FAQs
Curious to learn more about our venue, policies, and recommendations to see if we fit what you need? Our Frequently Asked Questions will cover most details, but if you have more questions, please contact our team at info@southerncharm.estate.
Big Picture & Booking
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The booking process begins once you’ve filled out our contact form and scheduled a tour of Southern Charm Estate. During your visit, you’ll meet with Christine, the owner, who will guide you through all the details and answer your questions.
When you’re ready to reserve your date, simply notify Christine of your selection. You will then receive your contract by email to review and sign. Once the contract is complete and the $1,000 retainer is received, your date will be officially secured on our calendar.
We accept cash, check, or debit/credit cards. Please note that card payments include a 3% processing fee.
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Most couples book 12–18 months ahead, but we are currently accepting reservations into the 2027 wedding season.
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A $1,000 non-refundable retainer is required at the time of contract signing to secure your wedding date.
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No. The $1,000 retainer is non-refundable and serves to secure your date on our calendar. Because we reserve your date exclusively for you, this payment cannot be returned in the event of cancellation.
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Yes! We’re happy to offer a simple payment plan. Your date is secured with a $1,000 non-refundable retainer, followed by three equal payments, with the final balance due 30 days before your wedding date.
We also provide weekday and off-season discounts, which offer significant savings compared to peak Saturday pricing.
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Yes. For the protection of both you and your guests, couples are required to carry event liability insurance naming Southern Charm Estate as an additional insured. This one-day policy is affordable, simple to obtain, and ensures peace of mind by providing coverage for accidents, property damage, or unforeseen incidents during your celebration.
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Your wedding date is reserved exclusively for you, which means all payments — including the $1,000 retainer — are non-refundable.
Reschedules: We allow one complimentary date change if requested at least 180 days before your event. The new date must be selected within 12 months and is subject to availability.
Within 180 days: Date changes requested less than 180 days before your event are treated as a cancellation. All payments are non-transferable, and a new retainer and contract are required to book another date at current pricing.
Cancellations: All payments are non-refundable, and cancellation requests must be submitted in writing.
Venue Access & Timing
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Our packages include venue access from 9 AM to 11 PM, with only one event hosted per day—meaning the entire estate is exclusively yours to enjoy.
Note: We also offer a Two-Day Rental, which includes an 8-hour block the day before your wedding. -
Yes! You have the option to extend your rental by up to one additional hour in the morning (before your contracted start time) and/or one additional hour at the end of the night (after your contracted end time).
Saturdays – $280 per hour
Fridays & Sundays – $250 per hour
Weekdays – $215 per hour
Additional time must be approved by our management team before it begins to ensure staff is in place and everything continues smoothly.
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Vendors may arrive at the start of your contracted rental period.
Note: If additional time is needed for early setup, extra hours may be added to your rental.
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Every wedding at Southern Charm Estate includes a 2-hour rehearsal. We almost always host rehearsals on Thursdays in 2-hour blocks, with the first event date receiving the latest available time slot.
Rehearsals are scheduled 60 days before your wedding based on availability. We always do our best to place it the day before your event, but this timing is not guaranteed.
If you want a guaranteed day-before rehearsal, you’ll need to book our Two-Day Package, which gives you full access the entire day before your wedding. -
Rehearsals are meant to be focused run-throughs of your ceremony — practicing the processional, recessional, and making sure everyone feels confident. Because these time blocks must stay on schedule, no food is allowed during rehearsals.
Exception: Since most rehearsals take place on Thursday, we occasionally allow Friday weddings to bring in a light meal, as their rehearsal is the final slot of the day and their event begins the next morning.
Size and Capacity
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With nearly 12,000 square feet spanning the chapel and ballroom, Southern Charm Estate is one of the largest event spaces in Southwest Missouri—providing ample room to host both your ceremony and reception in one beautiful location.
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Chapel
Our chapel can seat up to 250 guests at maximum capacity (about 14 people per pew). For the most comfortable experience, we recommend 180–200 guests, though this may vary depending on your guest list and party makeup.Ballroom
Our ballroom can host up to 350 seated guests, offering a spacious and elegant setting for dining and dancing. With flexible layouts, it’s ideal for both intimate celebrations and large, lively receptions. -
Yes. The maximum capacity includes all guests, wedding party members, and vendors present during your event.
Ceremony & Reception Spaces
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Absolutely. Southern Charm Estate was designed to accommodate both your ceremony and reception in one place. Many couples choose to hold their ceremony in the chapel or courtyard, followed by a seamless transition into the grand ballroom for the reception. This not only saves travel time but also allows you and your guests to relax and enjoy the entire day in one beautiful setting.
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Yes. If weather is a concern, your ceremony can be moved indoors to our chapel.
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Yes. We provide a bridal suite and a groom’s lounge, each with private amenities for getting ready.
Amenities & Accessibility
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Yes. Our chapel, reception hall, restrooms, and parking are fully ADA accessible and compliant.
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Yes. Both the chapel and reception facility are fully climate-controlled with heating and air conditioning.
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Yes. Guest Wi-Fi is available, and most carriers get strong reception on our property.
Décor & Setup
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We provide stylish tables and chairs for up to 260 guests, included in your rental. This not only simplifies setup and saves on rentals but ensures every seating arrangement looks cohesive and blends seamlessly with your chosen décor.
30 round tables
260 Chiavari chairs
6 8ft. rectangle tables
3 6ft. rectangle tables
5 pub style tables
Custom cake table and sweetheart table by request.
Note: Linens are available as a package add-on.
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We set them up for you based on your guest count and preferred layout. To help you visualize your day, we provide sample floorplans for different guest counts, which you can use as inspiration for your own custom setup.
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Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your own décor to personalize the space.
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Generally, all décor, rentals, and personal items must be brought in and removed within your contracted rental hours.
The only exceptions are when you’ve booked the Two-Day Package, or if your rehearsal is scheduled the evening before and leads directly into your wedding day. In those cases, setup items may be left overnight with prior approval.
Please note: We almost never allow items to remain past your wedding day. All belongings must be removed by the end of your event.
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Chapel: For safety reasons, real candles are not permitted in the chapel, with the exception of a unity candle, which must be placed on a protective tray. LED candles are encouraged for all other décor.
Ballroom: Real candles are permitted as long as they are placed in a votive or enclosed holder. Open flames are not allowed outside of enclosed containers. LED candles are also welcome as a safe and beautiful alternative.
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We kindly ask that nothing be hung from walls, ceilings, or permanent fixtures, but we’re happy to suggest safe alternatives.
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We do not provide tools or supplies such as scissors or tape, and for safety and liability reasons we cannot supply ladders.
Note: If these items are needed, please plan to bring them or coordinate with your vendors to ensure they are available. -
As a rule of thumb: If it stays on the ground after your send-off, we don’t allow it.
Approved Items: Bubbles, Ribbon Wands, Bells, Glow Sticks, LED foam sticks, fiber optic wands, sparklers (we provide a water bucket), cold sparks/fireworks (with prior approval and licensed operator).
Not Allowed: Confetti, Glitter, Sequins, Rice, Birdseed, Real Flower Petals, Artificial Petals Outdoors, Popcorn, or any other item that remains on the ground post send-off.
This way your send-off is both memorable and stress-free, with no cleanup worries for you or your family.
Catering
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No. Southern Charm Estate does not provide in-house catering.
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate welcomes outside caterers, food trucks, or family-provided food. If you choose an outside vendor, we simply ask that they are fully licensed and insured. If you provide your own food, you will be required to carry event liability insurance to protect both you and the venue. Food trucks must also provide their own generator, as the venue does not supply power for mobile kitchens. For your convenience, we offer a Trusted Vendors List featuring caterers and food trucks who are familiar with our property and deliver excellent service.
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate offers a warming kitchen that can be used by caterers or by clients who prefer to self-serve. The space is equipped with a commercial refrigerator, microwave, ice machine, and warming equipment. Please note that all food must be fully cooked off-site, as on-site cooking is not permitted. The kitchen is intended for staging, warming, and serving only, making it easy to manage food service in a convenient and professional way.
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Yes. You are welcome to take home any leftovers from your event. Please coordinate with your caterer to provide proper containers and packaging, as Southern Charm Estate does not supply these items. If leftovers are not wanted, they may be left at the venue, and our team will donate them whenever possible.
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Yes. It is strongly recommended (and often outlined in vendor contracts) that vendors working during your event are provided with a meal. This typically includes your photographer, videographer, DJ/emcee, and coordinator, along with any staff who will be on-site for the duration of your reception. Providing vendor meals ensures your team stays energized and able to give their best service throughout your celebration. Please plan ahead with your caterer to include these meals in your final guest count.
Bar Service
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The bar opens during cocktail hour, immediately following your ceremony, and remains open for up to 5 continuous hours of service. All bar service must end by 10:00 PM.
Note: If you have an earlier ceremony and would like a longer bar service, you may extend your hours, however all bar service must end by 10:00 PM. -
Last call is always made 15 minutes before the end of your 5th hour of service, and no later than 9:45 PM.
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No. Per the Missouri Division of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, all alcohol served at licensed venues must come through the venue’s liquor license. If guests bring in outside alcohol, it creates a violation that puts our license at risk. The venue—not the guest—is legally responsible, and penalties can include fines or even loss of license. To protect both you and Southern Charm Estate, any outside alcohol will be removed immediately, and guests may be asked to leave if the rule is broken. This ensures your celebration remains safe, compliant, and worry-free.
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Yes! We can absolutely accommodate special requests, including His & Her Signature Drinks customized to your taste. We even have a package designed around creating a personalized bar menu, so your cocktails reflect your style as a couple.
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We offer both hosted and cash bar options, as well as the flexibility to combine them (for example, hosted beer and wine with a cash bar for spirits).
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Typically, two of our staff bartenders will be provided for your event. Larger guest counts may require additional bartenders to ensure fast, efficient service.
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Yes. Per Missouri state law, bartenders are required to check the ID of anyone who appears under the age of 30. Please inform your guests in advance—if a guest cannot produce a valid ID when asked, they will be politely declined service.
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Yes, all mixers and garnishes are included with our bar services. Non-alcoholic drinks such as sodas are available on a pay-by-the-drink basis, unless you’ve purchased a hosted bar package that includes them.
Note: Sodas, tea, water, and lemonade are included with all hosted bar packages. -
All standard drinks are served in heavy-duty disposable plastic cups, sized appropriately for each beverage. Glassware is only provided for the mimosa bar when it is added à la carte or included with a hosted bar package.
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For the safety and comfort of everyone, we do not serve shots or double pours. While they can feel like fun options, they lead to much faster consumption and increase the risk of over-intoxication. Our goal is to keep the celebration enjoyable, safe, and seamless for all of your guests—so we focus on well-crafted cocktails, signature drinks, and classic pours that everyone can enjoy throughout the evening.
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For safety and compliance, our bartenders will politely decline further service to any guest who appears intoxicated, as required by Missouri law. In these situations, our staff handles the matter discreetly and respectfully to avoid disruption, while ensuring the well-being of both the guest and the celebration.
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Our cash bar accepts credit/debit cards and cash.
Vendors & Planning
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A professional coordinator is not required, but we highly recommend having one. Weddings involve many moving parts, and a coordinator helps manage timelines, vendors, and unexpected situations so you can relax and enjoy your day. Many of our couples say hiring a coordinator was one of the best decisions they made.
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Yes. We require each couple to appoint a trusted family member or friend to serve as a point of contact on the wedding day. Even if you have a professional coordinator, this extra layer of support ensures that any questions, small hiccups, or vendor needs can be addressed without disturbing you. Your coordinator will still lead and manage the event, but the point of contact serves as a backup resource so you can remain fully focused on enjoying your celebration.
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate offers a Trusted Vendors List featuring professionals we know, trust, and have worked with regularly — including caterers, DJs, photographers, florists, and more. These vendors are familiar with our property and deliver excellent service, which makes planning easier and ensures a seamless experience on your wedding day. While we recommend these partners, you are welcome to bring in your own licensed and insured vendors if you prefer.
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Yes. All outside vendors must be licensed and insured.
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate provides designated load-in areas to make vendor setup and breakdown easy and efficient. These areas are conveniently located near the chapel and reception hall, allowing caterers, florists, DJs, and other vendors to bring in equipment and décor with minimal hassle. Our team will provide directions and guidance on load-in procedures prior to your event day.
Music & Entertainment
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate welcomes both DJs and live bands for your reception. We recommend selecting professionals who are familiar with wedding timelines and sound requirements. All entertainment must provide their own gear, set up and tear down within your contracted rental hours, and all music must cease by 10:00 PM.
Parking & Transportation
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Southern Charm Estate offers two large on-site parking lots, providing ample space for your guests. Both lots are conveniently located near the chapel and reception hall, with clearly marked entrances and lighting for evening events. Parking is complimentary for all weddings and events.
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Yes, with prior approval. Guests may leave cars overnight in our parking lots, but all vehicles must be picked up by 9:00 AM the following morning or before the next scheduled event. Vehicles left beyond this time may be towed at the owner’s expense. Please note that Southern Charm Estate is not responsible for vehicles or personal belongings left on the property.
Note: If you or your guests plan to consume alcohol, please make a transportation game plan in advance. Arrange for a designated driver, rideshare, or shuttle service to ensure everyone gets home safely. -
Yes. Buses, limos, and shuttles are welcome at Southern Charm Estate.
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Parking at Southern Charm Estate is gravel. Both lots are properly maintained, level, and provide safe, even surfaces for vehicles and foot traffic. We take care to keep the lots in excellent condition so they remain comfortable and accessible for all guests.
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No. However, our property is flat, fully ADA accessible, and features sidewalks connecting all facilities.
Venue Policies & Rules
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Yes, but only in designated outdoor smoking areas.
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Yes. Dogs are welcome to be part of your ceremony and photos as long as they are leashed, well-behaved, and cleaned up after. We ask that a designated handler (not the couple) be responsible for the dog during the event. For the comfort of your guests and the flow of your reception, we recommend arranging care for your dog after the ceremony.
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Yes. Drones are permitted at Southern Charm Estate with prior approval. For safety and liability reasons, they must be operated by a licensed and insured professional holding FAA Part 107 certification. Drone use is limited to designated outdoor areas, must respect guest privacy, and may not interfere with the flow of your event or neighboring properties.
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Yes. Southern Charm Estate welcomes outside rentals such as tents, arches, and specialty décor items, with prior approval. All rentals must be scheduled for delivery, setup, and pickup within your contracted rental time unless otherwise arranged. We recommend working with professional rental companies, as they are licensed, insured, and familiar with venue procedures.
