Event Planning

Everything you need to know about planning your (awesome) event at Tops’l Farm.

CAMP Dashboard

Dates & Deadlines

We know that you will have your own cadence to planning this incredible event. Knowing what is required from Tops’l Farm (and when) might be helpful as you begin the process and get some personal calendar markers dialed in!

 
  • When does planning begin?

    If your retreat is booked for the current season, the kickoff process starts once your contract is signed and the deposit is received. We will email you confirmation as soon as this is recived.

    For retreats booked for next year, the official kickoff begins on October 1st of the prior.

    When sent, the Kickoff Email will contain:

    • A link to schedule your first planning call with our team! Please schedule this first call within one month to ensure you have the necessary information and tools for JOYFUL and clear planning.

    • A CAMP login for our Event Management System. This is our hub where all your planning forms will be located.

  • We are here to chat at any time and prefer a quick phone call vs lots of emails.

    Please use this link to our calendar to schedule time in between our planned Event Planning Calls:

    Sarah Pike Planning Office Hours

  • We will send you a login to Tops’l Farm CAMP dashboard as part of our kickoff together.

    What is CAMP?

    CAMP is our compass. It is the way in which we exchange information with each other in a clear and organized way. Over the years we have found email simply does not work as a means by which to organize critical event details and decisions. All information that we will need for running a smooth event will be located in CAMP - you will have access to forms and be able to see all the details needed, along with due dates.

    You are able to save data in the forms and then FINAL SUBMIT when you feel it is ready for us to review. Please do not submit forms to us until you are confident they are as close to final as possible.

    If you ever have an issue with logging in, or with the functionality of CAMP - please let us know. This is something we have invested a lot of time in creating for our couples and process - so if it isn't working for you let us know so we can fix it!

  • Everyone has a different communication style and it is our goal to give you the info you need in the most timely manner (and not lose any details!) Over the years we have learned a few tips/tricks for communicating that allow for the most successful (joyful!) planning process:

    • Please read, bookmark & reference this EVENT PLANNING FAQ page for answers to common questions throughout the process.

    • Compile a running list of questions for us if the answers are not found on this page. If something is urgent, please either write URGENT in the subject line of an email or grab some time in the Planning Office Hours.

      (In the past details have been missed because of the volume of emails sent during the planning process - if we are both organized and thoughtful with communication, it will help to make sure all the nitty gritty magic is captured properly.)

    • We do not text as part of our planning process. All information should be sent via clear emails, scheduled phone calls or our CAMP platform so we are able to reference and distribute within our team.

  • At some point after you sign with us and before your gathering you may require another site visit to refresh your memory on all of the specifics!

    • We do require at least 2 weeks notice before scheduling a site visit.

    • If you would like to schedule a site visit, please us at hello @ topslfarm.com and we can work to find a mutually convenient time.

  • Our goal is to ensure you and your guests arrive at Tops’l Farm ready to fully enjoy your event. This 45-day planning call is crucial for you or your planner to share all the necessary details so our team can provide the best support.

    Prior to this meeting, you will receive online forms via CAMP outlining the information required by 30 days before your event. The 45-day call is the perfect time to finalize these logistics.

    During this call, we will need the following specific information:

    1. Final Master Timeline: Please provide a detailed timeline including check-in and check-out times, start and end times for all events, and the specific farm spaces being used for each activity.

    2. Final Guest Counts: Provide the total number of guests for all meals.

    3. Final Children Counts: If applicable, provide the total number of children for all meals.

    4. Final Vendor Meals: If applicable, provide the number of vendor meals required, along with any dietary restrictions or meal choices for each vendor.

    5. Dietary Preferences & Allergens: Please detail all dietary preferences and allergen information for all guests.

    6. Final Meal Counts - each meal

    7. Event Production: Please specify if any event production (e.g., AV, staging, unique setup needs) will be required at any point during your event.

    8. Weather Contingency Plans: Provide your Plan B options for all events in case of inclement weather.

    9. Vendor Information: Share the names and contact information for all external vendors working on your event at the farm, along with their Certificates of Insurance (COIs).

    10. Host Event Insurance: Please provide a copy of your event insurance policy that meets the required coverage.

    11. Additional Details: Please share any other specific details or information that you believe would be helpful for Team Tops’l Farm to support your event effectively. Walking us through your event plans will be very beneficial.

    Please let us know if you have any questions about what information is needed for this call. If the required information is incomplete at the time of the scheduled call, we will need to reschedule. Please note that our culinary team requires final guest counts and details 30 days prior to your event, with no exceptions.

    Failure to provide final numbers by the 30-day deadline will be considered a material breach of contract. In such a case, we will proceed with invoicing based on the guest counts provided at the time of catering contract signatures.

    Therefore, please ensure your guest RSVP dates allow you sufficient time to gather and provide this information. Thank you for your cooperation!

  • All final payments must be received at this time.

    If we do not receive final numbers at 45 days, we will proceed with the numbers we have in original chef services contracts. Any changes needed to be made to Event Orders & Invoices after this date will be subject to a $250 admin fee.

  • There will be several key moments during your planning with us for payments. If you have any questions re: what items will be due, pelase do reach out for clarity. It is a huge investment with us that we take very seriously and want to make sure you are 100% clear on how this will roll out during the planning process.

    Regarding payment, we offer several options, with our preferred methods being:

    Bank transfer/ACH: This is a streamlined, secure, and an immediate option with minimal fees.

    Paper or Digital Check: Please mail checks to our PO Box. It will take a smidge longer but free of charges! Please shoot us an email when you mail it so we can be on the lookout.

    Credit Card: While we offer credit card payments for your convenience, please note there is a 3% bank processing fee which is significant for a small business like ours. If there is a reason the credit card option is preferrred, we'd love to have a conversation about it so we can determine if there are other options that will avoid considerable bank fees.

Property Map

Get a sense of things on the farm with help from the most adorable map!

Roles & Vendors

It takes a village. Literally, it does.

 
  • Meet Your Tops'l Farm Team:

    To ensure your retreat planning and event weekend run smoothly, you will be working with the following key members of our team:

    • Sarah Pike, Owner: Sarah is your initial point of contact for all sales inquiries, and the venue/culinary contract process. She will also be present on the Kickoff Call.

    • Shauna Fraser, Event Project Manager ("OZ"): Shauna, our experienced Event Project Manager, is dedicated to managing the intricate details of your event. She oversees the planning process to ensure everything stays on track and will be involved in your event from the kickoff until the final details are completed.

    • Event Captains: Our Event Captains join the team as we approach your event weekend. They will be your primary on-site contact throughout your retreat. The Event Captain is responsible for the smooth execution of venue operations, lodging, and food & beverage service according to your chosen package.

      mportant Note Regarding the Event Captain's Role: The Event Captain's primary focus is on ensuring the smooth operation of Tops'l Farm’s core services, including lodging, food and beverage execution, and the functionality of the property, according to the plans finalized during the 45-day planning call. While our team is happy to help, the Event Captain is not intended to provide comprehensive event planning, coordination, or extensive labor support for tasks outside the scope of these agreed-upon operational areas.

      Specifically, the Event Captain will generally not be responsible for:

      • Coordinating or executing detailed setup or activities that were not explicitly outlined and agreed upon during the 45-day planning call.

      • Providing significant physical labor for setup, movement of heavy items, or activation of contingency plans that require substantial effort beyond the standard operational tasks associated with lodging, food, and beverage service.

      Our goal is to support the plans we've created together. If your event requires support beyond the operational execution of these plans, we recommend you chat with us about additional planning support.

      We are excited to partner with you and are committed to making your Tops’l Farm retreat a seamless and enjoyable experience.

  • At Tops'l Farm, the security of your financial information is paramount. To ensure a safe and reliable payment process, please take note of the following:

    • Invoice Delivery: All official invoices from Tops'l Farm will be sent directly to you from Intuit QuickBooks.

    • Payment Method: Payments should only be made via the secure QuickBooks link provided within the invoice.

    • Avoid Wire Transfers and Unsolicited Requests: Never wire money or respond to any payment requests that seem unusual or come from outside of our standard Intuit QuickBooks invoicing system. If you receive any suspicious payment requests, please contact us immediately.

    For any questions regarding payments, payment schedules, or other accounting-related inquiries, please contact our finance department directly at accounting AT topslfarm.com Our dedicated accounting resource is available on Mondays and Fridays and will respond to your inquiry as promptly as possible on those days.

    For urgent matters that arise outside of our regular accounting hours (Monday-Friday), please reach out to your Event Project Manager. They will do their best to assist you or escalate your concern as needed.

  • We have several collaborators who provide the following services that are often added to as additional offerings on our farm.

    • Yoga

    • Massage

    • Foraging

    • Indigo Dyeing

    • Arcehry/Ax Throwing (not available in May)

    • Tarot Card Readings (Group)

    • Mindfulness Coaching

    • Human Design / Group Work

    • Cooking Classes

    • Cocktail Classes/Tastings

    • Forest Bathing (guided)

    • Guided Hikes in Camden & Surrounding areas

    • Group Kayaking

    • Painting/ Mindfulness & Painting

    • Guided Cold Plunge




Venue

This section provides essential details about Tops'l Farm's facilities and grounds, including lodging information, event barn access, the sauna, and other important features to help you envision and plan your perfect retreat experience.

 
  • Use of the below spaces are included in your event fee. Any other alternative locations may require additional event production fees depending on your needs.

    Our most popular areas are:

    • Event Barn Porch: Perfect for meals or meetings.

    • Event Barn Main Space: Group meetings, meals, movement - or all of the above

    • Event Barn Lawn & Firepit Area

    • Riverside Yurt: Additional event production may be required for activation.

    • Meadowhouse Sauna. Coming Spring 2025. requires additional fee for activation - setup, towels, daily fire tending, etc.

    • Farmhouse Patio. A lovely space to meet outside.

    • Campground Picnic Area. No wifi but a perfect place to connect & unplug.

  • BARN SIZE - Approximately 30’x40’

    Our beautiful post and beam barn offers a versatile space suitable for a variety of retreat activities. While it can comfortably accommodate up to 130 people for a seated meal (depending on layout), it also functions well for workshops, movement sessions (like yoga or mindful movement), and presentations for smaller to medium-sized groups. Please note that the barn's capacity and suitability for all contingency plans in case of inclement weather will depend on the specific activities and group size of your retreat.

    BARN - ELECTRICITY

    Our barn is equipped with electricity to support typical event needs, generally handling up to 15-20 amps of 120 voltage. If your event requires higher power usage (for example, for extensive AV equipment, multiple high-powered devices running simultaneously, or specialized wellness technology), please discuss your needs with us in advance.

    Let’s go over all of the requirements for your technology and equipment with your vendors prior to your retreat. We have exterior outlets available on either side of the screen porch for tent lighting, sound systems, etc. One outlet has four receptacles, and the other has two.

    BARN - BATHROOMS

    The barn has two individual bathrooms available for both guests and staff. For retreats or corporate events with over a certain number of attendees (please inquire about specific recommendations based on your group size and event type), we may require the rental of additional portable restroom facilities to ensure guest comfort and convenience.

    TENTS

    Tents can be a valuable addition for wellness retreats or corporate events needing breakout spaces, covered outdoor areas for activities like yoga or workshops, or for accommodating larger groups for certain functions. We have a designated tent area in the meadow adjacent to the barn. All tents must be secured through approved rental vendors. We recommend establishing your contingency plan for weather and any needs for additional covered space with your planner well in advance of your retreat date to allow ample time for securing tent rentals.

    LIGHTING

    Our outdoor areas, porch, and the barn interior are equipped with charming bistro lighting, which is included in your venue fee. If your retreat requires specialized lighting arrangements and you need Tops'l Farm staff to remove the existing bistro lighting, additional Event Production fees may apply. Please discuss your specific lighting needs with us.

    HEAT/AC/FANS

    We encourage you to assess your group's needs and the seasonal temperatures when planning. Depending on the time of year and the use of our spaces, we will need to have a specifc plan outlined for the comfort of you and your guests.

  • While we love getting creative like the rest of you - there are certain flows and layouts that work in our space…and some that really don’t!

    We will need to discuss the master layout for our barn for your event. Our team is happy to setup this furniture for the layout. Additional, daily changes to layout may require additional Event Production Fees.

  • As part of our offer to make things as easy as possible, we have several items included in our Event Fee that we are happy to have you use for your weekend event.

    All final rental requests will formally be made via your final event detail forms in CAMP and are due 45 days before your event.

    Items can be requested for use in one area per event (meaning we are not moving furniture rom one part of the event to another use in the same day eg. ceremony to reception). If you require more seating/tables for multiple events in multiple different spots on property, additional outside rentals should be secured.

    Our available items are:

    • 15 wooden farm tables, 8’x2.5’

    • 30 black 8’ benches

    • 50 black folding chairs

    • 10 rustic outdoor cocktail tables

    • 6+ rustic outdoor benches (seats 2 people)

  • While we don’t like to think we have standard events here, we do see that the most epic of weekends go a little something like this:

    Thursday:

    • Afternoon (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM): Arrival and Check-In at Tops'l Farm. Guests settle into their lodging.

    • Evening (6:00 PM): Welcome Dinner - An opportunity for guests to connect and the retreat/event to officially begin.

    • Post-Dinner: Relax and unwind in your lodging or enjoy the farm at your leisure.

    Friday & Saturday:

    • Morning (7:00 AM - 8:00 AM): Morning Movement - This could be yoga, gentle stretching, a mindful walk on the trails, or other wellness-focused activities.

    • Morning (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Breakfast.

    • Late Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Morning Programming - This could include workshops, presentations, group discussions, or skill-building sessions relevant to the retreat theme.

    • Midday (12:00 PM - 1:00 PM): Lunch.

    • Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Afternoon Programming - Continue with workshops, activities, or incorporate some free time for reflection or relaxation.

    • Evening (6:00 PM - 7:00 PM): Dinner begins.

    • Evening (Until 8:00 PM): Evening programming or social time within the Event Barn concludes.

    Sunday (Departure):

    • Morning (8:00 AM - 9:00 AM): Optional Morning Activity (e.g., gentle stretch, short walk) and Breakfast.

    • Late Morning (10:00 AM - 11:00 AM): Closing Session or Farewell Gathering.

    • Late Morning (11:00 AM): Check-Out from Lodging.

    We will go over your specific needs during our planning and craft a timeline for our team to support you in the best way we possible can.

  • We absolutely love our yurt space!

    This unique 24’ structure offers a fantastic setting for specific retreat activities like yoga sessions, meditation practices, or small group meetings for wellness groups and corporate events. However, it's important to note that it is an off-the-grid adventure and not appropriate for all group gatherings.

    As we mention during our initial calls, access to the yurt requires a hike. We can assist a limited number of guests (2-4) who may have difficulty with the trek, but for groups with more accessibility needs, an alternative location should be considered.

    There is an additional $1500 production fee for any dinner events hosted at the yurt space.

    Yurt Event Guest Count:

    • 40 adult capacity, give or take.

    Tables & Chairs:

    • 5 wooden outdoor 6’ picnic tables with benches.

    Bathrooms:

    • There is one compostable “rustic” bathroom at the yurt. It is not ADA accessible and requires a flight of stairs to access.

    Electricity:

    • There is no electricity except for our generator that runs our bistro lights during dinner events. Please plan accordingly for any power needs for your specific activities.

    Music:

    • We will provide ambient background music if desired for dinner events at the yurt. Please discuss your needs with your event lead.

    Water:

    • There is no running water at the yurt. We bring our own supply for drinking, cooking (if applicable), and cleaning related to organized events. Please note any extra water needs in advance (e.g., for specific activity setups like flower arrangements).

    Children:

    • Our compostable toilet at the yurt is often disliked by children. If children will be attending your retreat and may be using the yurt, please ensure parents are aware of the hike and bathroom situation.

    Transportation:

    • We are able to provide a total of 2 rides for guests with accessibility needs using our three-seater Kubota during dinner events. Please arrange these in advance. Transportation of decor, equipment, etc., to the yurt requires advance notice and may incur extra charges. Unplanned rides for guests during meal service will not be available unless it is an emergency.

    Lighting & Safety:

    • IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE THAT LIGHTED PATHWAYS DO NOT EXIST ON THE PROPERTY, INCLUDING THE PATH TO THE YURT. Guests must be explicitly instructed to bring their own headlamps or flashlights for safety, especially as the evening approaches.

      It is NOT recommended that the yurt be the spot for a campfire after dinner. The campground, Farmhouse patio, Cider House firepit and Event Barn fire pits are the only authorized spot for fires after 6 pm.

    Exploring the Yurt Area:

    Even if your retreat doesn't involve organized activities in the yurt, we highly encourage you and your guests to enjoy the self-guided hike to this special space. The yurt is nestled on 1000 feet of frontage along the beautiful Medomak River, offering stunning natural views. Keep an eye out during your walk – many guests have spotted the eagle's nest on the property! It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with the peacefulness of our Maine landscape.

  • No outside wood please!

    We will provide wood in the campground. Please let us know where you would like to have additional fires and for how many hours & we can help determine the right amount as well as have it delivered in advance of your event.

    Unless otherwise requested and planned for, all fires in the lodging spaces will need to be built and tended by guests/hosts.

  • Property Signage:

    We do not provide signage around the property outside what is already there (cabins, farmhouse, etc). We suggest you think about how you will be directing your group – information prior to arrival on where to park, how to get to locations of the first event, etc.

  • Rentals - Drop-Off and Pick-Up:

    Our standard contract specifies that rental items should be delivered to Tops'l Farm on Friday and picked up on Sunday. We understand that alternative arrangements may sometimes be necessary. If you require rentals to be dropped off on Thursday or picked up on Monday, please include this as a specific request for review during your 6-month planning call.

    Rental Drop-Off Locations: To ensure efficient setup, please instruct your rental vendors to deliver items directly to the location where they will be used. For example, if you are renting mats for an outdoor yoga session, they should be dropped off at the designated yoga space. Any rental items not needed for your initial arrival day should be delivered to the mezzanine level, along with a clear event production plan outlining how these items will be set up as part of your retreat. Please share this plan with your Tops'l Farm event lead.

    Pre-Event Mail and Deliveries:

    We are happy to be informed of any pre-arranged mail or deliveries scheduled to arrive at Tops'l Farm before your retreat. To help us manage these effectively, we ask that you do not mail any items earlier than two weeks prior to your check-in date. While we will do our best to accommodate these deliveries, please understand that Tops'l Farm cannot be held responsible for any loss or damage to items shipped in advance of your event. If you are planning to ship a significant number of items for your retreat and prefer not to transport them yourself, we kindly request that you organize these items into consolidated shipments for easier handling. Please notify your event lead of any expected pre-event deliveries, including the carrier and expected arrival date

  • Maine weather can be wonderfully unpredictable! To ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable retreat, we encourage you and your guests to be prepared for various conditions.

    We recommend checking the weather forecast in the days leading up to your retreat so you can advise your guests on appropriate attire. Suggesting items like layers, waterproof outerwear, and comfortable indoor shoes in their packing lists is always a good idea.

    In the event of rain, Tops'l Farm offers comfortable indoor spaces where your planned activities can continue. We will work with you to adapt your schedule and utilize our facilities to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, regardless of the weather. Please discuss any specific concerns or contingency plans with your event lead during your planning calls.

Food & Drink

The Taste of Place…our culinary offering celebrates the seasonal flavors of Maine and designed to nourish your guests. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you plan your culinary experience with us.

 
  • We are so proud of our food offerings here on the farm. Our carefully crafted menus reflect our love of simple Maine flavors, local ingredients, and our desire to offer your retreat participants a truly memorable culinary experience!

    Given that most retreats span several days, we offer streamlined and delicious options for welcome receptions and farewell brunches, as well as delightful menus for your daily meals and gatherings.

    No outside catering is permitted at Tops’l Farm.

  • During your planning process we will craft a specific contract for your event based on the Sample Menu structure we offer for all gatherings on the farm.

    We will craft a sample menu based on your required mealtimes and then allow the seasons and local availability dictate what is served at your final event.

    If you have a custom request for your meals, pleae don’t hesitate to ask.

  • Our Approach to Food & Dietary Preferences:

    We take great pride in ensuring all your retreat participants enjoy delicious and nourishing meals. To best accommodate everyone, we primarily offer two service styles:

    Family Style Service (Suitable for all retreat sizes): Food is presented on large platters and in bowls at each table, encouraging guests to share and serve themselves.

    Farm Spread/Buffet Service (Suitable for all retreat sizes):

    • Description: A diverse selection of dishes is beautifully arranged on a buffet table, allowing guests to choose what and how much they would like to eat. This format works well for a relaxed and flexible dining experience.

    By offering both family-style and buffet service, we aim to provide adaptable and personalized dining experiences that cater perfectly to the unique needs and preferences of your retreat guests!

  • As per our Maine State Liquor license we are required to provide bar service in our event spaces - Event Barn & Riverside Yurt. This means procuring & pouring. No outside bar service or DIY scenarios. You are welcome to bring your own personal beverages in our lodging spaces.

    Cash Bar
    if you are opting for a cash bar option for any portion of your event, the host will still be responsible for staff charges for setup and service (depending on group size) We will have a tip jar available for our hard working staff.

    Signature Drinks vs Full Bar

    We do not offer full bar. We have created a menu of delicious signature drinks each season and offer 2 signature drinks per event. If there is a special bottle needed for an event, we can discuss options.

    Liquor License

    We have a max 6-hour service liquor license –last call must be 30 minutes prior to event close (working forward from start time). If the cocktail portion of your event starts at 4pm, last call will be 9:30 pm.

    Beer

    We offer beer in cans & bottles only.

    Glassware

    We have matching water, wine and beer glasses for your use. Rocks and coupes are mismatched. These are all included in our bar service offering & are covered under “service” charges to account for dishwashing/handling. If you desire other glassware, you are welcome to seek out additional outside rentals.

  • We prioritize accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary preferences and allergies within your retreat group. To help us do so effectively, it is essential that you provide us with detailed (and final) information about all dietary needs on our 45 day planning call.

    While we strive to meet all requests, last-minute changes can be challenging and may impact our ability to give exceptional service. Please note that requests communicated after our 30 day cut will incur a $100 administrative fee to cover additional labor and ingredient costs.

    A Note on Respecting Dietary Needs for Your Guests: Our culinary team puts significant effort into preparing thoughtful dishes for individuals with specific dietary requirements within your group. We ask that you communicate to your guests the importance of adhering to any dietary restrictions they have communicated to you (and subsequently to us) throughout the retreat.

    Dishes prepared for specific needs will be clearly labeled. Please inform your guests that if an item is labeled for a particular dietary requirement that doesn't apply to them, we appreciate them leaving those items for the individuals who require them. Please connect with us as soon as possible if there are any questions or if the overall group dietary needs have changed since our final planning call.

  • Event Service Gratuity: A 15% service fee is applied to your culinary costs. This gratuity is specifically distributed to our dedicated event and culinary team who work diligently to ensure your retreat experience on the farm is seamless and truly memorable.

    We often receive inquiries from retreat hosts who wish to acknowledge the contributions of our entire team. Beyond our event and culinary staff, we also have a small group of hard-working housekeepers and property stewards who tirelessly prepare our space before your arrival and provide essential support throughout your retreat.

    While the initial 15% service fee covers our event and culinary team, if you or your guests would like to express additional appreciation to our housekeeping or property teams, any such gratuity would be gratefully received but is by no means expected. This overall gratuity policy is an important part of our efforts to attract and retain exceptional staff in the competitive service industry here in Maine.

  • Some retreat hosts bring in additional snacks for their group. This is absolutely fine. You might decide to provide snacks in the different lodging spaces or event barn. Please let us know if this is your plan on the 45 Day call.

Lodging

 
  • How does lodging work for my retreat guests?

    Contracted Lodging: In mos all retreat cases, your venue contract will outline the total cost for the available lodging and the dates of your retreat. Associated invoices for the lodging will be included in your overall retreat contract.

    Can extra nights be added to our retreat?

    Yes, in most cases, extra nights can be arranged for your guests, subject to availability. Additional nightly charges will apply for each lodging space requested. Please inquire about extending your retreat during the planning process.

    What happens if some of the contracted lodging is not booked by my guests?
    Unless otherwise noted in the contract, all outlined property will be required for renting during your event.

    What amenities are provided in the lodging?

    For the comfort and convenience of your guests, all lodging spaces are equipped with linens, towels, pillows, basic bath items, and a coffee maker with coffee. An iron and ironing board are available in the Farmhouse, Farm Cottage, and Cider House. The Farmhouse also features a full-length mirror.

  • Check In Process. There is no formal check in for any lodging at Tops’l Farm. As the retreat hosts, we generally have our guests check into the Event Barn Porch with someone from your team.

    Check In Timing. Please discuss your groups specific check-in and check-out times. Check in is typically 3pm day of arrival and will be planned as such unless we discuss prior to the event.

    Check Out is noon on day of departure. If you require modifications to this timing, we will do our best to accommodate and will work with our housekeeping team to adjust if we can.

    A note about brunch events on checkout day: We will require that guests are checked out of rooms (cars packed) before attending a brunch event so that we may get ready for the next group without a lot of late check-outs.

  • Farmhouse (364 Bremen Rd)

    • 2nd Floor Farmhouse Twins (2 Twins Shared Bath)

    • 2nd Floor Farmhouse Fulls (2 Fulls Shared Bath)

    • 1st Floor - Farmhouse 1st Floor Queen Bed /Shared Bath

    Cider House (661 Bremen Rd Waldoboro Maine)

    Cider House - KING (Private Bath) Cider House - Bunk Room 3 Full Beds - Shared Bath
    2nd Floor Farmhouse Master (Queen + Private Bath)

    Cider House - Private  Shared 2 Full Beds/Shared Bath Cider House - Private  Shared 2 Full Beds/Shared Bath

    Farm Cottage (364 Bremen Rd)
    Cottage - Queen Private + 1/2 Bath Cottage - Full /Shared Bath

    Campground  (365 Bremen Rd)
    Queen Suite Cabin (1 Queen Bed, Private Bath, Outdoor Shower, Compostable Toilet). 
    Woodland Cabins - 2 Twin Beds (10 total cabins, 20 total beds) Shared Bathhouse.

    Campground Bathhouse
    2 Bathrooms - 4 total showers, toilets & sinks
    Common Kitchen area (potable water, electricity, coffee!!!)

  • For groups larger than our capacity (or because some people just prefer a “proper hotel”) you are in luck. Nearby towns of Camden & Rockland have lovely options for groups. Be sure to book early as spots tend to fill quickly, especially in the summer season.

    Some of our favorites:

    ROCKLAND (20 minute drive)

    Rockland Harbor Hotel

    250 Main

    The Samoset Resort

    CAMDEN (25 minute drive)

    Camden Riverhouse

    Hotel 16

    Bay View

    Lord Camden Inn

    Camden Harbor Inn

  • If you have lots of guests please look into

    Northeast Charter Tour

    Luce School Bus Charters

    Country Coach Charters

    We are only able to accommodate a total of 60 cars on the entire property (including vendors).

Misc.

Everything else we could think of. Have a specific question for us. Just ask!

 
  • No outside wood please!

    We will happily supply wood in the campground for your event. However, additional wood may be required for purchase depending on your needs.

    Wood will also be for sale in our Camp Store for self service honesty-box purchases.

  • Aside from horseshoes behind the farmhouse, our yard games are consistently missing pieces and from flea markets! We suggest bringing your own games for your event if desired.

  • Can I bring my dog to Tops’l Farm?Well behaved dogs are welcome at Tops’l Farm with the exception of the campground. If you are planning on bringing an animal a pet fee needs to be added to your reservation.

    Other things to note:

    No unattended dogs by the road or our farm animals.

    No animals on furniture. If you think this will be impossible with your pet, please consider boarding. Damage from pets will come out of the hosts damage deposit.

    If you are leaving for several hours, please crate the animal.

  • Not the most glamorous of topics, but imporant all the same. Here is the skinny on insurance:

    1. Event Insurance Policy (Host). That’s you! You need Event Liability insurance only - not liquor. As we state in our contract:

      Special Event Liability Insurance (for the duration of the event whieh is from check in to check out) is required to be obtained by the Client, and proof of same in the form of a Certificate of Insurance naming Venue as an additional, is due no later than thirty (30) days prior to your event. This insurance shall be obtained at Client’s sole expense, provide and maintain public liability and personal property damage insurance, name the Venue and its officers, employees, contractors, and contracted vendors as additional insured against all bodily injury, property damage, personal injury and other loss arising out of Client’s use and occupancy of the premises, including appurtenances to the premises sidewalks and roadways. The insurance required hereunder shall have a single limit liability of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00), and general aggregate liability of not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00).

      2. For your vendors. Yes, we nee
      all vendors at Tops’l Farm to submit their COI as well. If they are operating a busine
      s on our property for your event, they need to be covered by their own liability policy with Farm on Bremen Rd dba Tops’l Farm as a named insured.

      It states specifically:

      All of Client’s vendors shall be required to obtain, at their sole cost(s) and expense, commercial general liability policy(s) with a single limit liability of not less than One Million Dollars ($1,000,000.00), and general aggregate liability of not less than Two Million Dollars ($2,000,000.00), which shall name Venue as an additional insured on said policy. Proof of each vendor’s policy, which shall be a Certificate of Insurance naming Venue as an additional insured for said amounts, is due no later than thirty (30) days before your event. Failure to provide proof of insurance to Venue thirty (30) days prior to your event shall be considered an event of default on the part of Client and shall be grounds for immediate termination of this Agreement and cancellation of the Event by Venue. In such an instance, Venue shall have no obligation to refund any money paid by Client.

  • We get this asked a lot. In our experience reaching out to your own insurance company as a first step is best - ask them if you are able to take out event insurance as part of your current policy. If not, companies like The Event Helper are a good option. We do not endorse any particular event insurance company and it's advisable to assess multiple providers to ensure you are purchasing the right amount of coverage.

You’re All Set!

We look forward to hosting you here on the farm!