The Dover Hall Wedding Experience

Page 1


WeddingExperience

A Guide for 2024 - 2026 Dover Hall Wedding Clients

C o n g r a t u l a t i o n s

Welcome to Dover Hall!

The Dover Hall Experiences Team extends our sincerest congratulations! We cannot wait to embark on your wedding planning journey together Dover Hall weddings are high-touch, personalized, memorable, and meaningful

Throughout these pages, you’ll find a plethora of information from the history of the estate, to real wedding inspiration, and information about our artisan in-house culinary and beverage programs We know you will feel inspired as your dream wedding becomes a reality!

Photos: (cover + full page) Kir2Ben (above) Justin Hankins Photography
Photo: Nikki Santerre Photography
Photo: (bottom) Costola Photography

AHistory

o f D o v e r H a l l

Dover Hall is a refined, English Tudor-inspired estate placed elegantly among the rolling hills of Manakin-Sabot, Virginia The exceptionally grand 38,000square-foot estate house sits peacefully on 55 private acres in Goochland County’s equestrian country.

The dream of the original owners, Dennis and Cindy Pryor, Dover Hall was built to be a lavish family home fit for royalty Initial planning and conception of the estate house began about four years before the official groundbreaking in 1996. The construction of Dover Hall was completed in the year 2000

During the construction process, the Pryors thoughtfully considered all the logistics necessary for an immersive event experience. As a result, only a few adjustments were needed to seamlessly transition Dover Hall to the exclusive luxury event venue it is today. Approximately 90% of the originally sourced antiquities and art were conveyed with the sale of the estate, juxtaposing a unique blend of history, authenticity, and character with the modern amenities of the house.

The Dover Hall Experiences team took over the management of the estate house in 2017 with a vision to create an unparalleled guest experience through unforgettable events and thoughtful cuisine.

Weddings

a t D o v e r H a l l

Dover Hall flawlessly marries the grandeur of days past with modern and abundant amenities in a sophisticated and serene atmosphere The property is a convenient 10-minute drive from the Short Pump area of Richmond, VA, and easily accessible from Charlottesville, Northern Virginia, and Maryland

Complete with luxurious getting-ready suites and in-house artisan culinary and beverage programs, Dover Hall provides an exquisite and unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones.

Photo: Kir2Ben

W I N T E R W E D D I N G S

Photo: Brett Denfeld Photos
Caroline + Lindsey
Photo: Kenzi Flinchum Photography
Photo: Terri Baskin Photography
Johnny + Allyson

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 2,400-square-foot wing of the estate house.

Located on the second floor, Queen Elizabeth is the perfect location for snacks and libations while hair and makeup services are underway, as well as for those memorable getting-ready portraits and intimate moments before your exchange "I do".

As the primary suite of the original residence, Queen Elizabeth boasts full privacy, immaculate views of the grounds off the private balcony, and some of the most exquisite furnishings and art of the entire estate.

Photo: (left) Alexandria Photography (middle) Costola Photography (right) Jamie Dunn Photography
Photo: (top left) 9193 Studio (top right) David Abel Photography (bottom left) Karis Marie Photography (bottom right) Shelly Pate Photography

T H E B I L L I A R D S R O O M

& G R E A T R O O M

Gather your wedding party and get ready in style in our memorable Billiards Room! This Teddy Roosevelt-era-inspired trophy room is a refined haven, designed to keep your wedding party entertained as you prepare for your big day We'll ensure you stay nourished and hydrated with our delectable snacks and refreshing libations

Located on the First Floor, the Billiards Room boasts a rare 1895 Brunswick Monarch pool table featuring gilded gold lions, and a 70-inch television, ensuring you don't miss out on the big game

If antique taxidermy isn't your thing, both the Summer Kitchen and Great Room are located right across the hall. These spacious rooms offer a more relaxed atmosphere, floor-to-ceiling natural light, soft seating, and a Wurlitzer player piano

Photo: (left + middle) Sean DeWitt Photography (right) Nikki Santerre Photography
Photo: (top left) Costola Photography (top right) Alex C Tenser Photography (bottom left) Terri Baskin Photography (bottom right) Angela Elise Photography

T H E C E R E M O N Y

Dover Hall is pleased to offer a myriad of unique ceremony locations, allowing couples to select a space that directly aligns with their distinct wedding vision.

While the outdoor locations, such as the Reflecting Pool, Bluestone Terrace, Two-Tiered Garden, Rose Garden, and Cobblestone Court are desirable on a lovely, temperate Virginia day, the Ballroom acts as an ideal indoor location.

With a wealth of alternative ceremony backdrops also available, couples can be creative and hold their ceremonies in an array of other spaces as our estate grounds permit

Photo: (left) Brett Denfeld Photography (middle) Alex C Tenser Photography (right) Molly Lichten Photography
Photo: (top left + bottom right) Alex C Tenser Photography (top right) Brett Denfeld Photography (bottom left) Kir2Ben Photography

T H E C O C K T A I L H O U R

Following the ceremony, some couples host their Cocktail Hour outdoors so guests can enjoy the lush gardens and grounds.

Alternatively, invite your guests to explore the First Floor of Dover Hall during an immersive cocktail hour Wandering through the two-tiered Library, formal Dining Room, and Parlor will surely be a conversational experience for your guests. The Pub Bar is a picturesque space to grab a signature libation before indulging in our culinary creations

Locally sourced ingredients featured in artisan passed canapés will pair perfectly with specially curated beverage packages – featuring our own 7 Lady Vineyards wines!

Photo: (left) Shannon Moffit Photography (middle) Kaitlyn James Photography (right) Alex C Tenser Photography
Photo: (top left) Kim Stockwell Photography (top right) Alex C Tenser Photography (bottom left) Madeline Trent Photography (bottom right) Angela Elise Photography

T H E R E C E P T I O N

Magnificent in both size and style, Dover Hall is the ideal location to host magnificent wedding celebrations. The Ballroom's wood-coffered ceilings and wrought-iron chandeliers were custom manufactured for the space by Virginian artisans, while the sandstone fireplace originates from the coast of Scotland.

Located adjacent to the Bluestone Terrace and Terrace Bar, the Ballroom happily hosts seated and cocktail receptions alike The Ballroom comfortably seats up to 125 guests for a plated reception and may host up to 200 guests for a station or cocktail-style reception.

Dover Hall's NEW Glass Hall boasts 13-foot tall glass walls and a 24-foot ceiling with chandeliers and bistro lighting At approximately 6,400 square feet, this climate-controlled event space provides hosting capabilities for up to 400 guests. The Ballroom, just a few steps away, becomes the ideal dance floor to party the night away The bottom image on page 23 features an event with seating for 180 in the Glass Hall.

Photo: (left) Angela Elise Photography (middle + right) Alex C Tenser Photography
Photo: (top left) Brett Denfeld Photography (top right) Stephanie Jenkins Photo (bottom) Angela Elise Photography
Photo: (top) Brett Denfeld Photography (bottom) Marshall Arts Photography

The Venue

The Dover Hall Estate House for a 12-hour time frame

Set up and break down of all Dover Hall rentals

Dedicated Dover Hall Event Manager to oversee the use of the venue

Complimentary use of Dover Hall for an engagement, boudoir, or portrait photo session

Discounted pricing at Dover Hall's sister properties - Bartizan & 7 Lady Vineyards

Special rates and discounts are provided by local hotels & transportation companies

Complimentary cake-cutting service & use of in-house cake stands and server

Discount on 7LV Wine purchased for wedding favors, welcome baskets + gifts

Getting ready rooms attendant

Complimentary reception coffee & tea station

Ample on-site parking

Complimentary coat check

10+ guest restrooms

Complimentary WiFi

ADA accessible

Table Top

Champagne & ivory crinkle linens

White coupe china

Fortessa flatware

High-end glassware

Choice of napkin color

Tables + Chairs

Mahogany chiavari chairs with ivory cushions

Mahogany folding garden chairs with black leather pads

Assorted round, rectangular, & high + low cocktail tables

Outdoor patio & lounge furniture

Cuisine + Beverage

Private menu tasting

In-house banquet team with professionally trained servers, bartenders & chefs

Dedicated Event Manager to lead food & beverage experience

DoverHallprovidesalltheequipmentandstaffnecessarytoexecuteyourculinaryexperience,savingyou valuabletimeandinvestment.Belowisalistofourinventorycomparedtorentalpricesfromcompaniesin theRichmondarea,aswellasourserviceinclusionsforwhichmostothervenueschargeanadditionalfee

Estimatesarebasedona200-personguestcount.

$1,400

$1,200

MISCELLANEOUS

TABLE TOP

Plates, Cutlery, Glassware, Barware, Napkins, Etc $3,200

$4,100 YOUR SAVINGS... $19,150 +

SERVICE STAFF

Photo: ( left) Kim Stockwell Photography (middle) Alex C Tenser Photography (right) Alisandra Photo
Photo: Molly Litchen Photography

Complimentary Hold

Place a date on hold for a 10-day time frame while working out booking details

Venue Tour

Come visit the estate house for a private tour with one of our hospitality experts

Deposit

Secure your date with a $1,000 deposit and a signed contract

Remaining Facility Fee

Due 14 days after your contract due date.

Private Menu Tasting

Enjoy a customized menu tasting with one of our Event Managers to make culinary and beverage selections about 4-6 months before your event. 50% payment is also due around this time

Final Walkthrough

Meet with your Dover Hall Event Manager and Wedding Planner to finalize details about one month in advance.

Month Of Details

Security deposit, final guest count, and final payment will be due

Wedding Day! Say "I Do!" Cheers to you!!!

Photo: Erika Medlin Photography

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

Vendor

Access

Vendors may arrive to begin setting up for the wedding day Hired vendors may include: planner, photographer, videographer, entertainment, florals, officiant, cake, etc

3:30pm

Guests Arrive

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

10am

Arrival

The couple and their wedding party arrive to begin their event day preparations.

1:30pm

First Look

Choose from any of our picturesque locations to see your soon-to-be spouse for the first time

Photo: (1st) Erika Lynn Photo (2nd) Santa Ana Photography (3rd, + 4th) Erika Lynn Photography

4:30pm

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.

10pm

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.

4pm

Ceremony

The time has fi come to say "I d Enjoy sharing y vows in your fa Dover Hall loca

5:30pm

Reception

Enter the receptio for the first time newlyweds We w take care of your guests through di service, drinks, dancing, and beyo

Please note that Dover Hall requires the use of a licensed and insured third-party wedding planner to coordinate personal details. Inquire within for a list of Pre-Approved Planners to aid in your search.

Photo: (1st) Nikki Santerre Photography (2nd) 88 Love Stories (3rd) Nicki Metcalf Photography (4th) Alex C Tenser Photography
T h o u g h t f u l C u i s i n e

Dover Hall provides all the food and beverage services for your event Dover Hall’s incredibly talented in-house Catering Team will create a high-touch and elevated culinary experience for your wedding - from passed canapés to elegant dinners and curated bar packages

SampleMenu

PassedCanapés

MaineLobsterRolls,Tarragon,GarlicAioli,Chives

NewZealandLambChops,Chimichurri,KecapBasil

Arancini,WildMushroom,RedWineSugo,FriedGarlic,ParmesanReggiano ButternutSquashBruschetta,WhippedGoatCheese,RedWineReduction

StationaryDisplay

FriedChicken&ButtermilkBiscuitBar

AmuseBouche

BiteofBrie,FujiApple,SabaVincotto

FirstCourse

LocalBabyBeets,LocalGoatCheese,Citrus,CandiedNuts,ShavedRadish,BalsamicGlaze

SecondCourse|DuetPlate

Filet&Scallop,RoastedFingerlingPotatoes,OysterMushroom,ChiveBeurreBlanc

Dessert

HouseMadeGelato&HouseMadeGourmetCookieBar

TheKingBarPackage-5Houropenbar

7LadyWine,TheTastingRoomCollection,Beer&Spirits

PackageIncludes:SignatureDrinks,TableSideWineService,andWelcomeChampagne

~$259EstimatedPerPerson

*A 30% Service Fee is applied to all wedding food and beverage charges. This fee will cover any and all staffing requirements and Dover Hall-owned equipment.

Photo: (top + bottom left) Alex C Tenser Photography (bottom right) Nikki Santerre Photography
Photo: Shannon Moffit Photography

t h e I n v e s t m e n t 2 0 2 5

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, choice of any indoor or outdoor ceremony location, and a full reception to conclude by 11 pm.

Interested in a short engagement? All remaining 2024 dates are eligible for exclusive discounts

June, Sept, Oct, *Dec

April, May, Aug, Nov

Jan, Feb, March, July

*All December weddings are subject to special pricing Contact your sales manager for specific pricing details Chat with your Sales Manager about our exclusive New Years Eve Package

Photo: Vicki Grafton Photography

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, choice of any indoor or outdoor ceremony location, and a full reception to conclude by 11 pm.

June, Sept, Oct, *Dec

April, May, Aug, Nov

Jan, Feb, March, July

*All December weddings are subject to special pricing Contact your sales manager for specific pricing details Chat with your Sales Manager about our exclusive New Years Eve Package

June, Sept, Oct, *Dec Wedding Weekend Facility Fee & Lodging $48,000

Weekend Food + Beverage Minimum $64,000

April, May, Aug, Nov Wedding Weekend Facility Fee & Lodging $42,000

Weekend Food + Beverage Minimum $53,000

Jan, Feb, March, July Wedding Weekend Facility Fee & Lodging $32,000

Weekend Food + Beverage Minimum $45,000

*All December wedding weekends are subject to special pricing Contact your sales manager for specific pricing details

What's Included

10 am check-in on Friday

Use of Dover Hall estate house for desired events Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (ie: wedding pool party luncheon, rehearsal dinner, welcome party, wedding ceremony, wedding reception, departure brunch, etc.)

Use of The Glass Hall

Lodging for up to 10 guests on Friday + Saturday

Complimentary Breakfast for up to 10 guests on Saturday morning

Optional late 5 pm check-out on Sunday

Access to 55 rolling acres of grounds, gardens, and vineyards, and 1st & 2nd floor of estate interior

Waved Overnight facility fee - $10,000 value

Photo: (left + right) David Abel Photography (middle) Angela Elise Photography

Friday

Afternoon - relax at the pool, in the library, or wander the vineyards with a casual lunch in the Summer Kitchen

Friday

6 pm - Intimate Rehearsal Dinner in the Dining Room

Saturday Wedding Day!

Sunday Late 5 pm Check-Out, if desired

Friday

10 am - Check-in for up to 10 guests

Friday 5 pm - Let the wedding rehearsal commence!

Friday

8 pm - Al Fresco Garden Welcome Party

Sunday Departure Brunch & lazy afternoon

*Overnight accommodations are only offered with our Wedding Weekend Package.

K i n d W o r d s
"Dover

Hall is is such an amazing venue and only made better by the staff and service. My wife and I were married here in March 2023 and could not have asked for a better venue. From the moment we toured Dover Hall back in 2022, we knew this would be the place for us. From the beginning, our Sales Manager was such a pleasure to work with and we can't say enough great things about her. As we approached our date, our Event Manager came on-board and took the lead without hesitation. She was instrumental in organizing all of our details and worked so well with our Planner and the rest of our vendors. The week of the wedding was made so much easier with the help and guidance of them both, along with the rest of the Dover Hall staff. Each and every one of them was kind, personable, knowledgeable, and kept our thoughts and wishes at the top of their priority from Day 1. The wedding itself was truly amazing; everything we had dreamed of and more. From the outdoor ceremony, to the cocktail hour, to the ballroom reception, all of the logistics of the day were handled and executed flawlessly. The food was absolutely amazing and I cannot understate how many compliments we received from our guests. It only added to the amazing night they helped us pull off; we could wedding of our dreams without Dover Hall!!!"

Photo: Ashley Peterson Photography
"I do not even know where to start when it comes to describing the unreal magic that is Dover Hall.

I will start by saying my husband and I originally booked a castle in Ireland for our wedding venue, however with the pandemic we had to cancel that. Insert finding Dover Hall which is even BETTER than a castle in Ireland and I truly mean that. What's amazing about Dover is that it has such grandeur yet the staff is just so down to earth and kind. You would almost be intimidated to book a venue as lux as this however when dealing with the team at Dover you are almost dealing with family. When we did the tour we even met one of the owners and he was just the most kind and down to earth gentleman there ever was. The mechanics of choosing Dover for your special event is also so simple! Everything is in house and is top notch. I was told the filet at our wedding was the best filet our guest had ever had. The food was delicious! Dover was so accommodating and flexible given all the uncertainties and craziness with getting married during a pandemic, the staff is truly best in class. I will also note we booked our rehearsal dinner at their sister property Bartizan and that really blew us and our guest away and really kicked the wedding weekend off in a very special way. The whole experience was dreamy and stress-free. I am so happy that our Ireland wedding got canceled and we got married at Dover Hall"

Photo: Shelly Pate Photography
Photo: Eric Kelley Photography

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