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.

Pheasant Run Farm Bed and Breakfast - Venue Review

Venue ReviewWedding Venues

Dec 18

Written By John Sawyers

Historic Stone Barn Weddings with a Waterfall Ceremony Backdrop

Pheasant Run Farm Wedding Venue in Lancaster, PA

Pheasant Run Farm Bed & Breakfast is located at 200 Marticville Road in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.

The property includes a stone farmhouse built in 1842 and sits on 48 acres of preserved Central Pennsylvania farmland.

The restored stone bank barn, originally constructed in 1809, was renovated beginning in 1998 and completed in 2002. The restoration received the Adaptive Re-Use Award from the Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County.

This venue specializes in smaller, intimate weddings with a strong historic character.

Guest Capacity

Pheasant Run Farm is ideal for:

Up to 100 guests

The layout is best suited for:

Intimate receptions
Garden ceremonies
Rehearsal dinners
Anniversary celebrations
Smaller gatherings

There is no minimum guest requirement.

Outdoor image of Pheasant Run Farm, Lancaster PA.

Bride with a horse at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

Ceremony Location

The most popular ceremony site is located beside the property’s waterfall.

Guests gather beneath mature trees, creating a naturally shaded and intimate ceremony setting. The waterfall provides both a scenic and peaceful backdrop.

This is one of the most recognizable ceremony settings in Lancaster County for smaller weddings.

Reception Space – The Pheasant Room

The main reception area is the Pheasant Room, located on the ground floor of the restored stone bank barn.

Features include:

Exposed stone walls
Brick terrace overlooking the barnyard garden
View of the meadow pergola
Kitchen access
Two powder rooms

The terrace space allows for a cocktail hour outdoors before moving inside for dinner and dancing.

Bridal Suite & Accommodations

A bridal suite is available for preparation.

The newlyweds may also stay overnight in the same room following the reception.

As a Bed & Breakfast, the venue offers lodging options for guests, creating a relaxed countryside wedding experience.

First Dance at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

Bride and groom dancing at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

Pricing Overview

Starting Site Fee: $4,100

Included in the starting fee:

Parking
Chairs
Tables
Bridal suite My Blog

Peak Season:
May | June | September | October

Off-Peak Season:
January–April | July | August | November | December

Couples should confirm current pricing directly with the venue.

Why Couples Choose Pheasant Run Farm

✔ 48 acres of farmland
✔ Historic 1809 stone bank barn
✔ Waterfall ceremony backdrop
✔ Intimate 100-guest capacity
✔ Brick terrace for cocktail hour
✔ Award-winning barn restoration
✔ Lancaster countryside setting

This venue is not built for 200+ guest weddings.
It shines in intimate celebrations with strong rustic charm.

Bride and groom kissing at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

Waterfall wedding ceremony at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

Ceremony at the waterfall at Pheasant Run Farm, Lancster PA.

DJ & Reception Planning Notes

Because this is a smaller stone barn:

• Sound must be balanced carefully to avoid echo
• Outdoor waterfall ceremonies require directional speakers
• Brick terrace cocktail hour benefits from separate sound zones

Intimate venues demand thoughtful audio planning to maintain atmosphere without overpowering the space.

Check DJ Availability for Your Pheasant Run Farm Wedding