FAQ

Booking and Payments

How do I reserve my event date?

To secure your date, a $250 non-refundable booking fee is required. Availability is based on our event calendar.

Is there a payment plan?

Yes! The booking fee is due upfront, and you’re welcome to make payments toward your remaining balance. The total balance is due by the day of your event.

Can I tour the space before booking?

Absolutely. While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure a manager or event coordinator is available to assist you and answer your questions.

Press Play & Picture Your Event at Bella Vino

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X3bMoW5U0xk

Capacity and Setup

How many guests can Bella Vino accommodate?
We can seat 60+ guests for a formal, seated dinner. For a cocktail-style event, we can host up to 100 guests comfortably.

What is included in the rental?

Rental time: Hourly or package rentals from 3-4 hours to all day events (additional time available for purchase)
Seating: Round and rectangular tables with chairs
Linens: Standard black linens provided; white linens available by special request
Bathrooms: Two private restrooms
Free WIFI and HDMI TV hookup, private sound system, Bluetooth speaker & microphone access
Set-up time: Access begins up to 2 hours before your event

Do you host rehearsal dinners or ceremonies?
Yes! We’d love to host your rehearsal dinner or ceremony in addition to your reception.

Does the rental cost change if my ceremony is held elsewhere?
We customize every event based on your specific needs. The package price selected still applies to ensure flexibility and value for all parties.

Are we allowed to bring in our own DJ or live music?
Entertainment: Providing optional entertainment is the sole responsibility of the guest and must be approved by Bella Vino. Entertainment is required to stay within certain volume limits and avoid disturbing other functions. Please inform the venue coordinator before your event what vendor services need to be accounted for, for example…. DJ, live music, photo booths, florist or cake deliveries.

Are weddings for non-denominational or same-sex couples welcome?
Absolutely. All love is welcome at Bella Vino.

Food & Beverage

Can we bring our own food?
Yes, you're welcome to provide your own food. Discuss with the venue coordinator which package suits your needs as a few packages are built to include catering from Six Hundred Downtown.

Is there a bar?
Yes! We provide a fully stocked on-site bar tailored to your preferences.

Can we bring our own alcohol?
No outside alcohol is permitted. However, we'll work with you to ensure the bar is stocked with what your party wants.

Are non-alcoholic drinks available?
Yes, we offer a variety of non-alcoholic options including water, tea, lemonade, and Pepsi products.

Vendos & Decor

Can we bring in our own vendors?
Six Hundred Downtown, known for its world-famous brick oven pizza is our primary catering choice since we are located directly in the back of the restaurant. We provide buffet style service of all our menu selections. https://600downtown.com/

You’re more than welcome to bring in your own caterer, or choose from some of our local favorites, including:

For brunch events or coffee service, we love recommending:

Flower Vendors and Local Sweets:

Can we decorate the venue ourselves?
Yes—with a few guidelines:

No nails, glue, or strong adhesives (Scotch tape is fine)
No open flames (flameless candles only)
No fog or smoke machines
No glitter or confetti
Flower petals are allowed

Are sparklers, fireworks, or lanterns allowed?
Only faux flame options are permitted for safety.

Policies & Restrictions

What is your alcohol policy?
Yes, Bella Vino offers a fully customizable on-site bar, which can be stocked with your preferred beer, wine, and spirits. We’ll work with you to ensure the bar reflects your tastes and event style. We also provide a variety of non-alcoholic options, including water, unsweetened or sweet tea, lemonade, and Pepsi products, to keep all guests refreshed.

Alcohol Policy:

Absolutely no outside alcohol is permitted on The Maxwell premises. If outside alcohol is found, your guest will be asked to remove it or may be asked to leave.
Our licensed bartenders reserve the right to refuse service to anyone who appears overly intoxicated.
Last call will be made 15 minutes before your official event end time to ensure a smooth and responsible close to the evening.

We’re committed to providing a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests while meeting your beverage service needs.

What is your cleanup policy?
All personal materials, equipment, decorations, etc… must be removed by the end of your scheduled event time. Violation of these rules may result in a minimum assessment of $250 and/or an additional damage/cleaning fee.

Damages: The event host will be responsible for any damages or loss to Bella Vino property, equipment, decorations or fixtures due to the actions of the attendees of the event.

Pictures will be taken of venue before and after every event to track any damages that happen during the event
Bella Vino is not responsible for any damaged, lost or stolen items. Items found will be held for up to fifteen calendar days after the event.

Cancellation Policy:

All cancellations must be submitted in writing by the Client.
If your event needs to be postponed due to an emergency, it may be rescheduled without penalty on a space-available basis, at the sole discretion of The Maxwell.
Cancellations within 30 days of the event that do not meet the emergency policy will not receive a refund of the initial $250 booking fee.
If approved, the Security Deposit may be transferred to a rescheduled date.

Is smoking permitted?
Smoking is not permitted inside the venue. Guests are more than welcome to smoke outside the main entrance as long as all cigarette remnants are discarded accordingly.

Do you allow pets?
Only service animals are permitted.

Is parking available?
Yes, there is a large community lot directly behind Bella Vino, plus additional lots within walking distance.

Can cars be left overnight?
You may leave a vehicle at your own risk. While cars have been left overnight without issue, parking is subject to city regulations, and we cannot guarantee enforcement outcomes.

Overnight Accommodations

What area hotel options exist and what Airbnbs are available in walking distance?

There are several convenient lodging options available near Bella Vino to accommodate your guests. The Cobblestone Hotel & Suites offers locations in Bellefontaine, Indian Lake, and Urbana, all within a short drive from the venue and ideal for out-of-town guests seeking comfort and convenience.

In addition, there are a number of local Airbnbs within walking distance, providing charming and unique stays for couples, families, or small groups.

These nearby options are perfect for those who prefer a more home-like setting during their visit.

We’re happy to provide a curated list of nearby accommodations upon request to help make planning easier for you and your guests.

Have more questions? We’d love to hear from you!
Contact Us to start planning your unforgettable event at Bella Vino: Events & Wine Room.