FAQs

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Spruce Haven – Venue Policies

General Use

Spruce Haven is a beautiful event venue in Caribou, Maine owned by the Mi’kmaq Nation and operated by Eltueg Corporation, the Nation’s development organization. We invite our guests to enjoy the space with care and appreciation for the natural setting that makes Spruce Haven so special. Your rental includes access to the lodge, designated outdoor areas, and approved amenities outlined in your agreement. Our on-site team is always nearby to help with timelines, logistics, and venue details, so you can relax and focus on celebrating your day.

Capacity

Capacity varies depending on event type, layout, and use of indoor and outdoor spaces. Final guest counts are confirmed during the planning process to ensure safety, comfort, and compliance with venue policies. As a general rule, capacity is 250 standing and 160 seated.

Hours of Use

Events must begin and end within the hours specified in the rental contract. 

Alcohol Policy and Bar Service

For the safety and enjoyment of all guests, alcohol service at Spruce Haven must be provided by certified and insured bartenders approved by venue management. Personal BYOB service is not permitted. Spruce Haven is happy to coordinate bar service as part of your event planning and works closely with renters and bartenders to ensure service is well organized, responsible, and enjoyable. Spruce Haven reserves the right to limit or discontinue alcohol service if conditions become unsafe.

Security Requirement

Security is required for events serving alcohol, large gatherings of 50 or more guests, and any event where venue staff determine additional support is needed. When required, security will be arranged by Spruce Haven to ensure consistent coverage and compliance throughout the event. Security services are billed at $250 for up to six hours, with an additional $40 per hour if extended coverage is needed.

Safety and Conduct

To help ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for everyone, the renter is responsible for the conduct of all guests, vendors, and participants. We ask that events remain respectful and free from unsafe activities, including fireworks, weapons, disorderly behavior, or excessive intoxication. Spruce Haven staff and event security are on site to support a smooth, welcoming experience and may step in if safety concerns arise, including asking individuals to leave or, if necessary, bringing an event to a close.

Event Planning Expectations – Coordination & Staffing

Basic venue coordination is included with every Spruce Haven rental to help your event run smoothly. Larger or more complex events may require additional coordination or staffing support to ensure the best experience for you and your guests. If enhanced coordination is needed, this will always be discussed and confirmed with you in advance, so there are no surprises and you feel fully supported throughout the planning process.

Décor and Setup

To help preserve the beauty of Spruce Haven for your celebration and for future events, all décor plans should be approved in advance. 

• No open flames, nails, screws, permanent adhesives, glitter, confetti, or materials that cause damage or excessive cleanup.
• Spruce Haven may restrict décor depending on fire risk or environmental impact.
• Management is always happy to work with you regarding specific decor to make your event special. Accommodations may be made in special circumstances.

Cleanup Responsibilities

Renters are asked to leave the venue in the condition it was received unless a cleanup add-on has been selected. A simple cleanup checklist will be provided in advance to make expectations clear and easy to follow. This typically includes placing all trash in provided bins, removing décor, personal items, food, and equipment, and doing a light sweep or wipe of major surfaces.

Damage and Liability

To help care for the space, a refundable damage fee is collected with each rental and returned after a final walkthrough, assuming everything is left in good condition. If any damage occurs to the venue, grounds, equipment, or facilities, including by vendors or guests, the cost of repair may be deducted from the damage fee or billed accordingly. While Spruce Haven takes every reasonable step to support a secure and smooth event, we are not responsible for lost, stolen, or left-behind personal items.

Vendor Requirements

We enjoy working with a variety of wonderful vendors and are happy to collaborate with the team you choose. To help everything run smoothly, all outside vendors (including catering, music, photography, and rentals) should be approved in advance. Spruce Haven can also provide a list of vendors who are already approved for use at the venue, if helpful. Caterers are asked to provide a valid food license, and DJs or musicians should confirm that their equipment is safe and agree to follow volume guidelines. These steps help ensure a relaxed, enjoyable celebration for everyone.

Weather Policy

Spruce Haven is a year-round venue, and we encourage renters to plan for seasonal conditions. Weather contingency plans are the responsibility of the renter, and our team is happy to help discuss options when planning your event. Refunds are not issued due to weather unless conditions make the venue unsafe or inaccessible.

Tribal Program Use

Spruce Haven is proud to support Tribal programs and community gatherings. Tribal programs may reserve the space at a reduced internal rate, with pricing based on the type of event, staffing needs, and duration. We encourage programs to connect directly with Spruce Haven staff early in the planning process so we can talk through details and help ensure the space is set up to meet your needs. Standard venue guidelines, including cleanup, safety, and décor considerations, remain in place to help create a smooth and welcoming experience for all.

Payment, Deposits & Cancellations

A deposit is required to reserve your event date. Deposit terms, including any refundable or non-refundable portions, will be clearly outlined in your rental contract. The remaining balance is due 14 days prior to the event unless otherwise noted. Cancellation terms will also be detailed in the contract so expectations are clear from the start.

Property Access

Events are held within designated areas of the property. Access to other areas may vary depending on the season and staffing, and our team will guide you on available spaces during planning.

Photography & Media

Personal photography during events is always welcome. Commercial photography, styled shoots, or other media use may require advance approval, as outlined in your contract.

Smoking & Substance Use

Cigarette smoking and vaping are permitted only in designated outdoor areas and must take place at least 25 feet from any building. Illegal substances are strictly prohibited.