FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the Capacity of Cornerstone Cottage? The Cottage has the capacity to accommodate 62 people indoor. Formal seating is easily arranged for up to our capacity. The rooms can be arranged for a formal “sit-down” dinner or a more casual arrangement can be setup for social gatherings. Note: Your guest list can be increased when combining use of the indoor and outdoor space of our venue OR by staggering the guest invitations and having an "open house" feel.
Does rental include the use of the side yard area? During nice weather our side yard serves as a great location for casual seating with tables, chairs, etc. Rental does include the full use of this area. Weather permitting, Cornerstone staff will determine when it is not permissible or to prevent damage to the grounds.
Is there musical equipment present? Cornerstone Cottage does not provide musical equipment. The Lessee is responsible for obtaining all musicians, and bringing in the necessary equipment. Cornerstone Cottage has resources for area musicians that can be requested. There is a dedicated power source in the front room for DJ’s etc. (Two 20amp. plugs). We have some local musicians & DJ's that will be happy to quote prices for your event.
Rental Hours? The rental period consists 4, 6 or 8 hours, which includes setup, the event itself and for the cleanup. The larger the quest list, be sure to include setup and cleanup time in your rental so that you have plenty of time for your event without having to rush. Bonus: (Extra rental time is given if our onsite caterer is used for special cakes or catering of food...be sure to ask about this).
What Time may my caterer enter? Is there a fee for outside caterers? All deliveries, setup, decorating, take down, and cleanup must be completed within the allotted time set forth in the Lease Agreement. Additional time may be arranged with Cornerstone Cottage, and fees will be applied. There will be a non-refundable outside catering fee of $50.00 which is applied if an outside catering company provides food delivery/setup. Outside catering companies will be responsible for the same Terms & Conditions as the person on the contract. The same cleaning expectations must be met by the Lessee or the caterer they hire.
Can we arrive before the Scheduled Rental Time? No, buildings will not be open and accessible until your designated setup time is scheduled to begin as set forth in the Lease Agreement. If you feel you may need more time for setting up, please consider adding more rental time. When our on-site caterer is used you may be allowed to enter early (coordinate with caterer).
Can we go over our Allotted Rental Time? Yes, depending on existing bookings that may follow your event. Please keep in mind that you will be billed the hourly rate of $60.00 per hour for any additional time over your allotted time. Note: Cornerstone has arranged for someone to “inspect and secure” the cottage following your event, so we are aware if parties extend past the contracted time-frame. The hourly fee will automatically be taken out of the Damage deposit. Note that if you exceed the rental time and notify us when checking out and cleaning up, we will take $10 off the hourly rate.
Can we burn candles? Yes, but NO OPEN FLAMES ARE ALLOWED, must be glass enclosed. We do have a decorative fireplace candle fixture with candles which can be used with caution (not suggested when small children will be present). All candles must be extinguished prior to leaving.
May we relocate the furniture? Furniture may be rearranged to suit your event needs. Upon completion of the event, furniture & decorations must be returned to its original location (with special care not to scuff or scratch the hardwood floors). Make sure that all chairs used on the hardwood have protective pads to avoid damage to the floors.
Can we provide Food & Drink in the Cottage? Food is permitted and can be brought in by the Lessee or a caterer of your choice. Use of alcohol is permitted ONLY when A WAIVER OF LIABILITY FORM is completed. Cornerstone Cottage does not and will not arrange for distribution of food or alcohol. IF LIQUOR IS TO BE SOLD ON THE PREMISIS, INSURED SHOULD CARRY A MINIMUM OF ONE MILLION DOLLARS OF COVERAGE. If this is not provided, Lessee and/or their guests will be asked to remove any alcoholic beverages from the facility immediately upon observation. Cornerstone Cottage reserves the right to cancel the lease immediately upon the breach of these terms.
Who is responsible for Cleanup?
The Lessee is responsible for making arrangements to have all decorations removed immediately following the event NO EXCEPTIONS. All rental equipment must be removed directly following the event. NO EXCEPTIONS. We expect the lessee to provide basic cleanup of the facilities (there will be a “CLOSING checklist for you to follow). We will supply garbage bags, etc. If the cottage is not left the way it was when you entered, or if garbage & debris is left outdoors there will be a cleanup fee (see contract for rates). Cleanup fee will also be applied to the damage deposit if the hired help (caterer, event planner) do not comply with what is expected at the time of the event close.
(SEE BELOW FOR LIST OF EXTRA FEES).
- What is included in Cornerstone Rental?
Included in Cottage Rental Fee: (Many things are now included that we used to charge separately for). IPOD station with remote 19 inch flat screen DVD/TV (no cable or tv reception)* BY REQUEST 5 six foot tables and 1 eight foot table 1 food/buffet counter with cabinet 64 wooden chairs & other casual seating
Several smaller tables throughout cottage 1 Large white cooler (for ice/drinks)
Two Coffee pots (1 has 33 cup capacity) Small number of nice coffee mugs
Small number of spatulas,etc. Baskets, platters, bowls, bottle opener, etc. Garbage can and garbage bags, toilet paper, paper towels supplied Free Parking on our lot and neighboring lots Use of the side courtyard/grass area Air Conditioning & Heat to keep guests comfy :o)
Supplies in Kitchenette:
Under the counter fridge Microwave Very Small Oven (slightly larger than microwave & fully functional to 450 degrees with 2 shelves).
Three compartment warmer tray with lids. 
Additional Equipment/Services Available (for Separate Rental Fees):
Each additional hour of rental $60.00 Linens $5.00 each (dark violet purple or solid white in color). Setup of tables and chairs for formal event $35.00
Extra Charges:
Cleanup Fee Indoors (if area &/or supplies used are not cleaned up) $50.00
Cleanup Fee Outdoors (if area &/or supplies used are not cleaned up) $50.00
- Terms and Conditions:
Note: It is the responsibility of the Lessee to fully understand these terms BEFORE signing a contract for rental. It is stated on our contract for rental, that these have been read and understood....please do so before booking a date with Cornerstone.
Effective: 2-18-2010
Rental fee and Damage Deposit: The Lessee shall pay the full rental fee and the Damage Deposit by the day the Lease Agreement is signed to secure reservation. The rental fee will be cashed immediately, while the damage deposit is held until in inspection is completed following the event. The damage deposit is for the cottage AND catering equipment, supplies, and rentals..whether damaged by guests or lessee. Cornerstone Cottage may repair any damage caused by Lessee’s occupancy at Lessee’s expense, and deduct the cost from the Damage Deposit. Reimbursement for damages will be taken out immediately following the event and any balance remaining will be forwarded to Lessee. (make sure funds are available for this damage deposit should we have to cash a check). If no damages occur the Damage Deposit will be refunded within one to three weeks after the event.
Failure to Pay Rental Fee and Damage Deposit: In the event that the Lessee shall fail to pay the Rental Fee and Damage Deposit, within 7 days of the contract signing, the reservation can be automatically canceled. *Payment is required at time of contract signing unless otherwise agreed. *Client will be billed for a returned check fee of $25 should we receive notice of insufficient funds, or if stop payment is placed on funds, this may also result in loss of future rental privileges with Cornerstone Cottage.
Rental Hours: The rental period will be specified on the Lease Agreement, and will range from 4, 6 or 8 hours, which includes time for setup for your event as well as cleanup time following your event. Additional hours may be purchased if needed during an event, at a cost of $60.00 per hour. Please keep in mind that you will be billed the hourly rate of $60.00 per hour for any additional time over your contracted time allotment (this will be taken out of the deposit payment unless otherwise discussed). We ask to be contacted when party vacates the cottage (via text or phone call) we have a cleaning staff waiting to follow to clean and secure the premisis.
Date Holding Policy: Cornerstone Cottage will be allowed on a case by case basis, and is not a guarantee of the date wanted. We typically will hold a date for 24 hours, then will open the date again for other interested parties. It is suggested that the contract with Cornerstone be FAXED to reserve a date, then payment can later be arranged.
Date Change Policy: Any requests for changes in the already contracted date with Cornerstone Cottage are required IN WRITING ONLY and will be reviewed on a case by case basis. If the date needs to be changed, Lessee will be charged a $50.00 non-refundable fee.
Cancellation Policy: The Lessee may cancel the reservation in writing 90 days in advance of the Event, and receive a refund of half the rental deposit and the full rental fee. If the Lessee cancels the reservation within 90 days of the Event, Cornerstone Cottage shall retain the FULL Rental Deposit and refund the full rental fee. This policy applies regardless of when contract is signed (especially if contract is signed within the 90 day period).
Decorations & Care for Interior: Subject to the supervision and approval of Cornerstone Cottage, Lessee may decorate Cornerstone Cottage but without use of nails, tacks, screws or other fasteners, tape or other adhesives, on wood, walls, or other surfaces, decorations should be done without defacing the premises in any way. If candles are used, they must be of the no-drip type or glass enclosed. No other type of open flame is permitted. If chairs are moved around, please make sure any chairs used on the hardwood floors have protective pads on the bottom…(our white folding chairs do not).
Cornerstone Cottage Access to Facility: Lessee understands and agrees that Cornerstone Cottage staff shall be entitled to have its representative present at all times during the Event, and such representative shall have access to the entire facility at all times.
Service Personnel: Lessee shall be responsible for obtaining florists, musicians, ministers, photographers, or other service personnel it desires.
Setup/Takedown: All deliveries, setup, decorating, takedown and cleanup must be completed within the allotted time set for the in the Lease Agreement. Lessee is responsible for making arrangements to have all decorations removed immediately following the event. All rental equipment must be moved immediately after the event, and within the rental time, Lessee is responsible to be present until facility is vacated and secured.
Cleanup and Damage Policy: Lessee shall provide for cleaning of Cornerstone Cottage after the Event. If the Lessee fails to clean immediately after the Event, Cornerstone Cottage may do so at the Lessee’s expense and deduct the cost from the Damage Deposit. Cornerstone Cottage may repair any damage caused by Lessee or occurring during Lessee’s occupancy, at Lessee’s expense, and deduct the cost from the Damage Deposit. Lessee shall reimburse Cornerstone Cottage upon demand for any damage to or destruction of the Facility, furniture, equipment, fixtures, grounds, landscaping, or any other property owned, used or operated by Cornerstone Cottage (including surrounding neighbor’s property), caused by any act or omission of the Lessee’s guests, invitees, licensees, employees, caterers, florists, decorators, musicians, security and other personnel, or agents. If the cost of cleanup, repair and replacement exceeds the Damage Deposit, Lessee shall be liable for the balance, which shall be due and payable on demand, and shall bear interest at the rate of 10% per month.
Prohibited Activities:
No Smoking is permitted in Cornerstone Cottage (urns with sand are provided outside). Outside cleanup fee may apply if this debris is found on the property grounds or neighboring businesses who allow use of their parking lots.
Alcoholic beverages may be served/consumed in Cornerstone Cottage, following submission of a waiver of liability form.
Driving and Parking on the grass is prohibited. (You will be notified of neighboring businesses that have allowed for parking for Cornerstone Cottage and the APPROVED HOURS that their parking can be used.
Lessee shall not permit explosive or highly inflammable substances to be brought onto the grounds or into the Facility.
No open burning flames (candles) are allowed. Any candles must be contained.
Signage: Lessee agrees to cooperate with the efforts of Cornerstone Cottage to maintain the integrity and aesthetic quality of our facility by not posting, nailing, screwing or otherwise attaching anything to columns, walls, floors, or other parts of the building, furniture or grounds, or neighboring streets. If Lessee fails to do so, a fee for removal and cleanup ($40.00) will be charged to the Lessee and will be deducted from the Damage Deposit.
Publicity: Cornerstone Cottage reserves the right to approve in advance all forms of advertising or publicity when its name is used. The Lessee guarantees that the establishment of a partnership with, or co-sponsorship by, Cornerstone Cottage of any event will not be implied in any way unless the express permission of Cornerstone Cottage is included in this Lease Agreement. Cornerstone Cottage also reserves the right to review and approve in advance all advertising copy that bears its name.
Breach of Lease: Cornerstone Cottage RESERVES THE RIGHT TO CANCEL THE LEASE IMMEDIATELY UPON THE BREACH OF ANY OF THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS of this Lease. Cornerstone Cottage may cancel prior to or during the Event. Upon cancellation for breach, Lessee shall forfeit the Damage Deposit, the Rental Fee, and all monies paid to Cornerstone Cottage.
Impossibility: This agreement is, however, subject to termination for cause without liability to Cornerstone Cottage, under the following circumstances. Should occurrence of conditions such as strikes, acts of God, civil disturbances, terrorism, disaster, or any other emergency of a comparable nature which are beyond the control of Cornerstone Cottage render the requested facilities inoperable, unavailable, or unsuitable for their intended purpose Cornerstone Cottage will have no responsibility for providing alternative facilities, electricity, housing, or catering and will not be liable for any bodily injury, death, property damage, loss, or other services.
Control and Responsibility: None of the provisions of this Lease shall be construed as reserving to Cornerstone Cottage any right to exercise control over or direct the activities, business or operations of the Lessee in the conduct of the Event. It is understood and agreed that the entire control and direction of the Event shall be and remain with the Lessee, and neither the Lessee nor any other persons employed by him or her shall be deemed or considered employees or agents of Cornerstone Cottage.
Release From Liability and Indemnity: READ BEFORE SIGNING - Lessee shall protect, indemnify, hold harmless, and defend Cornerstone Cottage, its officers, directors, employees, agents, servants, and invitees, from and against all losses, claims, liabilities, and other expenses of litigation, because of bodily injury, death, and property damage, which occur, either directly or indirectly, in connection with the Event or Lessee's operations or by reason of any act or omission of Lessee or its guests, invitees, caterers, musicians, florists, decorators, parking personnel, employees or agents, regardless of whether or not such loss, claim, liability or expense is caused in whole or part by any party to be indemnified hereunder. Lessee further assumes the risk and releases Cornerstone Cottage, its officers, directors, employees, agents, servants, and invitees from any such claims, demands, injuries, damages and causes of action of any nature whatsoever arising out of or in connection with the Lessee's use of the facility, regardless of fault. Specifically, Cornerstone Cottage shall have no liability for any such losses, claims, liabilities, and other expenses of litigation, because of bodily injury, death, and property damage, which occur, either directly or indirectly, in connection with the Event or Lessee's operations or by reason of any act or omission of Lessee or its guests, invitees, caterers, musicians, florists, decorators, parking personnel, employees or agents. By signing the Lease Agreement, Lessee fully agrees to these terms, and Lessee promises and warrants that he/she fully understands the terms and accepts the terms freely, knowingly, and voluntarily.
Waiver/Covenant Not to Sue: READ BEFORE SIGNING - Lessee fully waives, releases and discharges Cornerstone Cottage from all claims, damages, actions, causes of actions, and liability now existing or hereafter arising out of or in any manner connected with the Lessee's use of the Facility pursuant to this Lease. Lessee further agrees not to sue Cornerstone Cottage based upon liability now existing or hereafter arising out of or in any manner connected with the Lessee's use of the Facility pursuant to this Lease.
No Assignment: The Lessee may not assign this Lease without written approval from Cornerstone Owners.