Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

pbranch Posted: Jun 21, 2011 08:10 PM

Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

Hi Ladies! Does anyone have any experience working with the Sands Point Preserve for their RH? My FH and I visited two weekends ago and fell in love, however I'm a bit concerned about their level of professionalism/ business continuity. The House is run by a nonprofit, and It seems as if they are highly disorganized. I'm always dealing with different contacts whenever I call, no one has a direct line and this week their phone lines are down. In any other instance I would see these as red flags to choose another venue, but we love the house so I was hoping that someone could share their experience to confirm or advise me that this is atypical.

Thanks in advance!

Tink1118 Posted: Jun 22, 2011 08:44 AM

Re: Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

I believe, that when you get married at the Hempstead House you only use the not-for-profit for the site fee. You then work with an outside caterer who will handle the majority of the contact with the location.

Keep in mind, that on top of the site fee and catering per plate, you must pay for all rentals (tables, chairs, linens, plates, forks, knives, spoons, serving pieces etc...) which can add up quickly.

It's been a while since I was looking but I believe Philip Stone Caterers, and Lessings were two companies that were allowed to cater there. I would start by calling one of them and setting up an appointment.

HTH!

fdnybride163 Posted: Jun 22, 2011 08:57 AM

Re: Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

i used to work for an off premise caterer and we did events there. It is a little chaotic, but its a beautiful place. HOWEVER, you have to plan everything down to the staff, rentals, lighting, etc.

and there is not AC/ Heat so make sure you are picking a good time of year!

FM me if you have more questions

pbranch Posted: Jun 30, 2011 07:37 PM

Re: Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

Thanks ladies! I am aware of the site fees, and I assumed that I would be able to make it all work out. However, dealing with an unresponsive venue( who has yet to return my calls on a follow up visit) has turned me off. FH and I are going to book at a lessing's venue instead.

fdnybride163 Posted: Jun 30, 2011 08:24 PM

Re: Hempstead House/ Sands point preserve for RH- Help!

they arent much better! i tried and tried to get information for the bourne mansion and vanderbuilt... they kept sending me a blanket email that was saying the same thing. I didnt want to call bc i was at work, i also wanted an email to keep for my records so i could refereance it