Frequently Asked Questions
Scheduling and Availability
Is my wedding/event date available?
Please send an email inquiry to thebanyanmd@gmail.com to see if your requested date is available.
How many other weddings are scheduled that day?
There will only be one wedding scheduled a day.
How long do I have access to the event space(s)? Is there an overtime fee for staying longer?
The space will be available for 14 hours from 10:00am - 12:00am inclusive of vendor setup and breakdown. Additional charges will apply for additional hours.
What time can we begin load-in and what is the required load-out time?
The Client and caterer will be shown the designated area for vendor delivery/drop-off. All rentals should arrive during the 2 hour set-up time and be picked up during the 1 hour breakdown and clean-up.
What forms of payment are accepted, and are there any processing fees?
The Banyan accepts cash, certified check, or money order as preferred payment methods. Credit card payments are also accepted but will incur processing fees.
Are there any hidden or additional fees for things like cleaning, security, overtime, insurance, or internet access?
There are no hidden fees, but additional charges may apply. If an event exceeds the 14-hour rental window (from 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM), an overtime fee will be charged per hour. Clients are also required to provide a certificate of event liability insurance, naming The Banyan as an additional insured. While cleaning fees are not explicitly listed, standard cleaning is included; however, damage-related cleaning may be deducted from the security deposit. High-speed WiFi is included at no extra charge.
Is there a fee for accessing the kitchen or for using an external caterer?
Kitchen access is included with the rental for prep purposes. Clients may use an external caterer, but the caterer must be approved by The Banyan in advance.
Parking and Lodging
Is there onsite parking available, and is it complimentary or valet only?
Currently there is no onsite parking. However, over the next couple of years a 500 space parking garage will be built directly next to The Banyan. Additional parking garages are located nearby and throughout downtown Frederick.
Is The Banyan conveniently located for out-of-town guests?
Yes. The Banyan is located in downtown Frederick, Maryland, which is a walkable and central area that is easily accessible and near several lodging options and public transportation.
Are there nearby hotels or lodging partnerships available for guests?
Once construction of the Marriott Hotel located directly behind The Banyan is complete, we will offer room blocks and/or discounted rates for our guests. Until then, there are a number of hotels both downtown and within a very short drive.
What is the plan in case of inclement weather?
The main event space at The Banyan is located indoors on the second floor, so weather-related disruptions are unlikely to affect most events. However, if rooftop space is added to the rental, clients should develop a separate contingency plan for weather, as this area is not covered and not part of the base rental. Wedding ceremonies may be held in the second floor venue.
Are emergency exits and evacuation procedures included in the Venue’s safety planning?
Yes, all exits and passageways must remain clear and unobstructed.
Does The Banyan have backup power in the event of an outage?
Yes,The Banyan will have backup power in the event of an outage.
Venue Space and Layout
What is the maximum guest capacity for events at The Banyan?
The second-floor space can accommodate approximately 300 guests standing and 240 comfortably seated.
Is there a separate space for cocktail hour?
Yes, our rooftop area is available for an additional fee.
What is the style of the space?
The Banyan’s entertainment venue has a modern industrial feel that can easily be customized to any decor/theme. It is a dream setting for any wedding style.
Can ceremonies be held onsite, and is there an additional fee?
Yes, clients are welcome to hold their ceremony at The Banyan. There is no separate fee for onsite ceremonies unless the ceremony requires extra time beyond the standard rental hours, additional setup needs or a rooftop rental.
Is a floor plan layout available to help with event planning?
Yes, a layout is available. The primary event space consists of a 3,300 square foot rectangular room, allowing for flexible configurations depending on the event.
Is there space available for a live band and dancing?
Yes, the space includes both a stage and a designated dance floor area, making it well-suited for live entertainment and dancing.
Does the venue include a bridal suite or preparation area for the wedding party?
Yes, The Banyan provides a bridal suite/green room, offering private spaces for the wedding party or performers to prepare.
Are there staging or prep areas available for vendors and performers?
Yes, in addition to the green room and prep kitchen, vendors can utilize designated areas for setup and staging. Freight access is available.
Is rehearsal time included in the venue rental?
No, rehearsal time is not included in the standard rental. Any additional time required for rehearsals would be considered an extra charge.
Logistics and Vendor Support
Are elevators, loading docks, or equipment like dollies available for vendor use?
Loading docks and elevator access is available.
Do you provide a coat check service?
No, The Banyan will not offer a coat check service.
Does The Banyan provide staff for event setup, breakdown, or coordination?
The Banyan does not provide setup or coordination services. Clients are required to hire a full-service planner and a day-of coordinator to manage logistics and execution.
Who is responsible for cleanup and removing decorations after the event?
The client is responsible for ensuring that all personal items and decorations are removed by 12:00 AM on the night of the event. Any items left behind may result in deductions from the security deposit.
Catering and Food Service
Can clients bring in their own caterer, or must they use an in-house option?
Clients are permitted to bring in an external caterer, but the caterer must be approved by The Banyan prior to the event. For all weddings taking place from Thursday - Sunday, an external caterer is required.
Is there a preferred list of caterers provided by The Banyan?
Yes, The Banyan offers a preferred caterer list.
Are kitchen facilities available for caterers to use?
Yes, a prep kitchen is included with the rental and available for use by approved external caterers.
Are there extra fees for using an external caterer?
No, there are no specific fees for external caterers, however, The Banyan reserves the right to charge additional fees at their discretion and must approve external caterers that are not on their preferred caterer list.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated through catering?
If clients partner with an approved caterer, accommodations for dietary restrictions should be coordinated directly with the catering team.
What are the policies around alcohol service at The Banyan?
The Banyan offers bar packages that include licensed staff for alcohol service. All alcohol served must comply with Maryland state laws, and underage drinking is strictly prohibited.
Can clients supply their own alcohol, and are corkage fees charged?
The Banyan offers bar packages. All outside alcohol is restricted.
Does the bar package include staff for service?
Yes, The Banyan’s bar packages include trained staff to serve alcohol during the event.
Equipment and Rentals
Are tables and chairs included with the rental fee?
Yes, tables and chairs are included in the standard rental.
Are linens, glassware, and flatware included or rented separately?
Linens and flatware should be rented through a caterer or a rental company. Anything necessary for bar service (glassware etc.) will be provided.
Are decorative items like candles or special effects permitted?
Open flames are prohibited by The Banyan unless they are in tall glass vases. Other decor elements must be approved in advance by the Venue. No décor that causes damage—like confetti or adhesives—is allowed.
Do you have signage or other aids to direct guests to my event?
The Banyan will have a ‘private event in progress’ sign, but you are welcome to display custom signage (not provided by The Banyan) at the entry to your event space for your guests.
Is audiovisual equipment provided for events?
Yes, The Banyan includes state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment suitable for dj’s, bands, and presentations.
Is the sound system appropriate for live music and speeches?
Yes, the included sound system is designed to meet the needs of both live performances and public speaking.
Are there enough electrical outlets to support vendors and entertainment?
The venue includes sufficient electrical access, though clients with high-power needs (e.g., lighting rigs, video production) should confirm requirements in advance.
Is reliable high-speed WiFi available at the venue?
Yes, high-speed internet access is included in the rental.
Licenses, Insurance, and Security
Does The Banyan carry the proper licenses for alcohol and event hosting?
Yes, The Banyan complies with Maryland state laws regarding alcohol service and event hosting.
Is liability insurance required, and who provides it?
Yes, clients are required to obtain event liability insurance and must list The Banyan as an additional insured on the policy.
Does the venue provide security staff or require external security?
While The Banyan may choose to have staff present at events, the agreement does not require the client to hire external security unless specified.
Will there be security guards onsite during the event?
Security staffing is not guaranteed but may be present depending on the event's size and nature.
Rules, Policies, and Restrictions
Are there restrictions on event timing or noise levels?
All events must conclude by 12:00 AM. All guests must be gone by 11:30pm. All events must comply with local noise ordinances.
Are there limitations on the types of décor clients can use?
Yes, all decorations must be approved in advance and removed without damaging the venue. Prohibited items include confetti, nails, and adhesives.
Can clients use their own vendors for AV, florals, and rentals?
Yes, clients may bring in external vendors, but they must receive prior approval from The Banyan.
Are there any restrictions on photography or videography at the venue?
All photography and videography, as hired by the client, must only take place in the areas rented by for the event. External use of The Banyan, as well as other areas on the premises, may be utilized for photography and videography if it does not interrupt or otherwise disturb patrons of those spaces. The Banyan kindly requests that no images of any kind be captured of guests who are not the client or attendees of the event.
Accessibility and Inclusion
Is The Banyan wheelchair accessible and compliant with ADA requirements?
Yes, The Banyan is ADA compliant and accessible to guests using wheelchairs.