GATHERING FAQ

If your question is not here, please do not hesitate to contact us.

What is your address?

The Connection Centre is located at 23 Dayton Avenue South, Wadena, Minnesota 56482.

How do I reserve my date?

Your investment at The Connection Centre varies based on the day of the week and the month of your event.
To officially reserve your date, we require two things:
– A 50% non-refundable deposit (this is not the damage deposit)
– A signed rental agreement

The deposit is applied toward your total rental balance but is non-refundable in the event of cancellation. Once both the deposit and signed agreement are received, your date will be secured on our calendar.

Can I book a tour?

Absolutely – we’d love to show you around!
Tours can be schedules during your discovery call and are typically available on weekdays during the day.
Please note that we do not offer evening or weekend tours, as those times are often reserved for events taking place in the space.
We look forward to helping you envision your day at The Connection Centre!

What is the capacity for The Connection Centre?

Capacity at The Connection Centre varies depending on which space you plan to use:
– Upper Room: up to 30 guests
– Ballroom: up to 120 guests
– Sanctuary: up to 120 guests

While the Ballroom can accommodate up to 120 guests, we recommend a maximum of 100 guests for the most comfortable experience. This allows for easier movement, dancing, and socializing without feeling crowded.
If your event will be near or at maximum capacity, we’re happy to help you explore layout and setup options to ensure your guests are as comfortable as possible. We’re here to help you create a smooth and enjoyable experience, no matter your guest count.

Is there a damage deposit?

A $750 damage deposit will be collected prior to your event and refunded if there is no damage after your event.
You must provide a check or have a credit card on file to be charged if there are any damages.

Do you provide table linens?

We include the following linens with your rental:
– Two white 8 ft tablecloths and table skirting for serving tables
– Two white or black 6 ft tablecloths, as needed

Hours of Operation

Rental times are schedules in advanced based on your event needs. Access to the venue begins as early as 9:00 AM, depending on your agreement.
All guests, vendors, and belongings must be completely out of The Connection Centre by 10:30 PM, unless you have arranged to rent the space for the following day.
All personal items, decor, and rentals must be cleaned up and removed from the property at the end of your rental period unless otherwise discussed in your contract.

Can I bring in my own food & alcohol?

Food:
Yes! We allow you to bring in your own caterer for your event. We understand that food preferences vary, and we want to give you the flexibility to choose a caterer that best suits your style, budget and taste. For retreats and overnight guests some exceptions may apply, please ask for more information.

Alcohol:
You are welcome to bring your own alcohol to The Connection Centre. There are two options for doing so:
1. Through a licensed caterer:
Your licensed and insured caterer may provide and serve alcohol for your event. Many caterers can obtain the necessary liquor license and insurance to handle this for you.
2. Provide it yourself:
If you’re not using a caterer and plan to supply your own alcohol, the following requirements apply:
– You must purchase liquor liability insurance for your event and provide proof prior to your event date.
– You must hire a licensed bartender to serve all alcohol. Self-service is not allowed.
– You are responsible for bringing in your own ice, bar-tending supplies, and ensuring proper clean-up and removal of all alcohol and related items at the end of the event.

Important Note:
If you provide your own alcohol, it must be hosted, meaning your guests are not charged per drink. The sale of alcohol is not permitted.
Regardless of how alcohol is served, all events must complete and return our alcohol waiver with the rental contract and deposit.

Ice:
If you’re bringing your own ice it can be stored in our freezer if you’ve rented the kitchen.
The Upper Room includes a small ice maker.

Do you have decorations available?

Yes! We love helping bring your vision to life.
At The Connection Centre, we offer decor rentals, event styling, and full wedding planning services. With our extensive decor inventory, you can walk into the wedding or event of your dreams without having to lift a finger. From elegant centerpieces to custom backdrops, we have a wide variety of pieces to match your style.

For Weddings, visit our Weddings tab to learn more about packages and includes services.
We also provide setup, clean-up, and decorating services for small events in Upper Room. Pricing varies depending on your needs, just reach out, and we’ll be happy to provide a custom quote.

Where should I stay?

Wadena and the surrounding area offer a variety of local accommodation options for you and your guests.
We also have on-site sleeping arrangements for up to 10 people at an additional cost. Availability depends on your event date and rental package, please reach out to see if this option is available for your rental.

Do you have a minimum rental time?

No, there is no minimum rental time. Pricing varies depending on the room and the day of the week. Please review our pricing details for more information.

Can I have early access to decorate or set up for my event?

You will have access at the discussed start time listed on your contract. If you need additional time for setup or decorating, please inquire in advance. Extra time can be added for $60 per hour, based on availability. We do not offer partial-hour rentals, only full hour increments.

What are the clean-up and tear-down requirements?

We ask that you leave the space as you found it.

Decor and personal items:
– All decor, personal belongings, and any items you brought in must be removed by the end of your rental time as listed in your contract.
– If guests, vendors, or items remain in the space past the contracted time, a fee of $50 will be charged for every additional 30 minutes.

Garbage:
– All food, drink, and personal garbage must be gathered and placed near an exit at the end of your rental.
– You are not required to remove garbage from the main-level bathrooms, as these may be shared spaces during your event.

Clean-Up:
If there are any major spills during your event, we kindly ask that you mop or wipe them up. A cleaning closet with supplies will be shown to you during your walk-through.
A Check-Out & Clean-Up Checklist will also be provided in the spaces you rented on the day of your event to help guide your departure process.

Will there be other events happening in the building at the same time as mine?

Yes, The Connection Centre has three rentable spaces. If you have not booked the entire building, other events may be happening at the same time.

Please note:
– Sound may carry between spaces.
– Some areas, such as restrooms and the kitchen, may be shared.

Is there a sound system available?

Yes, both the Sanctuary and the Ballroom have separate sound systems.
– The Sanctuary sound system must be operated by someone familiar with running a sound board
– If you do not have someone available, please contact us in advance to request a trained staff member for an additional fee.
– The Ballroom has its own independent sound system that is not as complex.

Will there be staff on site during my event?

No, we do not have staff on site during events. However, you will be provided with an emergency contact number in case you have questions or need assistance during your rental.

What is not allowed at The Connection Centre?

Please refer to your contract for more details of what is not allowed at The Connection Centre.

– Weapons of any kind
– Drugs/Drug paraphernalia
– Confetti/Glitter or Balloons containing confetti/glitter
– All Feather Boas (if used, you must clean up)
– Food or Drink Fountains
– Rice or birdseed
– Candles with real flame (limited)
– Sparklers (not inside)
– Smoke machines
– Nails, screws, tacks, staples, 3M strips
– Tape (only approved adhesive is blue painters tape)
– Smoking/Vaping (only allowed in designated smoking areas outside)

Can I host live music or a concert at The Connection Centre?

Yes, musical events are welcome! However, please note the following:
– You may be required to rent the entire building for concerts or events involving live bands.
– All music must end by 10:00 PM, and everyone (including vendors) must be out of the building by 10:30 PM.
– Additional time for clean-up can be added in advance for an extra fee.
– If you plan to host a large band (5+ members), please contact us beforehand to ensure we can accommodate the setup and technical needs.
– Be sure to schedule adequate tear-down time for any vendors involved, as they must also be out by 10:30 PM.

What supplies are available for crafting events?

The Connection Centre is equipped to support a variety of creative events, including scrapbooking, card making, and quilting. Please let us know when booking what supplies you request. Below is a list of supplies available for your use:

Scrapbooking & Card Making
– Cricut cutting machine
– Sizzix Big Kick
– AccuCut 315 Photo Die Cut Machine
– Stamp sets and Stampin’ Up! products (including dies)

Quilting:
– Cutting mats
– Design board
– Iron and ironing board

General Supplies:
– 10+ tables
– 8-10 cushioned swivel chairs
– 10 trash bins

Please note: The space and number of outlets available will depend on the size of your group and the area you rent. We’re happy to help determine the best setup for your needs, just ask!