Frequently Asked Questions:
Why The Conservatory, what sets you a part from any other venue?
The Conservatory is very unique as it is a flat rate space for most events (smaller corporate events or small parties are hourly). Flat rate means for 1 price you'll receive tables, chairs, linens, a centerpieces, candles, an event manager on-site, expert guidance from an award winning event planner, and the setup/take down of all those items. We are also located in the heart of the East Village so you have access to fantastic shops, bars, hotels, and salons and therefore could meet all your wedding needs within a couple blocks of the venue.
Where do people park?
Street parking on East 5th, Locust, and Walnut is available. Meters stop charging after 9pm. There is parking garage behind our building. The entrance is located on East 6th between Locust and Grand ($3 for the 1st hour and then $1 each hour after that). Click here for the ramp parking information: LINK
We also have access to Event Parking at the Blood Center across the street, this is set at $5 per car for the whole night and is great value. We can discuss this in detail closer to your date.
Please add this to your invitation or event/wedding website.
Valet parking available upon request.
Please note: The Conservatory only offers this garage information as a courtesy but The Conservatory has no ownership or management responsibility for this garage.
What are the costs to rent The Conservatory? For current costs visit this link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/book.html
Booking: What is the deposit amount to book The Conservatory?
The deposit is 50% of the total rental (the 1st payment is the booking fee and the 2nd payment is the rental payment) + a $500 damage deposit. We will pay for insurance and security with this the rest will be placed onto your bar invoice. To figure out the total check out the link below or contact us on this website for a custom invoice with the correct total.
Link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/book.html
How many can sit for the ceremony?
The Conservatory is very unique as we do not due a 'ceremony flip' in other words we don't setup for a ceremony then take it down then setup for dinner, so the dinner tables will already be set. Because of this we can sit about 150 to 175 normal ceremony seating (unless we need to social distance; this would cut it down to about half - 75 or so) plus up to another 60 guests at half moons at the dinner tables. Please contact us for more details on this. We do ask that guests wear masks for the ceremony or that they social distance (one or the other).
What hours can we setup and tear down for our wedding or event?
With Saturday weddings and events, access to the space is coordinated after 1:00 PM for setup. For earlier access please email the Event manager for details.
Event End Time: Typically, last call is set for 11:00 or 11:30pm so all drinks should be finished by 11:45pm. Your caterer carries their own insurance and can stay in the building for cleanup purposes. Access to the space must be arranged with the approved caterer directly. For Friday or weekday weddings setup usually occurs at between noon at 3pm (depending on how extensive the décor setup is).
Does The Conservatory typically provide the bar service and bring the alcohol?
Yes the conservatory provides the bar. You may pick many bar options from hosted, partially hosted, and cash services. We will discuss what is best for you and go from there.
Can we bring in our own alcohol?
You may bring in your own wine for a $20 corkage fee on standard size bottles of wine and $30 on double bottle larger sizes. (no boxed wine). $500 bar minimum added to most events, contact us for details.
Can I use a caterer not on your list or have a friend or family member help make the food for our event?
We do allow caterers not on the list, but we must approve them before you would book with their services.
We have a diverse list of fantastic caterers that can meet you catering needs, for the list visit here: www.theconservatoryev.com/caterers.html
We also offer in-house catering and you can review menus here: LINK
All caterers need to be licensed and in a licensed kitchen with proof of liability insurance. Neither you nor any other person can make the food. No pot lucks either. We do allow another non-approved licensed caterer to serve at The Conservatory, just let us know and we will go from there! *Note: All caterers must pay a $300 fee for usage of kitchen/wear and tear/garbage.
What tables and chairs are we able to use?
Weddings include tables, chairs, and centerpieces (big savings!) at no additional cost. Other events pay a flat $300 for tables, chairs, linens, centerpieces, all setup/take down, and an event manager. Other rental items can be provided for you. Weddings include basic tables, chairs, linens, and a candle-based centerpiece. All other events will require a rental invoice to be created. Please email to request a bid for rentals.
What is the capacity for guests?
For a sit-down dinner 275 seated and For a cocktail reception you could get 421 in the space. If you wish to have a seated dinner and dancing, we suggest having a guest list less than 250.
What about other rental and decor items?
You may plan your own decorations or work with a professional company for centerpieces. We have preferred companies that have a key to The Conservatory and can decorate after hours alleviating potential stress by providing your own décor items.
How do I reserve a date?
You can reserve a date by placing a deposit of 50% of the total rental cost- that is your Booking Fee. Email us to book. You can place a “soft hold” on any date without a deposit, you would then get first right to book the space if someone else is interested in that date. It is possible that the date you want is on hold right now. If someone already has a hold on a date then you would be in the second hold position. If you were to want that date the person in the first hold position would have 1 business day to produce the deposit check or it would fall to the person in the second hold position. You would then be required to place a deposit of half the rental amount and that would book the date. A soft hold is good for 7 days and then it expires. You may put another soft hold on that date if you contact The Conservatory before it expires. Visit this link to hold a date: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/hold.html
Do you offer non-profit or off-season discounts?
We do offer discounts and off-season discounts. For Saturday’s from January to April the space is discounted to $2500 with table, chairs, & centerpieces included. Other discounts are available. Please email us to request pricing. To request a non-profit discount, please complete the form located in this link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/non-profit.html
Do you have a list of bar prices?
We do have a list of all bar prices and helpful calculator to estimate how much of your budget will be bar related items. Please email to request the current pricing.
How does the bar work?
We can do a mix of hosted and ‘cash’ bar options to meet your budget needs.
Is security or insurance required?
Yes, when alcohol is being served, The Conservatory will secure security and insurance on your behalf. The cost for security is $250. The insurance fee is $200. This will be removed from your damage deposit with the remainder placed on your soda/bar consumption.
Could we have a ceremony and reception at The Conservatory (and what about outside ceremony spots)?
Yes, we do this often. We can setup the ceremony (you can see photos of this here: LINK) and then have the cocktail hour, dinner reception, and dancing. We can explain the transition of the space in detail during your in-person tour.
We do not have an outdoor ceremony spot, but there are 2 within walking or short driving distance from The Conservatory and both are free! The first is the Shattering Silence sculpture at the Judicial Building and the 2nd is The State Capital Grounds. More information is located here: LINK
Accessibility:
We have an elevator for wheelchairs or mobility challenged guests and a family bathroom on the 1st floor.
Smaller Weddings: I have a smaller wedding under 100 is the price the same?
We've held weddings of 10, 30, 50, 100, 150, 200. 250, and 290 - our space can be transformed to hold weddings of most sides, but despite the number of invited guests, as a venue our expenses do not change so there is not a specific discount for smaller weddings, however, if you pick an off season month (January to April) or a date besides a Saturday we can come up with a custom package that works within your budget. To access our discount application click here: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/requests.html
Ceremony only – no reception: We get it – sometimes you just need a ceremony spot. If you are looking into a Saturday during prime wedding months, we are not able to provide a ceremony only discount rate. Our full rate would be due. We can discount on a Friday or Sunday – we can also discount in from January to March. Please email us to receive information about this pricing.
How is Covid 19 effecting The Conservatory?
We will be following the CDC guidelines and government restrictions closely. We do not what Covid will look like in a month, 2 months, 3 months. If you do book The Conservatory and for some reason due to COVID you need to reschedule, or we cannot be open to host your event then we are giving you up to 14 months from your original date to reschedule your event, but your booking fee deposit is non-refundable. If the Governor allows your event to be hosted but at 50% capacity – then your max seated guests would need to be adjusted to 50% of our capacity (we are allowed to have up to 420 guests so 50% would be 210). If regulations from the state require the serving staff to serve food to the guests at the buffet, then our labor cost will be adjusted accordingly - as buffets are typically self service. To have a manned buffet the estimation of adding 3 staff to dish out the food at the buffet would cost $300. We do not know if this will be required yet for your date by the State.
What regulations/restrictions will guests encounter due to Covid 19 at The Conservatory?
Many venues are requiring temp checks for all guests and masks, we are not doing that (nor requiring guests to wear masks/gloves). We want people to stay home if they are sick or if they have been exposed to Covid over the last 2 weeks. Please review our current safety requirements here:
http://www.theconservatoryev.com/requirements.html
What costs are associated with New Years Eve Events:
NYE events are not charged an additional rental fee but rather are required to host a limited hosted bar for your guests, you are welcome to host liquor too, but you are only required to host wine, beer, champagne, and soda.
The cost details are below:
$25 per person + 20% service fee for staff, cups, ice, etc.
Hosted- Keg beer, select bottles, house wines, champagne, soda, and juice
First 4 hours: $25 + 20% service fee for staff, cups, ice, etc.
Hours after 1st four: $5 per hour
Liquor:
Add liquor for $15 more per person per hour or guests can buy liquor on their own throughout the night.
Includes Call Brands Liquor, Domestic Keg Beer and House Wine, Pre-pour table filled with beer/wine – signature drink (if requested).
Why The Conservatory, what sets you a part from any other venue?
The Conservatory is very unique as it is a flat rate space for most events (smaller corporate events or small parties are hourly). Flat rate means for 1 price you'll receive tables, chairs, linens, a centerpieces, candles, an event manager on-site, expert guidance from an award winning event planner, and the setup/take down of all those items. We are also located in the heart of the East Village so you have access to fantastic shops, bars, hotels, and salons and therefore could meet all your wedding needs within a couple blocks of the venue.
Where do people park?
Street parking on East 5th, Locust, and Walnut is available. Meters stop charging after 9pm. There is parking garage behind our building. The entrance is located on East 6th between Locust and Grand ($3 for the 1st hour and then $1 each hour after that). Click here for the ramp parking information: LINK
We also have access to Event Parking at the Blood Center across the street, this is set at $5 per car for the whole night and is great value. We can discuss this in detail closer to your date.
Please add this to your invitation or event/wedding website.
Valet parking available upon request.
Please note: The Conservatory only offers this garage information as a courtesy but The Conservatory has no ownership or management responsibility for this garage.
What are the costs to rent The Conservatory? For current costs visit this link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/book.html
Booking: What is the deposit amount to book The Conservatory?
The deposit is 50% of the total rental (the 1st payment is the booking fee and the 2nd payment is the rental payment) + a $500 damage deposit. We will pay for insurance and security with this the rest will be placed onto your bar invoice. To figure out the total check out the link below or contact us on this website for a custom invoice with the correct total.
Link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/book.html
How many can sit for the ceremony?
The Conservatory is very unique as we do not due a 'ceremony flip' in other words we don't setup for a ceremony then take it down then setup for dinner, so the dinner tables will already be set. Because of this we can sit about 150 to 175 normal ceremony seating (unless we need to social distance; this would cut it down to about half - 75 or so) plus up to another 60 guests at half moons at the dinner tables. Please contact us for more details on this. We do ask that guests wear masks for the ceremony or that they social distance (one or the other).
What hours can we setup and tear down for our wedding or event?
With Saturday weddings and events, access to the space is coordinated after 1:00 PM for setup. For earlier access please email the Event manager for details.
Event End Time: Typically, last call is set for 11:00 or 11:30pm so all drinks should be finished by 11:45pm. Your caterer carries their own insurance and can stay in the building for cleanup purposes. Access to the space must be arranged with the approved caterer directly. For Friday or weekday weddings setup usually occurs at between noon at 3pm (depending on how extensive the décor setup is).
Does The Conservatory typically provide the bar service and bring the alcohol?
Yes the conservatory provides the bar. You may pick many bar options from hosted, partially hosted, and cash services. We will discuss what is best for you and go from there.
Can we bring in our own alcohol?
You may bring in your own wine for a $20 corkage fee on standard size bottles of wine and $30 on double bottle larger sizes. (no boxed wine). $500 bar minimum added to most events, contact us for details.
Can I use a caterer not on your list or have a friend or family member help make the food for our event?
We do allow caterers not on the list, but we must approve them before you would book with their services.
We have a diverse list of fantastic caterers that can meet you catering needs, for the list visit here: www.theconservatoryev.com/caterers.html
We also offer in-house catering and you can review menus here: LINK
All caterers need to be licensed and in a licensed kitchen with proof of liability insurance. Neither you nor any other person can make the food. No pot lucks either. We do allow another non-approved licensed caterer to serve at The Conservatory, just let us know and we will go from there! *Note: All caterers must pay a $300 fee for usage of kitchen/wear and tear/garbage.
What tables and chairs are we able to use?
Weddings include tables, chairs, and centerpieces (big savings!) at no additional cost. Other events pay a flat $300 for tables, chairs, linens, centerpieces, all setup/take down, and an event manager. Other rental items can be provided for you. Weddings include basic tables, chairs, linens, and a candle-based centerpiece. All other events will require a rental invoice to be created. Please email to request a bid for rentals.
What is the capacity for guests?
For a sit-down dinner 275 seated and For a cocktail reception you could get 421 in the space. If you wish to have a seated dinner and dancing, we suggest having a guest list less than 250.
What about other rental and decor items?
You may plan your own decorations or work with a professional company for centerpieces. We have preferred companies that have a key to The Conservatory and can decorate after hours alleviating potential stress by providing your own décor items.
How do I reserve a date?
You can reserve a date by placing a deposit of 50% of the total rental cost- that is your Booking Fee. Email us to book. You can place a “soft hold” on any date without a deposit, you would then get first right to book the space if someone else is interested in that date. It is possible that the date you want is on hold right now. If someone already has a hold on a date then you would be in the second hold position. If you were to want that date the person in the first hold position would have 1 business day to produce the deposit check or it would fall to the person in the second hold position. You would then be required to place a deposit of half the rental amount and that would book the date. A soft hold is good for 7 days and then it expires. You may put another soft hold on that date if you contact The Conservatory before it expires. Visit this link to hold a date: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/hold.html
Do you offer non-profit or off-season discounts?
We do offer discounts and off-season discounts. For Saturday’s from January to April the space is discounted to $2500 with table, chairs, & centerpieces included. Other discounts are available. Please email us to request pricing. To request a non-profit discount, please complete the form located in this link: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/non-profit.html
Do you have a list of bar prices?
We do have a list of all bar prices and helpful calculator to estimate how much of your budget will be bar related items. Please email to request the current pricing.
How does the bar work?
We can do a mix of hosted and ‘cash’ bar options to meet your budget needs.
Is security or insurance required?
Yes, when alcohol is being served, The Conservatory will secure security and insurance on your behalf. The cost for security is $250. The insurance fee is $200. This will be removed from your damage deposit with the remainder placed on your soda/bar consumption.
Could we have a ceremony and reception at The Conservatory (and what about outside ceremony spots)?
Yes, we do this often. We can setup the ceremony (you can see photos of this here: LINK) and then have the cocktail hour, dinner reception, and dancing. We can explain the transition of the space in detail during your in-person tour.
We do not have an outdoor ceremony spot, but there are 2 within walking or short driving distance from The Conservatory and both are free! The first is the Shattering Silence sculpture at the Judicial Building and the 2nd is The State Capital Grounds. More information is located here: LINK
Accessibility:
We have an elevator for wheelchairs or mobility challenged guests and a family bathroom on the 1st floor.
Smaller Weddings: I have a smaller wedding under 100 is the price the same?
We've held weddings of 10, 30, 50, 100, 150, 200. 250, and 290 - our space can be transformed to hold weddings of most sides, but despite the number of invited guests, as a venue our expenses do not change so there is not a specific discount for smaller weddings, however, if you pick an off season month (January to April) or a date besides a Saturday we can come up with a custom package that works within your budget. To access our discount application click here: http://www.theconservatoryev.com/requests.html
Ceremony only – no reception: We get it – sometimes you just need a ceremony spot. If you are looking into a Saturday during prime wedding months, we are not able to provide a ceremony only discount rate. Our full rate would be due. We can discount on a Friday or Sunday – we can also discount in from January to March. Please email us to receive information about this pricing.
How is Covid 19 effecting The Conservatory?
We will be following the CDC guidelines and government restrictions closely. We do not what Covid will look like in a month, 2 months, 3 months. If you do book The Conservatory and for some reason due to COVID you need to reschedule, or we cannot be open to host your event then we are giving you up to 14 months from your original date to reschedule your event, but your booking fee deposit is non-refundable. If the Governor allows your event to be hosted but at 50% capacity – then your max seated guests would need to be adjusted to 50% of our capacity (we are allowed to have up to 420 guests so 50% would be 210). If regulations from the state require the serving staff to serve food to the guests at the buffet, then our labor cost will be adjusted accordingly - as buffets are typically self service. To have a manned buffet the estimation of adding 3 staff to dish out the food at the buffet would cost $300. We do not know if this will be required yet for your date by the State.
What regulations/restrictions will guests encounter due to Covid 19 at The Conservatory?
Many venues are requiring temp checks for all guests and masks, we are not doing that (nor requiring guests to wear masks/gloves). We want people to stay home if they are sick or if they have been exposed to Covid over the last 2 weeks. Please review our current safety requirements here:
http://www.theconservatoryev.com/requirements.html
What costs are associated with New Years Eve Events:
NYE events are not charged an additional rental fee but rather are required to host a limited hosted bar for your guests, you are welcome to host liquor too, but you are only required to host wine, beer, champagne, and soda.
The cost details are below:
$25 per person + 20% service fee for staff, cups, ice, etc.
Hosted- Keg beer, select bottles, house wines, champagne, soda, and juice
First 4 hours: $25 + 20% service fee for staff, cups, ice, etc.
Hours after 1st four: $5 per hour
Liquor:
Add liquor for $15 more per person per hour or guests can buy liquor on their own throughout the night.
Includes Call Brands Liquor, Domestic Keg Beer and House Wine, Pre-pour table filled with beer/wine – signature drink (if requested).