The Cedar House

We worked with the Cedar House for our wedding in June. The venue is beautiful and sells itself so we booked an all inclusive package that included their day of coordinating services. Things to be aware of: -No public bathrooms, guest must use a rented outdoor portable “luxury” bathroom. -Host communication is minimal and can take days to weeks to hear back. (hosts seemed very busy) -Additional charges may occur - At one point it was very nerve wrecking not hearing back from the venue (about our security deposit). When we finally did hear back from the venue (over 21 days after the wedding, even though the contract states they have 10 days) Kyle told us we wouldn’t receive our full deposit back because of floral that was left behind and an issue with the tent vendor. Although we pre-discussed clean up procedures and had over 10 helpers stay afterwards to pack, Kyle said we left behind some floral (purposely left to be disposed of). My helpers worked side by side the venue to help pack and clean and asked the venue multiple times what else needed to be taken and were repeatedly told that there was nothing left and they were good to leave. However, a fee was still assessed for leaving behind some of the biodegradable floral. So, be sure to haul your own trash, I don’t think you can dispose on their premises. Other issues like: 1. They almost forgot my bouquet as I was to walk down the aisle. They started the ceremony and we began to walk out until I realized I didn’t have my bouquet. They were confused and went to check for it. Meanwhile all the guests were waiting, it was a stressful moment right before I had to make my first appearance. By that point the groom had already walked out without his boutonnière and my father was also missing his boutonnière. So, all photos of my husband and I during our ceremony are missing the floral I ordered for his suit. 2. Venue didn’t put our custom cake topper on the wedding cake. I had a handmade replica of me and my husband created for the top of our cake. When it was time to cut the cake, I noticed it was missing, so I let the venue know. They were surprised they had forgotten it and went to find it. They came back and put it on the cake for only 1 minute then had to remove it so we could cut the cake. Hardly any guests saw the cake set up. 3. Venue didn’t use some of the rose petals, light strings, tablecloths and other decorative items I bought and provided to match the theme of our wedding. The venue decided what to use after I provided them thorough instructions and also used decorative items I didn’t request. Like a “no phones” sign that confused some family members and caused them to not take any photos. 4. The venue featured our wedding on their social media and tagged a random man as my husband. Not sure how long it was like that, but I had to let them know. It was an embarrassing error, but another over sight. 5. Guest feedback. Venue mic and audio was distorted so guests couldn’t hear speeches or vows. Food provided was cold. Plus other small issues I won’t mention. Despite the communication efforts I made certain aspects that I paid for didn’t get their intended use as the result of the venue. Overlooking the negative, the venue is beautiful and I’m married! They offered an on site officiant, bartender services (BYOB), charcuterie board upgrade and buffet style food in the package price. However, I would recommend bringing your own coordinator to ensure your dream comes true!