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.

Harvest View Barn at Hershey Farms Wedding Venue

A private countryside estate with mountain-view ceremonies, restored barn receptions, and flexible weekend access in Central Pennsylvania.

About Heritage Restored

Heritage Restored is a private estate wedding venue located in Newville, Pennsylvania, offering mountain views of the Blue Mountain Range and a fully restored historic barn.

This family-run venue hosts a limited number of events each season (April through November) to maintain a personalized experience and one-event-per-day exclusivity.

Conveniently located:

• 5 minutes from the PA Turnpike
• 15 minutes from Route 81
• 10 minutes from overnight accommodations

Guest Capacity

Indoor ceremony space in Whitehall accommodates:

• Up to 140 seated guests

Outdoor ceremony locations vary based on layout.

The barn reception layout should be confirmed directly with the venue, depending on seating style and event setup.

Ceremony Locations

Heritage Restored offers four ceremony options:

Location #1 – Mountain Backdrop
Rolling mountain views as your ceremony backdrop.

Location #2 – Barn Exterior Backdrop
Rustic red barn siding with countryside surroundings.

Location #3 – Indoor Barn Ceremony
Large barn doors open for natural light while keeping guests covered.

Location #4 – Whitehall Venue (Indoor Backup)
Blank-canvas ceremony space with seating for up to 140 guests.

Rain backup plans are built into the layout.

Reception Spaces

The Barn Venue

• White draping throughout
• Rectangular & round reception tables
• Wooden reception chairs
• Antique ceremony chairs
• Built-in DJ area
• Designated dance floor
• Bistro lighting
• Indoor ADA restrooms

Set up and teardown of furniture and equipment are included.

Whitehall Venue

Whitehall can serve as:

• Ceremony space
• Dining for up to 60 guests
• Ceremony seating up to 140 guests
• Additional cocktail or dancing space

It includes its own bar area and restroom facilities.

Preparation Suites

Suite #1

• Two hair & makeup stations
• Lounge seating
• Circular table
• Soft pink walls
• Calm, intimate setting

Suite #2

• Pool table
• Casual atmosphere
• Lounge space

Both suites are climate-controlled.

Heritage Signature Package

Saturdays: $5,900
Fridays & Sundays: $5,500

Includes:

• Indoor & outdoor ceremony spaces
• Reception areas (indoor & outdoor)
• Preparation suites
• Cocktail areas
• Venue manager
• Parking attendants
• Rehearsal
• Preferred vendor list (not required)
• Flexible weekend schedule (Friday 12 PM setup – Sunday 10 AM teardown)

Optional Add-Ons

• Day-of coordination – $800
• Decor assembly – $400
• Trash removal – $250
• Bartenders (RAMP certified) – $250 (2 required for 120+ guests)
• Propane heaters – $85 each

Bundled discounts are available for select add-on combinations.

Policies

• Events must end by 11 PM
• Licensed & insured vendors required
• RAMP-certified bartender required for alcohol
• No open flames (LED candles allowed)
• $1,000,000 event insurance required

Who This Venue Is Best For

Heritage Restored is ideal for couples who:

• Want mountain-view photography
• Prefer one-event-per-day exclusivity
• Like flexible weekend access
• Want rustic elegance with draping included
• Value structured packages with optional coordination

Check Availability & Pricing