FAQ
How are you following COVID-19 restrictions and guidelines?
Gatherings take place indoors and outdoors at Willow Brooke Farm and must follow the current rules and guidelines provided by the State of Minnesota. Please see our COVID Preparedness Plan for more information.
Can we come in for a tour?
Yes! We offer tours by appointment, please reach out to discuss your event and set up a time for a tour. Contact us here.
What are the property hours?
Willow Brooke Farm is available by appointment only. Thank you for respecting the privacy of our venue and only visiting with an appointment and during the pre-arranged hours for your event.
Do you host corporate events?
We can accommodate events of any scope and offer a great option for corporate or non profit events looking for an inclusive space to host their event.
Is there parking on site?
Yes! We have a parking lot on site with 102 spaces. Parking attendants are available to assist with parking and driving those who may need a lift in the golf cart to the barn or wedding site.
Can shuttles provide service to the farm?
Shuttles can be easily booked to travel to multiple hotels in the area. If you are a guest, please check with your event host to find out the exact route and shuttle stops for your event.
Will the event I'm attending be outside?
Our venue is a mixture of indoor and outdoor spaces. You should plan that portions of your day will most likely be outside (if weather permits). Our venue has Plan B spaces that are weather protected. It is a great idea to check the weather for your event day and consider bringing sunglasses, umbrellas, and coats (wedges and flats strongly recommended) if desired.
Do cars have to be off the property at the end of the event?
Please plan accordingly to ensure that you have a safe ride home. Check with your event host to find out about shuttle and ride services that may have been booked for your event. If you have to leave your car overnight, please pick up by 10 am the next day.
Are there hotels nearby?
Yes! View some of your options at the bottom of our “Vendors” page here.
Can we stay overnight in the farmhouse?
Yes! The price is $500 per night on Thursday-Saturday and $350 per night on Sunday-Wednesday. You can inquire about availability here.
What is the max capacity?
The maximum number of guests is 300.
Can we choose the layout for tables and chairs?
Yes, we have a few options for table and chair layouts and can help you plan your table layout whenever you're ready.
Do you allow candles?
Open flames are not allowed anywhere outside of the White Willow Barn or anywhere else on the property. Candles may only be used inside of the White Willow Barn if they're contained inside a glass container to protect the flame from any decorations. Battery operated candle fixtures are allowed outside. If taper candles are used on farm tables (head table), protection of tables from wax drip is required (use of runner is recommended).
Do you allow smoking?
All buildings and barns onsite are tobacco free. Smoking is restricted only to designated smoking areas outside the White Willow Barn. This includes e-cigarettes and vapes. Use of cannabis is not allowed on the property, due to liquor liability. Anyone violating this will be warned and if violated again, they will be asked to leave the property.
Do you allow pets?
We LOVE having your furry friends! Pets will be allowed with the bride and groom on a wedding day. Pets have to have designated handler. Please inquire with us for further details.
Can we bring in whatever vendors we’d like?
We offer a wide variety of preferred caterers and Willow Brooke Farm is the exclusive beverage provider. This amazing line-up of approved caterers includes some local to the Red Wing area, budget friendly as well as full-service powerhouses. We require that you use one of these from our list. They are great, have a wide range of price-points, and know our space well. For the service at the bar, Willow Brooke Farm is happy to work with you on all your beverage needs, including signature cocktails, champagne toasts, pre-wedding beverages, and our own specialty wine as well as any other beverage needs you’d like. Other than that, you're free to bring whomever you'd like. Visit our website vendor page here.
Does all food need to come from one of your caterers?
Any food that your guests are eating must come from a licensed vendor. Your main meal/dinner must come from one of our amazing caterers, however appetizers and late-night snacks can come from any licensed vendor and does NOT need to come from your caterer. (although most of them do offer that option!). You may bring in whatever you may like for you, your family and bridal party while getting ready in the morning.
When can vendors arrive for setup?
10 am on the day of your event.
Is there an option to rent outdoor heaters on a chilly night?
We will provide four outdoor heaters on our patio that can be turned on upon request to keep your guests comfortable on a cold night at $25 per heater (cost to replace propane). We also have an outdoor fire pit for additional cost of $200 (cost covers an attendant and firewood).
Do you have your own sound equipment and speakers, or will those need to be rented or provided by the entertainment?
We have a small in-house audio system that is used for background music and for speaking purposes indoors if there is not a DJ on site. However, for outdoor ceremonies, dances, and amplified music, your DJ will need to provide their own equipment. Unless you are having a small event, our recommendation is to hire a professional DJ for your audio needs.
Can we do our rehearsal or start setting up the night before the event?
We offer two different options for rehearsals:
We do offer (1) one hour rehearsal time (no dinner onsite) on Thursday evenings before your wedding from 5 - 6 pm at no additional cost, if dates are available. This is a 1 hour courtesy rehearsal - so please respect the 6 pm end time. Reservations for this rehearsal time cannot be made until 2 months before the desired date and until then, we will remain available for full day rentals.
Many couples decide to have a run through or rehearsal the day of the wedding, as your Event Planner will be onsite and no extra trip is necessary.
As for set up of décor in the White Willow Barn the day before your wedding, we will accommodate, if available, from 3 pm - 5 pm. Please respect the 5 pm end time.
Can we get in earlier than 10 am on day of event/wedding?
For early access to the Farmhouse on the day of wedding, if it's available, we will open at 8am.
Will your staff be involved in setting up and breaking down the décor?
Our venue manager will be on site all day to answer any questions you and your vendors have throughout the event, but they will not be involved in set up or tear down of décor. If you're looking for help to set up or tear down your décor, please reach out to your professional Day of Coordinator for guidance. We'd also be happy to guide your search in finding a helping hand!
What is the difference between a venue manager and a wedding planner?
A venue manager is simply in charge of the venue; ensuring the contract is upheld, managing behind the scenes and assuring the space is accommodated for your day. A wedding planner is focused solely on you and executing your vision for your wedding. They tackle anything from setting up decorations, communicating with vendors and directing all the moving parts throughout the day. To learn more, see a complete article by Kastino & Co. here.
What are your safety features for events?
Visit our safety features page here.
What else is nearby?
Red Wing is a very accommodating town. Below is a list of some of the businesses in town that may be convenient during your time here.
Supplies and Grocery: Walmart Supercenter, Target, Menards, Fleet Farm, Ace Hardware, Aldi, Walgreens, Family Fare Supermarket
Restaurants: Liberty's, Red Wing Brewery, Home Plate Grill & the Dugout Lounge, Applebee's, Perkins, Taco Johns, Culvers, Subway, Arby's, McDonald's, Godfather's, Domino's, Dairy Queen
Coffee: Hanish Bakery & Coffee Shop, Mandy's Coffee and Café, RW Confectionary, Caribou Coffee
Gambling/Golf/Outdoor/Ski: Treasure Island Resort and Casino, Mississippi National Golf, Mount Frontenac, Cannon Valley Trail, Memorial Park, Welch Village