Hiring The Empress Ballroom Venue FAQS
Booking a Private Party: Frequently Asked Questions
Table Options
Q: Do you offer round and rectangular tables?
A: Yes, we offer 2- and 4-seat rectangular tables that can be combined for banquet seating. Additionally, we can accommodate over 200 guests with round tables that seat 10.
Tablecloths
Q: Do you provide tablecloths?
A: Yes, we have a large inventory of white and black tablecloths suitable for parties, weddings, and corporate events.
Chair Covers
Q: Do you provide chair covers?
A: Yes, we have a wide selection of white and black chair covers, along with various tieback colour options, perfect for parties, weddings, and corporate events.
Entertainment for Kids
Q: Can I hire a small bouncy castle for the kids from a reputable company?
A: Yes, this is a common request. Our ballroom's high ceilings and sturdy flooring make it ideal for bouncy castles.
Entertainment:
Q: Can I hire my own DJ?
A: Yes, you can hire your own DJ. Alternatively, we can recommend our resident DJ, who is local and offers reasonable rates.
Q: Can I hire live entertainment?
A: Yes, you can hire your own live entertainment, whether it’s a tribute act or a live band. We also have a built-in PA system and a lighting show available for hire to enhance your event.
Q: Do you have a big screen?
A: Yes, we offer a 4m x 3m digital big screen for hire. It’s perfect for any event, including movie screenings, memorabilia displays, auctions, presentations, and award ceremonies.
Photo Booths
Q: Can I hire a photo booth?
A: Yes, this is also a frequent request. We can refer a supplier, or you can source one yourself. We only require that the equipment is PAT tested to ensure safety.
Casino-Style Events
Q: Can I hire croupier-hosted blackjack and roulette tables?
A: Yes, our ballroom is perfect for casino-style events. The large vintage sprung dance floor adds to the ambiance.
Boxing Matches
Q: Can I host a boxing match?
A: Yes, the Empress Building has a long-standing boxing and wrestling licence. We have hosted many amateur and professional boxing matches, including white-collar boxing events.
Event Promotions
Q: Do you rent the venue to event agents and promoters?
A: Yes, we do. For more information, please visit our dedicated webpage and download our detailed brochure for promoters. Click here for more information.
Outside Catering
Q: Can I use outside catering or cater myself?
A: While we prefer our 5-star rated catering service, you may use your own catering. You will need to sign an agreement absolving us of responsibility for any food-related illnesses. You must comply with food hygiene regulations and handle food disposal off-site. Our kitchen and bar cannot be used by third-party caterers due to health regulations. Self-catering is limited to food only; drinks must be purchased from our venue.
Room Decoration
Q: Can I decorate the venue myself or use a third-party company?
A: Yes, you can either handle the decorations yourself or use a third-party company. We can also refer suppliers to assist with the design and decor of your event.
Capacity
Q: How many people does the venue cater for?
A:
Seated with Tables: 200 guests
Theatre Style Seating: 300 guests
Standing Room: 600 guests
Ballroom Hire Fees
Q: If I hire the ballroom, is it exclusive to my party?
A: Yes, when you hire the ballroom exclusively, it is not open to the public. The entire ballroom is dedicated solely to your special occasion.
Q: How much does it cost to hire the Empress Ballroom for a private party or wedding?
A: You can reserve the ballroom for free with a minimum guest list of 80 people. Please note, a non-refundable £50 save-the-date booking fee is required at the time of reservation.
Q: How much does it cost to hire the Empress Ballroom for a children's party?
A: The ballroom can be exclusively hired for a children's party at a rate of £50 per hour.
Opening Times
Q: Is the venue available for hire on weekdays?
A: Yes, the venue is available for hire seven days a week.
Q: Can I arrange a private viewing before booking the room?
A: Absolutely! We recommend that you view the room first. If you're satisfied with the service and facilities, you can then proceed to save the date.
Parking
Q: What parking options are available, and is it free?
A: There is an abundance of free parking available close to the Empress Building; see a map below.
If your question isn't answered here, please call 01709 803974, or TEXT 07432 721105 or email us at info@empressbuilding.co.uk.