Ask Away
FAQ
You've got questions, and we have the answers!
This is a great place to start for some of the most frequently asked
questions we come across. If you don't find what you are looking for, don't hesitate to reach out!
Do you book multiple weddings on the same day?
No. When you book your wedding with us, your party has exclusive access to the building. We will never book a second event within your timeline.
Do you offer full planning services?
At this time, we are not able to offer full planning services. We would be happy to make
recommendations! However, your appointed venue representative will be with you every step of the way.
What does the Venue Manager provided by The Essence Event Center do?
Your Venue Manager is there to make sure everything runs smoothly as your first point of contact. They will be available to receive vendors and answer any questions about the space. They will help guide your event to make sure any concerns are resolved. They are also there as The Essence Event Center’s representative and will make any and all calls needed regarding guest or vendor behavior. We highly recommend that you hire or designate someone in your party to act as event planner and day of coordinator. The Essence Event Center’s Venue Manager assigned to your event is a liaison to the space and will NOT be available to help with arranging decoration, setting and coordinating timelines, organizing the people in your party, collecting and returning personal items, or any other responsibilities specific to the needs of your event.
Are there any vendor restrictions?
With the exception of the bar and beverage service, you may choose any vendor you wish. All vendors must be pre approved by The Essence Event Center and must provide a certificate of insurance naming The Essence Event Center as additionally insured. The renter is responsible for providing The Essence Event Center with all necessary certificates of insurance. Said certificates must be received no later than sixty (60) days prior to the event date. Using one of our preferred caterers does allow for a lower kitchen service fee, but you are free to use the caterer of your choosing.
Are there any decorating restrictions?
The Essence Event Center is classified as a historical structure. Items may not be hung or fastened to the ceiling, doors, windows, walls or brick by the renters. We do encourage visually exciting decorating and allow for draping or hanging of decorations when done through an approved professional events/installation company. Additional guidelines include no glitter or confetti. Candles must be encased in glass.
Do you have a sound system?
Our state of the art sound system reaches every corner of the reception hall, cocktail hall, and the private courtyard. It is the responsibility of your D.J. or band to arrange a time prior to your event to review the system with a representative of The Essence Event Center.
Do you provide staff to serve and clear food?
Your caterer is responsible for providing enough staff to serve food, remove dirty plates/utensils and provide table water service. The Essence Event Center bar staff will take responsibility for any bar glassware throughout the event center.
Do you provide china, utensils, and buffet warmers?
Your caterer will be responsible for providing all china, utensils, table water and glassware and buffet warmers. The Essence Event Center will provide table linens and linen napkins, barware, and coffee cups.
Can we bring in our own cake/dessert?
Yes! However, any desserts need to be prepared in a commercial kitchen. Make sure you discuss plating and serving options with your caterer.
Are there any additional fees?
Renters are required to obtain a certificate of insurance for their event naming The Essence Event Center as a policy holder. The renter must do this through a service provided by The Essence Event Center. The payment of and policy is nonrefundable. Your caterer will be charged a site service fee. It is common for these fees to be passed onto the client. Make sure to review all fees with your chosen caterer. Holidays and weekends that fall on either side of a holiday may incur extra rental fees.
Is there off-season pricing?
Yes, off-season pricing for wedding rentals is available December 1 through April 30. Holiday weekends or weekends falling on either side of a holiday retain normal pricing regardless of the time of year.
Is there onsite parking?
Yes, parking will be clearly marked for guests. Surface lot options in the area immediately around the event center as well as additionally designated lot parking is available.
Is the Essence Event Center handicap accessible?
Yes, we are fully accessible and meets the requirements of the Federal accessibility standards and guidelines.