Castle Farms Wedding Guide 2024

CASTLE FARMS

CHARLEVOIX, MICHIGAN

© Captured by Grace

CASTLE FARMS

With a rather unconventional start over 100 years ago, the stunning lake-stone structures that are now called Castle Farms have been utilized to bring many visions to life as the decades have passed. Each owner put their own unique spin on the Castle’s French Normandy inspired architecture; however, the buildings ultimately fell into ruin. High school sweethearts, Linda and Richard, took on the project of a lifetime in 2001 by beginning their renovation and restoration of the Castle to (and beyond) its original grandeur. Their vision has brought this picturesque and perfectly hidden gem back to life with the intent that couples like you would have the perfect backdrop for your wedding experience.

In this guide you will learn about each of our ceremony-and-reception reservation options and if you have any questions or would like to schedule your private wedding tour, we would love to connect, talk about your wedding plans and help piece together your vision!

SUMMER VENUES

May-October

KNIGHT’S CASTLE

and Knight’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

As Castle Farms’ premier reservation option, the Knight’s Castle offers an array of next-level venue features. With the most original architecture of all the restored buildings, this stone room features strikingly tall wooden ceilings adorned with warm lighting, a show-stopping centerpiece chandelier and abounding character. The glowing drapery perfectly frames your dance floor, and the large sliding door welcomes your guests into your private courtyard to enjoy throughout the evening. Paired with the Knight’s Courtyard ceremony location, this garden features our longest entrance walkway and just the right amount of historical touches for the most timeless and elegant celebration.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 70-150, Maximum 175 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in Knight’s Courtyard

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 12:00 am Reception in Knight’s Castle

1:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Sliding Barn Door to Flower-Lined Private Courtyard

• Stand-Alone Architectural Landmark

• Gated Entrance with Private Parking

• Latest-Offered Timeline

© Paul Retherford Photography

© Beth Joy Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Captured by Grace

© E.C. Campbell Photography

WEST GARDEN ROOM

and Knight’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The West Garden Room is known as our most romantic reception room. With just the right amount of brightness and warmth, the detailed crown molding, elegant chandeliers and surrounding French doors send your guests into a magical evening of celebration. The private courtyard is trimmed with bustling gardens, a poised gazebo and an ear-pleasing fountain feature while leaving plenty of room for an optional outdoor bar and lawn games. Paired with the Knight’s Courtyard ceremony location, your guests will enjoy a lovely stroll by many gardens and a floral trellis walkway on their way to cocktail hour and the reception.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 80-160, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in Knight’s Courtyard

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in West Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Warm Romantic Lighting

• Large Private Courtyard with Fountain and Gazebo

• Surround French Doors

• Gated Entrance with Private Parking

© The Delauras

© Lauren Elaine Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Weber Photographers

© Meg Van Kampen Studios

© Weddings by Cheyenne

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

KING’S GREAT HALL

and Queen’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The King’s Great Hall is a very grand room overlooking the entire Castle Farms property through spectacularly tall windows. With a true ‘Castle’ feel, the stone walls are topped with a formally finished and elevated ceiling that adorn twelve magnificent iron chandeliers. The reception room welcomes your guests through a stately foyer that also opens out to a second-story balcony overlooking more of the property’s gardens. Paired with the Queen’s Courtyard ceremony location, your guests will start their evening in one of the Castle’s most memorable courtyards followed by a beautiful garden walk to your reception room to continue in merriment.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 100-230, Maximum 270 guests Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in Queen’s Courtyard

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 12:00 am Reception in King’s Great Hall

1:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Two Balconies for Guests’ Enjoyment

• Tall Cathedral Windows

• Dramatic Stone Architecture

• Second-Floor Garden Views

© Lauren Dahlhauser Photography

© Mitten Films

© Tatum Photo and Design

© Jaelynn Rose Photography

© Alyssa & Drew Photography

© Lauren Dahlhauser Photography

EAST GARDEN ROOM

and Queen’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The East Garden Room is our largest reservation option, suitable to bring the most bright and airy visions to life. With surrounding French Doors, a spacious dance area and the perfect attached bar room for your guests to mingle through, no detail will go missed as you add your special touches to this sparkling blank canvas. Paired with the Queen’s Courtyard ceremony location, the brilliance of what was originally the main entrance to the Castle a century ago will leave a lasting impression your guests won’t soon forget. Everyone will enjoy a refreshing garden walk on their way to your cocktail hour and reception to celebrate the night away.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 120-250, Maximum 300 guests Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 48 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in Queen’s Courtyard

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in East Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Attached Side Bar Area

• Private Garden with Fountain

• Surround French Doors

• Spacious Dance Floor

© Chris Van Winkle Photography

© Captured by Grace

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Mel Anne Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Niven Weddings

WINTER VENUES

November-April

WEST GARDEN ROOM

and King’s Gallery

DESCRIPTION

The West Garden Room is a wonderful space that offers just the right amount of brightness and warmth for an off-season celebration. The charming historical details and modern composition of this room mesh perfectly to offer an impressive yet simple backdrop for your reception. Paired with the King’s Gallery ceremony location, your guests are welcomed warmly with views of the King’s Grand Courtyard for your ceremony followed by an evening of enjoyment in this French-country inspired setting just waiting for your special touches.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 80-160, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Gallery

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in West Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

• Warm Romantic Lighting

• Surround French Doors

Separate Ceremony Location Overlooking Grand Courtyard

• Elegant Chandeliers

© Weber Photographers

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

© VAGUE Photography

KING’S GREAT HALL

and King’s Indoor Chapel

DESCRIPTION

The King’s Great Hall is an impressive room that features some of the best Castle and garden views. With a grand foyer leading into this second-floor reception space, each guest is sure to find comfort as they tap into their inner King or Queen. The beautifully crafted ceiling, twelve iron chandeliers and exposed stone walls offer a wonderful balance of dramatics and practicality as the backdrop to your reception.

Paired with the King’s Indoor Chapel, your guests are welcomed into the ceremony location by a striking staircase or elegant elevator ride before finding their seats to witness the day’s magic.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 100-180, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Indoor Chapel

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 11:00 pm Reception in King’s Great Hall

12:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Grand Foyer

Tall Cathedral Windows

• Dramatic Stone Architecture

• Second-Floor Garden and Castle Views

© Amber Henry Photography

© Captured by Grace Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

EAST GARDEN ROOM

and King’s Gallery

DESCRIPTION

The East Garden Room is a spacious and stately reception room perfect for the most classic wedding visions, no matter how simple or ornate. This stunning blank canvas features an attached bar area perfect for effortless mingling, French doors offering endless garden views as well as five crystal chandeliers leaving more than enough space for your special touches to shine. Paired with the King’s Gallery ceremony location, your guests will enjoy views of the King’s Grand Courtyard as they arrive to witness your union followed by a lovely stroll into your reception room awaiting the evening’s celebration.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 120-250, Maximum 270 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 48 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Gallery

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in East Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Attached Side Bar Area

Crystal Chandeliers

• Surround Outdoor Views

• Spacious Dance Floor

© Niven Weddings

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

INCLUDED ITEMS, SERVICES and STAFFING

CEREMONY LOCATION

Hosted outdoors between May and October and indoors between November and April, we pair a stunning ceremony location with your reception room to ensure your guests have the most private, and enjoyable experience.

RECEPTION ROOM

With heating and air conditioning in every reception room, our historic venues offer you and your guests a memorable experience with no sacrifice in modern amenities.

GARDENS AND COURTYARDS

Each reception space has an exclusive outdoor area for your guests to enjoy throughout the evening. This area may be a refreshing balcony with garden views or perhaps a floral-lined courtyard with a romantic fountain feature. You and your wedding party also have access to all designated photo opportunity areas dispersed within our 25-acre gated property.

VENUE COORDINATOR

Your designated Venue Coordinator will start reviewing your wedding plans with you 2 months from your big day. This person will become your go-to Castle team member for all your venue needs, along with becoming the communication hub for all your vendors to provide an effortless experience on your wedding day.

ASSISTANT VENUE COORDINATOR

Your go-to Castle team member for anything that may come up throughout the evening of your wedding. They will make sure your bathrooms stay stocked, the room temperature stays comfortable, and they will make sure that all your vendors’ needs are taken care of. They are also available to assist with any last-minute venue needs for your ceremony and reception.

INCLEMENT WEATHER CEREMONY LOCATION

With understanding for northern Michigan’s everchanging weather, we guarantee a sheltered location for your ceremony. The location may vary based on your reservation; however, we always try to host in a space other than your reception room like the King’s Gallery Chapel, King’s Indoor Chapel, or the Rose Pavilion. A decision to switch indoors is not required until 2 hours prior to your ceremony start time which allows you to relax while Mother Nature works out her plans.

PRIVATE DRESSING ROOM

Your quaint code-locked lounge provides you with many day-of needs not limited to a beautiful vanity mirror (or two), a mini refrigerator, and comfortable seating. This is the perfect spot to get dressed and regroup before the ceremony begins. Access to your private dressing room is available two hours before your ceremony start time and concludes at the contracted departure time for your event.

FURNITURE

White resin chairs for ceremony and reception, five-foot round guest tables for reception, banquet tables for assorted needs (gifts/appetizers/buffet/seating assignments, etc.), two woodentop bar counters, two easels (as needed for signage/decor), wooden podium (as needed for guest book or ceremony readings), three hightop tables (for indoor or outdoor use), stage for band or disc jockey, dance floor, unity ceremony table, assorted seasonal outdoor furniture in private outdoor area (high-top tables, bistro sets, benches, etc.).

DÉCOR

White table linens for guest tables, black table linens for food tables, simple table numbers with holders, decorative candelabra with candles for ceremony location (2), hanging greenery baskets for ceremony archway(s) (1 or 3), candle holder centerpiece with LED candle for guest tables (style varies by room).

SERVICES

Comprehensive Set-Up Packet to review with your Venue Coordinator 2 months prior to your event, Rehearsal with your Venue Coordinator, set-up and tear-down of inclusions and most rental items from Castle Farms, cleaning of Castle property before and after event, thorough preparation of property by landscape, set-up and maintenance teams, sound system with lapel and hand-held microphone for ceremony (run by Assistant Venue Coordinator).

EXTRAS

10% discount for Castle Farms Gift Shop purchases (customized items available). Rolling coolers for day-of storage or transport of kegs (2). Walk-in cooler kept at food-safe temperature (not recommended for floral). Sinks and commercialgrade dishwashers for caterer and bartender use. Carts in varying sizes for vendors or guest use. Assorted walkers, wheelchairs, and highchairs (limited quantities). Miscellaneous rental options with varying costs and based on availability (throne chairs, projector & screen, etc.).

BAR SERVICE

Castle Farms will provide bartenders for your event. The number of bartenders will be decided by Castle Farms based upon your guest count, but should you want additional bartenders you can add them on for an extra fee. We provide the barware, glasses, mixers, and soda for the evening. We will switch to quality plastic glasses after dinner . For your alcohol, you are able to choose from our package options provided on a separate document .

CEREMONY and RECEPTION PRICING

PAYMENT TERMS

• Minimum requirements to reserve: 15% first payment and signed contract.

• Payments are transferable between date and site within 1 year of the original reservation date - limitations apply.

• Remaining balance is divided among the months leading up to the wedding.

• Final venue payment is due 30 days before the wedding.

Payment methods include cash, check, money order or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover).

Credit card payments are subject to a 2.52% handling charge excluding the first 15% payment.

• Discounts are not applicable for the Sunday dates of Memorial Day weekend or Labor Day weekend.

• Private Wedding Tour no-shows forfeit all discount opportunities.

SAVINGS OPPORTUNITIES

• 10% During-Tour Reservation Discount for making your first payment and signing your contract during your scheduled Private Wedding Tour

• 5% Military Discount for any Bride or Groom who is currently serving or who has served in any branch of the United States Military.

5% Paid-In-Full Discount for paying the venue balance as a onetime cash or check payment.

Combine up to two of these discounts!

NO TAX! NO GRATUITY! NO SERVICE CHARGES!

BELOW IS YOUR OUT-THE-DOOR COST FOR EACH PAIRED CEREMONY and RECEPTION RESERVATION OPTION:

- APRIL

If you are considering hosting a reception-only or multi-day event, please call or email for more information, availability, and a customized quote!

PREFERRED SERVICE PROVIDERS

Although not reservable through Castle Farms, the services listed below can be found by visiting our Preferred Service Providers list. This list is compiled based on past Castle Couples’ vendor selections who consistently host a certain number of events at our location each year and who maintain both their service and professional reputations. These vendors vary in style and cost, providing you with a great range of options for the start of your wedding planning experience.

Desserts

• Catering Officiants

• Entertainment

• Floral

Health & Beauty

• Photography

Photo Booths

• Transportation

• Videography

Specialty Services (Planning, Rentals & Upgrades, Apparel, Alcohol, Design, Etc.)

A thorough list of accommodations options is available; however, we do not regulate or verify the quality or reputations of these vendors.

To ensure you are provided the highest level of flexibility and control, you may also hire vendors not featured on our Preferred Service Providers list. We do require that your caterer is licensed and insured. We are happy to connect with your chosen caterer to explain what our catering areas include so that they are prepared for your event. .

© Elisabeth Joy Photography © Chelsea Seekell Photography © Elisabeth Joy Photography

AWARDS and ACCOLADES

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A TOUR?

Call 231-237-0884 or email events@castlefarms.com to schedule your Private Wedding Tour with a Sales Consultant. This focused appointment is typically scheduled for 1.5 hours. If a less-formal visit is preferred, Self-Guided Wedding Tours are also available when scheduled in advance.

WHAT IS NEEDED TO RESERVE?

A signed Castle Farms contract and a minimum 15% first payment are required to secure your reservation.

WHAT IS THE PAYMENT POLICY?

The remaining balance after your first 15% payment will be divided into a payment schedule set by Castle Farms with varying payment amounts. The due dates are based on how far in advance you reserve your room and date. The final balance is due 30 days prior to your wedding.

WHAT IS YOUR FOOD AND ALCOHOL POLICY?

You are welcome to choose your own catering company. We do require that your caterer is licensed and insured, and our Preferred Service Providers list is a great resource for local caterers. A bar package is included with your Castle Farms reservation. This includes the bartenders, glasses, barware, mixers, and sodas. You will have option of which alcohol package you would like to select. The alcohol packages are a per person fee and the details can be found in the alcohol package sheet provided.

DO YOU RECOMMEND VENDORS FOR MY WEDDING?

There are many vendors that we work with regularly and that Castle Farms and that past Castle Couples highly recommend. Please see our Preferred Service Providers list on our website for suggestions in each category of service.

WHO WILL I BE WORKING WITH?

Our Sales Consultants will be the ones to guide you through the inquiry and reservation process. From answering your initial questions, to touring and reserving, they will be your go-to person. Once your reservation is finalized, our team of Venue Coordinators are available throughout the planning process to answer questions and provide you with tips and recommendations as your plans come together. Two months prior to your event a specific Venue Coordinator will be designated for your wedding. Your Venue Coordinator will work with you to gather all the information needed for the Castle’s teams to prepare for your wedding. They will oversee your ceremony and be available to help as your guests transition into cocktail hour and the reception. Your Assistant Venue Coordinator will assist with your ceremony coordination and stay throughout the evening of your event. They will monitor vendors, keep your timeline on-track, making sure bathrooms stay stocked, and they will be the go-to person for anything needing attention.

ARE THERE ACCOMMODATIONS NEAR CASTLE FARMS?

Castle Farms is just two short miles from Charlevoix where several hotels, motels, B & B’s, and rental home options are located. A list of these accommodation options can be emailed to you at any time if you do not have a copy yet! While some traditional room blocks may be available, we recommend listing multiple accommodation options for your guests.

CAN WE HOST JUST OUR RECEPTION AT CASTLE FARMS?

Absolutely! Please contact a Sales Consultant for availability and pricing.

CAN OUR PET BE PART OF OUR CEREMONY?

While we do welcome (reasonably sized and pottytrained) pets to participate in your wedding ceremony, we do ask that they stay leashed and carried when indoors if possible. We do also require someone be responsible for their care and transportation to an off-site location after the ceremony concludes. Specific areas are available for potty breaks.

CAN I RENT THE ENTIRE CASTLE?

For couples who desire next-level exclusivity and customization, we offer full-castle reservations for 1-3 days that allow you to select the locations and timelines that fit your wedding vision best. Typically offered between May and October, a full-castle reservation presents the option to mix and match courtyards with your favorite reception room, host your ceremony in the King’s Grand Courtyard, or open the grounds for your guests to explore the full history and beauty of the Castle. Pricing for this option ranges between $15,000 and $60,000 depending on a number of factors. Contact a Sales Consultant to tailor your one-of-a-kind Royal Package Reservation!

WHAT ARE YOUR POSTPONEMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICIES?

Our postponement policy does allow you to choose a new date up to one year from your originally contracted event. We require 30 days’ notice before the scheduled event date to postpone and all paid funds transfer to the new reservation, accounting for any increase or decrease in price based on the current rates of the newly chosen reservation at the time of the postponement, also taking into account any payments that are already past-due/non-refundable. A new date must be selected within 6 months of a postponement agreement being signed. Our cancellation policy features a 3-day grace period after the initial reservation is finalized where a full refund is guaranteed. If a cancellation must take place, payments not yet due will be void (or refunded if they have been paid in advance). Otherwise, as a payment due date passes that payment becomes non-refundable. Call or email any time for more details on our postponement and cancellation policies.

WHEN WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO MY CEREMONY AND RECEPTION LOCATIONS AND ARE THERE DECORATING RESTRICTIONS?

We guarantee access into your ceremony location 1 hour prior to the contracted start time to add any special touches you would like to place as a complement to your wedding vision. Our inclusions cover many of the basics simplifying this set-up time. Your reception space will be available at 10:00 am the day of your event. When your Venue Coordinator is assigned to you 2 months before your event date, they will let you know if decorating in your ceremony and/or reception space is available earlier in the day or the day before your wedding. We do allow live-flame candles if there is protection from any dripping wax, and we also allow flower petals for use in your ceremony location (organic) or your reception space (synthetic). We do not allow the use of bird seed, rice, confetti, or loose/shedding glitter (among other similar things). Ladder use is restricted to the height of 6 feet unless a professional company with their own liability insurance is available to help. Other restrictions may apply and can be reviewed in detail by request. If you have a specific idea in mind for your décor contact a Sales Consultant or Venue Coordinator to brainstorm!

© Michael Murphy IV Photography

© Jamie and Sarah Photography

© Weber Photography

© Meghan Lee Harris Photography

© Kay Marie Photography

© Bitter Bosker Photography

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

© Kelsie Mae Photography

© Ryan Inman Photography

© Captured by Grace Photography

© Beth Joy Photography

© Raelani Stockwell Photography

© Chelsea Seekell Photography

© Paxton Photography

© Chettara T Photography

© Paxton Photography

© Shutter Sam

© Rose Photo

CASTLE FARMS

“We believe in the beauty of making memories”