FAQ

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What makes the Hilliard Events experience incomparable?

What sets Hilliard Events apart from other venues goes beyond its unique industrial chic architecture. Our flagship venue, Building 4, boasts an impressive capacity, accommodating up to 265 guests for banquet seating and over 500 for performance seating or cocktail receptions. This versatility, combined with its 15-foot ceilings and extra-wide doors, makes Building 4 an ideal choice for a wide range of events, from elegant wedding receptions to classic car shows.
To ensure a truly personalized experience, we offer the freedom to select vendors that align with your unique vision. Plus, Building 4 is pet-friendly, allowing you to include your furry friends in the celebration.
Conveniently located in Manchester, CT, Hilliard Events is easily accessible from three major highways, making travel stress-free for you and your guests. The surrounding area offers a wealth of local amenities, including lodging, restaurants, and activities, to enhance the experience for your out-of-town guests.  
To add a touch of local flair to your event, we're proud to partner with several on-site vendors, including Amanda Nicole Photography, 2nd Bridge Brewing, 8th District Distilling Co, and Georgie's Kitchen.

 
What days and times are available for events?

We offer flexible scheduling to accommodate your event needs.
Building 4: Available 7 days a week, Monday to Friday: 5:00 pm - 11:00 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 am - 11:00 pm
The Steam Boiler Room and The Penthouse: Available 7 days a week, 8:00 am - 11:00 pm
All events are scheduled in consecutive five-hour sessions, allowing for seamless setup, execution, and breakdown. This ensures a stress-free experience for you and your guests.


Is the venue handicap accessible?

Yes.  All of our spaces are fully accessible for individuals with limited mobility.  

Do you provide catering?

 No.  At Hilliard Events, we do not provide in-house catering. Instead, we have established a partnership with Cafe Aura Catering, offering you exceptional cuisine and service. Alternatively, we are happy to assist you in coordinating with a licensed caterer of your choice. Our experienced team will work closely with you and your selected caterer to ensure a seamless and memorable dining experience for you and your guests.


Do you have a preferred vendors list?  Can I use my own vendors?

At Hilliard Events, we believe in giving you the freedom to choose the vendors that best fit your vision and style. We do not require you to select from a preferred vendors list, allowing you to tailor every aspect of your event to your unique needs.  If you would like recommendations, our experienced team would be delighted to provide suggestions and guidance to help you find the perfect vendors for your special occasion.


Can I have my wedding ceremony on site?

Yes.  Hilliard Events offers picturesque settings for on-site ceremonies, tailored to accommodate gatherings of varying sizes. One of our most popular options is the lush lawn overlooking the serene Bigelow Brook.  This enchanting setting is elegantly appointed with a stunning white wedding arch and a beautiful slate aisle, creating a breathtaking backdrop for exchanging vows.


Can we provide our own food and beverages?

No.  In accordance with health department regulations, all food served at Hilliard Events must be provided by a licensed kitchen or caterer. However, we understand that traditional catering options may not suit every taste or budget.
To offer more flexibility, we allow alternative catering options, such as: Food trucks, Pizza delivery, Restaurants, Specialty food vendors
Please note that all vendors must meet the necessary health and safety requirements. Our team will be happy to guide you through the process and ensure a seamless culinary experience for your guests.

All alcohol served at Hilliard Events must be provided and served by a licensed vendor.  For your convenience, our partner, Cafe Aura Catering, offers stand-alone beverage services, including alcohol provision and serving. This option is particularly useful if you opt for non-traditional food services.