·Frequently Asked Questions about Occasion Rentals

Can you give me more information about weddings at the Conservatory? We can mail you a brochure; however our web site is always being updated with new and current information. Check out the web site first and then if you still have questions or want to rent a garden, send us an email (ComoWeddings@ci.stpaul.mn.us ) or give us a call at 651-487-8250.

What is the fee? It depends on which garden you choose, the day of the week and the year. For more detailed information refer to the rental page for each individual garden.

How many people can the different gardens accommodate? The Sunken Garden holds 80-90 people standing (including the wedding party), the North Garden holds 30-35 people standing (including the wedding party), the Como Ordway Memorial Japanese Garden holds 35-40 people standing (including the wedding party), the Excedra holds 50 people standing including a bench that seats about 15 (including the wedding party).

What time of day can we rent a garden? Because we are owned and operated by the City of Saint Paul our first priority is to the general public. We are allowed to rent the facility before and after public hours only. We can rent one morning slot and two evening slots per day. Times also depend upon the season for detailed information see the rental times section.

What happens if we show up early for our rental time? The entrance to the Conservatory will remain locked until the start of your rental time. During the time we close to the public and the start of your rental time our staff will be busy cleaning and setting up for your rental. Because of this some wedding traditions, such as the bride remaining unseen before the ceremony, may be harder to pull off. Planning ahead is the key to a successful wedding.

Are there any chairs available? We provide ten chairs in the Sunken Garden and six chairs in the North Garden for your guests. We can also provide chairs for your musicians. Due to the rental time of only one hour we do not provide any chairs in the Japanese Garden or the Excedra. There are permanent benches in all of the conservatory gardens.

What if we want to schedule a rehearsal? Most wedding clients plan their ceremony at home using a map of the gardens. Others may choose to privately rent the gardens. Call the Wedding Department (651-487-8250) to book a half hour to prepare for your event.

Where do people stand and where does the ceremony take place? In the Sunken Garden clients usually hold the ceremony near the round steps at the south end. Guests normally stand along one aisle and the wedding party processes down the opposite aisle to the ceremony area. In the North Garden clients usually hold their ceremony near the backdrop at the far end of the room.

Are there places to change clothes? No, unfortunately, at this time we do not have a place to change clothes. Wedding clients and guests must come dressed and groomed.

Can we hold our reception at the Conservatory? Yes, appetizer and cocktail receptions can be held in the Conservatory. There is also space available for receptions in the Visitor Center.

Can we meet with someone from the Wedding Department and look at the gardens? You may always stop by during public hours whenever it is convenient for you to look at the gardens. If you wish to meet with someone, please call ahead (651-487-8250) and set up an appointment.