Planning an Event

General

A $250.00 “save the date” fee is required to reserve a specific date. This fee also serves as the refundable security and cleaning deposit.

Our rental rates are based on the number of attendees.

Rental times include preparation, decorating, set-up, breakdown and clean-up. Early access for set-up and rehearsals or an additional day for cleaning are not free of charge.

Weather in South Hampton Roads is very changeable. If planning an outdoor event, have a plan for moving inside if the weather turns bad.

The Center does not provide decorator, florist, catering, or event planning services. We do not require that you use a specific caterer or event planner.

Use of the catering kitchen is included in your rental fee. The catering kitchen includes a commercial sink, refrigerator, several stainless steel prep tables and a stainless steel rolling cart. There is no cooking equipment. An exterior door leads to the kitchen and makes it easy for caterers and events planners to move cars and equipment to the kitchen.

Security

For large events (more than 100 people) consider including a security officer. For some events it may be required. We recommend you contact the Norfolk Police Department for additional information on hiring Norfolk Police Officers for event security.

During preparation, set-up, and clean up we highly recommend that you have someone on the Center grounds to ensure your decorations are secure. The Center is located in a public park and a number of people may walk through during the day.

Music

The Center is located in the middle of a residential area. Amplified music is not permitted outside at any time.

ALCOHOLIC Beverages

If you plan to serve alcoholic beverages, consult the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control office at 1103 South Military Highway in Chesapeake, Virginia, telephone (757)-424-6700 to obtain the proper license if required. Applications are accepted online at the link above. The license you (or your event planner or caterer) receive must be available for inspection during your event at the Fred Heutte Center.

Furniture, Tents, Additional Equipment

The Center has approximately 70 chairs and 16 6-foot long rectangular tables for use. Additional items such as tents, more tables and chairs, outdoor dance floors, etc. must be provided or rented at your expense. Set up and break down times are included in the rental times.

CLEANUP

Cleansers, mops, brooms, vacuum cleaner, paper towels and garbage bags are available. All trash must be placed in the trash receptacles outside the kitchen before you leaving the Center.. After the event, the center, including the main spaces, the catering kitchen, and the restrooms, must be returned to the condition in which you found it. When events are held in the garden, the gardens must be returned to their original condition.

Access

Keys and security codes are not issued to renters. The Center is opened upon the rental access time and closed at the rental end time.