The Candlewood Inn hosts one wedding at a time, allowing our team to focus entirely on you and your guests and ensuring your celebration feels private and personalized.

Our wedding packages include the use of the venue, tables, chairs, linens, culinary service, professional staff, and planning support from our experienced team. Your coordinator will guide you through all details leading up to your wedding day.

We accept cash, certified or bank checks, and wire transfers. We do not accept credit or debit cards.

Your final invoice is issued two weeks before your wedding, once final guest counts are confirmed. Final payment is due one week prior to your event.

Our 20% operational charge is not a gratuity. It covers planning services, venue use, staffing, linens, and property maintenance. This fee is taxable under Connecticut law.

Gratuities are not included in our per-person pricing. If you would like guidance, our Sales Director is happy to assist.

Your contracted guest minimum is outlined in your signed agreement. Please reach out with any questions, we’re happy to clarify.

Couples have access to the wedding suite beginning two hours prior to their event start time. Additional time may be arranged in advance, based on availability.

Yes. The Candlewood Inn offers ample onsite parking for guests, and we also accommodate shuttle transportation when needed.

Yes. We offer ramp access at the main entrance and accessible restroom facilities.

Yes. Shuttles may park in designated areas. Please note Connecticut law prohibits vehicle idling beyond three minutes.

Yes. All vendors must provide proof of $1,000,000 general liability insurance naming The Candlewood Inn as additionally insured at least one month prior to the event.

Vendors may arrive two hours before event start time.

No. Vendors may not consume alcohol during your event.

No. We provide vendor meals and seating separately.

We host a complimentary annual tasting showcase for booked couples featuring a wide selection of offerings. Individual entrée tastings are not provided.

Drop-off appointments are scheduled midweek prior to your wedding and typically last 30–60 minutes.

Absolutely. Weekday walkthroughs are available for booked couples.

Yes. Many couples choose to host their entire wedding day with us. Our lakefront ceremony space and elegant reception areas allow for a seamless transition from ceremony to cocktail hour to reception.

Our outdoor ceremony overlooks Candlewood Lake and provides a beautiful natural backdrop for your vows, creating a memorable experience for both you and your guests.

We always have a beautiful indoor ceremony option prepared so your day can continue smoothly regardless of the weather.

Yes. Our experienced team guides your ceremony processional and ensures everything runs smoothly from start to finish.

We guide your ceremony processional on the day of your wedding, so a rehearsal is typically unnecessary. If you would like to schedule one earlier in the week, a rehearsal may be arranged for an additional fee.

Guests should arrive at the designated start time. We anticipate arrivals up to 30 minutes prior to ceremony time.

Yes. For outdoor ceremonies, only real petals may be used. For indoor ceremonies, faux petals are required. Florists must remain responsible for cleanup.

Yes! Dogs are welcome to join outdoor ceremonies and photos. For their comfort and safety, we ask that they be taken home from the property immediately afterward.

Most celebrations begin with cocktail hour, followed by dinner and dancing in our ballroom. Our team works closely with your vendors to ensure the evening flows seamlessly.

Our lakefront setting, elegant ballroom, and attentive service create a warm and memorable atmosphere for you and your guests.

Reception length is determined by your contract, and our team will help guide your timeline so you can make the most of your celebration.

Absolutely! We love the energy, we simply ask that no shots, confetti, or real petals are involved.

Yes. Please provide allergy and dietary information when you plan your menu so we can plan accordingly.

Yes, candles must be enclosed in glass. Open-flame candelabras are not permitted.

We do not permit fog machines, CO₂ effects, indoor sparklers, lantern releases, or confetti. Dry ice “cloud effect” machines are permitted.

Fireworks over the lake are allowed through a licensed vendor only, and permits must be secured in advance through the Brookfield Fire Marshal.

We are happy to set up items delivered in table-ready condition. Additional setup (assembly, design, decorating) is available through your Event Coordinator for an additional fee.

Guests may take home leftovers from their plated meal. Station items may not be packed.

Yes. A four-tiered wedding cake is included in our package. Our talented culinary team will prepare your wedding cake to your specifications: we offer a variety of cake flavors and fillings as well as design options. Custom requests can also be accommodated. Please reach out to your Event Coordinator for pricing.

Yes. We offer a variety of dessert options including dessert stations and plated desserts. If you would still like to include a cake cutting moment, we can also provide a small personal cake.

Absolutely. Many couples choose to have their cake displayed during the reception as part of their décor and photography moments.

Yes! Many couples enhance their reception with dessert stations, late-night treats, or sweet tables. Our team can help you design options that complement your menu and timeline.

The Candlewood Inn offers full-service bar packages featuring premium spirits, wines, and beers. Our professional bartenders handle all service so you and your guests can relax and enjoy the celebration.

Yes. Many couples choose to create signature cocktails or highlight favorite wines and spirits. Our team is happy to help you curate options that reflect your style.

Absolutely. Signature cocktails are a wonderful way to personalize your reception and are a popular addition to cocktail hour or bar service.

We provide a variety of non-alcoholic beverages and mocktails for guests who prefer them.

Outside alcohol is not permitted. Our licensed bar program ensures safe, professional service throughout your event.

Shots are not permitted for the safety of all guests.