Frequently Asked Questions
Q- HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK MY EVENT/VENUE WITH YOU?
A- You should reserve your venue/caterer as soon as you have a definite date selected. Typically Saturdays book up early (12-16 months in advance) and weekend (6-12 months). Reserving as far in advance as possible will guarantee the date you have selected.
Q-MAY I SUPPLY MY OWN FOOD AND ALCOHOL?
A-Sorry, unfortunately, we are the exclusive supplier of all food and beverages at Lighted Gardens. You may, however supply your own celebration cake (wedding/anniversary/birthday) from a licensed bakery to bring in.
Q-IS ALCOHOL AVAILABLE AT LIGHTED GARDENS? HOW DOES THAT WORK? MAY I SUPPLY MY OWN?
A-Lighted Gardens holds the license from the State of Indiana to purchase/dispense all alcoholic beverages. Carry in alcohol is not permitted. Your bar may be setup however you wish (Full Cash, Open or Combination) with your particular budget in mind.
Q-I HAVE A FRIEND/RELATIVE THAT IS A POLICE OFFICER. CAN THEY PROVIDE SECURITY FOR MY EVENT?
A-Lighted Gardens has bartenders and security on staff for your event. They are trained in our policies and how we would like things handled. Using our staff guarantees you peace of mind and reassurance for a safe event.
Q-WHEN DO YOU NEED MY MENU? PARTY PLANS?
A-We would like to have your event planned (menu, itinerary, bar services, vendor selections etc). 4 to 6 week prior to your event.
Q-WHEN DO YOU NEED MY GUEST GUARANTEE (HEAD COUNT)?
A-Your final guest guarantee is due to us 1 week prior to your event. This number may not be reduced prior to your event, but may be increased up to 48 hours prior to your event.
Q-CAN I GET AN ESTIMATE ON HOW MUCH THIS IS GOING TO COST?
A-Absolutely, we would be happy to estimate your total cost. To do so, we will need an estimated attendance, party details and menu selection.
Q-DO YOU DECORATE?
A- Lighted Gardens has a nice selection of rental items to help with your decorating. Typically the host decorates the halls. However, if you are unable to decorate yourself, or don’t have the time, we would be happy to provide you with a cost of decorating the hall with your color scheme and budget in mind.
Q-WHAT HAPPENS TO LEFTOVER FOOD?
A-Leftover food is discarded after your event. At the discretion of the Chef and kitchen staff, items ruled “save to re-use” are donated to the Fort Wayne Rescue Mission or a charity of your choosing.
Q-WHEN CAN I DECORATE/SETUP?
A-We give all our parties 3 hours to setup and decorate at no charge. The rate after 3 hours is $40.00/hr. If you choose to decorate/setup the day of your event, the hours are 9:00 AM-12:00AM. Decorating on other days is based on availability.
Q-DO YOU SUPPLY LINENS, SKIRTING AND DISHES?
A- Yes, the cost of linen tablecloths and skirting is included in your rental of Lighted Gardens. The cost of dishes (china or disposable) is built into your menu prices.
Q-MAY I PROVIDE MY OWN DJ/ENTERTAINMENT?
A- Please do……..we cook better than we sing! If you need assistance with selecting your DJ or entertainment, feel free to ask us for referrals from vendors we’ve seen in the past.
Q-MAY I SAMPLE YOUR FOOD?
A-Sampling is available. We do require at least one weeks notice to schedule purchasing and production, and a one hour appointment for sampling. There is a charge for sampling for more than 4 people. (Typically $5.00 per person).
Q-WHAT DOES YOUR STAFF WHERE?
A-Both our bartenders and banquet servers are attired in formal tuxedo style shirts and ties. Our security is dressed professionally in black and khaki uniforms for easy identification. Our chef wears a traditional chef uniform.
Q-WHAT HAPPENS IF I CANCEL AFTER PAYING MY DEPOSIT?
A-In the unfortunate event that your event is cancelled, and we are unable to re-book another event on the same day, your deposit is forfeited. If we do book another event, we will gladly refund 50% of your paid deposit
Q-ARE THERE ANY “HIDDEN COSTS”?
A-All of the costs related to the service of food and beverage at Lighted Gardens are listed in our menus. Basically your costs include: Hall Rent, Food, Beverages, and Personnel (Bar & Security where applicable), Sales Tax, Service Charges, and Optional Gratuity.
Q-I WANT TO PAY GRATUITY; HOW MUCH IS TYPICAL?
A- There is no “typical” amount to tip your banquet servers and bartenders. IF you are pleased with our services, and are unsure how much to tip, see someone in our Sales Office for advice. (You may want to tip a percentage of your bill, or a flat rate per service staff at your event). Likewise, if you are unhappy with services, please notify us immediately.
Q-DO I NEED AN APPOINTMENT TO VIEW YOUR FACILITY AND GET MENUS?
A- In order to devote time to give you a complete overview of our facility, and discuss menu options, please schedule an appointment with our Sales Office. We will make every effort to schedule a time when everyone is available.
Q-WHY SHOULD I CHOOSE LIGHTED GARDENS AS MY VENUE/CATERER?
A-As an independent, family owned small business, Lighted Gardens has a great reputation in this area for great tasting food and excellent services. Our track record as a venue spans over 40 years. We are currently under the same management for over 11 years. Our Executive Chef has over 30 years experience in food service. In a nutshell: Experience Matters!
Q-HOW CAN I CONTACT YOU?
A-It’s easy! Just click here to access our contact page online. We can also be reached by phone at (260) 622-4023.
Q: DID WE ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS?
A: Please call us and we would love to answer your questions. 260-622-4023 or Contact Us