Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

Don’t miss the details

We welcome any questions that will make your time at the ranch unforgettable! Please find some of our Frequently Asked Questions here.

Front view of a two-story house with a large porch, white railings, and dormer windows, set against a clear sky.

Lodging FAQs

Woman on a decorated porch with floral wreaths and lanterns

  • Due to capacity limits, all groups with more than 35 guests are required to use the event center for dining and large gatherings. (Cleaning fee applicable)

    Please contact us for more information about standalone banquets, fundraisers, and extended events.

    • Grand wooden entry doors

    • Foyer

    • Flat Screen TV

    • Portable Sound System

    • Wi-Fi

    • Covered porch entry

    • Gas Fireplace

    • Two bathrooms -Women’s has three stalls and Men’s has two stalls (Can be used/labeled as men’s or women’s, depending on your event needs)

    • Tables and Chairs

    • Large 5’x5’ decorative wood farm table

    • Two cushioned bar height chairs

    • Decor closet

    • Prep Kitchen

    • Chef’s Kitchen (Exclusive use of Chef Brian)

    • Antique Sofa and Chair

    • Full-length mirrors

  • In addition to tables and chairs, additional decor is available to our retreat planners and their teams “free of charge”. Please arrange a time in the months leading up to your event to visit in person and select decor items that can be used to decorate your event.

    • Vases

    • Lanterns

    • Artificial florals

    • Candles

    • Chalkboards

    • Easles

    • Runners

    • Drapery

    • Mobile Coffee or Drink Bar

    Many other items are available to complement the decor items provided by retreat planners.

  • Yes, there is a spacious prep kitchen that provides a perfect space for outside catering or personal meal prep.

    Kitchen includes:

    • Refrigerator with Freezer

    • Microwave

    • Standard Stove/Oven Combo

    • Industrial Ice Machine

    • Ample counter space

    • Large white coolers

    • Bunn Coffee Machine

    • Limited cooking supplies/utensils

    • Keurig coffee machines

    • 3 Drink dispensers

  • Though Willowood does not supply any alcohol, Beer, Wine, and Champagne are allowed. TABC-licensed bartenders and security personnel are required for all alcohol service.

    Willowood Ranch does NOT allow liquor, BYOB, or self-serve bar options.

  • Provided tables are as follows:

    Rectangle Banquet Tables

    • (10) 6’ x 30” Table: Use a tablecloth measuring 90” x 132”.

    • (12) 8’ x 30” Table: Use a tablecloth measuring 90” x 156”.

    Round Tables

    • (30) 60” Round Table: Use a round linen measuring 108” for mid-length, 120” for floor length

    • (2) 30” Round High Boy Tables: Use a round linen measuring 120”.

    These selections will ensure a polished and cohesive look for your gatherings.

  • Yes. There is a built-in sound system that can be connected to your device via Bluetooth, an AUX cord, or a Lightning cable.

    A wireless microphone is available.

    If you sound setup is unique or personalized, we recommend providing your own portable system.

    For larger events that require an MC or sound mixer, we recommend hiring a reputable DJ - recommendations available upon request.

  • Plain black linens are included for all ministry retreat events.

    Colored linens are available to rent through A-1 rentals in Denison, TX.

  • In addition to Kurieg and conventional coffee makers, the event center kitchen includes a large BUNN coffee maker, filters, and percolators.

    Retreat planners are responsible for providing their own coffee grounds and coffee supplies.

  • While dishes are not provided, rentals are available on-site. Prices vary depending on the style and intended use.

    Disposable dishware is encouraged and must be provided by the retreat planner.

  • Yes! All spaces are equipped with high-speed wireless internet. The password will be posted in each building.

  • Willowood Ranch has partnered with The Humble Chef Catering to bring exceptional dining options to couples and guests! While outside Catering is welcome and must be pre-approved by the venue, we encourage all parties to explore our on-site catering!

Event Center FAQs

A close-up of a campfire with logs burning and flames rising.
Person riding a dark horse in a grassy field near a farm with buildings and trees.
Nighttime scene of a wooden deck with string lights and a pool

  • Our capacity depends on the type of retreat you plan to host. As each of our houses is laid out differently, sleeping arrangements may vary, ranging from individual occupancy to shared rooms or shared beds.

    We have 8 houses, 20 rooms, and 44 beds available. Please visit our lodging page for more information.

  • Meals are not included in your booking. However, we have a longstanding relationship with the Humble Chef, who offers exceptional meal packages to our retreat friends.

    There are several restaurants in Sherman for quick grab-and-go options

  • Yes! Each house is fully equipped with furnished kitchens.

    The Ranch House features a spacious kitchen equipped with two stove/oven combo units, two microwaves, ample counter space, and two refrigerators.

    This house is usually where large retreats gather; however, if you have over 35 guests, we will need you to utilize the event center for a more comfortable gathering.

    Helpful things provided are:

    Ample refrigerator storage, an industrial ice machine, standard kitchen equipment, dining spaces, a BBQ grill, griddles, fire pits, trash receptacles, and more.

  • Willowood does have 50-amp power connections at several buildings, but we do not have dump stations on the property. If parked away from buildings, you may use your generator. Although RV camping is permitted, it must be approved at the time of booking and may incur additional fees.

  • Service pets are the only approved pets allowed on the property. Please be aware that the property is home to horses, as well as barn cats and ranch dogs, which roam freely. They pose no threat to guests and are not permitted inside any of the buildings.

    Venue staff may require proof of a rabies vaccine, Coggins test, or other specific records to ensure the safety of guests and ranch livestock.

  • Willowood does not accept overnight bookings for children’s or youth retreats at this time. Children are welcome if accompanied by parents, but youth-specific overnight events are not accepted.

    We do, however, welcome group outdoor overnight camping, as well as day-camp events. Please message us with special requests.

  • Tent camping is allowed, but must be approved in advance. Fees may apply

    We welcome the opportunity to connect with local Churches and community groups, such as Trail Life, American Heritage Girls, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, 4-H, and FFA, as well as other community youth programs.

  • Yes! The property features three large, easily accessible ponds full of fish. Limited fishing gear is available to borrow free of charge, and guests are welcome to bring their own supplies.

    We do ask that all fishing be limited to catch and release.

  • Yes! Trail rides must be arranged in advance of your arrival. Rides are safely led with up to 5 riders at a time across the 350-acre property.

    Rides are $50 per rider and each trail lasts about 1 hour.

    All skill levels accepted. Waiver is required.

  • Yes, all retreats have access to our stunning chapel during their stay, subject to scheduling availability.

    There are occasions where other groups or events may need access; schedules will be coordinated as needed.

  • Absolutely! Please visit Willowood Weddings to learn more about our wedding packages and availability.

  • Twenty-five % of your rental total is due within two weeks of signing the booking agreement to secure your retreat dates and spaces. Payments made are non-refundable. Cancellations with at least 30 days' notice will receive a credit for the value of their deposit, which can be used within one year from the cancellation date.

  • Please get in touch with us through our contact form. A member of our retreats team will work with you to create a booking as unique as your ministry!

    Helpful booking steps:

    • Connect through our Contact link, email, or by phone 903-981-0070

    • Review lodging options.

    • Please fill out our contact retreat form

    • Complete your contract through DocuSign.

    • Pay the booking deposit, either by check or online payment.

    • Please check in with us 30 days before your arrival to confirm and finalize details.

  • While unreserved spaces are not guaranteed, spaces can be added by request before arrival. Our team strives to ensure that every space is prepared for your arrival with excellence. Last-minute additions may not be ready for guests.

  • We love visitors!

    Want to come out for the day and enjoy the property, walk, book a trail ride, fish, or visit the chapel?

    Individuals and small groups are welcome to visit for a few hours free of charge. Please get in touch with us in advance by phone or email to confirm our availability - 903-891-0070 events@willowoodranch.com

  • Planning your first retreat and not sure where to start? Our team is happy to help get you started and guide you through the planning process with tips, tricks, and tools to help you achieve a successful retreat.

  • We appreciate the opportunity to host corporate retreats here at the ranch. If you are inquiring about a company that is NOT a 501 (c) (3) organization, please message us for a quote!

Event room decorated with international flags, chandeliers, long tables with black tablecloths, chairs, and floral centerpieces.
People sitting at a long table enjoying a meal, with plates of food and red cups. The table is decorated with flowers and greenery. The setting appears to be a casual indoor gathering.
Wooden counter with a greenery accent, featuring a silver beverage dispenser, clear cups, decorative bowls, and a mirror on top.

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