Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book my wedding?

There are weeks that are more popular than others, but clients are encouraged to confirm as early as possible due to date demand at Cheekwood.

What time can I access the grounds on the day of my wedding?

We have designated areas that can be used for a changing area for the bride and her bridesmaids that are on a first come first served basis which can be available as early as 9 AM. Please inquire about these spaces upon booking. On your wedding day, you have access to the grounds for photography beginning at 9 AM and ending when we close to the public at 5 PM, pending the availability of space. This may include all gardens and ground as well as the arbors that are on the side of the Historic Mansion & Museum. Once we close to the public, we ask that you and all guests make your way to your designated rental.

May we bring in our own caterer?

Cheekwood will provide a list of required approved caterers to meet your budget and personality. Cheekwood is the exclusive licensed provider of alcoholic beverages on site; all beverage service must be provided by Cheekwood.

Is a planner required?

For all receptions taking place on the property, Cheekwood requires, at minimum, a licensed month of planner. We require a full-service planner for any receptions of 100+. We have a list of recommended planners who are familiar with all Cheekwood guidelines and the property itself which we are more than happy to share. If your planner is not on our list and has not been to our property within the past 90 days of booking Cheekwood, we require a site visit as soon as possible to ensure all contracts, guidelines, and questions have been reviewed and answered. It’s important that your planner is familiar with our property and guidelines to ensure your big day goes smoothly and exceeds all expectations!

Does Cheekwood provide event staffing?

Cheekwood provides an Event Venue Supervisor to act as your Cheekwood contact for the duration of your event, as well as bartenders, a parking attendant, and security personnel. All other staffing (table service/wait staff, bussers, and culinary staff) are provided through your contracted caterer.

What if I cancel the date after I have signed a contract and paid?

You may move your event date within one year of your original date without penalty, pending availability. All event deposits are non-refundable.

If I want to have a ceremony at Cheekwood, must I book a reception space as well?

All our rental spaces are available a la carte except for the Wills Perennial Garden and the Reflecting Pool. You may book a Ceremony Only, Reception Only or both depending on the space and the day of the week. Wisteria Arbor can be booked for a Ceremony Only on select Fridays and Sundays only; a reception is required to book the Wisteria Arbor on a Saturday.

What time can I start my event?

Cheekwood is open to the public from 9 AM – 5 PM. To give our guests the best experience, we allow all private events to start times no earlier than 5:30 PM for a garden ceremony and 6 PM in our reception spaces. Our only option for daytime weddings is our Elopement package.

Do you have any required vendors?

All rental items must be booked through Cheekwood’s preferred rental partner, Please Be Seated. Bright Events is our preferred partner for lighting and A/V needs. Any tenting and flooring needs will come through Chattanooga Tent. All valet service requests will be arranged by Cheekwood with PMC, our preferred valet service provider. Billing for all these services will go through Cheekwood. Any draping needs will go through Quest Events and any additional A/V needs through Tech Works, both of which are our recommended vendors. All billing for Quest Events and Tech Works will go through the vendors directly.

What if it rains?

Cheekwood recommends considering tent holds for outdoor events in case of rain. Please contact your Cheekwood representative for all your tenting and flooring needs.

How much does it cost to get married at Cheekwood?

For venue pricing and bar packages, please fill out a Request Form. For quotes on rentals, catering, and lighting needs, you may contact any of our preferred vendors and caterers. A list of these vendors will be provided to you through the request form.

Any other rules I should be aware of?

Cheekwood does not allow live flames of any kind on our property, this may include candles, sparklers, etc. We also prohibit balloons, chalk, glitter, confetti, silk petals, and birdseed. Cheekwood is a non-smoking facility.

Can I propose at Cheekwood? Do you offer any proposal packages?

Cheekwood is now offering proposal packages during our daytime hours and at night during Holiday LIGHTS. For more information, please visit our Proposal Packages page.