Frequently asked questions
General FAQs
How do I reserve my event date?
To lock in your event date, a non-refundable $500 holding fee is needed. Don’t worry, this fee will be deducted from your total rental cost!
When is the remaining balance and security deposit due?
After your reservation holding fee, second payment of fifty percent (50%) of the balance is due six months prior to the event date.
Payment of the remaining balance, along with a $300 security deposit, is due sixty (60) days in advance of the event.
3. When will I get my security deposit back?
If all goes well, your $300 security deposit will be returned within two weeks after your event. Just make sure there’s no damage, excessive cleaning required, or any property rules broken.
4. What if we want to Elope this week?
As long as we have the opening, we will gladly accept you at the last minute. Well, with at least a few hours notice.
We do all our elopements on Tuesdays and Thursdays and depending on your timeline, payments can be made at booking, or if it really is the last minute, the same day as your wedding is fine as well.
You can have up to 10 guests at your elopement, but any wedding with guests will require wedding insurance.
Feel free to check out our 2-hour Elopement Packages here and give Hayden a call at (540)841-8199 for more information.
5. Can I get a refund if I don’t use all the hours I reserved?
Unfortunately, we can’t offer refunds for unused hours on your event date.
6. What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel more than 1 year in advance, you forfeit half of the reservation holding fee ($250). If the cancellation occurs less than a year but more than six months prior, you forfeit the entire holding fee ($500). For cancellations within six to three months, you lose fifty percent of the rental fee, including selected options. If the event is canceled less than three months in advance, the entire rental fee, including selected options, is forfeited, but your $300 security deposit will be returned within two weeks of the cancellation. (Exceptions are made only for verified debilitating health reasons.)
7. Is insurance required for my event?
Yes, you’ll need a “Certificate of Liability Event Insurance” naming “James and Hayden Hodges” as an additional insured with a coverage of $1,000,000. Make sure it includes your details and event date. This doesn’t only protect us as the property owners, but you as well. Please see our preferred insurance provider here.
8. What are the rules regarding the event timeline?
The property is rented in 2-hour blocks which include setup and cleanup. Reserve at least the last 30 minutes for cleanup. Guests must vacate by 8:30 PM, Also, no one should arrive at the property before the rented time for setup unless it has been approved by Hayden Hodges.
9. Are there any noise restrictions?
Yes, please keep noise levels reasonable after 5 PM. Sound should not exceed 80-92 dB from 100 feet away. There are private homes nearby and we like to be respectful of everyone.
10. Can we serve alcohol or food at our event?
Alcohol may not be “served” on the property unless you have secured the appropriate permits.
Food? Of course! You can bring your own food and drink or arrange catering. (Caterers will need to show insurance to be allowed on the property.)
11. What should I know about children and pets at my event?
Children under 13 should be accompanied by an adult at all times. Pets are welcome too! Just remember to clean up after them and keep them on a leash.
12. Are there any rules for smoking and substance use?
Yes, please smoke or vape only in designated areas and dispose of waste properly. Illegal substances are not allowed on the property.
13. What’s the cleanup process after the event?
You'll need to gather any items you want to keep and then put all trash in the designated bins. Our cleanup crew will handle the rest, ensuring the property is restored after your event. Note that excessive trash or spills may incur additional fees.
14. What if I’ve lost or forgotten something?
While we can't guarantee the return of lost items, any important personal belongings found (like wallets, jewelry, purses, clothing, or paperwork) will be held for you or your guests up to 2 weeks. If we find anything of that nature, we will contact you by email the next day to let you know what we have.
15. Are there specific rules for decorations or damage?
You're responsible for any damage to the property. Please use only specified decoration items—no staples, tape, rice, or confetti allowed on the grounds.
16. What should I expect regarding property improvements before my event?
We're always working to enhance the look and feel of the property, including landscaping and grounds. Some areas may look different between your booking date and the actual event. Rest assured; our team is dedicated to maintaining a beautiful venue for your special day.
17. When will the tent for my event be set up?
If you’ve reserved our party tent, we’ll start the setup process well before your arrival and complete it well before your event. You’ll have plenty of time to finalize personal decorations and other setup tasks.
*Note - Outside tent rentals are NOT allowed as we have already seen serious damage to the property from a tent vendor.
18. Will photos or videos be taken during my event?
Yes, the Property Owners or their staff may take photos or videos during your ceremony or reception for use on our website and social media. If you prefer not to have your event recorded, please send a written request to us at theforestgarden4u@gmail.com.
19. What is the maximum seating capacity for events?
Our venue comfortably seats up to 50 guests (plus 4 more). Plan your guest list accordingly to ensure everyone has a great experience. There are 15 parking spaces, but we can accommodate up to 25 vehicles with prior approval.
20. What are the liability terms I should be aware of?
The Property Owners aren't responsible for any bodily or property damage on or near the property.
We’re not liable for incidents related to guest transportation to and from the facility.
You'll indemnify and hold harmless the Property Owners and their employees for any liabilities and damages resulting from your rental agreement and use of the premises.
We're not liable for inconveniences beyond our control, like power outages, severe weather, and government mandates.
21. Can the Property Owners deny service to clients?
Yes, although we aim to welcome everyone, the Property Owners have the right to decline service to any client at any time. This decision is rarely made, and only in instances of rude, abusive, violent, or illegal behavior. Our priority is to ensure that every event upholds the integrity, safety, and quality that we are committed to providing. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in helping us create a welcoming environment for all.
For any further inquiries or clarification, please feel free to reach out to us directly.