FAQ
What's your alcohol policy?
You must hire a licensed and insured mobile bartender if you want hard liquor or to do a cash bar. If you want to serve just beer and wine, we can provide bartenders at an additional cost. We can also provide you with a mobile bartender vendor list!
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. The other 50% venue rental fee is due 6 months before your event.
When do I have access to the venue?
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-11pm.
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If you need earlier access into venue there will be an additional cost.
Do you allow sparklers or wish lanterns in our departure?
Unfortunately, sparklers and wish lanterns are not allowed.
What time does bar and music end?
Bar and music must end early enough to allow all vendors and guest to have all items off the property by the time the rental period ends.
What is the max guest count?
We have enough chairs for 275 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.
We have limited parking on-site (roughly 100 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 $140.
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.
Do you allow pets?
We love having your furry friends! Pets of the couple will be allowed on the wedding day. You must clean up after your pet, must be on a leash, and the pet must be monitored at all times. Please notify us if you plan to bring your pet.
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.
Will your staff set up and tear down my décor?
Your tables and chairs will be set in place at the start of your rental so you can add your rented table linens and table décor. If you book a single day option reminder that all your décor must be taken with you at the end of the night.