Nestled amidst the rolling hills of San Juan Capistrano, Franciscan Gardens has been a beloved wedding destination for decades. Couples are drawn to its charming gardens, historic architecture, and convenient location just minutes from the beach. However, before you book your dream wedding at this enchanting venue, it's essential to understand the financial investment involved.
The cost of a wedding at Franciscan Gardens can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of your guest list, the time of year, and the level of customization you desire. To provide a general overview, this article will delve into the estimated costs associated with various aspects of a Franciscan Gardens wedding.
With careful planning and budgeting, you can create a memorable and affordable wedding at Franciscan Gardens. Contact their experienced wedding coordinators to discuss your vision and obtain a personalized quote that meets your specific needs and preferences.
Franciscan Gardens Wedding Cost
To help you plan your budget, here are 7 important points to consider:
- Venue rental
- Food and beverage
- Photography and videography
- Flowers and décor
- Entertainment
- Attire
- Transportation
Keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on the size of your wedding, the time of year, and the level of customization you desire.
Venue rental
The venue rental fee is one of the most significant expenses associated with a Franciscan Gardens wedding. The cost will vary depending on the size of your guest list, the day of the week, and the time of year.
- Peak season (May-October): $15,000-$25,000
Peak season weddings are the most expensive due to the high demand for outdoor venues during this time.
- Off-season (November-April): $10,000-$18,000
Off-season weddings are more affordable, but keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable during these months.
- Weekends: $2,000-$5,000 more than weekdays
Weekends are more popular for weddings, so expect to pay a premium for a Saturday or Sunday wedding.
- Guest count: $50-$75 per additional guest over 150
Franciscan Gardens has a minimum guest count of 150. If your guest list exceeds this number, you will be charged an additional fee per guest.
The venue rental fee includes exclusive use of the following spaces:
- The Great Lawn
- The Mission Patio
- The Serra Garden
- The Founder's Room
Food and beverage
Food and beverage is another major expense to consider when planning your Franciscan Gardens wedding. The cost will vary depending on the number of guests, the type of menu you choose, and the level of service you desire.
- Cocktail hour: $15-$25 per guest
Cocktail hour typically includes passed hors d'oeuvres and an open bar. The cost will vary depending on the type of hors d'oeuvres and the selection of beer, wine, and cocktails you choose.
- Dinner: $50-$100 per guest
Dinner can be served buffet-style, plated, or family-style. The cost will vary depending on the type of menu you choose and the number of courses you offer.
- Wedding cake: $5-$10 per slice
Franciscan Gardens does not require you to purchase your wedding cake through them. However, if you choose to do so, they will provide you with a list of preferred vendors.
- Open bar: $25-$50 per guest
An open bar includes unlimited beer, wine, and cocktails for your guests. The cost will vary depending on the selection of drinks you choose.
Franciscan Gardens also offers a variety of beverage packages to choose from. These packages include a set number of drinks per guest for a fixed price. This can be a more cost-effective option if you are on a tight budget.
Photography and videography
Photography and videography are essential for capturing the memories of your wedding day. The cost of these services will vary depending on the experience of the photographer and videographer, the number of hours of coverage you need, and the type of package you choose.
For photography, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for a full day of coverage. This includes an engagement session, bridal portraits, groom's portraits, and wedding day coverage. Videography packages typically start at around $2,000 and can go up to $5,000 or more for a full day of coverage. Some vendors offer combination packages that include both photography and videography for a discounted price.
When choosing a photographer and videographer, it's important to look at their portfolio and reviews to make sure their style matches your vision for your wedding day. You should also ask about their experience shooting at Franciscan Gardens, as this can be a challenging venue due to the variety of lighting conditions.
Once you've booked your photographer and videographer, be sure to communicate your expectations clearly. This includes discussing the types of shots you want, the amount of time you want them to spend with you and your guests, and the turnaround time for receiving your photos and videos.
Flowers and décor
Flowers and décor can transform Franciscan Gardens into a truly magical setting for your wedding day. The cost of these elements will vary depending on the type of flowers you choose, the number of arrangements you need, and the complexity of your décor.
For flowers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. This includes bouquets for the bride and bridesmaids, boutonnieres for the groom and groomsmen, and centerpieces for the reception tables. If you choose to have a floral arch or other large floral installations, the cost will be higher.
For décor, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more. This includes items such as candles, lanterns, tablecloths, chair covers, and signage. If you choose to rent furniture or other large décor items, the cost will be higher.
When choosing a florist and décor vendor, it's important to look at their portfolio and reviews to make sure their style matches your vision for your wedding day. You should also ask about their experience working at Franciscan Gardens, as this can be a challenging venue due to the variety of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Entertainment
Entertainment is an important part of any wedding reception, and Franciscan Gardens offers a variety of options to choose from. The cost of entertainment will vary depending on the type of entertainment you choose, the length of time you need them to perform, and the size of your guest list.
For live music, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. This includes bands, DJs, and solo musicians. If you choose to have a larger band or a more popular artist, the cost will be higher.
For other types of entertainment, such as photo booths, caricature artists, or dancers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more. The cost will vary depending on the type of entertainment you choose and the length of time you need them to perform.
When choosing an entertainment vendor, it's important to look at their reviews and make sure they have a good reputation. You should also ask about their experience performing at Franciscan Gardens, as this can be a challenging venue due to the variety of indoor and outdoor spaces.
Attire
The cost of attire for your wedding will vary depending on the type of wedding you're having, the formality of the event, and the number of people in your wedding party. For a traditional wedding, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 for the bride's dress, $500 to $1,500 for the groom's tuxedo, and $200 to $500 for each bridesmaid's dress.
If you're having a more casual wedding, you can save money on attire. For example, you could choose to rent the bride's dress or buy a less expensive dress. You could also choose to have your bridesmaids wear dresses that they already own.
When choosing attire for your wedding, it's important to consider the overall style of the event and the venue. For example, if you're having a garden wedding, you might choose to wear a more relaxed and informal dress. If you're having a ballroom wedding, you might choose to wear a more formal dress.
It's also important to factor in the cost of alterations. Most dresses will need to be altered to fit you perfectly. The cost of alterations will vary depending on the complexity of the dress and the experience of the seamstress.
Transportation
Transportation is an important consideration for any wedding, especially if you have guests coming from out of town. The cost of transportation will vary depending on the number of guests you need to transport, the distance they need to travel, and the type of transportation you choose.
- Shuttle buses: $100-$200 per hour
Shuttle buses are a great option for transporting large groups of guests. They can be rented by the hour, and the cost will vary depending on the size of the bus and the distance you need to travel.
- Limousines: $150-$300 per hour
Limousines are a more luxurious option for transporting smaller groups of guests. They can be rented by the hour, and the cost will vary depending on the size of the limousine and the distance you need to travel.
- Party buses: $200-$400 per hour
Party buses are a great option for transporting larger groups of guests who want to party on the way to the wedding. They are equipped with sound systems, dance floors, and even bars.
- Private car service: $50-$100 per trip
Private car service is a good option for transporting smaller groups of guests or for guests who need to travel a longer distance.
When choosing a transportation vendor, it's important to get quotes from multiple vendors and to compare prices. You should also ask about the vendor's experience and reputation. It's also a good idea to book your transportation in advance, especially if you're having a wedding during peak season.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about Franciscan Gardens wedding costs:
Question 1: What is the average cost of a wedding at Franciscan Gardens?
The average cost of a wedding at Franciscan Gardens is between $30,000 and $50,000. However, the cost will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your guest list, the time of year, and the level of customization you desire.
Question 2: What is the cost of venue rental at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of venue rental at Franciscan Gardens varies depending on the size of your guest list, the day of the week, and the time of year. For peak season weddings (May-October), the cost ranges from $15,000 to $25,000. For off-season weddings (November-April), the cost ranges from $10,000 to $18,000. Weekends are more expensive than weekdays, and there is an additional charge for guest counts over 150.
Question 3: What is the cost of food and beverage at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of food and beverage at Franciscan Gardens varies depending on the type of menu you choose, the number of guests, and the level of service you desire. Cocktail hour typically costs $15-$25 per guest, dinner costs $50-$100 per guest, and an open bar costs $25-$50 per guest.
Question 4: What is the cost of photography and videography at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of photography and videography at Franciscan Gardens varies depending on the experience of the photographer and videographer, the number of hours of coverage you need, and the type of package you choose. For photography, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 for a full day of coverage. For videography, packages typically start at around $2,000 and can go up to $5,000 or more for a full day of coverage.
Question 5: What is the cost of flowers and décor at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of flowers and décor at Franciscan Gardens varies depending on the type of flowers you choose, the number of arrangements you need, and the complexity of your décor. For flowers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. For décor, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Question 6: What is the cost of entertainment at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of entertainment at Franciscan Gardens varies depending on the type of entertainment you choose, the length of time you need them to perform, and the size of your guest list. For live music, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. For other types of entertainment, such as photo booths, caricature artists, or dancers, you can expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more.
Question 7: What is the cost of attire at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of attire for your wedding at Franciscan Gardens will vary depending on the type of wedding you're having, the formality of the event, and the number of people in your wedding party. For a traditional wedding, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 for the bride's dress, $500 to $1,500 for the groom's tuxedo, and $200 to $500 for each bridesmaid's dress.
Question 8: What is the cost of transportation at Franciscan Gardens?
The cost of transportation at Franciscan Gardens will vary depending on the number of guests you need to transport, the distance they need to travel, and the type of transportation you choose. For shuttle buses, you can expect to pay $100-$200 per hour. For limousines, you can expect to pay $150-$300 per hour. For party buses, you can expect to pay $200-$400 per hour. For private car service, you can expect to pay $50-$100 per trip.
These are just some of the most frequently asked questions about Franciscan Gardens wedding costs. For more information, please contact the Franciscan Gardens wedding coordinator.
Now that you have a better understanding of the costs associated with a Franciscan Gardens wedding, you can start planning your budget. Here are a few tips to help you save money:
Tips
Here are a few tips to help you save money on your Franciscan Gardens wedding:
Tip 1: Get married during the off-season. Peak season weddings (May-October) are more expensive than off-season weddings (November-April). If you're flexible with your wedding date, you can save a significant amount of money by getting married during the off-season.
Tip 2: Choose a weekday wedding. Weekends are more popular for weddings, so they are more expensive than weekdays. If you're able to get married on a weekday, you can save money on venue rental and other vendors.
Tip 3: Limit your guest list. The number of guests you have will impact the cost of your wedding. If you're on a tight budget, consider limiting your guest list to the people who are closest to you.
Tip 4: Be creative with your décor. You don't have to spend a lot of money on décor to have a beautiful wedding. Get creative and use items that you already have or that you can find at a discount. For example, you could use old books as centerpieces or create your own floral arrangements.
Tip 5: Ask for help from friends and family. Friends and family members are often willing to help with wedding planning and décor. If you're on a tight budget, don't be afraid to ask for help. They can help you save money on everything from invitations to centerpieces.
By following these tips, you can save money on your Franciscan Gardens wedding without sacrificing style or quality.
Planning a wedding can be stressful, but it's important to remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love with your closest friends and family. Don't get bogged down in the details and focus on what's really important.
Conclusion
Franciscan Gardens is a beautiful and historic venue for a wedding. However, it's important to be aware of the costs associated with having a wedding at this venue. The cost of a Franciscan Gardens wedding will vary depending on a number of factors, such as the size of your guest list, the time of year, and the level of customization you desire.
If you're considering having a wedding at Franciscan Gardens, it's important to start planning early and to set a realistic budget. By following the tips in this article, you can save money on your wedding without sacrificing style or quality.
Most importantly, remember that your wedding day is about celebrating your love with your closest friends and family. Don't get bogged down in the details and focus on what's really important.