How many guests can the Blackwell accommodate?
The number of guests The Blackwell can accommodate varies by the additional set-up requirements that you may have. For example, a typical reception set up with a head table for 12 or less, rounds of 8 people, a dance floor, DJ set-up and cake table can accommodate 250 guests comfortably. Keep in mind, our Blackwell Patio is also available for events; it may be tented at an additional cost to accommodate more guests. Please ask your Blackwell wedding coordinator for more details.

Is there a minimum number of guests or dollar amount that is required?
We do not have a minimum number of guests required. However, we do have a minimum in food and beverage revenue (not including tax or gratuity) that ranges from $8,000-$12,000 for peak dates. Please note, the minimums may vary by date and lower minimums are available on Friday evenings and Sundays.

What if I do not meet my food and beverage minimum?
The Blackwell can upgrade your food or beverage choices to help reach your minimum. However, if you do not meet the minimum in food and beverage revenue(not including tax and gratuity), the difference will be billed as a ballroom room rental fee.

What is required to reserve the date?
A contract will be sent outlining the date, time, deposits and other details. You will have two weeks to review and return a signed copy of the contract along with your initial deposit. Payment schedule is outlined below:

How are payments handled?
We accept cash, check or major credit cards. A deposit schedule will be sent to you with your contract with payments broken down over several months until the final payment. The final payment will be due 3 business days prior and a credit card authorization form must be on file for any incidentals.

Are tax and gratuity included?
Standard tax rates will apply to all charges and 21% gratuity is automatically added on top of all room rental fees and food and beverage rates. If you wish to add additional gratuity, this can be arranged through your Blackwell wedding coordinator.

May I hold the date tentatively while I am deciding?
A two week hold may be placed on the date, which allows you "first right of refusal" if another bride is interested. After the two weeks, you may request a contract or release the date.

What is your cancellation policy?
All deposits are non-refundable. If you need to move your date, your deposits may be transferred to the new date when re-booked within six months and to occur no later than six months after the original date, based on prior approval of the Blackwell management team.

When do I guarantee my number of guests?
Your final guest count is due by 10am three business days prior to your event date. After this, you may not decrease your count, but in most cases you may add a few guests up until 36 business hours prior to the event date.

Can I have my wedding ceremony at the Blackwell?
Your final guest count is due by 10am three business days prior to your event date. After this, you may not decrease your count, but in most cases you may add a few guests up until 36 business hours prior to the event date.

How much time is included for my reception?
Your event is contracted for five hours, including the time spent on our plaza level for a prereception. Additional hours may be added for $200 per hour until midnight.

Does the hotel offer parking for my guests?
The Blackwell offers valet service for your guests at a rate of $5.00/vehicle for an evening event. Your guests may also self-park at the Tuttle Park Garage about a block and a half away for $3.00 the first hour and $1.00 each hour. To compare, five hours in the garage would be $7.00 versus $5.00 valet. Overnight valet parking is $15.00. Please note, your guests may NOT self-park in the garage overnight, guests that self-park in the garage overnight will be ticketed by OSU.

Do you have any limitations on decorating?
Restrictions regarding decorations are; no glitter or confetti, no open flames and no affixing anything to the walls or ceilings. As set-up times may vary, we prefer to set out any decorations for you, as you and your guests will be busy that day. You may drop off items no earlier than 3 business days prior to your event without a storage handling fee.

What if I want to have a band?
The Blackwell ballroom has enough space to accommodate a band. It is important to provide your Blackwell wedding coordinator with specific space requirements and any requests from the band to make appropriate arrangements.

Do you have a preferred list of vendors?
We have a list of vendors that we have worked with in the past, but you are not required to use them. Please ask for more information.

Can I taste the food prior to my reception?
We offer a complimentary tasting for up to four guests after you have a contract with us. Generally you would select 2 – 3 entrees, a salad and/or soup. Please allow at least two weeks to schedule your tasting.

How do block hotel rooms for my guests?
The Blackwell offers discounted rates for friends and family. A designated number of rooms will be blocked for your guests to call and make their reservations indicating they are will the specific wedding. The cut-off date for guests to make reservations will be 30 days prior to your event.

Is it possible to hold a wedding on football Saturday?
Due to our close proximity to the Ohio Stadium, parking challenges and the last minute game time announcements we cannot host weddings on home football games.