Rutherford House Provincial Historic Site

Wedding parties are encouraged to supply their own caterer, as there is no in-house catering.

Self-catering (i.e., homemade food is also permitted)

We allow wedding parties to supply their own alcohol for their special day!

Our pricing breakdown is as follows:

Booking rates include full access to the public areas of the Rutherford House and its grounds for up to three (3) hours, along with 30 minutes of setup and teardown at the beginning and end of your event. Our event staff will be responsible for setting up all tables, chairs, linens, and the bar area (if required).

If additional hours are needed, we can add them at a rate of $150 per hour. If additional hours are requested after the booking has been finalized, the rate will be $200 per hour, and will be subject to the availability of the House and event staff.

Civil Ceremony: $400.00 (plus GST)

This booking package can accommodate up to 20 guests for either a standing indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony, along with time for photographs. You will be allotted up to two (2) hours for the ceremony and photographs. Seating will be provided for guests who require it.

Ceremony Only: $600.00 (plus GST)

This booking package can accommodate up to 55 guests for either a standing indoor or outdoor wedding ceremony, along with time for photographs. A 30-45 minute wedding rehearsal is also included in the rate, and must be booked in advance. Seating will be provided for guests who require it.

Reception Only: $800.00 (plus GST)

This booking package provides for two options:

1. Up to 20 guests for a formal sit-down dinner. As Rutherford House currently has no food services, clients must arrange their own catering. Any potential caterers must arrange a walkthrough with museum staff prior to the event.

2. Up to 55 guests for a cocktail reception. Cocktails will be limited to the main floor. This also includes set-up and tear down, linens, and assistance from our event coordinator. Again, as Rutherford House currently has no food services, clients must arrange their own catering. Any potential caterers must arrange a walkthrough with museum staff prior to the event.

Complete Wedding: $1000.00 (plus GST)

This ultimate wedding package can accommodate up to 55 guests for the ceremony, and either 20 guests for a formal sit-down dinner reception or 55 guests for a cocktail reception. As Rutherford House currently has no food services, clients must arrange their own catering. Any potential caterers must arrange a walkthrough with museum staff prior to the event.

This also includes setup and tear down, linens, and assistance from our event coordinator. A 30-45 minute wedding rehearsal is also included in the rate, and must be booked in advance.

How far in advance do we need to book?

We suggest booking events at least six months in advance. This allows us time to properly plan your event, and provides more likelihood that your requested date will be available—especially during peak seasons. Approvals are granted by onsite Government of Alberta representatives, and a contract will need to be signed to finalize the booking.

Do you provide catering and bar services?

No. As Rutherford House currently has no food services, clients must arrange their own catering. Any potential caterers must arrange a walkthrough with museum staff prior to the event.

Is a liquor license required?

No. Clients must arrange their own liquor license, as well as a Proserve certified server. Any potential caterers must arrange a walkthrough with museum staff prior to the event.

What services will we be responsible for?

Rutherford House provides use of the house, along with setup and tear down of tables, chairs and linens. Music, photography, additional décor and any AV equipment you may require are your responsibility.

Can we decorate?

Yes, but there are restrictions, which are provided in depth on the Guidelines page of this pamphlet.

Is seating available for the ceremony?

Because of the set-up of the house, seating indoors is limited to only those who may require it. Outdoor ceremonies are also standing because of the garden beds and limited spacing, with seating available only to those who require it.

Can we get ready at the house?

We recommend getting hair and makeup done prior to coming to the house. However, there are two staging rooms available for the bride and groom, if needed.

Is dancing allowed?

The bride and groom may honour their nuptials with a traditional first dance, but because the house is a historical site with many artifacts, further dancing is not permitted.

Is the house wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the house has a handicap parking stall in front of the house which connects to a ramp that leads to the front entrance. We have an elevator inside the house that can take guests to and from the public washrooms.

Please note the following:

• Candles are prohibited.

• All dark red/purple beverages, including red wine, Rosé and grape juice are not allowed.

• Smoking, including vaping, is not allowed inside the house, and only in designated areas. Smoking cannabis onsite is strictly prohibited.

• Gum and tobacco chewing is also prohibited.

• Alcohol is prohibited outside the house as well as in the gardens.

• Pets are not allowed in the house or in the gardens.

• Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.

• Aerosol or spray aftershave, perfume or cologne must be applied before entering the house.

• The following decorations and materials are prohibited: glitter, confetti, flower petals, streamers, potpourri, sparklers, sand, rice, and asparagus fern.

• To secure any décor, please refrain from using tape, staples, wire, nails, tacks, glue, or similar damaging materials.

• String and ribbon are permitted, though we recommend discussing all décor arrangements with the House event coordinator prior to your event.

• Only the House Personnel can use or handle house furnishings, equipment, and/or artifacts, including blinds and drapes.

• Due to the volume of artifacts in the house, dancing is not allowed.

•  Photos cannot be used for commercial purposes without prior written consent of Alberta Culture.

• House Personnel reserves the right to restrict the photographing of certain artifacts, so if you are unsure, just ask.

• House Personnel also reserves the right to prohibit access to areas of the house such as the attic, offices and gift shop.

Any violation of the House Regulations and Guidelines will result in the immediate termination of the contract and cancellation of the event.