked Questions
ABOUT THE VENUE
What is The Southern Mansion’s capacity?
Our capacity is 150 guests.
How many events do you hold at a time?
We only hold one wedding at a time and all our attention will focused on your event.
Does The Southern Mansion have a liquor license?
No. The Southern Mansion does not have a liquor license; we are a BYOB. We will be happy to refer you to a beverage distributor.
How does the BYOB work?
All you need to do is to contact a local liquor provider and they will take care of the delivery. For larger orders, some providers offer a discount and pick up unopened bottles. The Southern Mansion will provide the bartenders and the bar arrangements.
Do you have time restrictions?
You may start an evening wedding at anytime as long as it concludes by 10:00PM. The daytime wedding may start at 11:00AM and conclude by 3:00PM. Generally our weddings are four to five hours.
If I decide to have a garden wedding, will I be able to have music and dancing outside?
You will be able to have non-amplified music outside. We are able to hold the ceremony, cocktail hour and dinner outdoors, however the louder music and dancing will be held inside one of our ballrooms.
Is your facility air-conditioned?
Yes, we have heat and air conditioning in every guest room and common areas. Each guest room is equipped with private climate control.
What is the maximum number of guests you may have at each table?
Maximum of 8 guests per table.
Do you have parking on premises for all guests?
Parking is for registered guests only. Wedding guests that are not staying at the Southern Mansion have to park off-site. Free parking is available nearby and you may choose to book valet service for larger events. We encourage booking as many rooms as possible here or at the lodging facilities nearby.
Do you offer a place for the bride to get ready?
We usually include a complimentary suite for the night of the wedding, however if you wish to use that room to get ready, we suggest renting it for the night before.
ACCOMMODATIONS
How many bedrooms are we required to rent?
This would depend on the size of your party and the areas of the house that you would be using. Usually between 5 and 24 rooms.
How many total rooms do you have?
We have a total of 24 rooms.
Is there a minimum night stay?
We do have a two to three night minimum stay for most weekends. All stays are subject to availability. Please do not hesitate to contact us for shorter stays. We are trying to make exceptions for weddings.
CATERING AND MENUS
Can I bring in an outside caterer?
No, all of our meals are prepared onsite by our award-winning chef.
Are menu taste testings available?
Yes, menu tastings are available. Price varies according to the menu chosen.
Do you offer vegetarian/vegan / special diet entrees?
Yes, our Chef will be able to cook a delicious vegetarian or vegan meal. We also accommodate special dietary needs.
Are children meals available?
Yes children meals are available and they are usually half price.
PLANNING
When do we have to give you the final headcount?
The final headcount is due one month prior to your event.
Do you have someone to perform the marriage ceremony?
Yes, we do have an in-house ordained minister available. The minister will perform non-denominational ceremonies.
Would you be able to help me with additional services such as wedding cake, photographers, DJ’s, etc.?
We would be happy to give you phone numbers and references for the best local vendors.
PACKAGES AND FEES
What exactly is included with your packages?
Our packages are slightly different but they generally include: all catering, except for the wedding cake, reception site fee table and chair set up, linens, table settings, shell and candle centerpieces, table numbers, cake cutting set, cake cutting service, toast service, bar arrangements, assistance with planning and coordinating your event.
What are the major items that are not included?
Alcohol, Wedding cake, Bartenders, Flowers, music, photography, videography.
Is there any site fee?
There is a ceremony site fee which also includes chairs set up. There is no site fee with your reception.
What other fees are involved? Any “hidden“ fees?
We try to give you all fees up front before you sign your contract. Weddings are priced differently, depending on the date, number of guests or package. However, most of the times, the only charges we will have are: the price per head, the ceremony site fee and the bartender fee, plus tax and gratuity.
BOOKING AND PAYMENTS
How do we go ahead about booking?
To book your date, you need to sign a contract and put down an advance deposit. You may sign the contract during your tour or mail it to us with your deposit.
How does the payment work?
We usually require a down payment of $2,000-$3,000 to hold the date. A mid-term payment of 30% of the estimated costs is due six months prior to your event and the final balance is due two weeks before your wedding.
