Hiring The Empress Ballroom Venue FAQS
Booking a Private Party: Frequently Asked Questions
Table Options
Q: Do you offer round and rectangular tables?
A: Yes, we offer 2- and 4-seat rectangular tables that can be combined for banquet seating. Additionally, we can accommodate over 200 guests with round tables that seat 10.
Tablecloths
Q: Do you provide tablecloths?
A: Yes, we have a large inventory of white and black tablecloths suitable for parties, weddings, and corporate events.
Chair Covers
Q: Do you provide chair covers?
A: Yes, we have a wide selection of white and black chair covers, along with various tieback colour options, perfect for parties, weddings, and corporate events.
Entertainment for Kids
Q: Can I hire a small bouncy castle for the kids from a reputable company?
A: Yes, this is a common request. Our ballroom's high ceilings and sturdy flooring make it ideal for bouncy castles.
Entertainment:
Q: Can I hire my own DJ?
A: Yes, you can hire your own DJ. Alternatively, we can recommend our resident DJ, who is local and offers reasonable rates.
Q: Can I hire live entertainment?
A: Yes, you can hire your own live entertainment, whether it’s a tribute act or a live band. We also have a built-in PA system and a lighting show available for hire to enhance your event.
Q: Do you have a big screen?
A: Yes, we offer a 4m x 3m digital big screen for hire. It’s perfect for any event, including movie screenings, memorabilia displays, auctions, presentations, and award ceremonies.
Photo Booths
Q: Can I hire a photo booth?
A: Yes, this is also a frequent request. We can refer a supplier, or you can source one yourself. We only require that the equipment is PAT tested to ensure safety.
Casino-Style Events
Q: Can I hire croupier-hosted blackjack and roulette tables?
A: Yes, our ballroom is perfect for casino-style events. The large vintage sprung dance floor adds to the ambience.
Boxing Matches
Q: Can I host a boxing match?
A: Yes, the Empress Building has a long-standing boxing and wrestling licence. We have hosted many amateur and professional boxing matches, including white-collar boxing events. Click here for more information
Event Promotions
Q: Do you rent the venue to event agents and promoters?
A: Yes, we do. For more information, please visit our dedicated webpage and download our detailed brochure for promoters. Click here for more information.
Outside Catering
Q: Can I use outside catering or cater myself?
A: The Empress Building has an on-site, 5-star-rated catering service that meets strict health and hygiene standards. For this reason, we do not permit third-party caterers to operate on the premises.
External caterers would be required to comply fully with food hygiene regulations and arrange all food waste disposal off-site, which adds significant risk and responsibility. Our kitchen and bar facilities cannot be used by third-party caterers, as this would not meet our health and safety requirements.
We strongly advise against arranging your own catering. Saving a small amount per person is not worth the potential risk to guests’ safety or the additional legal and waste disposal responsibilities involved.
Room Decoration
Q: Can I decorate the venue myself or use a third-party company?
A: The Empress Ballroom team provides the design and décor for your event as part of our service. Click here to watch a video showcasing the room designs and décor options we have available, all offered at affordable rates.
Capacity
Q: How many people does the venue cater for?
A:
Seated with Tables: 200 guests
Theatre-Style Seating: 300 guests
Standing Room: 600 guests
Ballroom Hire Fees
Q: If I hire the ballroom, is it exclusive to my party?
A: Yes, when you hire the ballroom exclusively, it is not open to the public. The entire ballroom is dedicated solely to your special occasion.
Q: How much does it cost to hire the Empress Ballroom for a private party or wedding?
A: To provide you with a tailored quote, we kindly request the estimated number of attendees for your event or party. The ballroom can be reserved with a £50 save-the-date booking fee, which is non-refundable and required at the time of booking.
Q: How much does it cost to hire the Empress Ballroom for a children's party?
A: The ballroom can be exclusively hired for a children's party at a rate of £50 per hour.
Opening Times
Q: Is the venue available for hire on weekdays?
A: Yes, the venue is available for hire seven days a week.
Q: Can I arrange a private viewing before booking the room?
A: Absolutely! We recommend that you view the room first. If you're satisfied with the service and facilities, you can then proceed to save the date.
Parking
Q: What parking options are available, and is it free?
A: There is an abundance of free parking available close to the Empress Building; see a map below.
Opening Hours
Q: What are the operating hours of the Empress Building?
A: The Empress Building in Mexborough does not have fixed operating hours, as availability depends on scheduled events and private bookings. If you would like to arrange a site visit to view the ballroom for a wedding or private function, click here. Or call 01709 803974 or WhatsApp 07432 721105
If your question isn't answered here, please call 01709 803974, WhatsApp 07432 721105 or email us at info@empressbuilding.co.uk.