FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHERE IS BELL MARE LOCATED?
Bell Mare is located in Southwest Michigan near Three Oaks and New Buffalo. It is less than 90 miles from Chicago and approximately 30 minutes from South Bend/Mishawaka.
HOW MANY GUESTS CAN THIS VENUE ACCOMMODATE?
Bell Mare has the maximum capacity of 150. Our recommended capacity is 130 guests.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL FEE?
The rental fee includes use of the venue from 11am-11pm Eastern Time the day of your wedding, tables and chairs, ceremony set up and break down, decor set up and break down, decor (phone booth/audio guest book, champagne wall, wine barrels, white drapery, string lights, and so much more!) Be sure to check out the "What's Included?" section for more details.
WHERE CAN I HAVE MY CEREMONY AND RECEPTION?
Bell Mare is a 2-story venue that holds approximately 150 guests. Ceremonies and receptions are typically held upstairs and cocktail hour is held on the main level. After the ceremony, guests will return downstairs for cocktail hour. During cocktail hour, Bell Mare Staff will prepare the reception space. After cocktail hour, guests will return back upstairs for dinner and the reception. However, we allow our couples to use our space however they see fit!
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WHAT TIMES DO I HAVE ACCESS TO THE VENUE ON OUR WEDDING DAY?
You will have access to the venue beginning at 11:00 AM Eastern Time the day of your wedding. All guests must vacate the premises by 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Vendors and those assisting in final pick-up must vacate no later than midnight.
CAN WE BRING OUR OWN BARTENDERS AND CATERERS?
If you would like to have alcohol at your event, alcohol and bar catering services must be provided by "Beverage Specialists." They provide alcohol, bartenders, ice, cups, garnishes, etc.
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For catering, Bell Mare requires lessees to select a caterer off their approved caterer list, which is available upon request.
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Lessees may not use their own tableware (including, but not limited to, plates/china, drinking glasses/goblets, pitchers, silverware, etc.) or linens. These items must be provided by the approved caterer. The approved caterer will assume responsibility for set-up, break-down, cleaning the food areas, and inside the facility as well as removing trash from inside the building.
WHEN CAN WE REHEARSE?
We offer 1-hour complimentary rehearsals the Thursday prior to your wedding by appointment only.
IS A DRESSING ROOM AVAILABLE FOR THE BRIDE?
A dressing room is available for the bride and attendants. This room may be used for dressing and storing personal belongings. Hair styling and makeup application is not permitted on the premises.
DO YOU REQUIRE EVENT INSURANCE?
Yes, we do require our couples to obtain Wedding Liability Insurance for the day of their event.
A certificate of insurance for bodily injury and property damage liability protection (in a combined single limit amount of no less than $1,000,000 per occurrence) from https://www.wedsafe.com is required with each rental.
All insurance certificates must be presented to Bell Mare at least 30 days prior to the Event Date and must name the Company as an additional insured party.
DOES THIS VENUE HAVE HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING?
Yes, Bell Mare has central heating and air conditioning which will keep guests comfortable regardless of the season!
DO YOU HAVE AN ELEVATOR?
Yes, Bell Mare has an elevator and is fully ADA compliant.
HOW DO WE RESERVE OUR EVENT DATE?
Please email us at info@bellmareevents.com to confirm availability.