FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the rental fee and what does it include?

Please see the details found here for complete pricing and included items.

What is the Social Barn capacity?

150 guests including the wedding party

What dates are available?

Please see the available dates information here.

do i need to schedule a tour or can i just drop by?

We kindly request that all tours are by appointment only. You can request a tour here.

How do I reserve my wedding date? Is there a deposit? What are the required payments?

To reserve your wedding date we require an initial nonrefundable deposit of 50% of the total package price upon signing our contract. We prefer to make your plans in person. We understand that is not always possible. In this case, we will email your contract. This may be returned by email or mailed with your deposit.

The remaining 50% will be due 60 days prior to your wedding date. Payments may be made via cash, check or credit card. If payment is made by credit or debit card, a 3% convenience fee will be applied.

What is the average budget of a couple getting married at The Willow House and Social Barn?

We believe that the average budget of a couple getting married at The Willow House and Social Barn is roughly $15,000 – $19,000 for all wedding expenses (venue, food, dress, DJ, bartender, photographer, etc) We’ve had lots of DIY couples spend much less and many couples who choose to spend significantly more.

Can we provide our own caterers?

Yes. If you choose to provide your own caterer, we prefer you discuss this prior to reserving your event. We like to be familiar with a caterers quality and service. We want you, your family and friends to have an enjoyable reception. Nothing ruins a celebration like running out of food, the chicken not being cooked thoroughly, you know? We are happy to provide you with a list of our preferred caterers. These are professionals that have provided service here and we were pleased with their level of quality and service.

Do you provide lodging for the wedding party and guests?

Yes. Our Weekend Venue package offers a two night stay in The Willow House for up to 13 guests and up to 8 guests in our Groom’s Cabin. Our Ultimate Weekend package includes 5 additional rental cabins that sleep up to 14 guests. If you prefer, your guests may also contact us directly to reserve one.

Is there onsite parking?

Yes. Our parking area is situated directly behind the Social Barn. It is an easy walk to our ceremony sites and reception area. No need for shuttles.

Do you provide tables and chairs for our event? Do we have to set up?

Yes and yes. We provide white wedding chairs for your ceremony. We provide round or rectangle tables with white or ivory tablecloths for your reception. We also have lots of décor items. We will meet with you 30 days prior to your wedding date to discuss both your ceremony and reception set up options.

Do you have china we can use?

No. Many caterers offer china rental. We can also recommend rental companies in the area who offer delivery and pick up. Be sure and check out all the new high end plastic ware available. It’s really pretty and cost effective.

What happens if it rains?

Western NC weather is for lack of better term “interesting”. Forecasters may call for 90% chance of rain and the sun will shine all day! Summer showers usually pass through very quickly. If they don’t, we use our dance floor as our indoor ceremony site. Guests sit at their tables and we set up special chairs for your family and close friends.

Do you allow dogs to attend the wedding?

The Willow House and Social Barn grounds are pet friendly. However, they must be preapproved. Dogs are not allowed inside The Willow House and Social Barn or near food. Dogs must be on a leash and someone must be responsible for them other than the bride and groom.

Do you require a wedding day coordinator?

Yes. We require a day of coordinator so you, your wedding party and your family can enjoy every minute of your special day. We can recommend a day of coordinator. You are not required to choose from our recommendations. However, we require that your coordinator not be an immediate family member or a member of the wedding party. They are not required to hold a certification. We ask that the coordinator be familiar with the responsibilities of dealing with vendors, order of events (hair, makeup, photos) and ceremony/reception timeline. This is to ensure your day is totally enjoyable and stress free. A property manager will be available during your entire event to answer questions, direct vendors to appropriate areas, etc.

Do you have pictures of the décor available?

We have it all photographed and numbered on our inventory page.

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.

If we choose the one day event package, will we be able to hold a rehearsal the day before?

Rehearsal the day before will be based upon the property availability.

Can we have fireworks on the property?

Fireworks are not permitted. Sparklers are permitted in our designated areas.

Can we start decorating the day before our wedding?

If you have chosen the Weekend Venue package you are welcome to start decorating the day before your wedding and reception. The One Day Event package requires all your decorating be done during the 12 hour period you have reserved. Please do not use nails to hang any décor. We will be glad in assisting you with any hanging décor.

Are we required to remove trash?

No. We ask that all trash be placed in the provided trash cans at the close of your event. We will take care of the removal.

What time does the music need to end?

Due to our noise ordinance, music must end by 10 p.m. All vendors should be off the property by 11 p.m

Are candles allowed?

No. Our Social Barn is basically an all wood structure. We don’t want any wedding day fires!