Create your own history in our
timeless setting
Experience your special day at one or both of our exclusive venues, The Shaffner Inn and Summit Street Inns. The choices are endless. Begin with an enchanting outdoor ceremony in the courtyard of Summit Street Inns, followed by a memorable reception indoors at The Shaffner Inn. Should you desire to explore alternative venue locations within our inns, the option is at your disposal; our venues can be combined seamlessly. Whether you’re planning an intimate affair or a spectacular occasion, Winston-Salem Historic Inns delivers the setting, services, and sophistication you’re seeking.
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Venue Details
The Shaffner Inn
The Shaffner Inn, a Tudor masterpiece steeped in history, offers versatile venue options including an enclosed wraparound porch, parlor, dining room, back patio, and banquet room. Experience the charm of the entire house with 8 inviting guest rooms, perfect for the bridal party, family, or friends.
Venue Details
Summit Street Inns
Discover 10 exquisite guest rooms between the late Victorian charm of the two-story Ludlow House with original stained glass and the grandiose two-story brick residence of the Sheppard House boasting eclectic style. Enjoy stunning wrap-around porches for a delightful cocktail hour or the hardscape between the houses, perfect for ceremonies, receptions, and dancing the night away under the majestic oaks or a stately tent adorned with twinkling lights.
Catering Services
Our dedicated catering team is committed to working within your budget to create a personalized culinary experience that delights your guests and caters to a range of tastes ranging from hot and cold appetizers to a full-course, sit-down meal.
Testimonials
The Winston-Salem Historic Inns Staff were incredibly helpful and accomodating and I couldn’t ask for a better dayrunning team. Absolutely blew me away how perfectly everything turned out!”
– A Winston-Salem Historic Inns Satisfied Bride
Resources
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Wedding FAQs
General Wedding Day FAQ’s
How many weddings are hosted at one time?
We have the flexibility and space to host more than one wedding at a time, however, we choose to focus on one wedding at a time. Whether you choose a micro wedding, an intimate wedding with a small number of family and friends, or a larger wedding, your special day is our priority.
What is included in the Ceremony/Reception Set-up fee for a micro wedding?
- Five-Hour Event at The Shaffner Inn
- One-Hour Ceremony / Celebration
- Padded Folding Chairs for The Ceremony
- Seating for up to 40 guests
- Quaint Cocktail Reception with Signature Drink & Hors D’oeuvres Dinner Service
- In-House Chef & Bartender
- Champagne Toast
- Designated Dance Area, Wedding Cake Cutting
- Set Up, Clean Up, and Breakdown
What is included in the Ceremony / Reception Set-up fee for a larger wedding?
- One Hour Ceremony Time / Five Hours of Event Time
- Distinguished Vendor Referrals
- Padded Folding Chairs for The Ceremony set at The Shaffner Inn or Summit Street Inns based on the number of guests
- Water Station
- Reception Cocktails, Dinner & Dancing
- Round Tables with White or Ivory Floor Length Linens
- In-House Chef & Bartender
- Designated Dance Area, Wedding Cake Cutting
- Set Up, Clean Up, and Breakdown
How many people can you accommodate for a wedding?
We can host up to 120 guests.
What are the time frames for weddings?
Your site fee includes 5 hours of event time.
How much time is allowed for decorating, setup and cleanup?
Our team will work alongside your vendors; together we will handle all setup and clean up including décor, food, beverage, chairs, tables, and set-ups. The time needed will be discussed based on the décor provided.
What is needed to book a wedding experience at the Winston-Salem Historic Inns?
We will need a signed contract and a minimum 50% non-refundable deposit to secure your wedding day.
How do we rehearse for the wedding?
We will work with you and/or your wedding planner to fine-tune the needs for rehearsal.
How do we book guest rooms? Is there a discount offered?
There are several options for overnight accommodations, and we will work with you for the best pricing, based on availability. Together, our three Inns offer 18 beautifully appointed guest rooms with a complimentary brunch each morning at Founders Restaurant at The Shaffner Inn. Once you have contracted for your event, we do not accept other reservations on your dates if you choose to book our guestrooms. You will have the exclusivity of the historic houses for you and your guests as long as no prior bookings have been made for your selected dates. Our central location allows for flexibility with other local AirBnBs and hotels in close proximity.
What happens if it rains?
Picture you and your fiance surrounded by family and friends. The candles are lit, and the music plays softly in the background. Everyone is dry and settled in for your nuptials at our beautiful Shaffner Inn. If time and budget permits, tenting the ceremony location is a beautiful opportunity.
Do you offer a “ready room” for the bridal party?
It would be our pleasure to offer a getting-ready space for all guests staying onsite.
Is there a charge for parking?
Parking is limited at each property, however, there is ample free parking just across the street for all properties.
What do you charge for additional events, like a rehearsal dinner, a welcome reception, or post-wedding brunch?
We do have a minimum set-up fee of $1,500 for each additional private event.
Catering, Vendor, & Decorations FAQs
Do you have preferred outside catering & beverage vendors?
Winston-Salem Historic Inns handles all catering and beverage needs, excluding the wedding cake.
Can we bring in outside vendors?
Yes, however, we recommend you choose from our list of distinguished vendors. If you choose to use a vendor who has not worked with us in the past, we will need to vet and approve in advance. Insurance will also need to be in place.
Do we need an onsite Wedding Planner?
An on-site certified Wedding Planner is required. Our Event Planner will be on-site to coordinate all things with all vendors for the big picture. Your Wedding Planner will handle the fine details including making sure everyone is ready to walk down the aisle, along with decorations, favors, and personal item clean-up, and ensure everything runs smoothly and on time. We are happy to suggest qualified Wedding Planners for your special day.
Do you allow live music, bands, or DJs on the premises?
Yes, we are open to a discussion of your preferences; many couples use a combination of live music as well as DJ service for their special day to add diversity to entertainment.
Paperwork & Details FAQs
When do you require the final head count?
The final numbers are due 14 business days prior to the event.
What is the deadline for making changes?
With the exception of final guest count (which is due 14 business days prior to your event) all requested changes are due 30 days prior to your event date.
When are deposits and payments due?
A non-refundable 50% deposit is due when signing the contract to book & hold the venue for your special day. (A payment schedule will be put in place to ease the large payment at 90 days) 90 days prior to the event, 90% of all estimated charges are due. 30 business days prior to the event, 100% of the estimated charges are due and 15 business days prior to the event, 100% of the guaranteed charges are due. Any difference in charges will be settled within 24 hours after event.
How do we obtain a certificate of insurance?
First, contact your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance provider and ask them if they will allow you to add a One Day Special Event Insurance Certificate to your policy. If not, visit www.nasep.org or www.eventinsure.com and follow the steps to obtain your policy.
