What hours is Awbury Arboretum available for event rentals?

Awbury Arboretum is available for weddings on Saturdays and Sundays, from 12:30- 7:30  (including an additional hour for clean up until 8:30). 

What is the cost for having my wedding at Awbury Arboretum?

Peak months (April-October) $2,000.Off peak months (November-March) $1,500. 

What is required to reserve Awbury Arboretum for my wedding?

A $1000 refundable security deposit,, plus one- half of the rental fee  (non-refundable), and a signed contract are all that is required to reserve Awbury for your wedding. 

When is payment for my event rental due?

One-half of your event rental payment (non-refundable) is due with the signed contract to reserve the date for your event.  The other half is due two months before the event. 

How many guests may I invite to my wedding at Awbury Arboretum?

The maximum number of guests is 75 for peak season events, with cocktail seating under the porch canopy and indoors.  For off peak events (indoors only) the maximum is 45 guests.  Approximately 30 guests can be seated comfortably for an indoor sit-down dinner. Cocktail service is recommended for indoor weddings with 30-45 invited guests. 

When can I have a rehearsal at Awbury Arboretum?

One-hour rehearsals may be scheduled on the Friday before the wedding.  Rehearsals held between 3 and 5 PM are free.  Rehearsals between 5 and 8 PM are $100. 

May I bring my wedding party to Awbury Arboretum for picture-taking?

Anyone may use the grounds for picture-taking, regardless of whether the wedding and/or reception will be held here.  There is no charge for outdoor photography.  Photo shoots are scheduled on days when the property is available.  Please call in advance to verify the availability of the grounds.  Pictures may only be taken inside the house on the day of the wedding during the event’s schedules hours. 

May I use the Arboretum grounds for engagement and/or bridal pictures before my wedding?Anyone may use the grounds for picture-taking, regardless of whether the wedding and/or reception will be held here.  There is no charge for outdoor photography.  Photo shoots may be scheduled only on days when the property is available.  Please call in advance to verify the availability of the grounds.  Indoor photography is available on the day of wedding, during the hours of your event rental.     

May I hire any caterer of my choosing?

You may choose a caterer from our list of preferred caterers.  These caterers offer a wide selection of menu and price options.

Can we serve alcohol?

The caterer’s bartender must serve all alcoholic beverages.  Alcohol service must not exceed four hours and must end 30 minutes before the end of the event.   

What is the maximum number of guests that can be accommodated for a sit-down reception inside the Francis Cope House?

Approximately 30 guests

Are the grounds and reception area wheelchair accessible?

Yes.  There is a wheelchair ramp at the back entrance to the house. 

In the case of inclement weather, what happens to an outdoor wedding?

Use of the Francis Cope House is included in the event rental fee.  In case of rain, outdoor weddings may move indoors. If you are expecting more than 30 guests, you should consider the option of a tent in case of inclement weather. 

May I rent a tent for use for a wedding and/or reception?

You may want to arrange for a tent, through your caterer. We recommend renting a tent especially if you have invited more than 30 guests to your wedding and are planning a sit-down dinner,  

Is there a parking fee for our guests?

Parking at Awbury Arboretum is free of charge.  On the day of your event, we will have a parking attendant directing your guests to designated parking areas and monitoring the cars during your event.