Frequently Asked Questions
CHESAPEAKE BAY FOUNDATION
ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND
Booking & Pricing FAQ
How much does a wedding cost?
What's included with our venue rental?
What's the venue capacity?
How do we reserve our date?
Is event insurance required?
Wedding venue rental fees range from $6,500–$8,250 for 2026 and $7,000–$9,000 for 2027, depending on the day of the week. See the full breakdown on our Pricing page.
How much does a wedding cost?
What's included with our venue rental?
What's the venue capacity?
How do we reserve our date?
Is event insurance required?
Your 8-hour rental includes the two-story lobby, tented deck, Canvasback Dining Room, wedding suite, private beach, and 31 waterfront acres. We also provide tables, select décor, string lights and fans on the tent, and a team member on-site throughout your event.
How much does a wedding cost?
What's included with our venue rental?
What's the venue capacity?
How do we reserve our date?
Is event insurance required?
Up to 200 guests. 170 is best for a seated dinner reception, while 200 is best for cocktail-style reception.
How much does a wedding cost?
What's included with our venue rental?
What's the venue capacity?
How do we reserve our date?
Is event insurance required?
Upon contract, a 50% venue deposit and $500 security deposit are due. The remaining 50% deposit will be due 90 days prior to the event. Extra hours are $500 each. The $500 security deposit will be returned after the event so long as there is no damage to our facilities.
How much does a wedding cost?
What's included with our venue rental?
What's the venue capacity?
How do we reserve our date?
Is event insurance required?
Yes, we require a standard $1,000,000 policy to be issued at least one month prior to your event date. These policies can be issued through your existing homeowner’s insurance policy or through several event insurance websites online.
Food, Beverage & Vendors
Do we have to use a caterer from your list?
Does our cake or dessert have to come from our caterer?
May we bring our own alcohol?
Yes. Choose from our approved caterers, selected for their knowledge of our space and their track record with past couples. All are full-service and handle setup, cleanup, and rentals for you. For cultural or religious needs, just ask — we're happy to discuss exceptions.
Do we have to use a caterer from your list?
Does our cake or dessert have to come from our caterer?
May we bring our own alcohol?
No. You may bring in any cake or dessert you like, as long as your main catering comes from an approved caterer. Just coordinate delivery timing and serving with your caterer.
Do we have to use a caterer from your list?
Does our cake or dessert have to come from our caterer?
May we bring our own alcohol?
Yes you may! You provide the alcohol and obtain a one-day liquor license through Anne Arundel County (the process depends on your caterer).
Planning Your Day
Is there a space to get ready?
What time does the celebration end?
Can we customize the space?
What's the plan if it rains?
The wedding suite is the perfect spot for finishing touches and a calm moment before you walk down the aisle. Hair and makeup are typically done off-site or before you arrive.
Is there a space to get ready?
What time does the celebration end?
Can we customize the space?
What's the plan if it rains?
Most couples celebrate from 5–10 PM, with music ending by 10 PM. Want to keep the party going? Downtown Annapolis has plenty of bars and restaurants for an after-party.
Is there a space to get ready?
What time does the celebration end?
Can we customize the space?
What's the plan if it rains?
Absolutely. The venue is a versatile blank slate! Personalize the layout, décor, and flow, and we're happy to help with floor plans, vendor recommendations, and logistics.
Is there a space to get ready?
What time does the celebration end?
Can we customize the space?
What's the plan if it rains?
You're covered. The tented deck has clear, enclosable sides, ceiling fans, and string lights, and connects to the indoor, climate-controlled Canvasback Dining Room — so your day is beautiful in any forecast.
The Venue & Grounds
What makes weddings here unique?
Can we arrive and depart by boat?
Are there restrictions on where we can take photos?
Are the grounds professionally landscaped?
Beyond the private beach, Bay views, and indoor-outdoor setting, every wedding gives back — your venue fee supports the Chesapeake Bay Foundation's mission to save the Bay.
What makes weddings here unique?
Can we arrive and depart by boat?
Are there restrictions on where we can take photos?
Are the grounds professionally landscaped?
Absolutely — we love an adventurous couple! Our 125-foot dock welcomes boats with a draft of 2 feet or less.
What makes weddings here unique?
Can we arrive and depart by boat?
Are there restrictions on where we can take photos?
Are the grounds professionally landscaped?
None — our 31 acres are yours. Use the private beach, wooded trails, creek access, and tall grasses for portraits anywhere on the property.
What makes weddings here unique?
Can we arrive and depart by boat?
Are there restrictions on where we can take photos?
Are the grounds professionally landscaped?
They're routinely maintained but embrace the natural beauty of the Chesapeake Bay, flourishing with native species that shine in every season.
Policies & Accessibility
Is parking available on site?
Are there any décor restrictions?
Can our pet be part of the ceremony?
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, we have 125 on-site spaces available. Cars can stay overnight but must be picked up the next morning so they don't interfere with the following event (and please don't leave valuables inside).
Is parking available on site?
Are there any décor restrictions?
Can our pet be part of the ceremony?
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
A few, to protect the building and the Bay: nothing permanent (nails, staples, tacks), no confetti, loose glitter, sparklers, or fireworks, and open flames must be in a hurricane or votive. Otherwise, customize away!
Is parking available on site?
Are there any décor restrictions?
Can our pet be part of the ceremony?
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
We adore your furry friends — bring them along! Pets are welcome in the beach area only.
Is parking available on site?
Are there any décor restrictions?
Can our pet be part of the ceremony?
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the building is fully ADA accessible, with elevators, ramps, and double doors. We also have a beach wheelchair available for ceremonies.
