The Barn of Chapeau Shores - Frequently Asked Questions

What number can I call to ask questions, schedule a tour and book my wedding?

Please call 507-383-8878.

Are there any renovations being made to the barn?

Yes, we are completely renovating the barn. It is a big project and we are very excited about the changes that will be happening over the next few months.

Do you rent out the barn for events, other than weddings, and what is the cost?

Yes we do. The Barn of Chapeau Shores provides an excellent space for all types of gatherings and events such as anniversary celebrations, graduations, showers, birthday parties, as well as business events. We offer a 4 hour rental for $800. Please contact us for a tour and consultation for your special gathering.

What is the capacity of the barn?

The barn can seat up to 220 people at tables and chairs inside the barn and an extra 56 people around tables and chairs on the patio. If a larger seating arrangement is needed tents, chairs and tables must be rented by the party for extra room.

What is included with the rental fee?

The barn, loft, patio, over 3 acres of land, bride and groom suites, men’s and women’s restroom, a handicapped family restroom, chairs and tables to accommodate 220 people at the reception, seating for 220 people for an outdoor wedding, which will be set up by the owners, seating for 56 on the patio, grain bin, setup area for caterers, air conditioning and heat, owner or manager on site during the event.

Do we have to set up the tables and chairs?

No, this is your special day. We will set-up and arrange the tables and chairs per a customized layout that you have decided on and we will also take them down.

Do you provide linens, china and glassware?

We do not. However, we have found that most caterers offer all of these items. If you choose a caterer that does not offer this service we will be glad to give you the names and phone numbers of rental companies that you can go through.

Are alcoholic beverages permitted on your premises?

Yes, as long as party and their guests adhere to the Minnesota state laws, pertaining to the sale and service of alcohol, you may have it at your event. You and/or your guests are not allowed to bring and serve your own alcohol at any time during your contracted event. This includes prep, decorating, rehearsal, and clean up time as well as the day of the event. We have a preferred licensed alcohol vendor that we suggest the group hires and we can provide you with this information.

Do you have an on-site catering service?

We do not have on-site catering and food cannot be prepared on-site, however, we can provide you with a list of suggested caterers or you can choose your own licensed caterer. We do have a caterer’s area with a sink for them to set up at the barn.

Can I do a photo shoot for my Bridal Portraits at the Barn on another day before my event date?

A bridal portrait photo shoot is allowed on the property prior to your event date, if it is not being used by anyone else. The cost for using the barn and yard for pictures is $200 for 2 hours and needs to be pre-scheduled. Payment is due just prior to the photo shoot.

Are there separate areas for the ceremony and reception?

The ceremony can be held outside in various locations of the couple’s choice or in the barn’s lower level. The reception can be inside on the lower level and mezzanine loft area, on the patio or outside on the lawn. There are many options to suit your style and we will work with you to plan according to your desires.

Where does the dance take place?

The music needs to be played inside the barn. A few tables will be taken down and moved to make room for a dancing area.

What backdrops are available for my wedding portraits?

We are continually working to enhance our grounds. Among the many features are a grain bin, mature oak and pine trees, an arbor, inside the venue or against our 117 year old barn. We encourage our guests and their photographers to explore the grounds for that perfect photo.

Do you offer two day rentals?

Yes, we know how much time and thought is put into planning a wedding. We do not want you to feel rushed so that is why we offer a two day rental. You can come to the barn to decorate, set up and have your rehearsal at the barn.

Examples of a two day rental would include:

Thursday 9 am to 7 pm and Friday 9 am to 12 midnight.
Friday 9 am to 7 pm and Saturday 9 am to 12 midnight.

Do you allow rehearsals and rehearsal dinners at the barn?

We do encourage the wedding rehearsals to take place on site at the barn and can offer some suggestions on where the couple can go to have their rehearsal dinners. If the bridal party requests to have the rehearsal dinner at the barn, this may be a possibility if they are renting the barn for two days. However, due to extra cleaning after the dinner and later hours there will be an extra fee. We can discuss this option when booking your wedding.

Are the string lights always up in the barn?

Yes! We have string lights hung in the barn that must be left in place.

Do we have to purchase liability coverage for our event?

Yes we require couples to have their own liability insurance coverage for the duration of their event. This can be purchased from your insurance company and proof of insurance is required before the event.

Is there parking onsite for my guests?

Yes, there is parking onsite for your event. We do highly recommend utilizing shuttle services or a cab, for safety, if guests are having alcoholic beverages.

During an event when does everyone have to be off the property?

If there is a late night event on Friday and Saturday – Music must end at 11 pm, guests to depart by 11:30 pm and the customers and vendors must depart by 12 midnight.

Other weekdays and Sundays Music must end by 7 PM, guess to depart by 7:30 PM and the customers and vendors must depart by 8 pm.

Can we leave items overnight?

Our policy is that everything must be removed at the end of the rental period; decorations, gifts and personal belongings. We are not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Do you have permanent restrooms?

Yes – we have permanent restrooms inside the barn as well as a separate handicapped family restroom.

Are your facilities climate controlled?

Yes, we want you and your guests to be comfortable on your special day, so the barn and bridal suites will have both heat and air conditioning. Barn doors and windows may be open during nice days and evenings to allow for some enjoyable air circulation and outside mingling.

Can we leave cars in the parking lot overnight?

Yes, of course! We want you and your guests to be safe. However, vehicles left overnight must be picked up by 9 AM the next morning.

If cars are left beyond that time and pose a problem, unfortunately, they will be towed at the vehicle owner’s expense.

Do you allow RVs and camping?

We are NOT allowed to have guests camp at our location. Guests bringing in RVs should find an alternate place to park and be shuttled to and from the barn.

Is there electricity and running water?

Yes, we have plenty of outlets throughout the barn. We do have city water and there are faucets in the restrooms and a sink for the caterers.

Can we set up outdoor games?

Absolutely, there is over 3 acres of land for you and your guests to enjoy. We want to be respectful of our neighbors, so family and friends are asked to remain on the barn property.

Can I have a band for the dance?

Bands are not allowed, but parties are allowed to have a DJ.

Is there someone onsite during the event?

Yes, someone will be on site during the event.

Are animals allowed at the barn for weddings?

Sorry, we do not allow animals on site.

What should I wear as a guest to an event at the Barn?

Attire should be chosen based on the formality of the invitation you received. Some events are more casual than others. Also, as many ceremonies and/or social hours are held outdoors, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather.

The most important factor is shoes! We would highly recommend not wearing spike heels. Wedges, flats, boots, etc. work better on the multiple surfaces at the property. The outdoor spaces are grass and gravel, while inside the original floors are cement and wood.

Is there hotels and lodging nearby?

Yes we are located in the beautiful town of Albert Lea and we are only minutes away from many lodging choices.