Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Conservatory provide event coordination?
A Conservatory of Flowers designee will assist with facility-related issues but is not responsible for event planning. All event coordination is the responsibility of the client. The Conservatory does not have an event coordinator on staff. We highly recommend an event coordinator for any function larger than 75 people.

How do I arrange a site visit?
All site visits must be arranged in advance. E-mail the Conservatory's Event and Communications Coordinator, Morgan Davis at mdavis@sfcof.org to arrange a time with our staff. Site visits can be accommodated Tuesday-Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. (Site visits generally last between 30 and 45 minutes).
 
Will the flower beds be planted in the valley in front of the Conservatory?
The flower beds in the lower valley are planted by the San Francisco's Recreation and Parks staff. The Conservatory of Flowers does not oversee this area. These flower beds change seasonally, generally three times a year. We cannot guarantee when the beds will be pulled, or planted.

Do I need to use a preferred caterer?
Yes. To ensure the success of the event, the Conservatory of Flowers will provide a list of caterers who are trained in our policies and procedures. All of our caterers are fully licensed by the city and state and have current certificates of insurance. The caterer provides all personnel, materials and supplies required in the preparation of food, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. In some instances, other caterers may be allowed, but this must be with prior approval of the Conservatory of Flowers.

Can you accommodate smaller parties and shorter rental times?
Yes. In some instances, the fee will be less than our listed fee structure, based on the length of time of your event, and the number of guests attending.

Can I bring my own flowers?
No. The Conservatory does not allow flowers to be brought into the building due to contamination and pest management practices that we employ. Boutineers and bouquets are accepted.

Do you charge for a wedding ceremony rehearsal?
No. Rehearsals are generally held the day before the wedding from 5:00-6:00 p.m. and are available at other times by customer  request.

How much is the deposit?
An event is not secured until a contract is signed and a 25% deposit is provided. Deposits are fully refundable up to 90 days prior to your event with written notice.

Candles
No open flames are permitted indoors. Votive lights and enclosed candles are acceptable for use on tables with the appropriate permits from the San Francisco Fire Department. Permit must be presented seven days prior to event. It is the responsibility of the client to obtain the permit.

Is smoking allowed?
No. The Conservatory of Flowers is a smoke free facility.

Can we have food in the exhibit space?
Yes. The Conservatory allows food and beverage in the galleries. Food can also be served on the outside platform, on the lawn directly next to our building, or in the Orchid Gallery. Food and beverage services are coordinated through our preferred vendors.

Event cleanup
The client is responsible for the set-up and removal of all equipment used for their event. This is typically handled by the caterer. The caterer is responsible for the cleaning of food preparation areas and food service cleanup during and after the event including: all rental equipment such as tables, chairs, flatware, glassware, etc. All trash must be removed at the completion of the event. Caterer cleanup includes sweeping, mopping, and/or hosing food prep areas. Restroom cleaning will be billed at $100.00 and is included in the total fee.

Who orders the rental equipment?
Generally, the caterer will handle the rental of tables, tents, catering equipment, plates, dinnerware, and glassware. In some instances, the Conservatory will coordinate the rental of the tent and certain supplies.
 
Is parking available?
Parking is available at no charge and is based on availability on John F. Kennedy Drive and in/near the Dahlia Garden.

Overnight parking is not permitted in Golden Gate Park
Please be aware and inform your guests that overnight parking is not allowed in Golden Gate Park. In fact, cars left in the park overnight will be towed.

Taxi service
Taxi service is sporadic and not reliable in Golden Gate Park. We recommend making prior arrangements for transportation such as a Coach Bus Service or Town Cars for your guests. These services are often equivalent in price to individual taxi service. The Conservatory would be happy to recommend vendors.

Is your facility accessible?
Yes. The Conservatory of Flowers has wheelchair access throughout the building and has designated parking on John F. Kennedy Drive and in the Dahlia Garden.

Can we decorate inside of the exhibit galleries?
You may decorate the interior of the Orchid Gallery with prior design plans approved by the Conservatory of Flowers. However, we do not allow any additional decorations in the five exhibit galleries. Anything that is decorative or an integral part of the interior or exterior of the site cannot be moved or removed such as: plants, benches, flags, etc. Balloon use is not permitted inside the Conservatory of Flowers. Glitter, rice, confetti, bubbles, flowers or any other items cannot not be tossed inside or immediately on the property. Violation of this policy will result in forfeiture of the entire security deposit.

Do I need insurance to rent your facility?
Yes. The Conservatory requires a certificate of insurance in the amount up to $1 million of coverage depending on the type of event you are having. The client obtains this coverage through their insurance company and must provide it seven days prior to their event. A Web site offering rental insurance is also available at: http://www.websafe.com.