Private Event FAQ

Please refer to the Private Events Menu. Each item specifies approximately how many each will serve.

We only serve our food buffet-style.

We have water taps at each store that guests are welcome to use.

We have limited alcoholic options due to the nature of our business but you are more than welcome to bring in an outside licensed bartender and alcohol provided by them. The outside drinks need to come from an actively licensed establishment and handled fully by their staff.

Guests are welcome to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled event to set up. If you need extra time for set up or tear down, extra time may be added for an additional fee.

The store is set as it is during business hours.

Guests may minimally move around tables and chairs, but servers cannot do this for you.

After the event, we ask that all tables and chairs be as they were when you arrived. We recommend adding an additional half hour to your event time if you plan to rearrange the store.

There is an additional fee to add on time to your after hours event.

Payment is due on the day of the event when the event is over. One of the servers will assist you with payment. Guests are welcome to use cash or card.

Gratuity can be applied to your credit card payment if you prefer to add a tip that way.

Guests may bring tablecloths, centerpieces, balloons, etc., to decorate the space.

If you bring crafts, paint, or other activities that may involve messy materials, we ask that you provide a tablecloth to cover the table. Guests are responsible for ensuring that no residue, paint, glue, or other materials are left on surfaces.

You are NOT allowed to bring glitter or confetti (by itself or inside balloons).

Live-flame candles are NOT allowed.

Items hung or displayed on the walls should not leave marks, or holes or remove paint.

Failure to comply with these rules will result in a cleaning fee.

Advance notice is required when adding time to events.

We provide ceramic plates for up to 60 guests at all after hours events (does not apply to Sway or the Suite events where we only use disposable plates/cups).

Guests are welcome to arrive up to 45 minutes before their scheduled event to set up depending on what time the event begins. This will be arranged with your events coordinator.

We do NOT supply linens, audio/visual systems, microphones, whiteboards, decorations, or real glassware.

Absoutely!

We require a minimum of two servers per event, which allows up to 60 guests for a standard two hour event, and includes up to 45 minutes of setup time + 30 minutes of tear down time. 

Additional service fees apply for events over two hours in length (not including setup/teardown time) or with more than 60 guests. 

Our venue coordinator works with guests to ensure they know all the details about renting a space at McLain’s.

They will help you secure a space and date and will help build a food and beverage menu. They are not a full-service planner and do not assist with decoration, planning, or table and chair arrangements.

If you would like a full-service planner, our venue coordinator can refer you to one.