Event planners FAQ
From first inquiry to final toast — we've answered a few of your most asked questions about events at Archer Hotel Old Town Alexandria. Contact one of our event hosts to plan your event.
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Event Basics
Archer Hotel Alexandria does not charge a rental fee for events in AKB — we simply require a food and beverage minimum to reserve the space. Minimums vary by room type and event duration.
- Liberty, Independence, Freedom Terrace, Living Room: Yes; price varies. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
- Independence, Living Room and Freedom Terrace may be reserved together as one space.
Not at all — guests of all ages are welcome.
Capacities vary depending on your room setup. Your event host can provide our capacity chart or you can visit our venues page for details.
Tenting is permitted on the Freedom Terrace only (not on suite terraces).
If space is available, we’ll happily relocate your event indoors. You can also reserve a backup space in advance for a room rental fee.
Food + Beverage
Yes — you’re welcome to bring in an outside cake. A $150 cake-cutting fee applies.
We don’t allow outside food or beverages, except for approved dietary or religious exceptions.
Yes — cash bar options are available.
We’re happy to provide a limited number of kosher or specialty meals. While we can’t host full kosher events, we’ll do our best to accommodate individual needs.
Absolutely! Our bar team loves to design custom cocktails inspired by your theme, favorite flavors or signature ingredients.
Yes — and there’s no price difference between passed or displayed service.
Pre-ordering menu platters, packages and beverage selections or hosting a bar on consumption all count toward the minimum.
If the minimum isn’t met, the remaining balance will be applied as a room rental charge.
We offer buffet or passed hors d’oeuvres service (no plated meals). Passed hors d’oeuvres are available at no extra fee.
Please share your final menu choices 14 business days before your event.
Yes — gratuity is included in the administrative fee, so no additional tipping is necessary.
Yes — these spaces are available with a food and beverage minimum.
No — but HomeGrown℠ is a great place for breakfast, brunch or lunch.
We don’t, but you’re more than welcome to bring your own décor.
Yes — we provide:
- Linens: black or white
- Tableware: white plates and silver flatware
- Seating: Chiavari chairs and upholstered metal-frame chairs
- Tables: banquet rounds, cocktail rounds, and rectangular tables
Atmosphere + Experience
Of course — with advance approval. Some restrictions apply, and vendors may need to sign a liability waiver. Please note: no glitter, confetti, open flames, or adhesives on walls.
You may bring or rent your own sound system or speakers. Please note, amplified music must conclude by 11 PM.
Yes — DJs are welcome with a certificate of insurance.
Yes — we partner with Take One Productions, Inc. to offer professional audiovisual services.
Yes — our on-site partner, JoyLife Spa℠, offers relaxing group packages that can be tailored to your itinerary.
Booking + Policies
Cancellation terms vary by space and are outlined in our event cancellation grid, shared at the time of booking.
A deposit is required when your event contract is signed.
Please provide your final headcount 14 days before your event.