Frequently asked questions
HOW Much does it cost to rent your venue?
It depends on several factors such as type of event, day, time, and space needs. Click here for our wedding pricing and here for our special event packet.
dO YOU REQUIRE A wedding COORDINATOR?
Yes, to ensure the best experience possible for the Client and guests, we require a licensed and insured wedding coordinator of your choice be hired for the wedding, including setup and breakdown of the event. We would be happy to provide recommendations of wonderful local coordinators.
dO YOU HAVE A required CATERing LIST?
No, but we do have a preferred catering list. Based on their quality of food, service, wide variety of customizable options, and familiarity with our venue, we have 2 preferred caterers that our clients can choose from:
IS THERE PARKING AT THE VENUE?
Parking in one of the surrounding lots is included with event rentals if your event takes place during non-business hours or on a weekend. The image below shows the two parking lots you’re able to use. Additional parking lots may be added at an extra cost pending availability, but there is always ample city street parking. Parking for events taking place during business hours will be subject to availability, so reserved parking is not guaranteed. Valet parking may be added at an additional fee, facilitated by 1908 Grand or the Client.
How do I schedule a tour?
You can email us at events@1908grand.com to schedule a tour or ask us any questions. Please be sure to review our rental information to make sure we align with your budget and event needs prior to touring.
Is your venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes, we have elevator access on the side of our building from 3rd avenue which takes you to both levels of the building. We also have wheelchair accessible restrooms on both levels.
Will other events be going on during my event?
Weddings and full building rentals will be the only event taking place on your event date. If you book a single event room, there is a chance another event may take place at the same time. If your event takes place on the same day or time as another event and the catering timelines overlap, the second event booked must hire the same caterer as the first event due to kitchen usage. Event equipment (tables, chairs, etc) will be allocated in the order the events booked. Event logistics such as entrances, designated event space, signage, and parking will be developed and finalized with a 1908 Grand representative prior to the event.
Can we use real candles inside the venue?
Yes, but any real flame candles must be enclosed in a glass container.
Do you allow animals?
Pets are allowed during outside wedding ceremonies only and must be removed after the ceremony and associated photos conclude. No animals are allowed inside 1908 Grand except service dogs with appropriate paperwork.
Do we need to set-up and tear down ourselves?
1908 Grand staff will set up and break down your tables and chairs. You, your wedding coordinator, and other vendors will set up and break down their décor and equipment. Everything will need to be set up, broken down, and removed from the venue during your rental period.
can i drop off or set up my decorations the day before?
No, any alcohol, decorations, rental items, or equipment for your event must be dropped off the day of your event during your set up period and removed from the venue before the conclusion of your rental period.
when can i have my wedding rehearsal?
Your one hour wedding rehearsal will be scheduled 30 days prior to your wedding. The date and time are contingent on our event schedule.
can i have my rehearsal dinner at 1908 grand?
Absolutely! We would love to host your rehearsal dinner. If it will take place on a weekday, you can book the event space of your choice whenever you’re ready. If your rehearsal dinner will be on a Friday or Saturday, you’ll need to check with us for availability 3 months prior to the date.
can we have a sparkler exit?
Yes, you may have a sparkler exit outside as long as it’s facilitated by your wedding coordinator and you provide buckets to put the sparklers out in.
what time can we access the bridal suite and groom’s room?
You can access the bridal suite and groom’s room at 11:00am the day of the wedding, but please note that vendors other than hair and makeup artists may not begin arriving until 3 hours prior to your event start time.
can we bring our own alcohol?
You may provide your own alcohol, but it must be served through a licensed and insured bartender.
are linens included in the rental?
No, linens are not included in the rental since every client has a different style and color scheme. Any of our approved caterers can provide linens for you, or you can outsource them through a rental company.
DO YOU HAVE LODGING RECOMMENDATIONS?
There are a few hotels and BnBs close to 1908 Grand that we recommend to our guests:
Hyatt Place Gainesville Downtown
(3 min drive from 1908 Grand)
+1 (352) 496-7500
212 SE First St, Gainesville, FL 32601
Hampton Inn Downtown
(3 min drive from 1908 Grand)
352-240-9300
101 SE 1 Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601
Laurel Oak Inn
(3 min drive from 1908 Grand)
352-373-4535
221 SE 7th St, Gainesville, FL 32601
Enjoy 20% off each night at The Laurel Oak Inn. A 2 night minimum is required for this promotion.
Sweetwater Branch Inn
(3 min drive from 1908 Grand)
352-373-6760
625 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601