Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is The Venue at Railfan?
A: The Venue at Railfan is a picturesque, elegant event venue (built in 1884) located in historic Downtown Cameron, Texas. The venue is 7,000 sq ft and holds up to 400 people. We also have a sister building, ideal for events up to 75 people, which also houses our spectacular Bride and Groom suites.
Q: What kind of events can be held at The Venue at Railfan?
A: Our primary focus is hosting exquisite wedding ceremonies and receptions. However, we also accommodate other special events like Quinceaneras, birthday parties, bridal showers, celebration of life, class reunions, anniversaries, vow renewals and engagement parties.
Q: What amenities do you have?
A: The Venue consists of 2 historic buildings located walking distance across the street from each other and walking distance from the Historic Cameron Downtown Square and Courthouse. The Grand Venue is 7,000 sq ft built in 1884, fully climate controlled, with 20 foot tin ceilings, elegant chandeliers, exposed brick walls and grand staircase with a second floor mezzanine that can seat up to 60 people. There is also a large catering prep kitchen with walk in refrigerator, deep freezer, ice maker, 2 ovens, 8 burner range and 3 basin sink. The facility has 4 bathrooms, 2 of which are ADA approved. The feel of the building is urban chic and can be dressed up, down or not all (the blank canvas has a great feel) depending on desired feel.
The 2nd building is the Historic Studio Building, built in 1896, which contains a 1,500 sq ft lower level, ideal for rehearsal dinners, cocktail hours, and family meet and greets prior to your event. The building also contains our stunning Bridal Suite and tasteful Groom’s Suite. The feel of the Studio is historic stucco and brick with original old growth longleaf pine floors.
Q: How many guests can The Venue at Railfan accommodate?
A: Our venue can comfortably host up to 350 guests for a seated reception with dance floor and bar area or up to 400 guests for a standing cocktail-style reception.
Q: What is the lighting like in the venue?
A: Wonderful! We have numerous full size elegant chandeliers, wall spot lighting, recessed lighting, all of which are dimmable to best create your specific ambiance.
Q: How many tables and chairs do you have?
A: We provide 200 white resin chairs, 22 round 8 seat tables and 25 rectangular 8 seat tables for your use.
Q: Does the Venue set up the tables/chairs and venue in general?
A: Our patrons have wonderful venue setup ideas. We will provide the tables and chairs (seating up to 200 - if additional seating is needed, we have partners that can rent to you) but ask that our guests set up the venue as desired.
Q: What Props do you have?
A: We have 5 wine barrels, 3 cocktail table spools, photo backdrops, 2 rolling bars, a historic piano, a wedding arch and a classic fireplace room set up.
Q: Do you provide plates, utensils, glassware and table linens?
A: We do provide white linens for $10 per table, but plates, utensils, center pieces and glassware will need to be rented elsewhere and brought in.
Q: Does the Venue provide a Wedding or Event Planner?
A: No, you will be responsible for providing your day-of planner. We will have individuals on site to support the facility on your special day, but a wedding planner, including day-of celebration management, is highly recommended.
Q: Do you provide catering?
A: Yes, we can assist from small grazing tables to full sit down meals. We can also provide other items such as charcuterie boards and mimosas in the Bridal Suite. We also recognize you may have your favorite caterer or restaurant you would like to serve so we allow outside providers as well.
Q: Can we bring our own vendors?
A: While we work with a list of preferred vendors who have a great understanding of our venue, we understand that you may have specific preferences. Please discuss your requirements with our event coordinator, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Q: What about alcohol?
A: You can bring your own, but due to Texas TABC rules, it is mandatory we provide TABC certified and insured bartenders. We charge $35 hour per bartender.
Q: Can we have both the ceremony and reception at The Venue at Railfan?
A: Absolutely! We offer a variety of indoor and outdoor spaces that can be tailored to your needs. You can have your dream wedding ceremony and reception all in one place.
Q: What are the different spaces available for our event?
A: We have two stunning event spaces: The Grand Ballroom and the historic Studio Building. Each space offers a unique ambiance, allowing you to choose what perfectly suits your style and preferences.
Q: Is there parking available for guests?
A: Yes, The Venue at Railfan provides ample complimentary parking for your guests. There is ample parking throughout the downtown square.
Q: Do you have a sound system and do you you allow live bands?
A: Yes, we have a 2 speaker sound system that DJs use for small weddings, proms and similar events. For larger events, we highly recommend your DJ brings their own speaker system. We do allow bands - they will need to bring their own sound system as well. We have plenty of power to accommodate DJ/Band setup in multiple locations through the venue.
Q: Can we have a rehearsal and/or rehearsal dinner at the venue?
A: We understand the importance of a rehearsal for a smooth wedding day. Based on availability, we can arrange a rehearsal time for you to familiarize yourself with the venue and plan all the details. We have the historic Studio Building that works well for rehearsal dinners up to 75 people for additional rental fees.
Q: Do you have rooms available for the wedding party to get ready in?
A: Yes, we have the historic Studio Building with outstanding bridal and groom suites available for you and your wedding party to prepare for the big day. These elegant and spacious suites provide a comfortable atmosphere for relaxation and pre-wedding preparations. The building also allows for pre and post wedding cocktail hours for additional rental fees.
Q: Can we have an outdoor ceremony?
A: Absolutely! Railfan and the City of Cameron offer a beautiful outdoor space in front of the courthouse that is perfect for hosting an enchanting wedding ceremony. Our picturesque Historic Courthouse backdrop provides a unique atmosphere for you and your guests to enjoy.
Q: Do you have a full catering kitchen?
A: Certainly! We have a full kitchen that includes prep tables, walk in fridge, freezer, ice maker, 3 basin sink, ovens and 8 burner range (extra fee for use of oven and range.)
Q: Are there any limitations regarding decor choices?
A: We encourage personalization and offer flexibility when it comes to decor choices. However, we do have certain guidelines in place to ensure the safety of our property and the comfort of all guests. Barbara will provide you with the necessary guidelines and assist you in creating a breathtaking ambiance.
Q: Are there accommodations available near the venue?
A: Yes, we work closely with several partner hotels that offer special rates for our clients and their guests. Barbara Dominguez can provide you with additional details and assistance in making arrangements.
Q: How do we book The Venue at Railfan for our wedding?
A: To book our venue for your special day, simply get in touch with Barbara Dominguez by email or phone. She will be delighted to provide you with all the necessary information and arrange a tour of our magnificent space.
Q: How early can we have access to the venue on the wedding day?
A: We understand the importance of preparations, and you will have access to the venue as early as 7 am the day of your event. Barbara will work with you to determine the best timeline for your needs.
Q: Do you allow photo shoots?
A: Absolutely! We want you to create and preserve incredible memories. We allow photo shoots the day of, but also encourage shoots prior to the day of your event. These shoots are included in all our packages. Please call us in advance to schedule an ideal day and time.
Q: Can we do a photo shoot if we are not having and event?
A: Of course. We have a large number of people who do photoshoots all around the exterior of our buildings, whether in front of the murals, the clad copper, the famous Cameron coke bottle or the sophisticated white background of the Studio building - Feel free to do so anytime that works best for you. If you want a photoshoot inside the buildings, we ask that you do so on Sundays between noon and 5:00, when we try to accommodate everyone. Please contact us at least a day prior to coming so we can make sure the space is not rented and all is set up for your shoot.
Q: Do you allow candles?
A: Most weddings are now using battery powered led flickering candles which we highly recommend and look extremely real. if for some reason you need burning candles, let’s discuss.
Q: What about confetti, bird seed and other exit celebration items?
A: For bride and groom exits, we cannot allow items that will create litter challenges for the city. The building is located in the downtown square, so we do all we can to ensure it looks great. We highly recommend either bubbles or sparkler for your memorable and picturesque exit.
Q: What are the payment and cancellation policies?
A: Our payment and cancellation policies are designed to provide you with flexibility and peace of mind. We will hold a date for you for 5 days and then require a 25% deposit upon official booking, and the remaining balance can be paid according to predetermined milestones. Barbara will provide you with all the details you need regarding payment and cancellation policies.
At The Venue at Railfan, we strive to create the perfect setting for your dream experience. If you have any further questions or specific inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact us. We look forward to helping you plan an extraordinary event filled with cherished memories.