Wedding FAQ

Can any caterer be used for my event?
     No. The Harbert Center has an in-house catering company, Southern Foodservice Management, Inc. (SFM), that prepares all food and beverages for events.

Can any celebratory cakes be brought in?
     Yes. Celebratory cakes, such as wedding cakes, may be brought in at no additional fee. Our caterer will cut the cake at no cost for weddings.

Is alcohol permitted?
     Yes. The alcohol is supplied and served by SFM.

Can any florist be used?
     Yes.

May candles be used for decorations?
     Yes, but they must be in a contained source (i.e., votives, hurricane vases). Candles used in candelabras must be dripless.

Are bands and DJ’s allowed?
     Yes. They must provide their own sound and light equipment.

What is included in the facility fee?
     • Up to four hours of event time
     • Access to facility for up to three hours before start of event for decorating/setup
     • One hour after conclusion of event for breakdown of decorations/entertainment
     • Rehearsal time and space the night before the wedding
     • Experienced staff
     • Tables, chairs, white table linens, white and colored napkins, stainless flatware, and English china (colored table linens available at $2/table)
     • Dance floor, standard podium and microphone

Is an appointment necessary to view the facility?
     Yes. Please direct all calls to the front desk, which will connect you to an event sales manager who may assist you.

How far in advance does my event need to be booked?
     We can reserve space at The Harbert Center one year in advance. Space can be tentatively reserved for two weeks before a deposit is due.

Is parking available?
     Yes. The Birmingham Parking Authority Deck #3 is conveniently located across from our front entrance. A fee is based on time and day of event. Valet service is available for a fee, but is not required.

Does the facility have A/V equipment?
     Yes, The Harbert Center has a wide range of up-to-date equipment for rent.

Is there a load-in area?
     Yes, it is located in the alley behind The Harbert Center. Continue past the main entrance to 20th street and turn left. At 3rd Avenue North, make a U-turn back onto 20th street. Go ½ block and turn right into the alley. The delivery door is marked; ring the doorbell for assistance.

How much is the deposit to book? Is it refundable?
     The deposit is $500.00. The deposit is not “refundable” because it is a portion of the payment on the client’s total bill.

Do you require a damage deposit?
     Yes. The deposit is $400.00 and may be refunded to you.

Are there any additional costs besides the menu or package price?
     All food and beverage prices are subject to 20% service charge and 10% tax. Security fees are required for all after hours events.

Do you have bridal dressing rooms?
     Dressing rooms are guaranteed for an additional fee and based upon availability.

Do you host rehearsal dinners?
     Please visit the “Celebrations” link for menus and information on rehearsal dinners. If you are having your wedding ceremony at The Harbert Center, the facility fee applied for a rehearsal dinner is waived.

Do you have wedding coordinators?
     The Event Sales team is proud to offer their expertise as Certified Wedding Specialists for “day of” coordination of your ceremony and/ or reception held at The Harbert Center. Contact our Sales department for details.