Frequently Asked Questions

We have tried to answer the most commonly asked questions when couples are first researching venues:

 

Q:  What would it cost to have my Wedding or Special Event at The Empress?

 

A: It can vary greatly, depending on several factors: your date (venue rental rates vary by season and day of the week), what dining feature/package you choose, your guest count, and how much of the details you would like us to handle. 

Essentially, there are two different kinds of packages: 1) The Specials, which are priced with both venue and catering and included, and 2) the full day packages which have the venue rental and your dining package priced separately. We are happy to customize a wedding based on your vision.  We also offer an elopement-style package and a small, elegant wedding package which many couples who might choose a civil ceremony will find more appealing than a wedding at the courthouse. Our packages are described in detail on the all-inclusive and full-day packages on the website. 

 

Q:  Do you require the use of your own caterer, or can we use an outside catering service?

A: We have our own Executive Chef, who has many years of professional experience, especially for upscale events. Empress Chef is an amazingly creative culinary talent. We do not even call it catering, because his dishes are coming fresh and hot out of our kitchen to your guests. Nothing is prepared off-site then delivered and re-heated, as would be with an outside vendor. Because we believe that we offer a quality service on-site, we do not allow outside caterers.

 

Q:  Can we do a cake and punch reception only, without serving other food?

A: Ask us about our "Elopement Wedding Package!

 

Q:  Can you accommodate my guests overnight in your B&B?

A: We have five beautifully appointed suites, some of them two-room suites, and we can accommodate up to 16 guests overnight.  We serve a delicious full breakfast the next morning. The Overnight Accommodations Package can be added to any of our catering package (inquire for pricing). This is a wonderful way to finish your wedding night in a calm, relaxed atmosphere, rather than packing up everything at the end of your event to drive to another destination. Instead, extend your celebration and enjoy the company of your family and closest friends either in the Fireside Room or on the Hillside Veranda around an outdoor fire pit. The overnight accommodations are surprisingly economical, considering the cost of putting guests up at other hotels. Some couples even opt to reserve our suites the night before their wedding, to help accommodate those out-of-town guests, or to make the preparations for the next day’s festivities a more relaxing experience.  We are also happy to recommend other local establishments to accommodate more out-of-town guests. 

 

Q:  Would there be other B&B guests staying on my wedding night?

A: Yes, we do not reserve suites for anyone but guests associated with your wedding on the night of your event. however, if you don't reserve the B&B then it would be open to anyone else 30 days before your wedding day

 

Q:  Do you allow alcohol at your venue? 

A: Yes, we do have options for alcohol service at your event and our event coordinator would be happy to discuss the details with you and help create a customized package.

 

Q:  Do you have staff to help on the day of my event?

A: We actually do better than that! Our Wedding Coordinator meets with you at the very beginning, once you decide to host your event at The Empress, and will have several other appointments with you to help in planning and pulling together the details to bring your vision to reality.  They also coordinate your rehearsal and they are there the day of your event to be sure all the details are handled. We also have a Venue Manager who is there the day of the wedding/event to attend to the needs of your guests, including the oversight of our wait staff and banquet service. Additionally, one of the Owners will be at the venue on the day of your event, to assist in any venue-related needs. And, of course, our Chef will be busy in the kitchen creating your exclusive menu!  

We have a wonderful team, who work very closely together, with their main goal that you and your guests feel well cared for on your very special day.

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Q: Can I bring outside décor?

A: We do offer our in-house centerpieces available for you. If you have a specific style you are going for that we do not have, you are welcome to get an outside rental vendor or bring in your own décor. Please note that the set-up of outside décor must be delegated to someone from your guest list.

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We are available seven days a week to answer your questions!

Call us at 360-225-5555 or book a tour now! 

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