Venues

jessilynnwood

I am from Dover delaware.  I have just started planning my wedding and I am looking for a site.  I am willing to travel upstate or downstate but preferably not out of state.  I am looking for a place where I can preferably perform the ceremony and hold the reception but this is not required.  However I also want a place that allows food to be brought in because my mom will be cooking for the reception.  Please let me know any and all suggestions because I am at a loss.
Thank-you
Jessica

wicked_faery

u'll have to share some more detail than that. is it for summer or winter? what are u looking for? garden/earthy, indoor hotel-ish, beach?

jessilynnwood

Im thinking april and im really not picky about the type it can be any of the things you mentioned about.

Mrs.LuraT

Best thing to do first is write out a guest list and figure out your budget, because then you will have an idea of the size of place you need.  I don't know of any places off the top of my head that will allow you to bring your own food in (most places either do it there, or have a list of caterers they reccommend). 

Ms.BriarRose

The only places that comes to mind that might fit your requirement of bringing in your own caterer are the Delaware State Parks, places like the Judge Morris Estate and Bellevue.  Like Lura said, most places either have catering onsite or a list of approved caterers that you are required to use. 

The only problem with Bellevue and the like is not only do you have to bring in your own caterer, you have to bring in your own EVERYTHING; tables, chairs, linens, etc.  It's a lot of work, and trust me when I say it's not worth it when you already have so much to plan for the actual wedding.

The website for the state parks is http://www.destateparks.com/events/. They have different venues that will accomodate varying ranges of numbers of guests, since you don't have a firm number yet.

Oh, one other came to mind.  Talk to the VFWs, they may allow you to bring in your own caterer (not guaranteed, but I would check).  I know the one on rt. 58 between the airport and Borders has recently been renovated, and is really nice inside.

Santorini2011

Def check out the halls.  You can always explain the situation and ask if you can "buy out" the exclusive caterer clause.

kelbode

My friend got married at the senior center in Old New Castle. I believe it is a relatively new facility and they are pretty new to the rental game. But you can bring in your own food and adult beverages. They seat 120 I think. Only downside is you have to clean up after yourself!

wicked_faery

otherwise there's always moose lodges or fire halls

Ms.BriarRose

FYI, most FireHalls require you to use the Ladies' Auxilary, and won't let you buy out.  Not sure on Moose Lodges...