A Historic Estate for Your Dream Celebration

What is included in a base wedding rental?

The base rental includes exclusive use of the North Star House and grounds for 10 hours, tables and chairs for up to 250 guests, and a personalized commemorative brick, placed on the grounds to honor your day as a lasting part of North Star House's story.

What are the rental hours for the venue?

A standard rental includes 10 consecutive hours, which cover setup, the event itself, and clean-up. Additional hours may be arranged in advance for an extra fee. The latest timeslot available is 1p–11p. On the day of your event, you may begin setting up outside before your rental hours, but please note that a site manager will not be available to open the inside of the house until your contracted time begins.

What payments are required to reserve the venue?

To officially reserve your date, a non-refundable $800 retainer is due at the time of signing. This retainer counts towards the overall venue cost.

When is the rental fee due?

The rental fee is split into two installments: 50% is due 5 months before the wedding The remaining 50% is due 3 months before the wedding

Is there a security deposit?

Yes. An $800 refundable security deposit is due 1 month prior to the wedding. This will be returned after your event if no damages occur and policies are followed.

Do you require liability insurance?

Yes. We require a $1 million liability insurance policy naming North Star Historic Conservancy as additionally insured. While the coverage amount sounds high, these policies are typically very affordable and easy to obtain.

Are there any hidden costs?

No. We value transparency and do not have hidden fees. All required costs are outlined clearly in your rental agreement. Add-ons (such as additional hours) are available, but not required.

Can we choose our own vendors?

Absolutely. Couples may bring in their own vendors for catering, rentals, bar service, florals, and more. We also provide a recommended vendor list of trusted professionals who know the venue well. We do require the caterer to be approved before signing the contract.

Can we bring our own alcohol?

Yes! North Star House is a BYO alcohol venue. Couples may provide their own beer, wine, and spirits, with no corkage fee.

Can we do self-serve alcohol, like beer and wine in coolers?

Yes, self-serve is allowed. However, we require a fully staffed caterer to oversee bar service and support tear-down.

Are linens included?

No, linens are not included. You may rent them through your caterer or a rental company.

Do you provide cutlery, glassware, or dishes?

No, those must be provided by your caterer or a rental vendor.

Do you have outdoor heating options?

We do have 4 heaters available for $50 each with propane included. This can be added on last minute and deducted from the security deposit.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Indoor capacity at the House is 70–75 guests. For larger groups, we recommend renting a marquee tent on the courtyard and terrace. Tenting on the grass areas creates a muddy mess and damages the lawns.

Is there a venue host to help with vendors?

Yes. A venue coordinator will support you with venue-related questions, logistics and tours leading up to your event. On the wedding day, we require you to have a designated day-of coordinator who serves as the main point of contact for your vendors. In addition, North Star House provides a site manager during your rental hours to oversee the property and assist with venue-related needs.

Who is responsible for clean-up?

Couples and their vendors are responsible for all clean-up and removal of décor within the rental period. We do not provide staff for these tasks.

Do you have a stage for DJs or bands?

While there isn't a formal stage, many couples use the courtyard as a dance floor with their DJ or band. The space features market lights and twinkle lights, with multiple outlets on separate circuits. Performers must provide their own PA system and any platform/staging they require.

Do you provide a sound system?

No, couples must arrange for their own DJ, band, or rental sound system.

How late can music go?

Music (and the party) must end by 10:00 PM in compliance with local noise ordinances.