FAQ
What time does bar and music end?
Bar and music must end one hour before the rental period ends to allow all vendors and guest to have all items off the property.
What is the deposit amount required to reserve the venue?
An initial payment equal to 50% of your rental is due upon signing the contract. Paid with either cash or check. The other 50% venue rental fee is due 6 months before your event. We also offer a $500 discount if you book the venue during your tour!
When do I have access to the venue?
During May-November Friday weddings have use of the facility Thursday for from noon-5pm and Friday from 8am-11pm. For a Saturday you have the venue from 8am-11:30pm. For weddings in December-April access to the venue is from 9am-11pm.
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If you need earlier access into venue there will be an additional cost. We don't allow you to extend your hours in the evening.
Do you allow sparklers or wish lanterns in our departure?
Unfortunately, sparklers and wish lanterns are not allowed.
Do you provide any decor?
We have a decor closet that could be added on for an additional cost. We do provide four arch options and two sign options for our fireplace. Please inquire to learn more
What is the max guest count?
We have enough chairs for 250 guests, but find it more comfortable with a guest count of around 150-225 inside. Most of our couples host from 100-225 guests.
Where are the nearest hotels and accommodations?
Cobblestone Inn & Suites is located 10 miles away in Vinton! The Hilton Garden Inn is 17 miles away in Cedar Rapids. Homewood Suites and Hampton Inn are 20 miles away in Cedar Rapids and offer a 10% off of room blocks.
We have limited parking on-site (roughly 115 cars) so please carpool if possible! If you need a shuttle service, we can give you a list of vendors. Overnight parking is okay as long as vehicles are picked up by 9 the following day.
Do you allow candles?
Yes, candles must be inside a glass container tall enough to protect the flame from any decorations.​
How many does the pond ceremony seat?
The pond ceremony bench seating can hold 175 seated guest. We do have additional chairs that could be used at the ceremony site.
Do we have to get insurance?
Yes, you have to get special event liability insurance that names Walnut Ridge as an additional insured and a host liquor liability if alcohol is to be served. This is an additional estimated cost around $120.
Do you have restrictions on outside vendors?
Our only requirement is to hire a licensed commercial caterer and an insured DJ. When you book at Walnut Ridge, we provide you with a recommended vendor list. Please do your diligence to read reviews to find vendors that fit your needs.
Alcohol Policy?
No outside alcohol is allowed. The bar is run and purchased through Walnut Ridge. We provide both open bar and cash bar options.
What's your cancelation policy?
Unfortunately, all deposits are non-refundable. If your booked date no longer works, we would happily move it to an open date. If you decided to cancel your event within 6 months your entire rental is non-refundable.
Will your staff set up and tear down my décor?
Your tables, chairs and linens will be set. We can setup your decor for an additional cost. If you book a single day option reminder that all your décor must be taken with you at the end of the night.