Frequently Asked Questions

Please call 507-383-8878.

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. Please contact us for a tour and consultation for your special gathering.

The Barn main floor, loft and covered patio can seat 290 people.  If additional seating is needed, the party could rent and add a tent to the property.

The Barn, loft, patio, bride and groom suites located inside the Barn, his and her restrooms, a handicapped family restroom with a baby changing station, tables and metal chairs for 290 people at the reception inside the Barn and on the covered patio, white padded chairs and antique church pews for all your guests for an outdoor wedding, over 3 acres of beautifully landscaped property and a grain bin,  There is a dance area, caterer set up area with tables, counter space and a refrigerator, a bar, air conditioning and heat throughout the Barn, beautiful indoor and outdoor lighting, high chairs, bean bag toss board games, tables and chairs set up and taken down by the owners as well at the owner or manager on site during your event to help and make sure your day goes smoothly.

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.

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.

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 one preferred licensed alcohol vendor that our guests use and we will provide you with his information.

We do not have on-site catering and food cannot be prepared on-site, however, we can provide you with a list of caterers or you can choose one of your own. The caterer area includes tables, counter space and a refrigerator.

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.

Yes we have a beautiful outdoor wedding ceremony area.  The wedding party will exit the Barn from the two large French doors to walk down the amazing stamped concrete aisle that resembles old Barn wood.  The aisle leads to the ceremony circle.  The circle represents a wedding ring – A circle has no beginning or end and is a symbol of endless love. Beautiful landscaping and scenery surround the area. Your family will be seated on stunning vintage church pews and your guests will be seated on chairs as they watch you exchange your vows.

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.

We are continually working to enhance our grounds.  Among the many features are a grain bin, mature oak and pine trees, inside the venue or against our beautiful red Barn. We have also added many new large trees, shrubs and flowers to our property. We encourage our guests and their photographers to explore the grounds for that perfect photo.

Yes we do. We know how much time and thought is put into planning a wedding or special event. We do not want you to feel rushed, so that is why we offer one, two and three day rentals.

If the couple has rented the Barn for two days, the wedding rehearsal and dinner may take place at the Barn. If extra cleaning and later hours are needed for the rehearsal and or dinner, there may be an extra fee,  We can discuss this option when booking your wedding.

Yes! We have string lights hung from the ceiling and around some of the beams and they must be left in place.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Yes, we want you and your guests to be comfortable on your special day, so the Barn and bridal suites both have air conditioning and heat. Barn windows may be opened during nice days or evenings to allow for some enjoyable air circulation, if the party chooses.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Yes, someone will be on site during the event.

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, gravel and cement, while inside the original floors are cement and wood.

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