Frequently Asked Questions

+ Do you allow decorations?

Yes! We love when a couple makes the space their own with decor. We simply ask that all candles are enclosed in heat-safe glass and have drip-trays for protection of our tables and linens.

+ Can I bring in my own rental items?

Got your eyes on dusty blue cut-glass water goblet for your tables? You're welcome to bring in rental items - in addition to, or instead of using our in-house items.

+ Can I have a sparkler farewell?

Yes, as long as there is not a Burn Ban in place. We also ask that your sparklers are no longer than 20" in length for safety purposes.

+ When can I arrive to start getting ready?

Our Suite and Loft open at 11:00am on the wedding day, up to 2 additional hours may be purchased if you need more time. Vendors may start arriving at this time, too, unless given prior authorization.

+ Am I required to hire a wedding planner?

No. From the set-up and breakdown of your custom floor plan, to the ceremony processional, to a beautifully executed dinner - our experienced team is here to provide excellent service for the elements that are most important. We welcome planners if you feel you need the additional assistance throughout the planning process, but they are not required.

+ Do you include a sound system?

Yes, our state-of-the-art sound system is included in our Wedding Services Fee. DJs and bands can hook up to our system that feeds sound to our many exterior spaces for easy listening.

+ Are vendors on your Creative Partners List required?

No, but we always recommend starting here! With great client feedback, positive communication track record, quality services, competitive pricing, and familiarity with our venue - you can't go wrong with our recommendations.

+ Can more than one wedding take place at Swallows Eve at one time?

No. It's very important to us that our couples receive our dedicated attention just on them. With so many important elements to execute, we focus on one wedding per day at Swallows Eve.

+ How far is Swallows Eve from downtown Fredericksburg?

Our property is just 2.7 miles outside of town, and takes 6 minutes to get to Main Street. We offer the ideal balance between seclusion and the convenience of modern proximity!

+ Is the property handicapped accessible?

Yes, we have handicapped parking spaces and ramps (either permanent or upon request) to each of our sites.

+ Do you offer in house catering?

Yes, and our team is ready to make your favorite foods the talk of your wedding. Chef has a farm-to-table menu focused on local, fresh ingredients - highlighting all the classics with her own twist. Enjoy one of her creations or suggest your own for a custom take!

+ Can you accommodate allergies and other special dietary requests?

We take seriously the dietary needs of our guests, and request that you collect all allergies for us to accommodate on your wedding day. Chef Holly is gluten-free and prides herself on cooking delicious meals for anyone despite their restrictions.

+ Do guests have a choice of what they can eat from the menu?

Our Stationed Dinner is the ultimate choice-driven menu style for guests with a range of preferences. Even our plated dinners feature the iconic Surf and Turf option for a choice within a plate. All menus are pre-arranged with the hosts for a successful, smooth dinner service.

+ Do you offer kids meals?

Yes, children's meals are offered at a reduced price and we recommend them for kids age 3-13. We prefer to leave the meal decision up to our hosts or the children's parents - you know your kids better than we do!

+ We might get hungry during the day - do you have food menus for that?

Already on it, and we're glad you're thinking about this too. It's easy to forget the "small stuff" until it becomes paramount in the moment. Allow our team to provide lunch for your group while getting ready on-site, which can be pre-ordered for minimal stress. Did someone say Mimosa bar?!

+ Will I get a chance to taste the Chef's food before my wedding?

Our favorite part of the planning process is the Chef's Tasting, which takes place 90 days before the wedding. We welcome our couple for an afternoon of culinary greatness - at which time we will nail down all the decisions for your big day and you'll leave feeling full and accomplished!

+ Can we bring in our own alcohol?

Due to TABC regulations and our on-site license, we require that our clients allow us to handle their bar service. We offer three bar packages for an easy, stress-free experience within your budget, or are happy to customize something just for your event.

+ Do you offer Signature Cocktails?

We couldn't resist putting together delicious, seasonal cocktails for you and your guests to fall in love with! Check out our professionally-curated menu for ideas or tell us all about your favorite drink - we can make your cocktail dreams come true.

+ Can I take my engagement photos at Swallows Eve?

We would be honored to be the site of your engagement photoshoot, or any other photos you'd like to take on the grounds. As an exclusive feature just for Swallows Eve couples, we want you to take advantage of all the land has to offer.

+ Can I host my rehearsal dinner at Swallows Eve?

Yes, as long as we have the date available we'd love to help host the kick-off event. As a special perk for Swallows Eve wedding couples, you can book another event with us for a lowered rate without sacrificing quality and service. We can also provide local suggestions. Inquire with us today!

+ Can my guests leave their cars at Swallows Eve overnight?

Safety is a top priority, and we would prefer your guests get home safely and leave their cars overnight. All cars must be picked up by 10am the following morning.

+ Do you offer lodging?

Our sister properties, The Winchester Lodge and The Evers House, are located just one block off Main Street. For the ultimate Fredericksburg wedding experience, our couples and their guests enjoy close proximity to town for convenient access to lodging and other local experiences.

+ Do you offer a soft hold on my date if I haven't made the decision yet?

We offer a Complimentary 10-day Hold for couples with their hearts set on a specific day. Our prime dates tend to book 12-18 months in advance, so this allows for peace of mind while making your decision, knowing that you're on our calendar for 10 days.

+ What is the deposit to reserve the space?

In order to reserve your date, payment of the Wedding Services Fee + 6.75% Sales Tax, plus the $1,000 Security Deposit (returnable 15 days after the event, less any incidentals or add-on charges) is required.

+ Do I have to clean the space after the wedding is over?

Cleaning is included in your Wedding Services at Swallows Eve. Other than personal belongings, you are not required to clean up after yourselves.

+ Do you allow pets?

We love our furry friends! Pets are welcome for your ceremony and pictures outside only, at which time we ask that someone in your group escort him or her back to their home off-site.

+ Is there a back-up option for our ceremony in the event of inclement weather?

The covered Veranda is the perfect Plan B option for your ceremony, still giving your guests that open-air feeling without being exposed to the elements. It's important to us that you have a separate ceremony and reception location for the best flow between events.