DESIGN TIPS + TRICKS FOR YOUR HAWTHORNE HOUSE WEDDING DAY [THAT ARE CONTRACT FRIENDLY]
We don't like to be sticklers, but we love Hawthorne House and want to make sure it is in tip top shape for each and every couple that starts their forever on our grounds. To ensure each wedding has the same experience, we have a few regulations that will be enforced.
Let’s talk guidelines
Decorations
Bringing your personal touch to your wedding day is so important and we certainly embrace that! We do ask that nothing be hung from walls (no command hooks, glue, nails, or tape), no glitter or confetti be used and that all candles be in a votive or a vase.
In the chapel, only flameless candles will be allowed down the aisles - we don't want guests accidentally knocking them over as they go to sit down. When in doubt, ask the Hawthorne House team - we'd love to address any decor questions you have prior to the wedding day.
Send Off
During our final walkthrough together, you will be asked if you are having a send off. It is required that you give Hawthorne House advance notice (aka not the day of your wedding) if you are planning on having a send off. Sparklers, confetti of any kind, and any other objects / material that will damage the property are prohibited as mentioned in the contract. If you want a fun idea, we're happy to share what other couples have done. Our favorite is a "metallic ribbon wand" purchased from Amazon. Affordable, easy and ADORABLE!
In the chapel, only flameless candles will be allowed down the aisles - we don't want guests accidentally knocking them over as they go to sit down. When in doubt, ask the Hawthorne House team - we'd love to address any decor questions you have prior to the wedding day.
Catering
We have couples who will ask, "Why do you have a Preferred Catering List?". Here's our simple answer... Caterers play a PIVOTAL part in a wedding day. Through years of experience with a plethora of catering companies, we have chosen the best of the best while keeping budget and cuisine in mind. We don't want you or your guests in the kitchen or busing tables on your special day. The caterers on our preferred list are full service and will provide a professional experience with a high quality of service.
Timing
The Hawthorne House Facility Rental allows for 6 hours of "getting ready" access, 30 minutes of ceremony (if booked), 5 hours of reception with 4 hours of consecutive bar time, and 30 minutes of clean up. Be sure to use this timing breakdown as you plan for vendors such as beauty, floral delivery, entertainment beginning and end times. Bar service start and end times will be determined at the final walkthrough.
Let’s talk Tips + Tricks
Whether you are soft and subtle or bright and colorful, every palate looks stunning at Hawthorne House! Our white exterior and neutral colors make your green and white colors timeless and give your blues, purples or terracotta's a breathtaking pop. Whichever palette you chose, it will be remarkable!
As for flowers, signs and decorations, think about ease! Find vendors that will bring and do everything. Let your florist bring your flowers AND your candles, rent items rather than purchase them, and budget for the late night teardown and pick up fees. The less items you have to bring, the easier the set up and the teardown will be for you and your families.
Also, think about items that you can repurpose. Flowers from your ceremony, welcome signs, or bridesmaids bouquets. Arbor pieces and aisle decor can lay down on your head table or look great on the bar by your drinks and your welcome sign can be used to welcome guests to the chapel / gazebo AND into the reception hall. Have your coordinator or point person grab the items after your ceremony and move them into place in the Emerson Room.
As you start thinking about decor, make sure you check out our dimensions guide on your client planning portal to ensure your items are the right size! Regardless of what you choose to do, make sure that it is YOUR DAY!