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.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens Wedding Guide | Gordonville, PA

Venue ReviewWedding Venues

Aug 8

Written By John Sawyers

Historic 1820 Grand Barn & Tobacco Barn in Lancaster County (Up to 175 Guests)

A historically preserved farmstead featuring two restored barns, private wedding gardens, and full-service coordination in the heart of Lancaster County.

About Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens is located at:

3716 E Newport Rd, Gordonville, PA 17529

(717) 768-8801

The property dates back to the 1700s and was preserved as a historic homestead when it opened for weddings in 2014.

It is known as the only historically preserved wedding barn venue in the tri-state area.

The venue is owned and operated by members of the Stoltzfus family, maintaining its heritage while offering full wedding services.

Guest Capacity

Grand Barn (Reception): Up to 175 guests
Tobacco Barn (Ceremony): Up to 175 guests
Wedding Gardens: Up to 175 guests

This venue is ideal for mid-size weddings under 175 guests.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens exterior of barn.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens exterior at night.

Ceremony Locations

Couples may choose from:

Tobacco Barn

Built in the late 1800s and recently restored.
White beams, antique hardware, hinged panels, and open louvers create a distinctive ceremony setting.

Wedding Gardens

Private garden setting bordering the Tobacco Barn.
Lush landscaping and secluded ceremony atmosphere.

Meadow Garden

Rustic garden setting bordering the Grand Barn.

Indoor ceremony backup available.

Reception Space – The Grand Barn

Built in 1820
Over 3,600 square feet of floor space
35-foot high rafters
Ivory ceiling draping
Chandelier lighting

The barn blends preserved historic craftsmanship with elegant event enhancements.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens exterior of grounds.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens bride and groom in the courtyard.

Outdoor Lounge & Courtyard

The property includes:

Outdoor lighted courtyard with fire area
Pub-style outdoor lounge Venue Website
Lawn game area
Wood-burning fire
Vintage camper photo booth space Venue Website

This creates a strong cocktail hour and guest flow between the ceremony and reception.

Bridal & Groom Suites

Included with the package:

Carriage House Bridal Room
Pond Side Groom’s Room with deck

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens indoor wedding ceremony.

What’s Included

The Traditional Wedding Package includes:

Exclusive use of Grand Barn & Tobacco Barn
Wedding Gardens
One-hour rehearsal
Experienced wedding consultant (unlimited calls + 30-day consultation)
Site hosts all day
Additional event staff (6 hours)
Tables and chairs
Garden benches for the ceremony
Heating and cooling units
Elegant draping and lighting
High-top tables for cocktail hour
Fully furnished restrooms
On-site parking + attendants

Catering and Vendors

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens offers wedding catering services with various menu options. Couples can work with the venue's preferred caterer, John Lowe, who specializes in custom menus featuring everything from on-trend, contemporary dishes to romantic classics presented as action stations, buffets, family-style, or plated meals. Tastings are available to ensure that couples are satisfied with their selections. Place settings are included, and linens can be added through Stoltzfus Homestead and Gardens.

In addition to catering, Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens provides a preferred vendor list for other wedding services, including photographers, florists, DJs, and more. Couples can work with vendors from this list or bring in their vendors if the venue approves them. The preferred vendor list is a helpful resource for couples looking for reliable and experienced professionals to help make their wedding day successful.

Food is essential to any wedding, and Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens understands this. The venue's catering services and preferred vendor list provide couples with various options, ensuring their wedding day is as delicious as beautiful.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens bride and groom in front of barn.

Traditional Wedding Package Pricing

2026 & 2027 May, June, Sept, Oct & Nov

Friday: $8,300
Saturday: $8,900
Sunday: $8,300

2026 & 2027 April, July & August

Friday: $6,900
Saturday: $7,500
Sunday: $6,900

All-Inclusive Boutique Package

Starting at:

$12,000

Includes additional curated elements for couples seeking a more streamlined planning experience.

Optional Add-Ons

Available upgrades include:

Floral/design packages
Courtyard evening fire
S’mores bar
Unique props & accessories
Handcrafted sweetheart table
Additional onsite services

Catering & Vendors

The venue strongly encourages couples to use their onsite services and partner vendors for seamless execution.

Outside vendors may require approval.

Stoltzfus Homestead & Gardens interior of barn.

Why Couples Choose Stoltzfus Homestead

Historically preserved 1820 barn
Private ceremony gardens
Strong coordination support
Family-owned venue
Structured planning process
Lancaster County location
Indoor/outdoor flexibility

It offers a structured, well-managed wedding environment with preserved historic character.

DJ Planning Tips for Stoltzfus Homestead

Because ceremony and reception may occur in separate barns and gardens:

• Dedicated ceremony sound is essential for garden settings
• Tobacco Barn acoustics require balanced speaker placement
• High rafters in the Grand Barn benefit from distributed sound
• Courtyard cocktail coverage improves guest flow

Historic barns require intentional audio planning to maintain clarity without overpowering the space.

Check DJ Availability & Pricing

Stoltzfus Homestead & GardensStoltzfus Homestead WeddingGordonville PA Wedding VenueLancaster County Wedding VenueHistoric Barn WeddingPennsylvania Barn Wedding175 Guest Wedding VenueGarden Ceremony VenueRustic Elegant Wedding VenueTri-State Wedding Venue

John Sawyers