FAQ
Where is Willowdale Estate located?
Less than 30 miles North of Boston, Willowdale Estate is located in Topsfield, Massachusetts.
When did Willowdale Estate open?
Willowdale Estate opened on 7-7-2007 with a wedding reception.
Who owns Willowdale Estate?
Briar Forsythe-Fandetti is the owner of Bramble Hospitality which operates Willowdale Estate, Briar Barn Inn, Grove at Briar Barn Inn, and The Spa at Briar Barn Inn. We operate Willowdale Estate in partnership with the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s Historic Curatorship Program which has provided us with a long-term lease of our historic estate in return for years of restoration and rehabilitation work necessary to open and operate Willowdale Estate.
What is your capacity?
With use of our Sperry Tent from May to October our capacity is 240 guests, and within our Mansion Season from November-April, we can accommodate 125 guests.
Do you offer on-site accommodations?
There are no overnight accommodations at Willowdale Estate, but our sister property, Briar Barn Inn offers rooms and room blocks and is just 10 miles north of our location.
Does the venue host multiple weddings on a single day?
Willowdale Estate only hosts one wedding a day, and from the start of the venue rental we provide our clients exclusive access to the estate for their wedding.
Does this venue have Indoor Event Space?
Yes! Our historic estate has three large rooms for indoor events, the Great Room, Conservatory, and Dining Room. The North Wing of the estate and second-floor suites complement the larger rooms and provide additional space for weddings and events in November – April.
Does this venue have Outdoor Event Space?
Yes! From May-October couples can enjoy our beautiful Garden Courtyard, custom Sperry Tent, and full use of our 1902 Arts and Crafts-style Estate! The Garden Courtyard provides a bucolic setting for an outdoor ceremony or cocktail tables. Our Sperry Tent features a natural sailcloth canopy and smooth concrete tent flooring, it’s the perfect setting for dinner and dancing. A covered walkway connects our tent and the mansion, and floor-length clear side panels and tent heaters are included for every outdoor event.
Is there a Dressing Room on-site?
Willowdale Estate provides three large hospitality suites, each outfitted with comfortable seating, mirrors, and convenient en-suite bathrooms.
Does Willowdale Estate allow pets?
We welcome pets for the ceremony portraits if they have a dedicated attendant, and remain on a leash. Service animals are always welcome.
What is the best way to start planning an event at Willowdale Estate?
If you’d like to start planning a wedding or event just fill out the form on our website, send us an email (info@willowdaleestate.com) or give us a call during business hours at 978-887-8211.
What are your hours?
Due to our busy event schedule, tours and visits are by appointment only. Our office is open for phone calls and emails Monday – Thursday from 9 am to 5 pm and Friday – Sunday from 9 am to 3 pm.
Do we need to schedule a tour or can we just stop by?
All tours and site visits must be scheduled ahead of time. We host events and weddings every day of the week so we like to plan ahead!
Is there parking available at Willowdale Estate?
Yes, there is free parking for guests of Willowdale Estate. For weddings and larger events, parking attendants may also be included.
Does this venue allow outside catering?
Willowdale Estate includes catering and bar services for each wedding and event. If there is a special catering request outside of our expertise, we work with clients to furnish an approved alternative.
Can we bring our own wine, beer, champagne, or liquor?
No, Willowdale Estate is licensed to sell and serve your complete beverage package. All alcoholic beverages must be secured through a licensed distributor.
What does a wedding at Willowdale Estate cost?
We include a helpful pricing guide on our website. The time of year, day of the weekend, and size of the event all have an impact on the overall cost. Our Sales Team would be happy to create custom quotes based on your desired date and guest count.
What is included at a Wedding at Willowdale Estate?
Willowdale Estate includes exclusive use of our space, tables, chairs, and floor-length linen. Our event package also includes service, flatware, glassware, and a complete menu. Bar service packages are provided. An on-site coordinator is also included to assist with detailing the layout, timing, and food service.
Does this venue include an on-site coordinator?
Yes! Our event coordinators assist before the event with timing, menu selections, vendor coordination, and answering all of your questions before the event. We’ll be ready to assist with the event on your wedding day until the very last dance, and are so happy to help you celebrate!
Is the site handicap accessible?
Although our estate is over 100 years old, we have created accessible entry to all event areas first floor of the estate, and to and from our outdoor event areas. There are two accessible bathrooms on the main floor, and there are three accessible parking spaces just outside of our main entrance. If you are visiting soon and have more detailed questions, please reach out. We would be happy to help coordinate your visit!
Are there enough bathrooms? Will I need to rent bathrooms?
Willowdale Estate can comfortably host up to 240 guests without needing any additional restrooms.
What's your weather contingency plan for outdoor spaces?
Our garden courtyard is the only event space that requires a rain-plan. Each event will determine an alternative location for programming that is planned for the garden courtyard, and alternatives could include the use of our Sperry Tent or a larger room inside the mansion.