FAQ's

Is there somewhere private for us to ready ourselves for our big day? What time can we get there? We offer you and your bridal party, as well as your partner and his party, separate private suites with a restroom for you to ready yourselves for your special day. You may arrive 2 hours before the start of your scheduled event. If you would like to add extra hours, it is $100/per hour.
How many hours do we get with a booking? Typical events are 4-5 hours. If you want an additional hour, we can definitely add on, each hour is $1000/hr.
Will we be able to get there early to decorate? Who does the decorating and clean up? The Mansion is elegantly decorated when you arrive. You are free to add any decorations you'd like with the following exceptions: Taking anything off the walls or nailing anything up, fixing or sticking anything to the floors! We also do not allow confetti, rice, sparklers, or smoke machines. Your team can arrive two hours before your event. If they need additional time we can add on, each hour is $100/hr. As with all decorations, the expectation is that you/your team also must remove all decorations/furnishings at the completion of your event. Nothing can be dropped off at the Mansion the day prior to your event or remain in the Mansion after your event ends. Anything left in the mansion will be disposed of.
Are chairs and tables/linens included? 60” round tables and white Chiavari chairs are included Other chair choices & high top tables are available to rent if you'd like through your caterer. Your caterer will have linen choices for you as well as all china to be included in your package with them
Is there a parking lot? The mansion itself does not have a dedicated lot, but downtown Westfield offers a variety of parking options. Please see our Getting to the Mansion for further details. You are welcome to hire a valet service as well.(we are happy to provide recommendations!).
Is there outdoor space? The James Ward Mansion does not have outdoor space. We have two small terraces that can be used for intimate photos. Mindowaskin Park is also a short walk from the mansion and a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Are there any reviews of the facility? Reviews are available on WeddingWire, The Knot, Facebook and more! You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or just google "The James Ward Mansion photos or reviews"! Visit our website www.jameswardmansion.com for links
Is there lodging nearby? Can guests stay overnight at the Mansion? The James Ward Mansion is not an overnight facility. The closest hotel is the quaint Best Western right in downtown Westfield. Parking is included there as well! We also have special rates with other hotels in the area.
Will there be other events at The James Ward Mansion on the day of my event? The James Ward Mansion does one event a day/at a time. You can start your event at any time you'd like and go as late as 11 pm.
How do I reserve my date? How much do I need for a deposit? Contact us for a private showing. To reserve a date for your event, an email contract will be sent to you, and half of the rental is due at the time of signing the contract and can be paid by CC or check. If you pay in full at the time of booking you will receive 10% off your rental.
What is the pricing for catering? Catering fees are additional and we offer 2 in-house caterers for you to choose to work with for your event, their costs are based on your budget & type of event you are having. Our preferred caterers are the only caterers to choose from. Outside caterers are not permitted.
Are open-flame candles allowed? We do not allow flame-burning candles, battery-operated candles are allowed. Birthday or Unity candles are allowed.
Are pets allowed? We do allow pets on-site to be part of your special day or your event, however, request that you ensure that they are monitored at all times.
Is your venue handicapped accessible? Our venue is handicap accessible, we have an approved elevator at the rear of the building for access.
What is your venue capacity? The Mansion can hold up to 125-150 guests. We have no minimum
Can we use our own vendors? With the exception of catering (see 11) you are free to choose your own vendors. These vendors do not need to be pre-approved by us. You are also welcome to choose from one of our preferred vendors.