FAQ
Katy O’Dell Photography
How many guests will the barn hold?
The barn will accommodate up to 150 guests. The use of the attached covered deck in the warmer summer months allows a seated reception for up to 180 people.
Where can I have my wedding ceremony?
We have several lovely locations for wedding ceremonies including, under the outstretched limbs of the heritage tree, in the rustic wood barn, on the barn deck or on the lawn overlooking the pond and vineyard.
Where can I have my wedding reception?
Wedding receptions can be held inside the rustic wood barn.
Are tables & chairs for the reception in the barn included in the rental fee?
Tables and white resin chairs, as well as set-up is included in the rental fee. You have your choice of standard height 60” round tables or 8ft x 4ft rectangular kings tables, as well as the use of buffet tables, head tables and several vintage tables for cake/desserts, place cards, etc.
Is there a dressing room available for the bride?
We have a lovely air-conditioned and heated bride’s dressing room with full length mirrors available for the bride and her attendants to get ready and do hair/makeup. We also have a groom’s area available. If the ceremony is taking place on our property, use of the bride’s Studio and groom’s area is included.
When can we rehearse?
Thursday is rehearsal day. You are welcome on the property for an hour long rehearsal on the Thursday before your wedding, between the hours of 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Michigan time. Rehearsals must be scheduled in advance.
What times do we have access to the property on our wedding day?
You are allowed to arrive as early as 11:00 AM Eastern time. And all guests must depart by 11:00 PM Eastern time. Vendors and those doing final pick up must depart no later than midnight.
We’d like to do an advance photo shoot…
We welcome you to the property for pre-scheduled, outdoor photos at no additional charge, most Thursdays between the hours of 10:00 AM-4:00 PM Michigan Time. Access to the barn is not included.
Are children allowed on the premises?
We welcome children, but all children under the age of 16 must be supervised at all times by an adult due to the nature of the property and because it is a working farm.
Is there a backup power in case of a power outage?
Yes, we have a backup generator connected to supply power to the barn in case of a power outage.


Are we allowed to climb the trees?
No one is allowed to climb the trees at any time due to safety concerns and to keep our magnificent heritage tree healthy.
Is there a caterer’s prep area in the barn?
We have a prep area with a sink, a refrigerator and two stainless steel prep tables for caterers to use. However, please note this is not a licensed kitchen and no cooking can take place inside the barn.
Can we use the service of an outside licensed caterer?
We have a long and varied list of excellent caterers who do a wonderful job of serving at the barn. Please ask the wedding agent for our list of Approved Caterers and the Approved Bartending Service. Your caterer must be selected from this list.
Can we supply our own food?
We do not allow self-catering or have the permission of the Berrien County Health Department to cook food in the caterer’s prep area. All food must be prepared in advance in a licensed kitchen.
Will there be Hidden Vineyard staff on site during my event?
Yes, there will be at least one staff member present on site throughout the day and into the evening to help ensure you and your guests have a safe and enjoyable time on the property. Staff are present to address questions, tidy restroom facilities, ensure vendors follow property guidelines and monitor guest safety throughout the event.
Can we add additional decorations to the barn?
Yes, you are allowed to add decorations by using floral tape, pipe cleaners, twine and small push pins. But the use of nails, tacks, glue or staples on the barn, equipment, trees or other property is not permitted. We encourage the use of natural items such as flower petals, leaves and seeds. In an effort to keep a natural rustic atmosphere the following items cannot be thrown, released or scattered outside or in the barn: balloons, fireworks, party poppers, potpourri, silly string, confetti, sequins, flitter, artificial flower petals or artificial leaves.
Are candles permitted?
Candles are permitted but due to fire and safety concernes, the flame must be completely contained in glass and attended at all times.
Is there a fire pit on the property?
Unfortunately, we do not have a fire pit on the property and cannot have open flames or bonfires due to fire and safety hazards.
Are sparklers, fireworks, or sky lanterns permitted?
No sparklers, fireworks or sky lanterns are permitted due to safety and fire concerns and out of respect for our neighbors.
Do you have wedding props or decorations that we can rent?
Yes! We have a large inventory of décor items that we lend out at no charge. Please request a list of available décor items from our wedding agent.
Is smoking allowed?
Smoking is not allowed in the barn or on the deck, this includes vaping/e-cigarettes. Smoking is permitted in designated smoking areas only outside the barn and all smoking waste/litter must be properly disposed of in designated receptacles
Are pets allowed?
We understand pets are important members of the family, trust us, we have furry children too. However, in consideration of all guests, pets are not allowed anywhere on the property. Service animals are allowed with the appropriate documentation. We kindly ask that you let us know in advance if you or a guest will need to bring a service animal on the property.
Why can’t I have access to the barn earlier in the day or have it longer in the evening?
Most likely a wedding has been scheduled before or after your big day. Although we want your guests to feel like things were effortless, it does require several hours of work behind the scenes to make sure the property is ready. Friday weddings are sometimes allowed to rent the property for up to one additional hour on Friday mornings, for an additional fee.
We cannot permit music to be played past 10:45 PM due to local noise ordinance. We cannot permit any guests to stay past 11:00 pm or any post-event breakdown past midnight (12:00 AM) due to township ordinances.
What are the guidelines for cleanup?
Clients and/or their caterers are responsible for clearing and undressing all tables. This includes collecting and bagging all trash and service items such as cups, bottles, napkins, etc. All the items brought in by the client, including service items and decorations must be either bagged for disposal or loaded and removed at the conclusion of your event. We will pick up any décor items of ours that you used.
How do we reserve our date?
First email or call us to make sure your date is available. A non-refundable reservation fee of $1500 is due to reserve your date. The remaining balance is split into two payments; one due in November of the year prior to your wedding, and the other due in January of the year you are getting married.
Giving Tree Photography