Frequently Asked Questions
Where do my guests park?
We suggest the nearby parking structure (The Dot) as a great option. It's located just one block south of us and is an easy stroll to and from our venue. The Dot’s address is 221 W. Troy St, Ferndale, MI.
Our parking map can be included with your event invitations: Parking Map
For additional information about all of downtown Ferndale’s parking options, visit Parking In Ferndale.
We also encourage event guests to download the ParkFerndale app. It's very quick and convenient to pay and reload parking right from your phone—all you need is your parking space number.
Are candles allowed?
Yes! Candles are permitted, as long as they are contained in a glass vessel, votive, hurricane, etc. All open flame must be contained or surrounded in glass.
Can I have my ceremony onsite?
Yes! There is no additional fee to have an onsite ceremony when hosting your reception at our venue, and our space is equipped with a built-in stage. Ceremonies cannot begin until our retail marketplace closes. The main event space will be set for your reception with tables and chairs, and guests will be seated during your ceremony. We cannot “flip” the room or offer traditional ceremony-style rows.
Why can’t my ceremony start until 7:15pm on Fridays/Saturdays?
Our marketplace shops are open until 7pm, and we want your ceremony to take place in a private setting without interruptions.
From 6pm - 7pm, we offer a Welcome Cocktail Hour. When your guests arrive, they can grab a drink and explore our one-of-a-kind marketplace shops. Once the marketplace closes and the building clears, your private ceremony will begin. This is a seamless transition, and your ceremony will roll right into your dinner reception.
Can I have a brunch event at The Rust Belt?
Unfortunately, we do not book brunch or daytime events Friday through Sunday. We only offer our standard evening rental for weekend dates because our marketplace is open to the public during the day.
Events taking place Friday and Saturday can begin at 6pm, and events taking place Sunday can begin as early as 5pm.
We do offer event timeline flexibility Monday through Thursday.
Is The Rust Belt ADA accessible?
Yes! Our venue is equipped with accessible restrooms and dedicated parking. Our entrance doors are spacious and there are no steps or barricades. Our oversized farm tables allow for wheelchair seating—preferably at the end or corner.
Can I bring in a wedding cake or specialty desserts?
Yes! We understand the sweets menu can be a very personalized wedding decision. While our preferred caterers have great dessert options, couples are free to coordinate a formal wedding cake, cupcakes, cookies, etc. for their reception - it’s up to you!
Please discuss details with your caterer to ensure they can provide support for set-up, cutting, and serving, as well as items such as plates, napkins, and utensils that may be needed for your sweets.
Can my event go later than 11pm?
Yes! We have a midnight extension upgrade option if you prefer to keep the party going later into the night. The extension requires an additional hour of open bar service for your guests. With midnight extension, last call is at 11:45pm, and event wrap (clean up) is from 12am to 1am.
Please inquire for details and pricing.
Can I use my own caterer or favorite restaurant?
Yes! While we strongly encourage the use of one of our partner vendors, from our Preferred Caterer list, a catering buy-out option is also available for an additional fee, if you prefer to use an outside caterer - not on our suggested vendor list. Venue approval is required prior to moving forward with your outside caterer. We want to ensure a seamless event experience for all of your guests celebrating in our space.
Do you have a bridal suite?
Yes! Our newly completed Green Room can be added to your venue rental package. We created The Green Room for our clients to use as a private space for getting ready, taking photos, and enjoying drinks with close friends.