Frequently Asked Questions

We can accommodate up to 300 guests, however some areas' maximum is 200 guests. We look forward to discussing these details with you.

HOW FAR OUT ARE YOU ACCEPTING RESERVATIONS?

There are no limitations on how far out we accept reservations. We book weddings and events on a first come, first served basis.

HOW MANY HOURS ARE INCLUDED IN THE RENTAL OF THE SPACE?

Most weekend wedding reservations are: Friday noon to 8, Saturday 9am-11pm, Sunday 9am to noon (there is a fee of $250.00 per hr. or portion of an hour over these time frames). The Studebaker House lodging rental runs Friday at noon to Sunday noon.

WHAT SERVICES DOES THE WEDDING PACKAGE INCLUDE?

Packages include use of the grounds, tables and chairs for both rehearsal and reception. Fern Hill Estate will have a staff member or contact person available Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Additionally, staff will parking and guide guests, as needed. Should tours of the Art Gallery be scheduled, staff will serve as hosts and guides. Staff will also be on-hand to transport guests and the bridal party by golf cart throughout the property. At the end of the weekend, guests need only to remove what they brought in with them.  

ARE THE FACILITY FEES LESS IF WE DON’T BOOK A SATURDAY NIGHT?

Peak rates are on Saturdays and when couples choose our full weekend wedding option. Off-peak days are Sundays and weekdays. Smaller weddings are usually scheduled during the week.

WHAT IS YOUR PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION POLICY?

We require a $500.00 security deposit at the time of booking.  The balance is due in 3 equal payments over equal periods of time ending one month prior to event.  We reserve the right to retain all monies paid in the event of cancellation.  We accept payment by cash, check, and electronic payments. 

FERN HILL ESTATE IS BEAUTIFUL!  MAY I RENT MULTIPLE AREAS OF THE VENUE FOR OUR WEDDING?

Yes! You may choose from several ceremony sites on our grounds. One of our most popular ceremony sites is the Circle of Life Sculpture Garden. The Garden features sculptures imported from Florence, Italy. Nuptials are typically performed under the imported wrought iron gazebo. Guests are seated in an area with lush grass surrounded by multicolored flowers, two lily ponds and a waterfall. Following the ceremony there is a perfect flow to cocktails in front of The Corneal Gallery. Other ceremony options include the dock of the Lake Jeanette gazebo or in the woodlands beside Laurel Run Creek. 

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The Corneal Art Gallery can be open to your guests for private, guided tours while you are taking advantage of unlimited photographic opportunities with your wedding party and family. The Gallery is a multilevel awe-inspiring display of various art forms over many different time periods.

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The perfect flow then continues to either our large outdoor pavilion complete with ceiling fans, dimmer lights, built in speakers and many more modern conveniences or to our indoor facility, The Fern Hill Education Center.

ARE OTHER EVENTS SCHEDULED ON THE SAME DAY?

We do not host two weddings on the same day at the same area of the venue.  It is possible that a small gathering that does not interfere with a large wedding could occur at a lodging space or in a wing of the Fern Hill Education Center.

WHAT IS YOUR ALCOHOL POLICY?

Any liquor service must be contracted through a vendor on our approved bartending list. Other than bartending services we do not dictate which vendor(s) you use. We have a local approved bartending service we highly recommend. Proof of alcohol liability insurance must be provided one month prior to the event and State College Children's House must be named as secondary insured for 1 million dollars.  All policies will be confirmed with the listed agent to verify required coverage. Alcohol is purchased by the host and served by our recommended bartending company or by an approved caterer with approved bartending services.  All bartenders must be RAMP certified and RAMP certification must be provided one month prior to event.  At the close of bar service remaining alcohol will be given to a pre-designated contact person.  

IS THERE HANDICAP ACCESS TO ALL AREAS? CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE PHYSICALLY CHALLENGED GUESTS?

The Fern Hill Education Center building is handicap accessible throughout. Staff is happy to assist guests who may have trouble walking to a ceremony on the grounds with golf cart transportation, as needed.

DO YOU PROVIDE CATERING? OR DO YOU HAVE A LIST OF APPROVED OR RECOMMENDED VENDORS WE CAN USE?

We do not provide catering. We have a list of preferred vendors who have had successful experiences at McCann School of Art in the past.  Aside from bartending services, we do not dictate which vendor(s) you use.

ARE THERE ADEQUATE RESTROOM FACILITIES?

There are 6 restrooms inside the Fern Hill Education Center for use by guests. For parties at the Studebaker House, there are 3 restrooms on-site . Renting portables is not necessary.