Frequently Asked Questions
Q: This feels too affordable — what’s the catch?
A: There isn’t one. The Fairfield Arts & Convention Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, which means our pricing is mission-driven, not profit-driven. You’re not paying inflated “wedding venue” markups — just fair, transparent rates that keep the arts alive in our community. Couples often save thousands compared to barns, hotels, and private venues.
Q: Why is it so inexpensive compared to other Southeast Iowa wedding venues?
A: Because you’re paying actual cost, not profit margin.
- No required caterer
- No bar minimums
- No outdoor equipment rentals
- No 20% service fees
- No inflated peak-season pricing
You get a full indoor wedding venue, fully staffed, climate-controlled, and professionally supported — at nonprofit rates.
Q: I’m worried about logistics — what will I have to set up or clean?
A: Only your decor.
Your caterer handles all food setup, service, and delivery.
FACC handles everything else:
- Setup of tables, chairs, linens, bar, and layout
- Full place settings
- Water service at every table
- Bussing throughout the event
- End-of-night food cleanup in coordination with your caterer
- Teardown of all venue items
- Full cleaning afterward
Most couples designate a few helpers for decor removal at the end of the night — that’s the only responsibility on your end.
Q: What if we want a small wedding? Will the space feel too big?
A: Not at all. Our smaller rooms (Cambridge/Smith + Atrium) are perfect for up to 80 guests. We design custom layouts so the space feels warm, intentional, and well-scaled.
Q: Can we really have the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception indoors?
A: Yes. You never have to worry about weather or moving between locations. Choose from:
- Atrium Ceremony — bright, airy, great for photos
- Theater Ceremony — dramatic lighting, elevated stage
Ceremony Add-On: $600, which includes ceremony setup, seating, and rehearsal time.
Q: What time can our event go until?
A: Events conclude at 11:00 PM due to city ordinance. Everyone must be out of the building by midnight.
Q: Can we decorate however we want?
A: Nearly always — yes! We give couples huge creative freedom, as long as decor is safe for the facility.
Allowed:
- Florals & greenery
- Centerpieces & tablescapes
- Backdrops, arches, and photo displays
- Battery-powered candles
- Unity candles (briefly lit, with prior approval)
- Non-helium balloon décor & balloon drops
Not allowed:
Glitter, loose confetti, open flames, helium balloons, nails/screws, adhesives that damage surfaces, or anything that could stain or harm the building.
If you’re dreaming up something unusual, just ask — we say “yes” as often as we safely can.
Q: Can we bring any caterer we want? How does catering work at FACC?
A: Yes — you may bring any licensed & insured caterer you love. There are no required vendors, no catering fees, and no restrictions.
Here’s how catering works at FACC:
- Your caterer handles the food: cooking, transport, setup, and service.
- We support the event: our staff busses tables, refreshes water, and handles all cleaning at the end of the night.
- Kitchen access: Caterers may use our commercial kitchen for plating and service (no cooking/frying onsite).
- Buffet, plated, food trucks, cultural meals — all welcome.
This flexibility allows you to hire the caterer that best fits your taste and budget while still enjoying full venue support.
Q: How does the bar service work?
A: We provide a full, professional bar with licensed bartenders, all managed in-house for your convenience.
Our standard bar includes:
- Domestic + craft beers
- Red, white, and sparkling wines
- A full selection of spirits for mixed drinks
- Knowledgeable bartenders who keep service quick and smooth
Bar service options:
- Hosted bar (you pay)
- Cash bar (guests pay)
- Hybrid bar (mix + match)
Special requests? We can do it.
- We can special order your favorite beer, wine, or liquor through our distributors.
- If something isn’t available for us to order, you may bring it in, and we’ll serve it for a small corkage fee.
Your bar can be as simple or as personalized as you want — signature cocktails, themed drinks, cultural traditions, and custom menus are all welcome.
Q: How many guests can you seat?
A:
- The Grand Celebration: up to 420
- The Signature Wedding: up to 350
- The Classic Wedding: up to 300
- The Courthouse Celebration: up to 80
If your guest list is over 420, ask us!
In some cases, we can accommodate larger events with creative layouts.
Q: How early can our decorators and vendors arrive?
A: Your rental includes the full day before your wedding for:
- Decorating
- Vendor setup
- Rehearsal
- Ceremony walkthrough
This makes wedding day incredibly smooth and stress-free.
Q: Do we have to rent tables, linens, or place settings?
A: No — everything is included:
- Tables & chairs
- China & glassware
- Real flatware
- Cloth napkins
- Standard linens (black or white)
- Pipe & drape
- Water service
- Setup + teardown
- Bussing staff
- Bar staff
No upsells. No surprises.
Q: Can we have special elements like bounce houses, cultural rituals, or unique moments?
A: In most cases — YES.
We love supporting cultural traditions, special entrances, unity rituals, and fun surprises. Tell us your plan in advance so we can help set it up safely.
Q: Can we have our ceremony onsite?
A: Yes! We offer two stunning indoor ceremony options:
- Atrium — bright, elegant, natural-light backdrop
- Theater — dramatic stage lighting & professional acoustics
Ceremony Package: $600
Includes chairs, setup, teardown, and rehearsal.
Q: Do couples really do courthouse ceremonies across the street?
A: Yes! The Jefferson County Courthouse does allow civil ceremonies by appointment.
Many couples elope there, take photos on the historic courthouse steps, and then walk to FACC for their small reception.
This inspired our Courthouse Celebration Package — perfect for up to 80 guests.
Q: How do we reserve our date?
A: A $500 non-refundable Save-the-Date deposit secures your weekend. Final payment is due 90 days before your wedding.