FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

Q: What is Society 57’s main event space capacity?

A: 150 for a seated dinner reception / 200 - 250 for a cocktail style event.


Q: How large is the main event space? 

A: Our main event space features 4,000 square feet of flexible space with a custom bar and lounge, and an overhead door that opens to a Juliet balcony overlooking the Fox River. The event space and facility are fully ADA accessible. 


Q: How do rental hours work?

A: All set-up and tear-down must be completed within contracted rental hours. Rental packages are available and additional hours can be purchased as needed. 


Q: What time do events need to end by?

A: Friday and Saturday night events need to end by 12am (plus additional hour for tear-down). Sunday events need to end by 10pm (plus additional hour for tear-down). Weekday event end times vary. 


Q: What amenities are included with a rental?

A: Included with rental of our main space are use of up to 150 black metal Tolix style chairs, wifi, speakers to connect to for music, a private 400 sq. ft. preparation room for getting ready and secure storage of personal items, a private room for caterers, support from S57 event team as you plan, and Society 57 event manager and staff onsite during your event. Private use of the coffeehouse space is also included with all wedding bookings.  


Q: Do you charge extra for a wedding ceremony to precede a reception?

A: No. There is no additional charge for wedding ceremonies held prior to reception start. Details and schedule must be arranged and pre-approved by Society 57. 


Q: What type of decorations are allowed?

A: Decorations must be free-standing (flowers, balloons, etc.). ALL open flame candles must be enclosed in glass (ex: pillar candles or tea lights). Decorations NOT allowed: Anything that is affixed to walls, ceilings, doors and/or floors, nails, staples, tacks, sticky tack or wall adhesive of any type, or self-adhesive decorations (decals, signs, etc.) confetti or glitter of any kind.


Q: Do you offer any services with decorations? 

A: Services/products related to decoration needs such as table centerpieces, theming, guest favors etc. are an option as a custom add-on WITH ONE OF OUR REFERRAL PARTNERS.  


Q: Does Society 57 have in-house event catering?

A: NO, HOWEVER, WE DO WORK with preferred caterers that offer a diversity of cuisines and styles with formal, casual, custom and themed dining options; buffet, boxed lunches, stations or appetizer venues; as well as brunch, lunch and dinner menus to accommodate any budget. 


Q: Are outside caterers allowed?

A: Yes. Although we recommend using a caterer from our preferred list to ensure a quality experience, we understand clients may have their own preferences. Use of an outside caterer is also an option at Society 57. (An upcharge is applied for the use of outside caterer). 


Q: Can I bring in my own food to an event? 

A: Due to health and insurance requirements, clients are not allowed to provide their own food at Society 57 but must use an approved caterer for full-service dining or a licensed food handler for any other food brought into the facility. 


Q: Can I serve my own alcohol? 

A: All alcohol must be served by A REPRESENTATIVE OF SOCIETY 57. Clients are not allowed to serve their own alcohol at Society 57.


Q: HOW CAN I SCHEDULE A TOUR OF SOCIETY 57?

A: For more information or to schedule a tour of Society 57, please submit an Event Inquiry Form via our website at www.society57.com  to learn more. 


Q: HOW DO I RESERVE MY DATE AT SOCIETY 57?

A: To reserve your date at Society 57, signing of a Rental Contract along with a non-refundable 50% deposit (of your rental total) is required. The remaining 50% payment is due 30 days prior to your event.


Q: Is there plenty of parking near Society 57?

A: Yes, ample, affordable public parking (outdoor lots and City public parking garage) is available in the downtown Aurora area within extreme close proximity of Society 57.  


Q: Are there public transportation options near Society 57?

A: Yes, The Aurora Transportation Center/Metra station is located within .5 miles of Society 57 for easy commuter access to downtown Aurora.  


Q: Are there nearby hotels?

A: Yes, there are Numerous local hotel accommodations and Airbnb’s available with options as close as 3-5 minutes from Society 57.