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CASTLE FARMS

CHARLEVOIX, MICHIGAN

© Captured by Grace

CASTLE FARMS

With a rather unconventional start over 100 years ago, the stunning lake-stone structures that are now called Castle Farms have been utilized to bring many visions to life as the decades have passed. Each owner put their own unique spin on the Castle’s French Normandy inspired architecture; however, the buildings ultimately fell into ruin. High school sweethearts, Linda and Richard, took on the project of a lifetime in 2001 by beginning their renovation and restoration of the Castle to (and beyond) its original grandeur. Their vision has brought this picturesque and perfectly hidden gem back to life with the intent that couples like you would have the perfect backdrop for your wedding experience.

In this guide you will learn about each of our ceremony-and-reception reservation options and if you have any questions or would like to schedule your private wedding tour, we would love to connect, talk about your wedding plans and help piece together your vision!

SUMMER VENUES

May-October

KNIGHT’S CASTLE

and Knight’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

As Castle Farms’ premier reservation option, the Knight’s Castle offers an array of next-level venue features. With the most original architecture of all the restored buildings, this stone room features strikingly tall wooden ceilings adorned with warm lighting, a show-stopping centerpiece chandelier and abounding character. The glowing drapery perfectly frames your dance floor, and the large sliding door welcomes your guests into your private courtyard to enjoy throughout the evening. Paired with the Knight’s Courtyard ceremony location, this garden features our longest entrance walkway and just the right amount of historical touches for the most timeless and elegant celebration.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 70-150, Maximum 175 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in Knight’s Courtyard

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 12:00 am Reception in Knight’s Castle

1:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Sliding Barn Door to Flower-Lined Private Courtyard

• Stand-Alone Architectural Landmark

• Gated Entrance with Private Parking

• Latest-Offered Timeline

© Paul Retherford Photography

© Beth Joy Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Brandi Lynn Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

WEST GARDEN ROOM

and Knight’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The West Garden Room is known as our most romantic reception room. With just the right amount of brightness and warmth, the detailed crown molding, elegant chandeliers and surrounding French doors send your guests into a magical evening of celebration. The private courtyard is trimmed with bustling gardens, a poised gazebo and an ear-pleasing fountain feature while leaving plenty of room for an optional outdoor bar and lawn games. Paired with the Knight’s Courtyard ceremony location, your guests will enjoy a lovely stroll by many gardens and a floral trellis walkway on their way to cocktail hour and the reception.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 80-160, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in Knight’s Courtyard

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in West Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Warm Romantic Lighting

• Large Private Courtyard with Fountain and Gazebo

• Surround French Doors

• Gated Entrance with Private Parking

© The Delauras

© Lauren Elaine Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Weber Photographers

© Meg Van Kampen Studios

© Weddings by Cheyenne

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

KING’S GREAT HALL

and Queen’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The King’s Great Hall is a very grand room overlooking the entire Castle Farms property through spectacularly tall windows. With a true ‘Castle’ feel, the stone walls are topped with a formally finished and elevated ceiling that adorn twelve magnificent iron chandeliers. The reception room welcomes your guests through a stately foyer that also opens out to a second-story balcony overlooking more of the property’s gardens. Paired with the Queen’s Courtyard ceremony location, your guests will start their evening in one of the Castle’s most memorable courtyards followed by a beautiful garden walk to your reception room to continue in merriment.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 100-230, Maximum 270 guests Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in Queen’s Courtyard

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 12:00 am Reception in King’s Great Hall

1:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Two Balconies for Guests’ Enjoyment

• Tall Cathedral Windows

• Dramatic Stone Architecture

• Second-Floor Garden Views

© Lauren Dahlhauser Photography

© Mitten Films

© Tatum Photo and Design

© Jaelynn Rose Photography

© Alyssa & Drew Photography

© Lauren Dahlhauser Photography

EAST GARDEN ROOM

and Queen’s Courtyard

DESCRIPTION

The East Garden Room is our largest reservation option, suitable to bring the most bright and airy visions to life. With surrounding French Doors, a spacious dance area and the perfect attached bar room for your guests to mingle through, no detail will go missed as you add your special touches to this sparkling blank canvas. Paired with the Queen’s Courtyard ceremony location, the brilliance of what was originally the main entrance to the Castle a century ago will leave a lasting impression your guests won’t soon forget. Everyone will enjoy a refreshing garden walk on their way to your cocktail hour and reception to celebrate the night away.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 120-250, Maximum 300 guests Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 48 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in Queen’s Courtyard

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in East Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Attached Side Bar Area

• Private Garden with Fountain

• Surround French Doors

• Spacious Dance Floor

© Chris Van Winkle Photography

© Captured by Grace

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Mel Anne Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

© Niven Weddings

WINTER VENUES

November-April

WEST GARDEN ROOM

and King’s Gallery

DESCRIPTION

The West Garden Room is a wonderful space that offers just the right amount of brightness and warmth for an off-season celebration. The charming historical details and modern composition of this room mesh perfectly to offer an impressive yet simple backdrop for your reception. Paired with the King’s Gallery ceremony location, your guests are welcomed warmly with views of the King’s Grand Courtyard for your ceremony followed by an evening of enjoyment in this French-country inspired setting just waiting for your special touches.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 80-160, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Gallery

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in West Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

• Warm Romantic Lighting

• Surround French Doors

Separate Ceremony Location Overlooking Grand Courtyard

• Elegant Chandeliers

© Weber Photographers

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

© VAGUE Photography

KING’S GREAT HALL

and King’s Indoor Chapel

DESCRIPTION

The King’s Great Hall is an impressive room that features some of the best Castle and garden views. With a grand foyer leading into this second-floor reception space, each guest is sure to find comfort as they tap into their inner King or Queen. The beautifully crafted ceiling, twelve iron chandeliers and exposed stone walls offer a wonderful balance of dramatics and practicality as the backdrop to your reception.

Paired with the King’s Indoor Chapel, your guests are welcomed into the ceremony location by a striking staircase or elegant elevator ride before finding their seats to witness the day’s magic.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 100-180, Maximum 200 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 32 guests

TIMELINE

5:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Indoor Chapel

5:30 pm – 6:30 pm Cocktail Hour

6:30 pm – 11:00 pm Reception in King’s Great Hall

12:00 am Departure Time

FEATURES

Grand Foyer

Tall Cathedral Windows

• Dramatic Stone Architecture

• Second-Floor Garden and Castle Views

© Amber Henry Photography

© Captured by Grace Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

EAST GARDEN ROOM

and King’s Gallery

DESCRIPTION

The East Garden Room is a spacious and stately reception room perfect for the most classic wedding visions, no matter how simple or ornate. This stunning blank canvas features an attached bar area perfect for effortless mingling, French doors offering endless garden views as well as five crystal chandeliers leaving more than enough space for your special touches to shine. Paired with the King’s Gallery ceremony location, your guests will enjoy views of the King’s Grand Courtyard as they arrive to witness your union followed by a lovely stroll into your reception room awaiting the evening’s celebration.

CAPACITY

Ideal for 120-250, Maximum 270 guests

Optional tables placed on dance floor to add 48 guests

TIMELINE

3:00 pm Ceremony in King’s Gallery

3:30 pm – 4:30 pm Cocktail Hour

4:30 pm – 10:00 pm Reception in East Garden Room

11:00 pm Departure Time

FEATURES

Attached Side Bar Area

Crystal Chandeliers

• Surround Outdoor Views

• Spacious Dance Floor

© Niven Weddings

© Anna Beth Smith Photography

© E.C. Campbell Photography

INCLUDED ITEMS and SERVICES

CEREMONY

• White Ceremony Chairs

Rehearsal lead by Venue

Coordinator Day Prior

Unity Table

• Podium

• Easel

Greenery Hanging Baskets

• Set-Up, Tear-Down, and Cleaning of Castle Farms Items

• White umbrellas for guests

• Clear umbrellas for wedding party

• Inclement weather backup

ADDITIONAL INCLUSIONS

Venue Coordinator

• Free Parking

• Private Dressing Room Restrooms

• Catering Area with walk in cooler, industrial dishwasher, table prep space

• Waste containers

• Professional directional staff

Entrance and Directional signs

RECEPTION

• Private outdoor area

Round guest tables

• Side tables (cake table, head table, gift table, etc.)

• Floor length white linens (black on food tables)

• White reception chairs (Chiavari chairs for Knight’s Castle)

• Cocktail tables

• Table numbers and holders Easels

• Stage for DJ/Band

• Dance Floor

• Bar Counter

• Decorative dimmable lights

Air Conditioning/Heat

• Set-Up, Tear-Down, and Cleaning of Castle Farms Items

PRICING and PAYMENT TERMS

No tax, gratuity or service charges will be applied to above venue pricing.

PAYMENT TERMS

Minimum requirements to reserve: 15% first payment and signed contract.

Remaining balance is divided among the months leading up to the wedding.

Payments are transferable between date and site within 1 year of the original reservation date - limitations apply.

• Final venue payment is due 30 days before the wedding.

• Payment methods include cash, check, money order or credit card (Visa, Mastercard, Discover).

• Credit card payments are subject to a 2.5-3% handling charge excluding the first 15% payment.

SAVINGS OPPORTUNITIES

• 10% tour reservation for reserving during your private wedding tour.

• 5% Military Discount for any Bride or Groom who is currently serving or has served in any branch of the United States Military.

• 5% Paid-In-Full Discount for paying the venue balance as one payment upon reserving (handling charge will apply to card payments).

Combine up to two of these discounts!

Discounts are not applicable for Sunday dates of Memorial Day or Labor Day weekend.

If you are considering hosting a reception-only or multi-day event, please call or email for more information, availability, and a customized quote!

OUTSIDE VENDORS

To ensure you are provided the highest level of flexibility and control, you may hire the vendors that fit your vision! Our Preferred Service Providers list is compiled of vendors who consistently host events at our location each year and who maintain a high standard of service. Our Preferred Service Providers list includes vendors in the categories below and can be found on our website

• Desserts

Catering

• Officiants

Entertainment

• Floral

• Health & Beauty

Photography

• Photo Booths

Rentals and Draping

• Transportation

• Videography

Wedding Planners

• Specialty Services

Vendors do not have to be selected from our Preferred Service Providers list, but we do require that your caterer is licensed and insured. We are happy to connect with your chosen caterer to explain what our catering areas include so that they are prepared for your event.

IN HOUSE BAR SERVICE

Bar service at Castle Farms is provided exclusively through our in-house team as a separate service form your venue rental. Our comprehensive bar packages include everything needed to prepare and serve your beverages – from professional bartenders and mixers to glassware, ice, and all the essentials – so you can relax and enjoy a seamless, stress-free celebration.

AWARDS and ACCOLADES

FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW DO I SCHEDULE A TOUR?

Call 231-237-0884 or email events@castlefarms.com to schedule your Private Wedding Tour with a Sales Consultant. This focused appointment is typically scheduled for 1.5 hours. If a less-formal visit is preferred, Self-Guided Wedding Tours are also available when scheduled in advance.

WHAT IS NEEDED TO RESERVE?

A signed Castle Farms contract and a minimum 15% first payment are required to secure your reservation.

WHAT IS THE PAYMENT POLICY?

The remaining balance after your first 15% payment will be divided into a payment schedule set by Castle Farms with varying payment amounts. The due dates are based on how far in advance you reserve your room and date. The final balance is due 30 days prior to your wedding.

WHAT IS YOUR FOOD AND ALCOHOL POLICY?

You are welcome to choose your own catering company. We do require that your caterer is licensed and insured, and our Preferred Service Providers list is a great resource for local caterers. You will have the option of which alcohol package you would like to select from the Castle Bar Packages. The alcohol packages include the bartenders, glasses, plastic glasses barware, mixers, sodas, and ice.

DO YOU RECOMMEND VENDORS FOR MY WEDDING?

There are many vendors that we work with regularly and that Castle Farms and that past Castle Couples highly recommend. Please see our Preferred Service Providers list on our website for suggestions in each category of service.

WHO WILL I BE WORKING WITH?

Our Sales Consultants will be the ones to guide you through the inquiry and reservation process. From answering your initial questions, to touring and reserving, they will be your go-to person. Once your reservation is finalized, our team of Venue Coordinators are available throughout the planning process to answer questions and provide you with tips and recommendations as your plans come together. Two months prior to your event a specific Venue Coordinator will be designated for your wedding. Your Venue Coordinator will work with you to gather all the information needed for the Castle’s team to prepare your wedding. They will oversee your ceremony and be available to help your guests transition into cocktail hour and the reception. Castle staff will remain onsite until the end of your event and your bartenders are available to communicate any needs to the onsite staff.

ARE THERE ACCOMMODATIONS NEAR CASTLE FARMS?

Castle Farms is just two short miles from Charlevoix where several hotels, motels, B & B’s, and rental home options are located. A list of these accommodation options can be emailed to you at any time if you do not have a copy yet! While some traditional room blocks may be available, we recommend listing multiple accommodation options for your guests.

CAN WE HOST JUST OUR RECEPTION AT CASTLE FARMS?

Absolutely! Please contact a Sales Consultant for availability and pricing.

CAN OUR PET BE PART OF OUR CEREMONY?

While we do welcome (reasonably sized and pottytrained) pets to participate in your wedding ceremony, we do ask that they stay leashed and carried when indoors if possible. We do also require someone be responsible for their care and transportation to an off-site location after the ceremony concludes. Specific areas are available for potty breaks.

CAN I RENT THE ENTIRE CASTLE?

For couples who desire next-level exclusivity and customization, we offer full-castle reservations for 1-3 days that allow you to select the locations and timelines that fit your wedding vision best. Typically offered between May and October, a full-castle reservation presents the option to mix and match courtyards with your favorite reception room, host your ceremony in the King’s Grand Courtyard, or open the grounds for your guests to explore the full history and beauty of the Castle. Pricing for this option ranges between $30,500 and $75,000 depending on a number of factors. Contact a Sales Consultant to tailor your one-of-a-kind Royal Package Reservation!

WHAT ARE YOUR POSTPONEMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICIES?

Our postponement policy does allow you to choose a new date up to one year from your originally contracted event. We require 30 days’ notice before the scheduled event date to postpone and all paid funds transfer to the new reservation, accounting for any increase or decrease in price based on the current rates of the newly chosen reservation at the time of the postponement, also taking into account any payments that are already past-due/non-refundable. A new date must be selected within 6 months of a postponement agreement being signed. Our cancellation policy features a 3-day grace period after the initial reservation is finalized where a full refund is guaranteed. If a cancellation must take place, payments not yet due will be void (or refunded if they have been paid in advance). Otherwise, as a payment due date passes that payment becomes non-refundable. Call or email any time for more details on our postponement and cancellation policies.

WHEN WILL I HAVE ACCESS TO MY CEREMONY AND RECEPTION LOCATIONS AND ARE THERE DECORATING RESTRICTIONS?

We guarantee access into your ceremony location 1 hour prior to the contracted start time to add any special touches you would like to place as a complement to your wedding vision. Our inclusions cover many of the basics simplifying this set-up time. Your reception space will be available at 10:00 am the day of your event. When your Venue Coordinator is assigned to you 2 months before your event date, they will let you know if decorating in your ceremony and/or reception space is available earlier in the day or the day before your wedding. We do allow live-flame candles if there is protection from any dripping wax, and we also allow flower petals for use in your ceremony location (organic) or your reception space (synthetic). We do not allow the use of bird seed, rice, confetti, or loose/shedding glitter (among other similar things). Ladder use is restricted to the height of 6 feet unless a professional company with their own liability insurance is available to help. Other restrictions may apply and can be reviewed in detail by request. If you have a specific idea in mind for your décor contact a Sales Consultant or Venue Coordinator to brainstorm!