Frequently Asked Questions
Booking
How do I schedule a tour?
Scheduling a tour is easy! Simply complete our online inquiry form, call our office, or send us an email with your preferred date and time. A member of our Events Team will personally reach out to coordinate your visit, answer your initial questions, and ensure you have dedicated time to explore the property. We recommend scheduling a tour in advance so we can provide you with the personalized attention your event deserves.
How do I reserve a date?
Once you've toured the property and decided Ruby Anna Acres is the perfect venue for your celebration, we'll prepare a customized proposal outlining your event details and investment. To officially reserve your date, you'll simply sign your event agreement electronically and submit the required non-refundable deposit. Once both have been received, your date is secured, and the planning journey begins!
Is my deposit refundable?
No. All deposits are non-refundable and are required to secure your event date. Because your reservation removes the date from our availability and begins the planning process, deposits cannot be refunded in the event of cancellation.
When is the final payment due?
Final payment is due 30 days prior to your event date. Any remaining balance, including approved enhancements or additional services, must be paid in full before your event can take place.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! We understand that every budget is different and are happy to offer flexible payment plans. After your initial deposit is received, we'll work with you to create a payment schedule that fits your needs, provided the balance is paid in full by the final payment deadline.
How long will you hold my date before I book?
As a courtesy, we will place your requested date on a complimentary seven-day hold following the delivery of your proposal. This gives you time to review the details and make your decision. After the hold period expires, the date will once again become available to other interested clients unless a signed agreement and non-refundable deposit have been received.
Please note: Because availability changes frequently, we encourage couples to reserve their date as soon as they've made their decision to avoid disappointment.
Venue Access
What time can we arrive?
Access times vary depending on your event agreement and the spaces you've reserved. Most weddings include venue access beginning at 9:00 AM on the day of the event, allowing ample time for setup, decorating, vendor arrivals, and getting ready. Your confirmed access times will be outlined in your event agreement.
What time must my event end?
All events at Ruby Anna Acres must conclude by 11:00 PM. This allows our team sufficient time to begin post-event procedures while ensuring a positive experience for our neighbors and future guests.
Is rehearsal time included?
Yes. Wedding reservations include one hour of rehearsal time, scheduled prior to your wedding day based on venue availability. During your rehearsal, we'll review the ceremony processional, recessional, timing, and other important details to help everyone feel confident and prepared.
Can vendors arrive before the client?
Yes. Professional vendors may arrive before you, provided their arrival falls within your contracted access time and has been coordinated with our Events Team. We encourage all vendors to communicate their arrival schedules in advance so we can help ensure a smooth setup process.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Ruby Anna Acres is committed to creating an inclusive experience for all guests. The Barn is fully ADA compliant, offering wheelchair-accessible entrances, restrooms, and event spaces. If you or your guests have specific accessibility needs, please let us know during the planning process so we can ensure everyone enjoys a comfortable and welcoming experience.
Vendors
Can we bring our own caterer?
Yes! Ruby Anna Acres does not require you to use an in-house catering service. You are welcome to select your own licensed and insured caterer or choose from our list of preferred catering partners. If you'd like, our team is happy to provide recommendations based on your style, menu preferences, and budget.
Do you have preferred vendors?
Absolutely. We've built strong relationships with many of the area's most trusted event professionals, including caterers, bartenders, florists, photographers, DJs, rental companies, bakers, and more. While you're never required to use our preferred vendors (unless otherwise noted), we're happy to connect you with professionals who consistently provide exceptional service.
Is a wedding planner required?
No. A wedding planner is not required to host your celebration at Ruby Anna Acres. However, many couples choose to add our Planning Assistance or Day-of Coordination services for added peace of mind. Having an experienced professional manage the timeline, vendors, and logistics allows you and your loved ones to fully enjoy the celebration without worrying about the details.
Can we use our own DJ, florist, or photographer?
Yes! You're welcome to bring the licensed and insured event professionals of your choice. We enjoy working with both new and familiar vendors and are committed to creating a seamless experience for everyone involved. If you're still building your vendor team, we'd be happy to recommend professionals who match your vision and budget.
Do vendors need insurance?
Yes. To help protect our clients, guests, and property, all professional vendors are required to carry appropriate liability insurance. Proof of insurance may be requested prior to your event. If you have questions about a specific vendor, our Events Team is happy to help guide you through the requirements.
Food and Alcohol
Can we bring our own food?
Yes. You're welcome to hire the licensed caterer of your choice or select from our list of preferred catering partners. If your event includes homemade or self-prepared food, please speak with our Events Team in advance so we can review your plans and any applicable venue requirements.
Can alcohol be served?
Yes. Alcohol may be served at Ruby Anna Acres provided all venue policies, North Carolina ABC regulations, and applicable permitting requirements are followed. Our team is happy to guide you through the process during your planning.
Is a licensed bartender required?
Yes. For the safety of your guests and in accordance with venue policies, all alcoholic beverages must be served by a licensed bartender approved by Ruby Anna Acres. Self-service alcohol and guest-operated bars are not permitted.
Who obtains the required alcohol permit?
The client is responsible for obtaining any required North Carolina ABC permits before the event. Don't worry—we'll provide guidance and resources to help you determine which permit is needed and how to complete the application process.
Is outside alcohol allowed?
Yes. Clients may provide their own beer, wine, and liquor for their event, provided all alcohol is served by a licensed bartender and the appropriate North Carolina ABC permit has been obtained when required. All alcohol service must comply with venue policies and state regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone.
Decor
Are open-flame candles permitted?
For the safety of our guests and venue, open-flame candles are not permitted. Battery-operated LED candles are welcome and provide the same warm, romantic ambiance without the fire risk.
Can decorations be attached to walls or ceilings?
To help preserve the beauty of Ruby Anna Acres, decorations may not be attached using nails, screws, staples, tacks, tape, adhesives, or any method that could damage the property. If you have a unique décor idea, our Events Team is happy to discuss approved installation options with you during the planning process.
Is confetti or glitter allowed?
No. Confetti, glitter, rice, fireworks, smoke bombs, and similar materials are not permitted anywhere on the property, as they can damage the venue and surrounding landscape. We're happy to suggest beautiful alternatives that are both venue-friendly and photo-worthy.
Who is responsible for setup and cleanup?
Responsibility for setup and cleanup depends on the services you've selected. Clients and their vendors are responsible for decorating and personal item setup unless coordination or décor services have been added to the event package. Our team will review your responsibilities before your event, and optional setup and décor services are available for those who prefer a more hands-off experience.
Can décor be delivered before the event?
Possibly. Early delivery of décor, rentals, or other event items may be accommodated by appointment and based on venue availability. Because the property may be hosting other events, all early deliveries must be approved and scheduled in advance with our Events Team. We recommend discussing any delivery needs during your planning meetings so we can make the appropriate arrangements.
Weather
What happens if it rains?
We understand that the weather is one thing you can't plan for—but you can plan for peace of mind. If inclement weather is expected, our team will work with you to implement your pre-established weather contingency plan. Our goal is to ensure your celebration remains beautiful, comfortable, and stress-free, regardless of the forecast. Ask about other indoor location available.
Is there an indoor ceremony option?
Yes. If weather conditions make an outdoor ceremony impractical, your ceremony can be relocated indoors to The Barn. Our team will work with you to create a ceremony layout that preserves the beauty and significance of your special moment while keeping your guests comfortable.
When must the weather decision be made?
The final decision to move to the indoor ceremony location is typically made 24 hours before your event, in consultation with our Events Team and based on the most reliable weather forecasts. In situations where conditions change unexpectedly, the venue reserves the right to make a final decision on the day of the event to protect the safety of you, your guests, and your vendors. Our priority is always to provide the best possible experience while ensuring everyone's safety.
Property
Are pets allowed?
Yes! Well-behaved pets are welcome to participate in your celebration with prior approval. Pets must remain under the control of a designated handler at all times and are not permitted to be left unattended. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring they do not disrupt the event or damage the property. Vaccination records are required.
Are children welcome?
Absolutely! Ruby Anna Acres is a family-friendly venue, and children are always welcome to be part of your celebration. We simply ask that parents or guardians supervise children at all times, particularly around parking areas, outdoor spaces, and the pool deck.
Is smoking permitted?
Smoking, vaping, and the use of electronic cigarettes are permitted only in designated outdoor smoking areas. Smoking is not permitted inside any buildings, near entrances, or in areas where it may impact the comfort and safety of other guests.
Is overnight lodging available?
Yes! Ruby Anna Acres offers overnight accommodations to make your celebration even more convenient. Our Honeymoon Suite is available as an enhancement for newlyweds, and The Farmhouse may also be reserved for overnight stays, subject to availability. Please ask our Events Team about lodging options when planning your event.
How much parking is available?
Ruby Anna Acres offers complimentary on-site parking for guests attending your event. Our parking areas can accommodate events of various sizes, and for larger celebrations, parking attendants may be provided when appropriate to help ensure an organized and welcoming arrival experience.
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Is a Day-of Coordinator Required?
A designated Day-of Coordinator or Event Director is required for all weddings at Ruby Anna Acres. At this time, this individual is not required to be a professional wedding coordinator; however, they should be someone who is organized, dependable, and able to oversee the wedding day timeline, communicate with vendors, coordinate key moments, and serve as the primary point of contact so the couple, their families, and guests can fully enjoy the celebration. Day-of Coordination services are available through Ruby Anna Acres for an additional fee.