4531 E. Walnut Street Westerville, OH
FAQ
General Questions
The Friesian Empire Events Center was originally founded in 2002 and formerly known as The Friesian Empire and Equine Center. It was described as the largest Equestrian Facility in Franklin County and one of the largest Equestrian facilities in all of Central Ohio. Horse enthusiasts flew in from around the world for horse Shows, horse clinics, horse auctions and Friesian horse inspections. The owner wanted to expand the facility to something that could include more than just horse owners, but people who appreciate the serene setting of a horse farm for their special event. The property has nearly 50 very scenic and wooded acres with 2 large ponds and thousands of feet of 4 rail white vinyl horse fencing. Our venue consists of approximately 42,000 SF of indoor entertainment areas, not to mention the outdoor entertainment areas! Our grounds and buildings are equipped with numerous security cameras. Our ingress and egress are gated. The owner was able to keep the essence of the horse farm but with the feel of an elite and unique events center. Anyone who visits will experience more than they could imagine!
Security is important to us! We have 3 gated entries and exits. There are monitored security cameras all over the grounds and inside the buildings. In addition, you have the option of hiring our preferred security patrol.
FEEC is available for events every day from 8am-midnight. Contact our facility directly for rental rates after midnight. On days when we do not have events scheduled, our business hours are Monday-Friday from 10 am-6pm.
Yes! We would love the opportunity to show you the facility and discuss the details of your event. Please call us at 1-614-899-2250 or email: info@thefriesianempire.com. All tours are by appointment only. We will make sure we schedule a time with you when we don’t have events taking place in the rooms that you would like to see. We typically schedule tours from 10am-6pm during the week, and we can often also accommodate tours on Saturdays and occasional weekday evenings as long as there is not an event occurring at that time. Our Event center is unlike any around. Due to the overwhelming demand of parties trying to view our unique facility just to see inside, and with no plans to even book an event, we may be forced to charge a fully refundable fee of $25/person visiting. It can easily take an hour to get through our entire event space and property. If you book an event, any amount you and your visiting party paid will be credited back to you off your final bill.
YES! Our pets and farm animals are family too. All pets visiting must be approved in advance and our pet policy must be adhered to. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
The Barn and restrooms are all on one level and are accessible by wheelchair. Naturally, if this is an outdoor venue it is recommended that a golf cart be rented to accommodate older and handicapped guests. The grassy areas and parking lot areas can be uneven.
If you are looking for one of the most unique experiences you can have on your special day, you will find that here!
If you want to keep your guests talking about your event for years to come, it will happen here!
We have something for EVERYONE. Our atmosphere will keep your guests entertained while waiting for your arrival and throughout the entire event.
But if that is not enough…Our staff coordinator will offer you professional advice to help you create the most special day of your life. We can help save you money and time by recommending the best vendors that fit your budget and style. We are a comprehensive, valuable and cost-efficient resource to assist brides in creating the weddings of their wishes and dreams. Our facility of extremely versatile and can accommodate many themed events and almost anything you can dream up.
Because it is a private estate and functioning farm, we do require appointments be made to view and tour the property for couples and immediate Family, please call or email us to schedule. Please advise your wedding guests that we prefer no early views or visits.
Yes. The facility has a lost and found but we are not responsible for any items left behind. You will need to contact the facility during business hours to check or email us. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
We work very closely with several wedding planners/designers who are extremely creative, organized and can greatly enhance your event. We prefer that you choose one of the experts on our vendors list. We’re happy to provide a list of our recommended vendors and discuss particular recommendations after we confirm your interest and have a signed contract and deposit.
Accommodations and Transportation
We are centrally located near John Glenn International Airport, Easton Plaza, Polaris Shopping mall and numerous hotels all within a 10-15 minute drive of the facility. We also hope, in the near future, to be able to turn the Large Log home, which is currently located on the property, into a Bridal or guest house. We can provide a list of nearby accommodations.
If you’re going to have a significant number of people who need transportation, we highly recommend renting a bus or limousine service from our preferred vendors list.
Occupancy, Parking and Event options and Amenities
Our indoor occupancy permit allows for 1,888 indoor guests, but we also have approximately 48 acres of scenic outdoor spaces to accommodate thousands, if needed.
Yes. We have designated parking lots with enough space for hundreds of vehicles and amble turn around areas for limousines and buses. We also have a parking lot directly to the west of the main building to accommodate elderly, handicapped or pregnant visitors. There is a covered Porte Cochère at the front of the building for easy drop off and turn around during times of inclement weather. Golf carts are available for rent for transportation from the parking area to the ceremony and reception location.
YES! In fact, we had a chapel built (complete with bell) to replicate an 1800’s wedding chapel/church. It is located on the property and seats about 16 people inside the chapel itself. The area surrounding the chapel could easily seat hundreds.
YES! We have ~48 very scenic acres and have plans to build an outdoor pavilion/covered shelter as soon as possible. There are numerous locations around the farm (including 2 waterfront locations) to erect a large tent or simply have an outdoor wedding “in the woods”, in a lush green pasture surround by white vinyl horse fencing or overlooking a pond with fountains and hardscapes. In addition, we have plans to build an outdoor pavilion (covered shelter) with a fireplace overlooking our west pond.
Of course! The tent location and set-up must be pre-approved by The Friesian Empire Wedding & Events Center Ranch Management. We have several suitable locations for event tents. If your tent requires multiple days for set-up, please be advised that additional charges may apply. We have several approved tent vendors on our vendor list.
You can choose to rent a backup tent, with a location close to the event barn, or we may move the ceremony into the event barn itself, depending on your number of guests and assuming it would not interfere with an ongoing event. If the event is moved indoors, there will be an additional charge. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
The site offers guest Wi-Fi, and a separate SSID is available specifically for media devices (TVs). All of our rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV’s. We are also happy to provide wireless microphones or lapel in any of our event rooms or by the chapel. All of our audiovisual equipment is included for no extra charge.
Yes! Our farm is unique in that we are a functioning equine farm. Our horses are trained to drive carriages and sleighs. We have both to accommodate our guests. You are not permitted to bring an “outside” company for carriage rides. We have 8 Black Friesians and 2 solid white horses. Check our menu for pricing options.
Food, Catering, Vendors and alcohol
No homemade food is permitted in the buildings, and heating equipment such as crockpots is strictly prohibited. Guests are welcome to bring desserts and cold appetizers, including fruits, charcuterie boards, and cold sliders. However, any hot food must be provided through approved catering services, which can be dropped off in the Kitchen Prep Area. Please note that FEEC does not provide plates, napkins, and flatware or wait staff. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
No. FEEC provides prep space, however it does not come equipped with a stove or oven. The prep space is ideal for preparing cold items and placing warm items in chaffing dishes. Caterers or restaurants should be prepared to bring the food in hot boxes to keep it warm for your event. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
Yes. FEEC provides a prep space that features 2 sinks, dishwasher, cooler/refrigerator and counter space. We also provide ice and use of a microwave as needed, but our catering kitchens are not equipped with a stove or oven.
If you are planning on serving alcohol at your event, FEEC has an in-house alcohol program and liquor licenses to help serve your event. FEEC’s bartenders are required to serve and control all alcohol at FEEC Event Venues and depending on your location, all alcohol is to be purchased through FEEC. To learn more, get in contact with one of our professional sales representatives for more information. FEEC’s alcohol policies are subject to state laws. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
Yes, we do. We’re happy to provide a list of our recommended vendors and discuss particular recommendations after we confirm your interest and have a signed contract and deposit.
At FEEC we have a flexible vendor policy. Naturally, we prefer that you choose our preferred/approved vendors who are familiar with our property and whom we have confidence in, but we welcome new vendors. You are responsible for their conduct and actions on the property. They must sign and agree to our facility use form, adhere to our rules and regulations and name as an additional insured on their insurance policy. Any “outside vendors” MUST be approved by the FEEC in advance. You can find a list of our recommended vendors on our website or by contacting one of our professional sales representatives for more information.
Absolutely! We have a liquor license and will be offering many cocktail options and can order just about anything provided we have adequate notice.
Decorations and set up
No. Sparklers are not permitted anywhere on the property. No fireworks or Chinese lanterns are permitted on the grounds. The scattering or throwing of any items (to specifically include but not be limited to: rice, glitter, confetti, artificial flowers, flower petals, grainy items, or turmeric on the ground/floor, balloons, glitter fog machines, pyrotechnics, sparklers and blowing bubbles etc.) is NOT permitted inside or outside the facility. If a fine is assessed to the client or to FEEC for improper use of fireworks or sparklers, the client will be responsible for paying all fines in full (including those assessed to FEEC). Bubbles are permitted, however inside they can provide a slipping hazard on the concrete floors so they must be kept outside. We do not allow confetti, rice, fake flower petals, hay or glitter.
Our facility is made up almost entirely of wood. There are many antiques and flammable items everywhere in the building. Due to this and other safety concerns, Flameless candles are preferred. All other Candles must be enclosed in a glass container to avoid the possibility of any fire. All candles must be unscented and single-wick (ex. votive holders, hurricanes), taper candles when lit are only permitted for unity candles during the ceremony or can be used as decor during the event unlit.
We appreciate the vision and individuality that you bring to your event, and we don’t feel that it would be appropriate for our staff to set up such personal items. We would never want you to walk into your event and be disappointed with how your décor was arranged if we failed to recreate the look that you have been envisioning. For that reason, we think its best that you have someone who is close to you and has been involved with your creative process come in and set up your personal items during your time block. Don’t worry though—we will have all of your tables and chairs, (if applicable) set up and ready to go when you arrive!
Yes! We encourage guests to personalize their special day with their own decorations. (note – open flames, staples or nails are not permitted anywhere in The Friesian Empire Wedding & Events Center event).
Any additional decorations you choose to add to your wedding site must be done on the reserved date and time after 12 noon. (note – please remove any additional decorations or personal belongings by 11am the following day at the very latest).
Table Linens, skirts and chair covers are not provided. We provide a selection of vendors for you to order your linens from.
We have many different sizes of round tables, rectangular tables and square tables to choose from. We also provide Chiavari chairs. Included in your package is Setup + Teardown of Tables and Chairs (no linens or chair covers) For Up To 250 Guests. Additional tables and chairs for a larger number of guests must be rented from the facility.
Due to other scheduled events, liability and limited storage, we WILL NOT store items for you prior to your wedding date. You can bring items to your contracted location after 12 noon the morning of the event.
You are allowed to decorate in your 2-hour time slot sometime between the hours of 12 pm – 6 pm the day of your event. Please contact our Event Coordinator for more details. Renter shall not have access to the Property at any time other than during the Event Date(s), unless Renter receives prior permission from Manager. You must allow at least 2 hours prior to guest arrival for setup. FEEC may schedule tours or rehearsals during an event time block, prior to guest arrival. Any additional time must be pre-approved by the owner & additional fees will apply.
Bridal, groom suites and restroom facilities
Yes! The bride and groom suites provide great spaces to get ready for the big day as well as store personal items during your event. If you choose the “wedding package” or rent the entire venue, all 4 suites are included; Otherwise, each suite can be rented individually. NOTE: There are 2 bridal suites and 2 groom suites available to rent, all of which vary in size and price so you can select one that best meets your needs. Each room has a keyless digital lock. The 2 large suites both have toilets and a sink. 1 of the smaller bridal suites has a sink. All suites have TV’s. In addition, our coat room has many lockable locker spaces.
We have a beautiful restroom facility on site for use during your day. The deluxe restrooms are climate controlled, have beautiful wood interiors with private stalls. The Men’s restroom has 2 stalls and 3 urinals. 3 handwashing stations (one is handicap accessible). The women’s restroom has 6 stalls and 3 handwashing stations (one is handicap accessible). The women’s restroom also has a connecting lounge to sit and relax. There are 2 handwashing stations located in the hall of the Connector Building. The restrooms in the Log Home are not available for public use. Outdoor events would require Portable restrooms (at clients expense).
Booking an event, payment plans, time needed and cancellation policies
Please refer to the event contract for our very long list of included items/services.
In our vast experience in the event industry, we have found that it is stressful for both the event host and the vendors to try to complete everything in a smaller block than 6 hours. This causes your caterer to be rushed, doesn’t allow much time for the setup of personal items, and it adds undue stress to all involved on what is to be one of the most important days of your life. Because of this, we have competitively priced our time blocks so that you have a comfortable amount of time while still staying within your budget.
Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
FEEC accepts payments by credit card, bill pay, personal check, cashier’s check or money order. We do not accept cash. If you are paying with a credit card, feel free to call 614-899-2250 or you can schedule an appointment to pay in person at the facility.
Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.
Yes. Clients are provided with 1 hour to conduct their rehearsal (unless a different date is approved). Rehearsals may take place the day prior to your event but must be scheduled in advance and completed by 6:00pm. You must notify our Event Coordinator of your rehearsal schedule.
You may start your event any time after 12 noon (but remember you have a 6-hour event window plus 2 hours for set up (8 hours total so plan accordingly). Music must cease at 11 p.m. and all guests must depart by 11:00 p.m. and all vendors out by 12:00am. 1 hour rehearsal is the day prior and scheduled in advance during specified/designated hours. For Monday-Thursday and Sunday events must end by 10pm.
Yes. The insurance rider is a rider you get from your homeowner’s policy or you can contact an insurance company to provide just the insurance for your event. It simply needs to name The Friesian Empire Wedding & Events Center as an additional insured. This insures yourself and us for the day of the event. Fortunately, we have not had an incident yet, but it is good for all concerned to have it. Please refer to your contract for the amount of additional insured coverage.
The Friesian Empire Wedding & Events Center staff will take care of all the tables and chairs for both the ceremony and reception. Your vendors would be responsible for all other set up, removal and clean-up before they leave. The personal belongings/additional props you brought in must be removed by 11am the following day.
We are now booking events back-to-back, which means Friday and Sunday events are likely. We do not book other events on the same day (in the same space) of your wedding at The Friesian Empire Wedding & Events Center, unless it is something that can be completed before your arrival. That being said, we do have multiple locations throughout our 48+ acres that can be rented and not interfere with other events. We always do our best to accommodate rehearsal times without intrusion to the other weddings and/or your wedding.
To reserve your date, a contract must be signed with the required deposit (as more fully described on our Event contract). Bookings can be made in person at the facility, over the phone or on our convenient on-line booking system through our website. For payment options, please make your reservation at the facility or over the phone with the FEEC’s representative. Please refer to the event contract and/or our Policies, Guidelines and Regulations for specifics.