The Brownstone Approach
We believe that life is about moments and The Brownstone is here to help create them. Fusing the perfect touches of rustic elegance with the convenience of modern accommodations, your event will tell a unique story that will leave your guests "wowed!"
When you become a Brownstone couple, we will support you throughout the wedding planning journey. Our staff is here to answer questions and will be with you every minute on the day of your event.
General Questions
What is the building capacity?
The Brownstone's ideal guest count is 150 but the max capacity for the main event hall is 200 people which includes you, your bridal party, your family, your guests and your vendors. The Brownstone does have the ability to add a tent to the brick patio which can expand the capacity of the venue. There is an additional cost for the tent and additional guests.
Is there a deposit? When are the additional payments due? Do you offer a payment plan?
We require a $500 deposit at the time of contract signing. We ask for a second $500 payment 30 days after the contract signing. Six 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. 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.
How do I reserve a date?
To reserve a date email us at events@thebrownstonetopeka.com. From there, we can either set up a time to review our contract in person or send it over for review via email. We do not reserve any dates without a signed contract and deposit.
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.
Do we have to utilize your caterers and bar service?
We have a beautiful catering kitchen but no caterer on staff. You are more than welcome to bring in your favorite caterer to utilize the space.
We have our liquor license and require all alcohol to be purchased through the Brownstone. We have multiple packages that accommodate every budget.
Are there overnight accommodations nearby?
Yes. There are multiple hotels just minutes away from the Brownstone. You can view a list of hotels by downloading our Vendor Directory.
What tables do you provide?
(25) 30”x 96”Long Banquet – Great for guest seating, buffet and head table
(25) 60” Rounds – Great for cake table or guest seating (under 120)
(5) 30” Rounds – Cocktail tables
(2) 48” rounds – Cake table, guest book table or sweetheart table
(2) 18” x 72” – Guest book and gift table
Do you provided table linens, cups, silverware, etc?
No. The Brownstone does not supply dinnerware or linens. You can add linens through our linen package.
What happens in case of rain?
We believe in plan A, B & C. We have multiple outdoor locations but in case of weather, the Brownstone will set up the ceremony in the main event hall. After the ceremony, the guests will be ushered downstairs for a cocktail hour while The Brownstone team “flips” the room to the reception.
Do you allow dogs onsite to play a part in our wedding day?
We love pups but have a few rules we must follow. Dogs are allowed (only with pre-approval) 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 The Brownstone accept?
Our preferred form of payment is check. You can pay with a credit card but there is a 3% convenience fee.
What time will I have access to the venue to decorate?
You get access to the venue starting at 9:00 am. No guests, family or vendors are able to access the venue prior to 9:00 am the day of the event.
What Brownstone staff will be present on my wedding day?
The Brownstone staff is available to help you with all your venue specific questions and needs. Please note that the Brownstone staff does not replace the need for additional vendors including but not limited to a full wedding planner, day of coordinator, decorator, florist, caterer, bus staff, DJ, emcee or photographer.
Event Leader
A Brownstone team member will be assigned as the Event Leader for your event. They will be present at your 1 hour rehearsal to be held the Thursday prior to your event. On the day of your event, your Event Leader will be on site throughout the entire day to help answer any questions that pop up.
Event Assistant
An event assistant will be on site with the Event Leader to help with tasks such as taking out the trash, cleaning up spills, and attending to any tables and chairs that may need to be moved during the event.
Bartender
Each alcohol beverage package includes one bartender. Additional bartenders can be purchased for each event.
Security Guard
A 3rd party security guard will be present at all events that include the consumption of alcohol.
Planning
Questions
When is the next open house?
Our open houses are held on the first Monday of the month and can be found in the events section of our Brownstone Facebook Page.
How will the tables, chairs, etc. be arranged for my sized event?
Suggested Brownstone table layouts are listed above. We will reach out to you to determine your preferred layout prior to the big day!
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?
Yes vehicles can be left overnight. We just ask that they are picked up first thing the next morning.
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.
How far in advance do you need our final headcount?
Two weeks
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?
The Brownstone will take out all trash and clean the venue at the end of the event. We just ask that you take out all personal belongings. Storing items overnight is not allowed.
