FAQs
Ceremony
Can I have my ceremony onsite?
Absolutely! The beauty of our space is that we have locations for ceremonies, cocktail hours, and your reception for a customizable flow. For weddings held in spring, summer or fall, our gardens boast season-changing blooms, making for an idyllic outdoor ceremony. The Balcony and main Historic Barn can accommodate smaller ceremonies indoors, while the Pavilion is a fantastic option for larger celebrations.
Can we have our ceremony outside?
"I dos" in the fresh air? But of course! We have multiple ceremony spots that offer different perspectives of our gardens. We also have rental pieces included in your experience package to add a little extra to your big moment. See them by clicking the "Ceremony Structures" button below.
Do you have ceremony chairs?
Yes! For outdoor ceremonies we use our wood-toned folding chairs, and indoor ceremonies are set with our crossback chairs.
Do you have a rain plan?
We have your Plan A, your Plan B, and your plan for every other letter of the alphabet! If Mother Nature doesn't want to cooperate, our Pavilion is a fantastic space for ceremonies. The room can then be flipped for your reception like magic, as your guests mingle in the Historic Barn for happy hour. The Pavilion has AC and heat, so it can be celebrated in in any season.
Can my dog be a part of the ceremony?
Of course! We love to see you furry friends make their big appearance. Dogs can be a part of your ceremony, then we ask they be escorted offsite to enjoy their own day of pampering.
Do you allow rose petals?
While we love a petal-scattered aisle or a recessional celebration, any petals used must be fresh, and in pastel colors. In efforts to remain kind to Mother Nature in borrowing her space, we do not allow bird seed, rice, bubbles or confetti.
Cocktail Hour
Can we have our cocktail hour outside?
Our Courtyard provides a wonderful space for an outdoor cocktail hour, with easy access to the Pavilion for your reception. Plus, we have some exciting projects in the works! New enchanting gardens and a pergola will be ready to provide a second naturally beautiful option come spring 2023.
When do I have to make the decision of whether to have my cocktail hour inside or out?
We know Mother Nature can be fickle, and in Maryland we often don't know what the weather will be until it's actually happening. We'll prep both our Historic Barn and Courtyard for potential use, then you can make the call the morning of your day.
Can I bring a food truck or mobile bar?
You can, though we ask that all food and drink service be provided by your main caterer. We have a special trailer on-site that your caterer is welcome to use to create a unique serving experience!
What additional in-house rentals do you have for cocktail hour?
We have quite the selection! Umbrellas for those particularly sunny days, standing heaters for the brisk sunsets, high top tables, patio sets of tables and chairs, easels, bars, lanterns, and even lawn games to help get the party started. All included when you opt to add our Rental Collection, linked at the bottom of the page.
Reception
How many guests can your space hold?
Our Pavilion combined with the Balcony can host a reception of up to 230 guests seated, with space for a dance floor. If you're looking for something a bit more intimate, our Historic Barn is perfect for weddings up to 50 guests.
Are tables and chairs included in my rental?
They are! We have round tables, long tables and a sweetheart table. We have 280 beautiful cross-back chairs as well as light wood folding outdoor ceremony chairs.
Why do I have to choose a caterer from your list?
We truly believe in providing exquisite, memorable experiences at The Tannery Barn, and we know food has a huge impact on that experience. The caterers on our list are not only experienced at The Tannery Barn, but we can guarantee that they’ll provide the quality of service, cuisine and accommodation that we want to exemplify in every event.
Are linens included?
We have both cream and grey taffeta linens that can be rented for 25 dollars each. You can also often rent through your caterer or florist/event designer. We also have crinkle runners in assorted colors to adorn our farm tables!
Do you have any in-house rentals we can use to decorate?
Yes! Lounges, bar fronts, candles, lanterns, shelves, and then some! Take a look at all the possibilities, and your choice to add unlimited options, at the Rental Collection linked at the bottom of this page.
Can we bring in outside rentals?
We love when our space is filled with elements unique to each couple! You are welcome to use outside rentals, so long as they are dropped off and picked back up between your rental hours. We are not able to store any items.
Can I have a sparkler sendoff?
We love a magical end to the night! Sparkler sendoffs can be arranged in our courtyard, though sparklers cannot extend beyond 18".
Logistics
Is the Tannery wheelchair accessible?
Yes! The entire space is ADA compliant, with bathrooms on both floors of the building.
Can my wedding party get ready on site?
Absolutely! No need to squeeze into a tight hotel space to get ready, or risk outfits wrinkling in the car. We have 2 getting-ready spaces-- the first a bright and airy space with multiple makeup stations, the second a cozier spot with leather couches and room to lounge for those who don't need their glam team.
Where will my guests park?
In an effort to keep guests’ cars out of all of your photos, our parking lot is a short two blocks down the road. Your rental includes a continuous shuttle service, like your own comfortable and convenient valet, so your guests can be dropped right at the door!
When can my vendors have access?
Your vendors are allowed to start their setup as soon as your rental time starts. No time crunches here! Be sure to save 1 to 2 hours at the end of your rental time to allow for vendor load-out.
Does the Pavilion have heat and AC?
Yes and yes! The Pavilion is available (and comfortable) year-round.
How long do I have the space for?
Our rentals start at 8 hours, and extend up to 16 hours! We can guarantee you'll be the only event on your day, so you'll have total privacy in our space.
Do we need a wedding planner?
It's safe to say we've seen a lot of events, and all the things that go on behind the scenes. For that reason, we do require a professional planner or coordinator for your day. There's no need for you, your family or friends to stress that everything is moving according to plan. It's a lot more fun to let the hiccups become "I didn't even know that happened! moments. If you don't have a professional already on your roster, the Tannery team can add coordination services.
How do I reserve my date?
For weddings booked 9 or more months in advance, a 25% deposit is needed to lock in your date. For events scheduled less than 8 months out, we require a 50% deposit. The balance is due 30 days prior to your wedding/event.