Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) | LOFT39 Event Venue NYC
Detailed answers covering booking, vendor policies, technical specifications, and logistics.
Booking, Payments & Contract Terms
How do I get a proposal with pricing specific to my event?
Getting a detailed proposal is the first step to booking LOFT39. Because all pricing is custom based on the date, guest count, and floor, you must fill out our brief contact form. Once we receive your request, a sales representative will be in touch quickly to provide accurate details and pricing specific for your event.
Can I place a "soft hold" or temporary reservation on a date?
No. Due to high demand, LOFT39 does not offer soft holds or temporary reservations without a commitment. We can only reserve a date upon the execution of the rental agreement and the receipt of the 50% deposit. Dates are confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Is there a minimum spend requirement (F&B Minimum) for events at LOFT39?
Yes. All events at LOFT39 require a minimum spend of **$1,500** (the "F&B Minimum"), unless otherwise agreed upon. This minimum spend does not include staffing, cleaning fees, taxes, or administrative fees, and will be reflected on your proposal.
What is your deposit and payment policy?
A **50% deposit** of the total amount is due at the execution of this Agreement. The remaining balance of the venue fee and additional fees is due no later than **seven days prior** to the event date. Payments can be made via credit card or ACH payment from your proposal link.
What is the procedure if my final payment is not made on time?
If the remaining balance is not paid at least 7 days before the event, you authorize LOFT39 to automatically charge the valid credit card on file for the remaining balance, as well as for any incidentals or overages incurred.
What is your cancellation and rescheduling policy?
Deposits are refundable up to 30 days prior to the event date. Cancellations made less than 30 days from the event date will forfeit the deposit. Cancellations within 7 days of the event will be charged for the full reservation time. Rescheduling is subject to availability and may incur an administrative fee.
What is the Force Majeure policy for cancellations near the event date?
For cancellations within 30 days or less due to a Force Majeure event, we offer to reschedule the event within 12 months. If rescheduling is impossible, the initial 50% deposit will be retained by LOFT39 to cover preparatory costs, and the client will be refunded the remaining balance.
What taxes and fees will be applied to my contract?
**Sales Tax (8.875%)** is applied specifically to all bar packages, a **5% non-refundable Credit Card Fee** (if paying by card), and an **Administration Fee**.
The Administration Fee accounts for the essential administrative support required to get your event organized without a hitch. This fee covers contract processing, staffing coordination, vendor management, detailed scheduling, and ensuring compliance with all venue and regulatory requirements. The fee is typically **5% for standard bookings**, but is increased to **15% for expedited bookings** (confirmed within 72 hours of the event) to accommodate the cost of expediting the required logistics.
Can I schedule a walkthrough of the venue before booking?
Yes! We encourage guests to do a walkthrough before booking. Walkthroughs can be done in-person in midtown or virtually via Google Meet. We host walkthroughs on limited, non-event days each week due to our busy event schedule. You can use the link provided in our email communications to book a walkthrough before signing. Once booked, we highly encourage a final site visit to discuss important event logistics; you can schedule these final visits using the separate link provided at signing.
Bar Service, Alcohol & Policy
What are the different bar package options and pricing tiers?
We offer several comprehensive packages, including soft beverage, beer & wine, beer & wine + specialty cocktail, and full bar with two specialty cocktails. All packages are priced per person across the entire guest count and are designed to streamline planning by including all product, ice, glassware, and garnishes needed. To see detailed inclusions and specific pricing tiers, please visit our Bar Packages page or refer to your personalized proposal.
What essential items are included in a LOFT39 bar package?
LOFT39 bar packages are comprehensive and include all product, ice, glassware, bar tools, and garnish. This is a key difference from the bar buyout option, which does not include glassware, bar tools, or garnish. Please refer to your contract for the specific selection and product list for your event.
What is LOFT39's policy on bar service and alcohol for events?
A bar package or bar buyout is required if you are serving drinks of any kind. Your options are:
1) Purchase a LOFT39 bar package
2) Provide your own "DIY open bar" for a buyout fee of **$8 per person** (no sale of alcohol allowed, all alcohol must be purchased from a licensed retailer) Contracting a third-party bar vendor or selling alcohol is strictly prohibited.
3) Host an event without a bar. No bar buyout fee applies in this case.
**Crucial Regulations:**
Contracting a third-party bar vendor or selling alcohol (directly or indirectly) is strictly prohibited.
Regardless of your bar choice, if alcohol is present, all guests must be 21 years or older unless otherwise approved by LOFT39 in writing.
The client is responsible for ensuring compliance with all local and state alcohol laws. LOFT39 reserves the right to deny service or remove guests in violation of these terms.
Why are bar packages charged based on the full guest count, and can we opt for a partial bar package?
Our bar packages are designed to be competitively priced by accounting for the average amount of alcohol consumed per person across the entire guest count. For this reason, bar packages are charged on your confirmed full guest count. We are generally not able to offer partial bar packages.
**Alternative for Non-Drinkers:** If you're hosting an event where a significant portion of your guests do not consume alcohol, we recommend exploring our Limited Bar Package. This option allows you to select an exact quantity of each product for service at a per-item price. Please note: The Limited Bar Package still requires one bartender per 100 guests for service. Ice is provided as part of this package, but glassware is not included.
When is the final guest list due?
The final guest count must be confirmed **7 days prior** to the event. This confirmed number will be used for staffing and invoicing.
- Additional guests added after the deadline or at the door will be charged at **150%** of the listed rate for all line items with a per-person charge (e.g., bar packages, catering buyouts).
- No refunds or adjustments will be issued for bar packages if the actual guest count is lower than the confirmed number.
- Please note that if a significant number of guests are added at the door on the day of your event, we may not be properly staffed to accommodate them, and we may have to turn guests away once the contracted guest count is reached.
Can I host an Under 21 event at LOFT39?
Under-21 events are subject to a strict, zero-tolerance policy for substances and require mandatory external security protocols:
- **Zero-Tolerance:** There is a zero-tolerance policy for alcohol or drugs of any kind; strictly no bar setup, drinks served, or beverages provided. Violation will result in immediate event termination.
- **Security Vendor:** The Client is required to select and contract licensed security only from LOFT39’s official list of preferred security partners. Written confirmation of this booking must be provided to LOFT39 no later than 7 days prior to the event.
- **Access Controls:** Thorough bag checks are mandatory for all guests upon entry. Visibly intoxicated individuals will be turned away, and no re-entry is permitted once a guest leaves the event space.
- **Venue Safety:** A staff member must always be stationed in the lobby and another at the elevator door within the event space for the entire duration. The stairwell is strictly off-limits for guest use (except in emergencies).
Catering & Vendor Guidelines
Do you have exclusive vendors?
LOFT39 offers a curated list of preferred vendors for entertainment, party rentals, A/V & lighting, and planning services. We strongly encourage clients to choose from this list as these are trusted partners who are familiar with our space, which ensures seamless coordination and saves you planning effort. Please note that all vendors, whether preferred or outside, must be licensed and insured to work within the venue. Please refer to the vendor list provided for recommendations and contact details.
Do you allow outside catering?
Yes, you are welcome to bring in an outside caterer. However, a **catering buyout fee of $2 per person** will be applied. This fee helps cover the additional coordination and resources required when working with external food arrangements. Any outside caterer must be a full-service, licensed, and insured company.
Is there a kitchen on-site?
Yes, LOFT39 has kitchen facilities available on all floors. Every floor's kitchen includes a fridge/freezer, dishwasher, oven, and stovetop, though the overall size and specific equipment configuration may vary between the floors. Please note that LOFT39 does not provide cookware, utensils, or small appliances.
Is insurance required for my event and my vendors?
Yes, Client must obtain **Event Liability Insurance** submitted no later than 7 days prior to the event date.
For the most painless experience, a link will be emailed to you after booking to purchase one-time event insurance through a third-party provider for proper coverage; you should budget roughly **$150** for a 1-day, low-risk event. If using your own provider, you must refer to our sample Certificate of Insurance (COI) for details on additionally insured information and to ensure your policy meets all required coverage limits.
What are the insurance requirements for event vendors?
Every vendor must provide a valid Certificate of Insurance (COI) listing **LOFT39 LLC as an additional insured**, with minimum coverage of **$1,000,000 per occurrence** and **$2,000,000 in the aggregate**.
Capacity, Layout & Floor Details
What is the capacity for each floor?
The 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Floors are **125 guests**. The 5th Floor is **100 guests**.
Important Note on Capacity:
We follow strict NYC building codes to ensure everyone's safety and comfort. This means we calculate capacity based on every guest potentially being in the space at once. Each floor's capacity is affected by its usable space and unique entry/exit points. For 5th-floor bookings, capacity also accounts for all guests fitting safely indoors as a contingency for inclement weather. Our goal is to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for everyone.
How many restrooms are on each floor, and are they gender-neutral?
Each floor at LOFT39 is equipped with **two gender-neutral restrooms**. The 2nd, 4th, and 5th floors also feature dedicated ADA-compliant restrooms.
Do you offer a discount for booking multiple floors for my event?
Yes, we offer special pricing and discounts for booking multiple floors at LOFT39. Please contact our sales team to discuss multi-floor packages tailored to your needs.
What is included in my rental?
Your rental includes access to the contracted floor(s) of LOFT39 and the basic furnishings/amenities outlined in your contract. For a full list of amenities, detailed photos, and included furnishings for each space, please visit the dedicated pages for the 2nd Floor Studio Loft, 3rd Floor Speakeasy, 4th Floor Warehouse, and 5th Floor Kitchen & Rooftop.
Do you offer in-house furniture or equipment rental options?
Yes, LOFT39 offers a list of basic in-house rentals, including plateware, glassware and flatware, tables and chairs, and basic A/V equipment, which can be added to your invoice for an extra fee. For customization or more specialized rentals beyond our in-house inventory, please refer to our preferred vendor list for rental companies familiar with the space. You can check out all our basic offerings and pricing on our in-house rental menu.
What are my options for space layout and setup?
You have two options for your venue setup.
The first is to accept the space in its "resting state" (please refer to the floor plan on your contract for the default layout, and you must return it to its original resting state).
Your second option is to **purchase our Floor Plan & Setup Service**. This service requires a scheduled consultation at least one week in advance to finalize your desired layout. Our team will set up the space for you before you arrive. Please note: our team is not on-site to accommodate any last-minute changes, and this service does not include removing furniture from the space.
Can I remove furniture from the floor plan or have it stored?
Removing furniture requires specialized coordination and labor. We must emphasize that LOFT39 has extremely limited storage space, and many large items cannot fit into the elevator. Labor and storage fees apply based on the volume and size of items removed. Due to NYC labor laws, a minimum **4-hour shift for two staff members** is required for removal before the event and after the event to return the items. We can only confirm available storage space one week before your event; offsite storage charges will apply if our limited space is unavailable.
Is LOFT39 accessible for people with disabilities?
Our 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th-floor spaces are accessible by elevator. The rooftop space is not accessible by elevator.
**Restrooms:** Our 2nd, 4th, and 5th floors have ADA-compliant restrooms. The 3rd floor is accessible by elevator but does not have ADA-compliant restrooms at the moment; however, if needed, please ask your LOFT39 sales representative about making accessible bathrooms on other floors available during your event.
Important Note:
Our elevator's door width is 30 inches. While this accommodates most wheelchairs, ADA guidelines typically require 32 to 36 inches clear width for full compliance. We recommend a site visit to ensure the space and elevator meet your specific needs. As a venue in a historic building, we are always working to become a more accessible space for all our guests.
Venue Features & Location
What neighborhood is LOFT39 located in, and what is the atmosphere like?
LOFT39 is ideally situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, specifically in the Garment District/Fashion Center. This area is known for its energetic, creative atmosphere.
Is LOFT39 near Times Square, Bryant Park, or Rockefeller Center?
Yes, we are conveniently located near several major Midtown landmarks. We are just a **10-minute walk from Times Square** and the Theater District, and only **two blocks from Bryant Park** and the New York Public Library.
What subway lines and major stations provide the easiest access to the venue?
We are a short walk from both **Grand Central Terminal and Penn Station**. We are directly accessible via the **B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, and W trains** at the 42nd Street-Bryant Park station and the Times Square-42nd Street hub.
Do you offer a private bridal suite or green room space for talent?
We do not have a designated bridal suite or green room included with a single-floor rental. However, we offer discounts for booking multiple floors, and our sales team can show you options to add on space to utilize as a changing area, VIP lounge, or secure green room.
Music, A/V & Venue Rules
Can I bring a DJ or live band?
DJs and live bands are **not permitted on the 2nd Floor Studio Loft**. They are permitted on all other floors but must comply with the NYC Noise Ordinance. Soundproofing boards are required on the 4th Floor.
Do you provide A/V and lighting equipment?
Every floor is equipped with **Wi-Fi-connected Sonos speakers**, which are ideal for background music but are not suitable for professional DJ connections or microphone use. LOFT39 offers basic in-house A/V equipment for an additional charge. We work with preferred vendors for specialized sound, lighting, and production needs; please reach out to discuss your event's specific A/V requirements.
Do you provide AV technicians or adapters with your optional equipment rental?
Our optional AV equipment is basic and **does not include an onsite technician or adapters of any kind**.
What are the rules regarding decor?
Prohibited items include Smoke Machines, Glitter, Confetti, and Rose Petals. Open flames are prohibited; **live candles must be fully covered and safely contained in votives**. All decor and props brought in for the event must be completely removed by the client at the end of your contracted rental period (unless prior arrangements have been made with the LOFT39 Operations Team).
Can I attach decorations to the walls, ceilings, or fixtures?
No. Absolutely **nothing may be fixed, affixed, adhered, or fastened** to the walls, ceilings, floors, or any permanent fixtures without explicit, prior written permission.
Are pets allowed?
Service animals are always permitted. Pets may be allowed on a case-by-case basis with prior approval.
Staffing & Logistics
Does my rental come with staff?
Venue Management staff are included and required on-site. Bartenders are included only for LOFT39 bar packages at a ratio of 1 bartender per 50 guests. Guests who purchase the bar buyout option must staff their bartenders independently. The number of staff is line-itemed on your proposal/contract; please refer to it for exact numbers.
What are the specific responsibilities of the LOFT39 Venue Management staff?
The venue management team is responsible for opening and closing the venue, troubleshooting any issues with the building or amenities, guest check-in, and crowd management. They are **not responsible for food service, bussing tables, or handling catering-related tasks**. At least one management personnel is required for all events.
Do LOFT39 staff assist with setup, furniture moving, or breakdown?
No. Staff are not expected or required to assist in moving furniture, equipment, setup, or breakdown **unless specifically agreed upon in advance**.
What are the setup and breakdown time limits for my event?
Your specific setup and breakdown times are detailed in your contract. The space will only be available to the client during the hours stated on the rental agreement. These hours must include sufficient time for all vendor setup, event run time, and final cleanup and breakdown.
Can we deliver or drop off items for our event early?
Deliveries and drop-offs are a huge focus for us to ensure your event runs smoothly and your items are secure. For this reason, coordination is only possible **one week in advance** of your event, and all deliveries are strictly at the discretion of LOFT39, based on the existing event schedule, limited storage capacity, and staff availability to receive them.
We use a scheduling system to standardize deliveries and **do not allow courier services** like FedEx, UPS, Instacart, or DoorDash. This is because our building is staffed primarily for events (not receiving packages) and we must prevent items from being left unsecured, lost, or stolen in the lobby.
Do you have parking?
LOFT39 does not have on-site parking. However, there is paid parking available at the nearby **Champion Parking garage**, located on 6th Avenue and 39th Street, less than half a block from the venue. We recommend including these specific details in your guest communications.
What is your policy regarding late cleanup and overtime charges?
Failure to vacate the space more than 15 minutes after the event end time results in charges to the card on file in 30-minute intervals at **150% of the hourly rate**.
How late can an event go?
All events must conclude by **3:00 AM**. For rentals concluding after 1:00 AM, a **$100 per staff member** late-night staffing fee will be applied.
Rooftop Access Policy
Can I book the rooftop space on its own, or with a floor other than the 5th floor?
No. The rooftop space is only available when booking the **5th-floor venue space**. The 5th floor provides the only elevator access and serves as the essential indoor contingency space. Additionally, the 5th floor provides access to bathrooms and running water, as the rooftop itself does not have these amenities.
Production & Technical Logistics
What are the electrical capabilities and power limitations for production?
The electrical capacity is designed to handle standard event production. For heavy power draw, we recommend coordinating with our preferred A/V vendors.
Do you have Wi-Fi available for guests and event staff?
Yes, **robust Wi-Fi is included** for all guests and staff on every floor.
Is there a backup generator in case of a power outage?
LOFT39 is an older, historic building and **does not have a backup generator** capable of powering a full-scale event.
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