General Questions
What is the rental fee for Haue Valley and what does it include?
Please see the details found here for complete pricing and included items.
What is the building capacity?
200 guests including the bridal party
What dates are available?
Please see the available dates information here.
When are the payments due? Do you offer a payment plan?
When the contract is signed, to continue holding the date, we require a $1,000 booking fee to be paid. Twelve months prior to the event 50% of the remaining fee will be due. The final installment will be required 30 days prior to the event. You are welcome to send smaller, partial payments of any amount prior to the specified due date, so in effect creating your own payment plan on your own schedule. Please include the last names of the couple and the wedding date in the memo line if you are mailing a check. Full payment is due by the specified due date. We also reserve the right to request a credit card on file for any damages to the facility or grounds. Tax is applied to each payment.
How do I reserve a date?
To reserve a date email us at hauevalley@gmail.com saying you are ready to book XYZ date if it is still available. We suggest you email us stating you are ready to book your preferred date and then include a backup date in case your preferred date is unavailable. Prior to booking a date, we hope you are able to come out in person to visit the farm. You can request a tour (or a Facetime tour if you live out of the area) on our tour request page, but an in person tour is not required prior to booking a date. Dates are reserved on a first requested basis. Whomever has requested to start the contract process from us by email first for a specific date will be first in line.
Do I need to schedule a tour or can I just stop by?
We kindly request that all tours are by appointment only. You can request a tour here.
What is the average budget of a couple getting married at Haue Valley?
That is a great question! In general, we believe the average budget of a couple getting married at Haue Valley is between $15,000-$18,000 for all wedding expenses (venue, food, dress, DJ, photographer, etc.). We have had some creative couples with smaller guests lists host beautiful weddings in the $12,000 - $15,000 range, and we have had several lovely events here spending significantly more than the average.
Is there a food and beverage, or guest count minimum?
No. Many venues have minimums because they make a 10 - 15% commission from the caterer based on how much you spend on food and drinks. We choose NOT to make a commission because we want our food and beverage options to be as elegant or affordable as your budget allows, and therefore we don't have a food and beverage or guest count minimum. Some caterers may have a reasonable minimum for specific dates.
Do we have to utilize your caterers and bar service?
Yes, but please see the question and answer above. Initially we allowed outside catering, because honestly most venues don't and we didn't understand why! It seems like a great benefit to allow outside catering. The truth is, after two years of allowing any caterer under the sun to waltz through our door, we realized that not a workable business model if quality food and a quality experience is important to our couples and their guests. Some caterers were amazing, but some were clearly in it for the money and not the couple (like when we asked, do you help with XYZ and the caterer responded "they didn't pay for that." Once you get to know us, you'll know that attitude doesn't sit well with us.) We had issues with caterers showing up hours late and unprepared. We had caterers run out of food. We had caterers who routinely sent three 16 years olds to be the event staff. Although we had many great experiences with caterers who were new to us, when it was a bad experience it was really bad, for us, the couple, and their guests.
We selected the caterers on our list after having many come through our doors those first few years because we thought they had good food, good service, because they had very affordable options along with a variety of upgrades, and honestly because we thought they were nice people. Don't discount the fact that all of the vendors that you choose you'll work with a lot leading up to the big day. It's important to actually like your vendors! Additionally, we have purposely selected small business owners, because although no one is perfect, and none of our caterers claim to be, when you work with a small business owner they are personally invested in the success of your wedding day.
Will there be another wedding the same day?
At Haue Valley we only host one wedding each day to ensure that each couple's event is special and receives our full attention.
Are there overnight accommodations nearby?
The Comfort Inn is less than .5 miles away and offers bulk room rates around $100 per night. The hotel is utilized by Purina for large events, so we encourage you to reserve a hotel room block soon.
Holiday Inn in Eureka is a little further out but is a great choice, too 636-938-6661
Landing Hub A fairly new hotel with an unusual concept. They are basically "bunk rooms" (so shared spaces-Think Air BNB-ish). (636) 393-0778 landinghub.com
How many cars will your parking lot accommodate?
100 cars.
Do you offer straight tables instead of round?
We have a limited number of straight tables onsite that can be used for your gift table, head table, etc. Usually we have a few extras that can be mixed in with reception seating, but the majority of your guests will be seated at round tables.
Do you provided table linens, cups, silverware, etc?
No. Haue Valley provides an awesome venue, tables, upgraded wedding chairs, and lots of decor for the allotted amount of time. Linens can be rented through us, but are NOT included in the rental fee. You are also welcome to bring your own linens. For details regarding our linen package please click here.
What happens in case of rain?
In the case of rain we have a beautiful backdrop indoors with the Haue Valley Fireplace. Guests sit at their tables and the HV team moves the few (usually 3 - 5) tables down the middle of the room to create a beautiful aisle. Our couples have loved this option because it’s a stunning ceremony location and doesn’t require the room flip other venues require, which would be disruptive to your event.
We plan to have our ceremony offsite, or only plan to have our ceremony at Haue Valley. Does your fee change?
Because we only host one event per day, our fee structure remains the same whether you hold your ceremony, reception, or both onsite.
Do you allow dogs onsite to play a part in our wedding day?
We are dog friendly, with some specific stipulations. Dogs are allowed (only with pre-approval by Kristin) at the ceremony and pictures. Animals, other than service animals, are NOT allowed under roof or near food. Dogs must be on a leash and someone must be responsible for them other than the bride and groom.
What form of payment does Haue Valley accept?
Cash or check
My preferred dates are unavailable. Do you have a cancellation waiting list?
We do not keep a cancellation waiting list because cancellations are unpredictable. As soon as a date does become available we post it here.
Where can I find pictures of the decor available?
We have it all photographed and numbered on our inventory page.
What time will I have access to the venue to decorate?
You will have access to the venue at the time listed on your contract, not earlier. Please plan accordingly!
How do you pronounce Haue Valley?
Haue is the Danish spelling of Howe, so we say "Haw" (rhymes with law), but "How" is also appropriate.
Do you include a "wedding day coordinator?"
This is such a great question! If you're trying to compare venues "apples to apples" we feel like this is a tricky question. Our answer is no. We think it’s possible for the job duties of a "day-of wedding coordinator" to mean something different to you than it does to us, and the last thing we want is the opportunity for miscommunication. However, we do have a team leader here before you arrive onsite who stays with you throughout the duration of your big day. This member of the Haue Valley team is there to help you however they can (be an extra set of hands decorating, drive you around the farm on our gator to take wedding pictures, answer questions from your vendors and direct them as necessary, etc.) Their goal is to do everything possible to help your day go smoothly and ensure your day is as stress-free as possible! (But we still don't consider them a day-of wedding coordinator.)
Catering Questions
What are our catering options at Haue Valley?
After several years of a variety of caterers onsite at our venue, we have selected our favorite five to work with exclusively. These caterers include The Hawthorne Inn, Two Mike's Catering, Pappy's Smokehouse, and Graze Catering. Please see the catering page for more information including menus and pricing.
How much should we expect to spend on catering and bar?
It is possible to have an open bar and delicious meal for 100 - 125 people for around $5,000 with several of our caterers when you make careful food and beverage decisions. (Disclaimer: we are sure you could spend more than this, but if your looking for awesome budget friendly options, they definitely exist with these great caterers.) Please see the question above for links to each caterers pricing.
Does Haue Valley handle the catering orders for these caterers, or do I work with the caterer directly?
In our experience, it's most efficient and most cost effective for couples to work directly with the caterer. Simply book your big day with Haue Valley and reach out to the caterers of your choosing to schedule a tasting and get the ball rolling! Contact info for each caterer is on this page.
Planning Questions
When is the next open house?
Our open house events are designed for couples who have already had a private tour of Haue Valley. If we have already had the chance to meet we welcome you out to one of our open house events. Open house dates and the RSVP form can be found here.
What time do you suggest we start the ceremony?
We suggest starting Friday weddings at 5:00 pm, Saturday weddings between 4:00 - 5:00 pm, and Sunday weddings at 4:00 pm. Should your wedding be taking place after the time change, If you do NOT plan to do a first look or plan to get married when the sun sets earlier in the evening, please contact us to discuss schedule.
How will the tables, chairs, etc. be arranged for my sized event?
Click here to download the suggested Haue Valley table layout PDF. We will reach out to you to determine your preferred layout prior to the big day!
If we choose the one day option, will we be able to access the location early to rehearse our ceremony?
If you elect the one day rental, our venue will likely be reserved by another couple the night before. For that reason, one day rentals should plan for an offsite rehearsal. You are also welcome to bring anyone who would feel more comfortable understanding the venue (such as your DJ or minister, or any little ones in the wedding party) to one of our monthly open houses.
Can we have fireworks on the property?
Fireworks are not permitted. This includes sparklers. We don’t want to scare the neighbors and we want to keep the fire department happy!
Can vehicles be left overnight?
No vehicles can be left overnight. Please advise your guests of this policy. The gates will be locked at midnight and as we are also a working farm, the gates remain locked at other times to keep the cows in! We appreciate your understanding. If you have any guests staying at the Comfort Inn in Pacific it is only .50 miles away from our entrance.
What time does the music need to end?
Music on Friday's/Saturday's must conclude by 10:30 p.m. to ensure that you, all of your items, and all of your vendors are off-property by midnight. Music on Sunday's must conclude by 9:30 p.m. to be off property by 10:00 pm.
We are using a rental company. Can they drop items off or pick them up outside of the rental period?
We are a working farm with locked gates to keep the cows in! For that reason, all deliveries must happen during the standard rental period. Please advise your vendors of this policy.
Can we get married somewhere else on the farm other than the patio or under roof in the addition?
One of the great things about Haue Valley is the view from atop a large hill. Unfortunately because we are atop a hill there isn't another flat area that is suitable for a ceremony. All ceremonies do need to take place on the ceremony patio, in front of the fireplace (guests seated at their tables), or at another venue/church of your choosing offsite.
Are candles allowed?
Yes, candles are allowed as long as the flame is completely contained in a candle holder. Tapered candles and any type of hanging candles will not be allowed for safety reasons.
Is it possible to seat 9 to a table?
In a pinch, yes if one is a child, but we would not recommend it for your guests comfort.
How far in advance do you need our final headcount?
Three weeks
How do I obtain a marriage license?
We believe you should be able to obtain your license in any county in Missouri. (Please double check this fact in case it ever changes on your own!) You can also obtain it in Franklin County between 8 am and 4:00 pm go to the Franklin County Government Center across from the police station in Union, MO at 400 East Locust #102. When you enter the building you'll go to the first door on your right, the recorder of deeds. Both the bride and groom must go and you'll need your drivers licenses and your social security numbers. It's $56 in cash or $57.55 with a card. The county's phone number is 636.583.6367 if you need to reach them.
Setup and Day-of Event Questions
Are outside snacks and trays permitted?
Outside food and drink is permitted prior to the ceremony. It is not allowed after the start of the event. Please no drinks in glass bottles.
What is the event clean-up process?
Haue Valley staff will handle all standard clean up and trash removal throughout and following the wedding reception.
Can we take photos around the farm on our wedding day?
Sure! Just ask us and we would be happy to make recommendations.
Can we nail decorations to the walls or hang things like streamers or lanterns from the beams?
As our family logged the trees off our farm and cut the boards one by one, we request that holes are not placed in the walls. We will have areas where hooks are already placed that you are welcome to use for any additional decorations. The beams at Haue Valley at very tall and not reachable by a ladder. For this reason, we do not allow for anything to be hung from the beams. We hope that you will find them beautiful without any extra work!