What size should a wedding cake be?

A 3-tier cake (10, 8, 6 inches) usually serves 75–100 guests. Larger weddings may need more tiers or sheet cakes.

How much does a wedding dessert table cost?

On average, dessert tables cost $3–$8 per guest depending on desserts and display setup.

What desserts are good alternatives to cake?

Cupcakes, donuts, pies, cookies, and mini tarts are fun, affordable alternatives to a traditional wedding cake.

What’s the difference between a last dance and an exit song?

The last dance is the final song on the dance floor. The exit song plays as you leave or during a sparkler or tunnel send-off. They can be the same or different.

Should we go upbeat or slow for the exit?

An upbeat song creates a big sing-along, high-energy goodbye. A slow song creates a romantic spotlight moment. Choose the vibe you want captured in your photos and video.

How long should the exit song be?

Aim for 3–4 minutes. Your DJ can start at the chorus and fade at the perfect time so it feels seamless.

Can the DJ handle clean edits and timing?

Yes. Professional DJs use clean versions, cue guests, and coordinate timing with photographers and planners so the exit feels flawless.

How much should we budget for a wedding DJ?

National averages typically range from $1,000–$1,700 depending on the source. In Washington, DC, couples commonly invest $1,600–$2,200 for full-day coverage on peak dates. Always compare all-in quotes for a fair match.

Does ceremony audio cost extra?

Usually yes. Ceremony sound often requires a second system, wireless microphones, and additional setup time. Expect an add-on of about $300–$600.

Why do big venues or multiple rooms cost more?

Larger spaces or split-room layouts may require extra speakers, microphones, cabling, or an additional system for cocktail hour. More coverage means more gear, setup time, and labor.

What hidden wedding DJ costs should we watch for?

Common add-ons include overtime, travel/mileage, extra systems for additional rooms, dance lighting or uplighting, photo booth services, and peak-season premiums. Ask for a line-item breakdown.

What’s included in professional DJ pricing?

Typically: ceremony audio, cocktail-hour system, reception system, wireless mics for toasts, basic dance lighting, setup/teardown, backup equipment, and planning/prep (timeline review, music pulls, coordination).

Are wedding DJ prices negotiable?

Pros may adjust based on hours or off-peak dates, but established companies usually maintain set pricing to reflect labor, experience, and reliability.

What’s the difference between a cheap DJ and a professional DJ?

Lower-cost DJs may lack backup gear, insurance, MC skills, or timeline management. Professionals bring reliability, polished MC work, and the experience to keep energy and flow on track.

Do DJs charge for setup and teardown?

Most professionals include setup and teardown in their quotes. If it’s not specified, request that it be detailed in writing.

Do DJs bring their own lights?

Basic dance-floor lighting is often included. Uplighting or specialty effects are usually available as add-ons.

How do travel fees work for DJs?

Many DJs include travel within a local radius (e.g., 30–50 miles). Beyond that, mileage or flat travel fees may apply; confirm the details in your quote.

How far in advance should we book our DJ?

Peak Saturdays can book 12–18 months ahead. If you want better availability or pricing, consider Fridays, Sundays, or off-season dates.

How can we save on DJ costs without cutting corners?

Consider off-peak dates, trim coverage hours if your timeline allows, and ask about package pricing when bundling services like DJ plus lighting.

DuCar Farm Wedding Venue | Chambersburg, PA

Venue ReviewWedding Venues

Apr 21

Written By John Sawyers

12 Acres of Historic Farmland & Restored Limestone Barn

DuCar Farm

https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/wedding-venue/DuCar-Farm-185163263001906

123 Kauffman Rd E, Chambersburg, PA 17202

Get a QUICK Quote!

DuCar Farm Wedding Venue in Chambersburg, PA

DuCar Farm is a 1700s historic farm wedding venue located in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, in Franklin County. The property sits on 12 acres of scenic farmland and features a beautifully restored limestone barn alongside a charming farmhouse and open countryside views.

For couples looking for a rustic, countryside wedding venue with personal attention and hands-on support, DuCar Farm offers a private and intimate setting just outside town.

All images provided by Rinehart Photography

DuCar Farm a photo of exterior of grounds and buildings

DuCar Farm a photo of the outside of the farm house

The Setting

DuCar Farm is known for:

12 acres of rolling farmland
A restored limestone barn
A historic farmhouse with front porch photo opportunities
Open outdoor ceremony space
A relaxed rural atmosphere

The combination of stone, wood, and open landscape creates a classic Pennsylvania barn wedding backdrop.

Ceremony & Reception Space

The limestone barn serves as the primary event space and has been used for both ceremonies and receptions, allowing couples to keep their celebration in one central location.

Outdoor lawn space provides additional ceremony flexibility, weather permitting.

Because the venue does not maintain a detailed public website, couples should confirm specifics such as:

Maximum guest capacity
Climate control in the barn
Included tables and chairs
Vendor policies
Rain backup plans

Ownership & Personalized Support

One of the most consistent themes in reviews of DuCar Farm is the personal involvement of ownership and staff.

Couples frequently mention:

Owners Tammy and Sam are organized and personable
On-site coordination support
Assistance with setup and teardown
Hospitality and hands-on help throughout the day

Venue coordinator Christina Dull has also been specifically praised in reviews for helping manage details leading up to the wedding day and assisting with logistics during the event.

That level of involvement is something many couples value in privately owned farm venues.

DuCar Farm a photo of wedding ceremony set up

DuCar Farm a photo of wedding guests at barn for cocktail hour

Guest Experience & Photo Opportunities

Reviewers consistently highlight:

The barn is a beautiful ceremony and reception space
The farmhouse front porch is a perfect photo setting
The grounds provide scenic backdrops for wedding portraits

The 12-acre property offers flexibility for couples who want a relaxed, countryside aesthetic rather than a ballroom or hotel setting.

DuCar Farm a photo of guests at an ice cream truck

Planning Insight for Barn Weddings

Rustic farm venues like DuCar Farm benefit from thoughtful planning around:

Guest flow between the outdoor ceremony and the indoor reception
Clear timeline transitions
Sound coverage for the ceremony and reception
Lighting once daylight fades

With farm properties, especially, coordination and clear announcements help maintain energy and prevent guests from feeling unsure about where to gather next.

Why Couples Choose DuCar Farm

DuCar Farm appeals to couples who want:

A historic, rural Franklin County setting
A privately owned venue with personal involvement
A restored limestone barn
A countryside ceremony backdrop
A more intimate, hands-on wedding experience

Planning a Wedding at DuCar Farm?

If DuCar Farm is on your shortlist and you want your ceremony and reception to feel organized, smooth, and energetic from start to finish, thoughtful planning of music, timing, and transitions makes a significant difference.

Check DJ availability & pricing

DuCar Farm a photo of wedding guests inside the barn

DuCar Farm a photo of guests dancing at wedding

DuCar FarmDuCar Farm WeddingsChambersburg PA Wedding VenueFranklin County Wedding VenueRustic Wedding Venue PABarn Wedding VenueOutdoor Ceremony VenueFarm Wedding VenueHistoric Farm Wedding

John Sawyers