Dover Hall Wedding Brochure

The Dover Hall wedding experience

A Guide for Dover Hall Wedding Clients

C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s Welcome to Dover Hall, and our sincerest congratulations on your recent engagement! We’re elated that you’ve found our venue, and we cannot wait to embark on such a personal and significant journey together. Planning sophisticated weddings and high touch events is no small feat - but it’s our specialty. Our team of event professionals will consistently stand by your side to help you navigate through planning to make the full process as seamless and stress-free as possible. At Dover Hall, we host curated weddings and stylized events in every season, ensuring that all the details are thoughtfully considered to guarantee your absolute presence and enjoyment of such a special and momentous life occasion.

Throughout these pages, you’ll find a plethora of information about Dover Hall weddings - from the history of the estate to our various picturesque ceremony locations to information about our artisan in-house culinary and beverage services. We hope you find inspiration as the beginnings of your dream wedding come to life at Dover Hall; we are so thrilled to share the experience with you!

T A B L E

O F

C O N T E N T S About 03 07

A History of Dover Hall Weddings at Dover Hall

Real Weddings 06 09 10 13

Winter Weddings Spring Weddings Summer Weddings Fall Weddings

Our Spaces 14 16 18 20 22 24

The Estate House The Queen Elizabeth Suite The Billiards Room The Ceremony The Cocktail Hour The Reception

Additional Information 26 30 32

Our Amenities + Rental Savings Our Planning Process Sample Timeline

Culinary + Pricing 35 36

Thoughtful Cuisine The Investment

Testimonials 38

Kind Words

Photos: (cover) Molly Litchen Photography (full page) Shannon Moffit Photography (above) Justin Hankins Photography

Photo: Marshall Arts Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (bottom) Marshall Arts Photography dover Hall Weddings

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A History o f

D o v e r

H a l l

Dover Hall is a refined, English Tudor-

Dover Hall underwent a significant transition

inspired estate placed elegantly among the

from their private residence to an exclusive

bucolic, rolling hills of Manakin-Sabot,

luxury events venue in 2014. The Pryors’

Virginia. The exceptionally grand 38,000

thoughtfully considered the logistics necessary

square foot estate house sits peacefully on a

for a completely immersive event experience -

private 55-acre property in Goochland

and back-of-house operations - as they

County’s equestrian country, boasting an

constructed the estate house. As a result there

atmosphere of serenity and stillness that can

were few adjustments that needed to be made

only be found in the most magical of

to seamlessly recreate Dover Hall as a wedding

locations. The dream of the original owners,

and events venue. The Pryors even left about

Dennis and Cindy Pryor, Dover Hall was

90% of the estate’s originally sourced

intended to be a lavish getaway fit for royalty,

furnishings behind, juxtaposing a unique blend

reminiscent of the quaint English countryside.

of history, authenticity, and character with the

Initial planning and conception of the estate

modern construction of the house. The Dover

house, lead by the Pryors' interior design firm,

Hall Experiences’ team took over management

began about four to five years prior to their

of the estate house in 2017, with a vision to

official ground breaking on the property in

create an unparalleled guest experience

1996. The construction of Dover Hall lasted

through unforgettable events and upscale

over a four-year period, with the full estate

lodging. Boasting various indoor/outdoor

being completed in the year 2000. The Pyrors’

event spaces for up to 400 guests, this turn-key

spent approximately ten years living in the

venue makes planning your wedding seamless

estate house with their son before selling the

and stress-free as possible.

property.

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Weddings a t

D o v e r

H a l l

Conveniently - and calmly! - situated approximately equidistant between Charlottesville and Richmond, Dover Hall was deliberately contrived with one primary purpose in mind: to entertain.

The estate flawlessly marries the grandeur of days’ past with modern and abundant amenities in a sophisticated and residential setting to provide a truly exquisite and exceptional experience for you and your loved ones.

Complete with an artisan in-house culinary and beverage program, Dover Hall provides an exceptional sense of luxury atmosphere and high touch service that will create an unforgettable wedding day and delight your guests for years to come.

Photo: Kir2Ben dover Hall Weddings

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W I N T E R

W E D D I N G S

Madison + Harry Photo: Nikki Santerre Photography dover Hall Weddings

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S P R I N G

W E D D I N G S

Jeff + Lucas Photo: Alex C Tenser Photography dover Hall Weddings

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S U M M E R

W E D D I N G S

Taylor + Terence Photo: M Harris Studios dover Hall Weddings

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F A L L

W E D D I N G S

Caroline + Brad Photo: David Abel Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E

E S T A T E

H O U S E

Dover Hall is home to endless event opportunities, whether it be a sunset ceremony by the Reflecting Pool, an al fresco cocktail hour on the Blue Stone Terrace, or a grand reception in the Ballroom.

The estate warmly welcomes your guests, inviting them to explore a wealth of beautifully appointed rooms while indulging in the inexplicable detail and character behind its authentic and historic furnishings.

From preparing for the festivities in the expansive Queen Elizabeth Suite to dancing the night away in the regal Ballroom, memories are to be made around every corner of Dover Hall’s estate house.

Photo: (left) Kim Stockwell Photography (middle) Marshall Arts Photography (right) Angela Elise Photo dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left + bottom right) Annamarie Akins Photography (top right) Patricia Lyons Photography (bottom left) Marshall Arts Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E Q U E E N E L I Z A B E T H S U I T E Immersed in abundant beams of natural light, the Queen Elizabeth Suite hosts your wedding party in an entirely private 1,600 square foot wing of the estate house. Located on the second floor, Queen Elizabeth creates a serene backdrop for ultimate rest and relaxation.

An incredibly intimate space, this suite additionally houses two unique, dual-story dressing rooms, perfect for enjoying light snacks and libations while hair and makeup services are under way.

Photo: (left + middle) Alexandria Photography (right) Jamie Dunn Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left) Jamie Dunn Photography (top right) Angela Elise Photo (bottom left) Sav Brown Photography (bottom right) Alexandria Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E

B I L L I A R D S

R O O M

A timelessly classic Teddy Roosevelt-era style trophy room, the Billiards Room is an elegantly refined space designed to keep your wedding party happily entertained before it’s time for the nuptials to begin.

Situated on the First Floor, the Billiards Rooms is an oasis, complete with a stately Monarch pool table perfect for passing the afternoon away. Indulge in thoughtfully curated snacks and libations in the Summer Kitchen across the hall while enjoying the ultimate comfort of Dover Hall.

The Billiards Room is a Dover Hall staple, its magnificence never to be forgotten by your wedding guests as it creates a fantastic conversation piece while indoor cocktail hour ensues.

Photo: (left + right) Melissa Durham Photography (middle) Sean DeWitt Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left) Melissa Durham Photography (top right) Caroline Lima Photography (bottom left + right) Angela Elise Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E

C E R E M O N Y

Dover Hall is proud to offer myriad of unique ceremony locations, allowing couples to select a space that directly aligns with their individualized wedding visions. We can easily accommodate intimate ceremonies for 50 of your closest loved ones as well as vastly celebratory nuptials for up to 400 guests.

While the outdoor locations, such as the Reflecting Pool, Blue Stone Terrace, or Two-Tiered Garden are most desirable on a temperate Virginia day, the Ballroom acts as an ideal indoor location in the case of any inclement weather.

With a wealth of alternative ceremony backdrops, couples may also be creative and hold their ceremonies in the Rose Garden, the Cobblestone Courtyard, or any other space our estate grounds permit.

Photo: (left) Kim Stockwell Photography (middle) Shannon Moffit Photography (right) Molly Lichten Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left) Yellow Bird Visuals (top right + bottom right) Alex C Tenser Photography (bottom left) Wolfcrest Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E

C O C K T A I L

H O U R

Following the ceremony, invite your guests to explore the entirety of the Dover Hall estate house during an exploratory and immersive cocktail hour experience. Locally sourced ingredients featured in our artisan passed canapés will pair perfectly with our specially curated beverage packages – now featuring our very own Seven Lady Vineyards wines!

Pass through the First Floor of the Estate House while reveling in the opulence of Old World-style structures and accommodations. The Pub Bar is a picturesque space to grab a signature libation before indulging in our culinary creations. Guests may explore the welcoming environment of every room on the First Floor, customizing their own experiences along the way.

You may additionally choose to host cocktail hour outdoors, where guests will enjoy the spacious, lush gardens while gathering under the romantic lights of the Blue Stone Terrace.

Photo: (left) Shannon Moffit Photography (middle) Kim Stockwell Photography (right) Annamarie Atkins Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left) Kim Stockwell Photography (top right) Bakerture Photo (bottom left) Kir2Ben (bottom right) Shannon Moffit Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T H E

R E C E P T I O N

Magnificent in both size and style, Dover Hall’s Ballroom is the ideal location to host grand wedding celebrations. Wood-coffered ceilings and wrought-iron chandeliers were custom manufactured for the space, while the sandstone fireplace originates from the coast of Scotland.

Located adjacent to the Blue Stone Terrace and Terrace Bar, the Ballroom happily hosts served and station receptions alike. Providing ample room for a full band and open dance floor, the Ballroom may seat up to 150 guests for a served Reception, and may host up to 250 guests for a station Reception.

Dover Hall provides a vast equipment inventory needed to delightfully host up to 200 guests, including tables, chairs, flatware, glassware, china, and linens. Detailed information about our full inventory can be found on page 34.

Photo: (left + middle) Alex C Tenser Photography (right) David Abel Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: (top left) Kait Winston Photography (top right) Bakerture Photo (bottom left) Alex C Tenser Photography (bottom right) Nikki Santerre Photography dover Hall Weddings

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O u r

A m e n i t i e s The Venue

Use of Dover Hall estate house for a 12-hour time frame Spacious getting ready suites Ample on-site parking Set up and tear down of all Dover Hall rentals Dedicated Event Manager to oversee use of venue

Table Top

Tables + Chairs

Cuisine + Beverage

Champagne & ivory crinkle

Mahogany Chiavari chairs

Private menu tasting

linens

with ivory cushions

White coupe china

Mahogany folding garden

professionally trained

chairs with black leather

servers & bartenders

Fortessa flatware All-purpose glassware Linen or satin napkins

pads

In-house banquet team with

Dedicated Event Manager to

Assorted round, rectangular

lead food & beverage

& cocktail tables

experience

Bistro & resin wicker sets

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Photo: (top) Molly Litchen Photography (bottom) Hana Gonzalez Photography dover Hall Weddings

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D o v e r R e n t a l

H a l l S a v i n g s

As a turnkey wedding venue, Dover Hall provides all rentals necessary from a culinary perspective saving you valuable time and investment.

Below is a list of our inventory paired with the rental price from rental companies in the Richmond area.

Estimates are based on a 200 guest count.

IT ADDS UP...

MAHOGANY FOLDING

MAHOGANY CHIAVARI

RECEPTION + COCKTAIL

CHAIRS

CHAIRS W/ CUSHON

TABLES

$1,046

$1,844

$542

RECEPTION + COCKTAIL

TABLE TOP

OUTDOOR FURNITURE +

TABLE LINENS

Plates, Cutlery, Glassware, Napkins, Etc.

STRING LIGHTS

$971

$2,157

$3,722

MISCELLANEOUS

AN AUTHENTIC ENGLISH

Catering Displays, Delivery, Cleaning Fee, Etc.

CASTLE SETTING...

$1,806

Priceless

YOUR SAVINGS... $12,088 + Photo: ( left) Molly Litchen Photography (middle) Alex C Tenser Photography (right) David Abel Photography dover Hall Weddings

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Photo: Kim Stockwell Photography dover Hall Weddings

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O u r P l a n n i n g P r o c e s s Venue Tour Come visit the estate house for a private tour with one of our hospitality experts

Tentative Hold Place a date on a tentative hold for a 10 day time frame while working out booking details

DOE Retainer Fee Begin to secure the date with a $1,000 deposit holding the date for an additional 14 days

Remaining Facility Fee Complete the remaining facility fee to officialy reserve the date

Private Menu Tasting Enjoy a customized menu tasting with one of our Event Manager to make culinary selections about 6 months in advance - 50% of F&B payment is required after menu selection

Final Walkthrough Meet with our team and third party coordinator to finalize details about 1 month in advance

Final Guest Count Submit final guest count and attendee list 3 weeks in advance and pay final F&B balance

Wedding Day! Sit back, relax, and enjoy the day!

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Photo: Keleigh Michelle Photography dover Hall Weddings

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S a m p l e W e d d i n g T i m e l i n e

D a y

11am

4.30pm

Vendor Set Up Vendors may arrive to begin set up for the wedding day. Hired vendors usually include: planner, photographer, entertainment, florals, and cake.

Guests Arrive The Dover Hall team will greet your guests and direct them to your designated ceremony location.

11am

2.30pm

Arrival The couple and their wedding party arrive to begin their event day preparations. We will have snacks and libations waiting in their getting ready suite upon arrival.

First Look Choose from any of our picturesque locations to see your soon-to-be spouse for the first time - and indulge in preceremony portrait sessions.

Photo: (1st) Erika Lynn Photo (2nd, 3rd, + 4th) Erika Lynn Photography dover Hall Weddings

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The facility fee guarantees your 12-hour contracted use of the Dover Hall estate house on your wedding day. Within this timeframe, our team will work to customize your individual wedding day plans to ensure that not a single moment is missed! A sample timeline is detailed below that will take you through venue access beginning at 11am, choice of ceremony location (and time), cocktail hour, and a full reception to conclude at 11pm.

5.30pm

11pm

Cocktail Hour Guests will now have the opportunity to explore Dover Hall.

With rich history and art around every corner, they will be well entertained while you complete photos.

Grand Exit Whether you choose a sparkler exit or to roll out in style, your departure will surely be grand with the glow of Dover Hall in the background.

5pm

6.30pm

Ceremony The time has finally come to say "I do!"

Enjoy sharing your vows during the nuptials in your favorite Dover Hall location.

Reception Enter the reception for the first time as newlyweds. We will take care of your guests through dinner service, drinks, dancing, and beyond!

Photo: (1st) Nikki Santerre Photography (2nd) 88 Love Stories (3rd) Nicki Metcalf Photography (4th) Alex C Tenser Photography dover Hall Weddings

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T h o u g h t f u l

C u i s i n e

As a turnkey wedding venue, Dover Hall provides all food and beverage services. Dover Hall’s artisan in-house catering team will create a high touch and elevated culinary experience for your wedding - from passed canapés to elegant dinners and specifically curated bar packages.

Sample Menu Passed Canapés Maine Lobster Rolls, Tarragon, Garlic Aioli, Chives New Zealand Lamb Chops, Chimichurri, Kecap Basil Basil Bruschetta, Oven Dried Tomatoes, Roasted Garlic, Torn Basil, Balsamic

Stationary Display Artisan Cheese & Charcuterie Board

First Course Mixed Greens Salad, Pickled Cherries, Shaved Manchego, Sherry Maple Vinaigrette

Second Course Roasted Chicken + Lobster Tail Duet, Cauliflower Purée, Thumbelina Carrots, Caramelized Brussel Sprouts, Champagne Beurre Blanc

Dessert Chocolate Budino, House Made Peanut Butter, Pecan Soil

Crown Bar Package - 5 Hour open bar Beer, Wine, Spirits

$189 Estimated Per Person *A 30% Service Fee is applied to all wedding Food and Beverage charges. This fee will cover any and all staffing requirements, gratuity, and Dover Hall owned equipment. Please note that Dover Hall requires the use of a licensed and insured thirdparty wedding planner to coordinate personal details. Inquire within for a list of Pre-Approved Planners to aid in your search.

Photo: (top) Shannon Moffit Photography (top left + bottom left) Nikki Santerre Photography (bottom right) J + D Photo dover Hall Weddings

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T h e

I n v e s t m e n t

The facility fee acts as the venue rental for use of Dover Hall’s estate house on your wedding day.

Gain access to the estate for a twelve hour time frame, including day-of use of the Queen Elizabeth Suite beginning at 11 am, choice of indoor and outdoor ceremony locations, and a full reception to conclude at 11 pm.

Peak Season: May, June, Sept, Oct, Nov, Dec Facility Fee

Food & Beverage Minimums

Friday

$15,000

Friday

n/a

Saturday

$18,500

Saturday

$25,000

Sunday

$15,000

Sunday

n/a

Mid Peak Season: April, March, Aug Facility Fee

Food & Beverage Minimums

Friday

$12,000

Friday

n/a

Saturday

$15,000

Saturday

$20,000

Sunday

$12,000

Sunday

n/a

Off Season: Jan, Feb, July Facility Fee

Food & Beverage Minimums

Friday

$9,000

Friday

n/a

Saturday

$11,500

Saturday

$15,000

Sunday

$9,000

Sunday

n/a

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Photo: Angela Elise Photography dover Hall Weddings

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K i n d

W o r d s

"THE OUTSIDE IS BREATHTAKING, THE INSIDE IS GRAND, AND THE TEAM IS TOP-NOTCH." - Amanda + Louie

Dover Hall is everything you could ever dream of. Leaving the estate after our wedding weekend, I cried my eyes out knowing it was all over. There are no other words to describe Dover Hall other than perfect. The staff went above and beyond to fulfill every request we had and make our big day and wedding weekend special for us. The culinary team made the most delicious food starting with our tasting, to our rehearsal dinner, to the wedding, and post-wedding brunch. We were in food heaven and I wish I could go back and eat it all over and over again. I am looking forward to the day when my husband and I go back to Dover Hall to stay at the amazing estate again. We just know that the Dover Hall team will treat us as wonderfully as they did for our wedding.

"DOVER HALL CHECKED ALL OF OUR BOXES SO WE BOOKED IT SIGHT UNSEEN AND WE ARE SO GLAD WE DID!" - Amanda + John

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My wife at I got married at Dover Hall, and it was one of the best decisions we ever made!

Throughout our tours of possible wedding locales, we visited a myriad of different types of places; winery, museums, country clubs, and garden spaces. None of the sites we visited holds a candle to Dover Hall. As you drive down the driveway towards Dover Hall, you are immediately awestruck by its presence and beauty; it indeed looks like something out of a movie. The best part? The Dover Hall team is just as amazing! They were a joy to work with every step of the way and made life easier on our wedding planner! We cannot recommend Dover Hall enough. The outside is breathtaking, the inside is grand, and the team is top-notch. If you've been wondering where to get married in the Richmond area, STOP! You've found the place to hold your dream wedding - it is Dover Hall!

"THERE ARE NO OTHER WORDS TO DESCRIBE DOVER HALL OTHER THAN PERFECT" - Caroline + Alex

I recently got married at Dover Hall Estate and let me just tell you, it was hands down the best day of my life! Our wedding was truly like something out of a fairytale. My husband and I live in Northern California with no ties to Virginia, so this was a destination wedding for all. We were looking for something with a grand European vibe and we wanted to stay overnight at the venue.

Dover Hall checked all of our boxes so we booked it sight unseen and we are SO GLAD we did! The culinary team not only prepared our reception dinner but our rehearsal dinner as well... and let’s just say, people are still raving about the food! We are forever grateful for Dover Hall and can't wait to travel down memory lane when we plan our next trip back!

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Photo: Alex C Tenser Photography www.doverhall.com | 804.784.6051 | 1500 Manakin Road • Manakin-Sabot, Virginia 23103