Frequently Asked Questions
When can I get in the space and when do we have to leave?
Load in and out of all equipment and products is to take place within the agreed upon designated rental period. If you’re event requires delivery of rentals, it may be possible to coordinate drop off and pick up outside of the event day with consent from Ballast.
Loud music and noise must cease by 10:30pm.
All events are to end no later than 11:00pm.
Hard close at midnight.
Do you require event insurance?
All wedding related events, and any other event where alcohol is being served requires event insurance. There are many companies that offer single day event insurance, and you can often get it from your home or auto provider. Insurance of events in a venue of our size range is typically $75 - $125.
What does setup and cleanup look like?
As the renter, you are in charge of setting up the space how you would like. If able and available, we can assist with moving and arranging tables and furniture alongside you. By renting our space, you are expected to leave the place more-or-less as you found it. We don’t expect a deep clean, but any large spills need to be cleaned, trash taken out at the end of the event, and furniture either put back or arranged in an attractive manner.
How much is the deposit and what is your refund policy?
Deposit is 50% down and is required in order to secure the space on your selected date. The remainder is due two weeks before the event. Due to the nature of the wedding and events industries, we cannot offer refunds. Checks can be made payable to: Portland Schooner Company.
Do you require working with certain catering and/or beverage providers?
We can provide in-house catering through our partners at Experience Maine Culinary, and bar service via Maine Events Co. We have other preferred vendors that we love to work with who are familiar with the space. You are not required to use our in-house or preferred options, but anyone not on the preferred list must be approved by Ballast. Our kitchen has limitations and they need to be conveyed accurately so your event can be successful.
Can we bring our own alcohol?
Maybe. We currently do not have a liquor license. You generally have two options:
Hire a licensed and insured bar service. We partner with a local bar service and can coordinate this option for you, or you can bring in your own service. They would provide both the alcohol and the bartending services.
BYOB - you purchase your alcohol beforehand and hire a service to act as bartender.
*NOTE: You are welcome to use your own preferred bar service so long that they are licensed & insured. Some caterers offer these services as well.
Do you offer on-site coordination and/or planning?
We do not offer full-scale event planning services. We can certainly help coordinate deliveries and assist in some setup. If you want a more hands off experience, ask about our preferred planners and coordinators.
How many restrooms are onsite?
We have two restrooms that are both single occupancy. One is on the mezzanine level in the actual event space. The other is downstairs in the basement and is generally used as a staff bathroom, but it can be open to guests for larger events.
Is your space wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, due to the historic nature of the building, we are not a wheelchair accessible space. If that is something you require, please check out this list of accessible hotels and restaurants that may be able to host your event.
Accessible Hotels | Accessible Restaurants