FAQ

Does the Sanctuary provide tables and chairs?
Yes -- The Sanctuary has 250 white folding chairs and 30 round tables, plus an assortment of rectangular tables, 5, 6, and 8 feet in length. The round tables are 5 feet in diameter (60 inches) and normally seat 8 people.
Does the Sanctuary provide set-up?
No -- You may arrange with your caterer to set-up and decorate the building as you desire, but the Sanctuary does not provide any services other than rental of the space. You are also responsible for returning the sanctuary to the conditions you found it. Tables and chairs stacked along the wall (neatly) and trash placed in the dumpster at the back of the building.
May I decorate the building the day before the event?
No -- The Sanctuary rents the facility each and every day of the week. The Sanctuary does offer a discount price for events that require the use of the building for both a Friday and Saturday, i.e. rehearsal dinner, wedding rehearsal, or extensive decorating. Unless arrangements are made to rent the facility for both Friday and Saturday, the Friday prior to your Saturday event will probably be rented or available for rent and you will not have access to the building. Saturday access begins at 8:00 am. We highly recommend you consder renting the facility for both Fri/Sat. to decorate the day before the event.
Am I required to use a caterer recommended by the Sanctuary?
No -- There is no arrangement between the Sanctuary and any catering company. You may select your own caterer or cater yourself. You will have access to the spacious kitchen area, but the Sanctuary does not offer any food preparation facilities. The food brought into the Sanctuary must be properly prepared and served, preferably by a licensed catering service.
How do I rent the Sanctuary?
The Sanctuary holds an open house every Thursday evening from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We will tour the building with you and answer any questions you may have. A signed contract is required to hold a date. The Sanctuary does not accept credit cards; cash or preferably a check for one-half of the contract amount is due at the time the contract is signed. The balance is due 90 days prior to the event. A separate check, a security deposit, is also required 90 days prior to the event. The security check is not cashed and is attached to the contract. If after the event the building is found to be in good condition including, tables and chares folded and placed neatly along the wall of the building, the check is discarded or returned.
What events are appropriate for the Sanctuary?
The Sanctuary is a community owned, non-profit organization. The Sanctuary is located in a business/residential area of Olde Gahanna. All activities at the Sanctuary must be concluded at 12:00am (midnight), no exceptions. No loud music or announcements that would disturb adjoining neighbors is permitted. No un-chaperoned teenage events. No ticket sales to any event is permissible without the written permission of the Sanctuary Board of Trustees. The Sanctuary is intended to host weddings, receptions, family activities, business events, and numerous activities such as aerobics, karate, square dancing, reunions, church groups, yoga, children's theatre, women and men's groups. The Sanctuary does not organize these activities but works closely with the leaders of the group activities mentioned. The Sanctuary will accommodate all groups to the best of our ability at a nominal usage fee.
What parking is available?
A free public parking lot is located across the street from the Sanctuary and behind the Sanctuary. The Creekside business district on Mill Street provides an enclosed, underground parking facility within easy walking distance to the Sanctuary. All parking facilities are lighted and convenient to the Sanctuary.
Are outdoor weddings/events available at the Sanctuary?
The Sanctuary has a side yard which will accommodate outdoor weddings. Also, Gahanna has several beautiful parks for scenic outdoor events. Contact the Gahanna Parks and Recreation Department (http://www.gahanna.gov/) for information related to outdoor ceremonies.
Are there any overnight accommodations close by the Sanctuary?
Travel to any location in the Columbus area is convenient with easy access to I270 and I670. Port Columbus International Airport is adjacent to Gahanna and a short cab ride to several quality Gahanna Hotels. The Lily Stone Bed and Breakfast, managed by the Gahanna Historical Society (http://www.gahannahistory.org/) is a turn of the century four-bedroom home that rents individual rooms, or whole house rental.
Need wedding or event planning help in Gahanna?
Contact the Gahanna Convention & Visitors Bureau (http://www.visitgahanna.org/) to help with your wedding or event plans.
When can I visit the Sanctuary to view the facility?
The Sanctuary has an open house every Thursday from 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.
Does the Sanctuary accept credit card payments?
No -- checks are preferred. We also accept cash and money orders.
Can I mail in my payment?
Your initial deposit must be made during Open House at the time the contract is signed. The balace is due 90 days before the event and may be mailed to The Olde Gahanna Sanctuary, P.O. Box 30866, Gahanna, Ohio, 43230.
Am I responsible for clean up after the event?
Yes -- At the end of your event you are responsible for returning the facilities to the condition in which you found it. Tables and chairs should be stacked neatly against the walls. The trash should be placed in the outside receptacles. If you choose, the Sanctuary can provide this service for a small fee.
Does the Sanctuary provide clean up services?
Yes -- for a small fee we will carry out trash and stack the tables and chairs. Please visit us during an Open House (each Thursday 6:30 - 8:00) to discuss the details.
Do you have information about other wedding services?
Yes -- We have information on some of the businesses in the area if you are looking for a caterer, officiant, flowers, favors, centerpieces, services, DJ, or gift ideas.