What is the building capacity?
Our max occupancy is 270 guests – so go ahead and invite those 300 guests, as typically you’ll receive a 70% "yes" RSVP rate.
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Is there a booking-fee? When are the additional payments due? Do you offer a payment plan?
Yes. When the agreement is signed, to reserve the date we require a $2,000 non-refundable booking fee, which goes toward overall venue cost. Additional payments are required 15 months, 10 months, and 4 months prior to your event date. A $1,000 refundable security deposit is included in your last payment (4 months prior) due to the Venue being a historical building. Payment terms are only adjusted when dates are booked within these payment time frames.
 
How do I reserve a date?
To reserve a date email us at admin@thecollins.co saying you are ready to book XYZ date, with a backup date as well, in case your preferred date is unavailable. Prior to booking a date, we prefer that all customers visit the space in person during our open houses or private tours. You can reserve a tour spot on our tour request page. An in-person tour is not required prior to booking a date. Dates are reserved on a first requested basis. Whomever has requested to start the contract process from us by email first for a specific date will be first in line.
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Do I need to schedule a tour to see the venue or can I just stop by?
We require a scheduled appointment to enjoy a personal tour of our space. Our public open houses are a little more relaxed/come and go, but still require an RSVP. In the meantime, website shopping is encouraged. 
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Do we have to utilize your caterers and bar service?
We need to maintain certain collaborations in order to protect all parties legally. We do allow full-service caterers of your choice (conditions apply). For bar teams, you must choose one of our licensed and insured partners. 
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Will there be another wedding the same day?
Unless you are choosing one of our Pop-Up wedding days or micro weddings, you'll have exclusive use to our venue for the day (upper level). We do share our ceremony space with our sister venue, but ceremony times are staggered, so you will never have any overlap with another wedding. 
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Are there overnight accommodations nearby for guests?
Yes. The Comfort Inn is 1.7 miles away, includes breakfast and has indoor pool and spa. This is an ideal option for your out of town guests. We also love our friendly neighbors at the Chelsea Inn which is an adorable bed and breakfast practically across the road! 
   
We plan to have our ceremony offsite, does your fee change?
Because we only host one event per day, our fee structure remains the same whether you hold your ceremony, reception, or both onsite.
 
Do you allow dogs onsite to play a part in our wedding day?
We are dog friendly, with some specific stipulations. Dogs are allowed (only with pre-approval from our team) at the ceremony and for pictures. Dogs must be on a leash and someone must be responsible for them other than the bridal couple, bridal party or immediate family. They must be removed from the campus after photos/ceremony.
 
What form of payment does The Clocktower accept?
We accept cash, check, card or wire transfer (rates do apply to electronic payments). 
 
My preferred dates are unavailable. Do you have a cancellation waiting list?
We do not keep a cancellation waiting list because cancellations are unpredictable. 
 
What time will I have access to the venue to decorate?
Our venue opens at 9am, allowing plenty of time for hair, makeup and decor setup before the ceremony begins.
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Do you provide venue staff during the event?
Yes! We want to ensure that your day goes as perfectly as you intend it. We provide a facilities manager and an assistant, who will make sure you stay on your timeline and keep the facility up to par.
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What are our catering options?
We understand that everybody has different food preference, because of that, we know that having the freedom to choose your own catering team is important to our clients. We do have specific parameters that we require. They must be licensed and have three prior venue recommendations. We have a catering agreement that must be signed by yourself and your approved caterer. All catering must be approved by The Collins staff before they will be allowed on property. Please give at least 90 days before your event to ensure adequate approval time. 
   
When is the next open house? 
We offer two styles of open houses. Our public open houses are open to those that can't get a private tour due to scheduling conflicts, and allow our customers to see the venue in a laid back environment and get their questions answered.  Our private open houses are designed for couples who have already had a private tour and have booked. Allowing extra time in the venue with family, friends and vendors. Please inquire on those dates.
 
Who else would we need to hire for our wedding day? 
Excellent question! Our typical couples book catering, bar, minister, music, photography & florals. A wedding planner/coordinator is encouraged for this venue.
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What time do ceremonies typically start?
 For Friday and Saturday weddings, ceremonies can begin at 5:30 pm.
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Will we be able to access the location early to rehearse our ceremony? 
Our Chapel Coordinator will schedule you an hour slot to rehearse your wedding the day before your event. 
 
Can we have fireworks on the property?
We allow sparkler exits outside of the building.
 
Can vehicles be left overnight?
Vehicles can be left in approved public parking overnight. We encourage responsible driving. If you have been drinking, we recommend ride-share opportunities to get home safely.
 
What time does the music need to end?
Music must conclude by 11:30 p.m. with guests off campus and to afterparty by 12am. We do include an after party at a local establishment so fear not, the party keeps going!
 
We are using a rental company. Can they drop items off or pick them up outside of the rental period? 
Because we have limited space for rental drop off’s, we are only able to accommodate deliveries and drop off on the day of your event. If your rental company is doing a late evening pick up, The Collins at the Clocktower assumes no responsibility for any loss, theft or responsibility of any kind. We encourage all of our clients to consider using our sister company, Blue Sky Rentals for seamless, hassle free rentals.
 
Are candles allowed?
Yes, we love candles and we know that many guests would like to host with open flame. We allow this, but you will be assessed for any damages to our tables for dripped wax, in the event that this happens. 
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How far in advance do you need our final headcount?
Two weeks.
  
Are outside snacks and trays permitted?
Outside food and drink is permitted prior to the ceremony in the bridal suite and grooms room. We encourage you to keep full tummies and hydrate well. 

What is the event clean-up process?
The Clocktower staff will handle all standard clean up such as restrooms, floor sweeping, and linen removal. Your catering team will be in charge of the clean up of tables and kitchen. Trash removal will need to be managed with your catering company. You, or your wedding planner, will be responsible for the break down of decor.  

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