Caterers and/or bartenders are required to take all trash, compostable materials, and recycling at the end of the event. Due to the historic nature of the home, we do not have a dumpster on site. Failure to remove all trash will result in loss of security deposit.
Who is responsible for trash removal?
Event liability is required of every couple hosting an event at Old Lystra Inn. This policy can help protect you if you, your guests, or someone you hire is injured at or as a result of your event. We require that Old Lystra Inn be added as additionally insured. To make this easy, we recommend going to eventhelper.com, wedsure.com or another reputable online source to get a quote and to purchase online. The price is based on your guest count and typically runs less than $175. Though it is not required, Old Lystra Inn also recommends that you consider adding cancellation insurance to your policy.
What is an event liability policy and why do I need it?
Yes. To make sure your day goes flawlessly, we require the use of professional event coordinating services. Coordinators must be insured, attend 30 day meetings and sign off on our “coordinator expectations” so that we are all on the same page regarding their responsibilities both to you and to Old Lystra Inn. We do not allow friends or family members to take on this role both because it detracts from their enjoyment of the day and because their lack of experience in this all-important role has proven to cause unprofessional complications.
Do you require a day-of-coordinator?
Old Lystra Inn is a boutique bed and breakfast and can accommodate up to four guests in two queen suites for an additional fee. Discuss your interest in onsite accommodation no less than 30 days prior to your event with Tony or Beth.
Do you offer on-site accommodation?
Yes! We are only 2.5 miles from Hyatt Place at Southern Village and only 4.5 miles from Carrboro and Franklin Street, where there are excellent additional choices.
Are there additional accommodations nearby for out-of-town guests?
All tableware including linens, dishware and flatware will need to be rented from a local event rental company. Our tables are banquet-style tables and require full length linens.
Do you include linens and dishware?
Yes. You have the option to contact Uber Events or Lyft Events which allow you to pay and coordinate rides for your guests to and from the venue by providing them a one-day code to use. See links for details. Alternatively, guests may arrange their own ride shares. We strongly encourage use of ride share services for safety reasons, although there is plenty of attendant-led parking at the venue.
Do Uber and Lyft come to Old Lystra Inn?
In the event of rain or inclement weather, the tent will serve as your backup ceremony rain plan. We will create an aisle on the dance floor with chairs for your reserved seating guests and all other guests will sit at their round dining tables for this portion of the event. You are welcome to rent a tent for the upper lawn and have it professionally installed if you prefer. There is not enough room in the house for a ceremony of any size.
What happens in case of rain?
Well-behaved dogs are permitted outside only. Animals, other than service animals, are not permitted inside the home, except just prior to the bride’s exit. Dogs must be on a leash, and a pup sitter other than the bride or groom must be responsible for them.
Is Old Lystra Inn pet-friendly?
We accept payment by ACH check transfer via our online invoicing system. Credit card payment will incur a 3% additional fee. We do not accept checks or cash.
What forms of payment does Old Lystra Inn accept?
Please inquire here for current pricing
Please inquire about available dates using our contact form.
Our total guest limit is 178 including the couple, the bridal party and all guests. Note: children count as guests if they are waking and require a seat of their own.
Tours must be booked in order to visit so that we can give you our full attention. To schedule your visit, please click here. Tony and Beth are excited to meet you, show you our gorgeous venue and learn all about your love story!
Old Lystra Inn is a boutique bed and breakfast and can accommodate up to four guests in two queen suites for an additional fee. Discuss your interest in onsite accommodation no less than 30 days prior to your event with Tony or Beth.
A $500 “Save-the-Date” is collected at the time of booking. This also serves as your security deposit and is returned to you within three weeks of your wedding date. After the couple has had 3 days to review the contract, a 50% non-refundable installment is due. 120 days prior to the event, the final 50% is due. This final installment is also non-refundable.
All posing will be no-touch and we ask that you limit group photos to no more than ten people at a time. Should catering allow, we would also prefer a vendor meal over being a part of the buffet line.
Old Lystra strives for total transparency in our pricing structure. We try to include everything we own that a couple needs for their event. We do not own linens for our banquet tables or tableware (dishes, glassware and flatware), so these will need to be rented or purchased by the couple. Additionally, couples are required to hire both a day-of coordinator and licensed and insured bartender if any alcohol is to be served to guests. Those wishing to serve spirited liquor must also purchase an ABC permit for $50. Finally, couples must purchase an event liability policy to protect themselves in the event of any personal or guest injury related to the event.
No. There are no refunds of installments once they are paid as your date has been withheld from other couples. The $500 save-the-date/security deposit is 100% refundable provided no damage occurs to the property during your event and will be returned to you approximately 3 weeks after your event.
ABSOLUTELY! We want you to have the flexibility to work with the vendors that best fit your stylistic and budgetary needs. We love to recommend local event professionals, so please ask if you would like a referral for a particular vendor need. To ensure the success of your event, we do ask that you submit a complete vendor list for your event 30 days prior to your event date. Additionally, all caterers and bartenders MUST be approved prior to hire. Unfortunately, we have worked with a few vendors who do not reflect the level of professionalism that you would want on your wedding day and we would let you know should you make an unwise choice.
At our 30-day meeting, we will discuss your preferred layout of the tent, cocktail area and ceremony seating. Your planner will then provide a sketch to Old Lystra Inn of all your layouts, no less than 1 week prior to your event. Old Lystra will set-up according to your specifications. The coordinator is responsible for all decor, including placing linens on tables, table settings, lighting candles, etc.
How will tables and chairs be positioned?
No. We provide Venue Hosts for the duration of your event. Our hosts will assist vendors with any needs related to the venue and grounds, maintain the cleanliness of restrooms, manage a comfortable temperature inside the home and be available for guest questions related to the venue’s history. A professional day-of-coordinator must be hired by the couple.
Do you provide a wedding coordinator?
10:30 pm and no later. Please make certain DJs or bands adhere to this policy.
When must music end?
We have 22 5-foot rounds (they require 120” round linens), 5 6-foot rectangles (they require 90x132 inch linens), 1 48 inch round (it requires a 108” round linen, and a 36” round table (it requires a 96” round linen).
What is your table and chair inventory? What size linens are needed for the tables?
Yes, safety is first! We encourage ride sharing or designated drivers for all guests who plan to drink. However, if a guest needs to leave a car for the night, they may. It must be picked up by 10 am the following day and Old Lystra Inn will not be held responsible for the car or its contents.
Can vehicles be left overnight?
Yes, candles are allowed as long as the flame is COMPLETELY contained in glass.. Tapered candles are not recommended as they rarely stand well and may be used only if they are completely encased in taper candle hurricanes.
Are candles permitted?
No furniture or other items inside or outside the home are to be moved or borrowed without the consent and guidance of a Venue Host We are here to help!
Can I borrow things from the home or move things around outside?
The bridal parties must move all personal belongings to their vehicles (including all personal trash like shoe boxes and garment bags) prior to the ceremony. No personal belongings should remain in the home once the ceremony begins, with the exception of the couple’s personal items as needed. Gifts and cards should be placed in a locked vehicle by a designated person during cocktail hour or at the start of the reception, whichever comes first. Catering and/or bartending will remove all trash and recycling. The coordinator will bag all linens and place the couple’s personal decor items on one table in the tent for pickup by a designated person at the evening’s end. The coordinator (or florist) will also remove all florals from the arbor. Old Lystra Inn staff takes care of cleaning and mopping the home and restrooms. If the caterer uses the kitchen, they MUST restore the kitchen to its original condition, including wiping counters, cleaning sink and sweeping and mopping floors as needed.
What is the cleanup process? Who is responsible for which tasks?
Nothing should be hung on the inside of the home by any method.
Cable ties ONLY may be used to hang from the tent or arbor and only under the direction of a venue host.
Can I hang things from the walls inside the home, tent or arbor, etc.?
Only biodegradable items may be scattered on the lawn - real flower petals for example. Any other potential messes must be avoided, including pom poms, silk flower petals, confetti, etc. Balloons are also prohibited. Birdseed, though biodegradable, is prohibited as it causes weeds.
May I scatter anything on the lawn?
Yes, we designate the fire pit and the area in the upper gravel parking lot near the garage for smoking guests and vendors. Absolutely no smoking of any kind is allowed in or near the house, cabin or tent. Please make sure your smoking guests are made aware of the designated areas and that they dispose of their butts in the provided receptacles. Smoking trash could result in the loss of a portion of your security deposit.
Are our guests allowed to smoke, vape or use e-cigs?
Because we host only one event per day, our fee structure remains the same, regardless of whether you hold your ceremony, reception, or both onsite.
If we plan to have our ceremony offsite, does the fee change?
Lovely guest restrooms are located outside behind the Paul Green writing cabin. They are heated and air-conditioned, flushing restrooms on a septic designed for large gatherings. The home is off limits (due to the residential septic) except for the bride and groom once the ceremony has begun.
Where are guest restrooms located?
Be aware that some of the brick walkways surrounding the home are uneven due to century-old tree roots. However, the ceremony area, tent and restrooms are accessible. We encourage anyone with special parking requirements to put on flashers when they pull into the property for special assistance with parking. We are happy to get guests requiring extra care close to the ceremony area and provide assistance.
Is your venue accessible for people with disabilities or elderly people?
Sparklers are allowed, provided they are lit and collected under the direction of your coordinator. Bubbles are great. Discuss any and all other exit fanfares with Old Lystra staff at your 30-day meeting. Nothing that will make a mess or poses danger is allowed.
What fun exits may I use?
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Yes and no. The couple will have access to the house and indoors throughout the day and into the evening to access indoor restrooms and personal items. Once cocktail hour begins, we ask that all guests, including members of the bridal party, stay outdoors and in the tent for the remainder of the evening. This ensures that the house’s residential septic is not unduly stressed. There are lovely outdoor flushing and climate-controlled restrooms behind the Paul Green writing cabin on a commercial septic for use by your guests.
Will we have access to the house and bridal suites all day?
No, Old Lystra Inn is not a wedding factory. We want to give you the utmost attention on your special day and to ensure that you are able to leave cars overnight as necessary. Additionally, rentals are almost always able to be left overnight onsite, which prevents you from paying a late-night pickup fee. Outside inn guests will also not be scheduled on wedding weekends.
Do you host more than one event per day?
Guest
Questions?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Parking is on the front lawn or left side lot, just a short uphill walk to the venue. Consider dropping riders off at the front gate at the top of the driveway should they prefer not to make the small trek.
How will I know where to park?
There will be parking attendants in yellow vests and signs to direct you one hour prior to the event. Please follow directions carefully to ensure that all can get in and out efficiently and safely.
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Put flashers on as you enter the property and attendants will direct you to close parking. Please be advised that some of our brick pathways are askew due to century-old tree roots. We are more than happy to help you navigate the property as needed.
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Yes! Old Lystra Inn is an outdoor/tented venue with expansive lawns and Chapel Hill gravel pathways. Though in some cases you may be directed through the house to sign in at a welcome table, the remainder of the event will be held outdoors. We encourage you to dress appropriately for the weather, including footwear, so that you can enjoy your time at our beautiful venue! Old Lystra Inn is a private residence and guests are not permitted back in the home once the ceremony has begun. Should you desire a tour, please find owner Tony Pendola. He would love to show you the house and chat with you about its rich history.
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Only if your host has chosen to add them. Propane heaters are absolutely prohibited beneath the tent!
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Climate-controlled, flushing guest bathrooms are located on the back lawn behind the Paul Green writing cabin. No restrooms are accessible in the house. Outdoor restrooms are at grade via the path on the left should you have any mobility issue. Some umbrellas will be provided in the tent in case of rain.
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Yes. We are located only 4.5 miles from downtown Franklin Street and rideshares are readily available and inexpensive. Should you plan to drink, we STRONGLY encourage hiring a rideshare or carpooling with a designated driver.
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Safety is first! We strongly encourage ridesharing or carpooling if you plan to drink, but if you have too much and need to leave your vehicle, you may do so. All cars must be picked up the following day before 10am and Old Lystra is NOT responsible for a vehicle or its contents should you voluntarily choose to leave it
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Absolutely not! All alcohol MUST be served by an insured, professional bartender anywhere on Old Lystra Inn’s property, including in your personal vehicle. Should you be caught with self-serve alcohol or illicit drugs, you will be asked to leave immediately and your host will lose their deposit. Please be very respectful of this rule!
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
There are two designated spots for smokers. On the gravel near the garage and at the fire pit near the writing cabin. Absolutely no smoking is allowed anywhere else on the property, including vaping or e-cigs. Please use provided “butt” receptacles or the couple could be charged for clean up.
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?
Absolutely! Please let us know and we will find you a comfy and private spot in the home. Should you require refrigeration, just ask!
Will there be heaters or fans in the tent?
Will the event be held outside?
What if I am handicapped or elderly?
Where will I park? / How will I know where to park?
Can I bring in outside alcohol and serve myself?
Can I leave a car overnight?
Do Ubers and Lyfts come to Old Lystra?
Where are bathrooms located?
GUEST
QUESTIONS?
Where can I smoke?
I’m a nursing mom. Are there arrangements for me?