HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GET MARRIED AT FRANCISCAN GARDENS?
How much does it cost to get married at Franciscan Gardens?
Welcome to the beginning stages of wedding planning with venue searches and going through several wedding packages that don't make sense because they all look so different!
I think buying a car, a house and choosing your wedding venue is all about the same stress level to some.
Here’s a brief breakdown of a Saturday wedding at Franciscan Gardens based on 100 guests.
Franciscan Gardens is owned by 24 Carrots, so that means you get to book one of the best Orange County’s catering for your wedding. So don’t stress thinking you’re booking a beautiful venue and stuck with a horrible catering company. From beginning to end, you’ll be satisfied with their customer service, their amazing and generous food tasting and your final meeting with them. Their staff is attentive and knowledgeable for big and small events.
Photo by Ester Sun Photo
How much does it cost?
Franciscan Gardens charges a venue fee starting at $8,000.
You’ll also see another line for a set-up fee of $250.00.
What does 20% service and tax mean?
$1,000 X 20% = $200
$1,000 + $200 = $1,200
$1,200 X tax (currently 7.75%) = $93
$1,200 + $93 = $1,293
Please keep in mind that Service Tax/administration fee is not the same as gratuity. This cost covers expenses like planning, consulting, venue touring appointments, insurance, maintenance of the venue, labor for pre-planning for your event, and all the behind the scene magic that you don’t have to see or do.
Photo by Ester Sun Photo
I typically suggest finding a venue that includes tables and chairs at the very least. This just helps shave the rental costs for your investment plans for your upcoming wedding.
Franciscan Gardens provides the following:
(200) fruitwood bentwood chairs
60” rounds that seat up to 8 guests (suggested)
Cocktail tables and rectangular tables
My favorite feature, their in house circular arch that is moveable! You can use this arch for the ceremony and then use it for your sweetheart table, your cake table or a photo booth backdrop!
How much does food cost?
Based on the 18 Carrots menu, it’s $44 per person. This includes tray passed hors d’oeuvres during cocktail hour. The best part of this is that you can swap one item for a late night snack! If you’re okay with 3 items for cocktail hour, push the 4th item for the last hour of your wedding. Guests would love a happy surprise of late night tacos or sliders & fries!
So you’re worried about your guests with allergies and you’re saying ‘I have guests with dietary restrictions.’
Not to worry! If you’re needing a vegetarian/vegan option, gluten free, non-dairy, etc, just let them know who and where they’re seated. Your guests will be accommodated.
What about kids’ meals?
They got that too! It’s $16 per entree. The greatest part of this is that staff knows to serve the kids first! They think of everything! Who doesn’t enjoy mac and cheese, chicken tenders and a fruit cup? I mean...can I get one too?
Do they charge for cake cutting?
They do not! Some venues can charge up to $10 per slice! So this saves you quite a lot!
Coffee and tea station
You can definitely add this. I always suggest it because people love their coffee and tea with their desserts. Plus, this will help sober some guests up!
Let’s talk about the bar!
It’s a per person charge, Soft Bar starting at $10 per person and Hosted House Bar is $28 per person. This includes your liquor - Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila , Whiskey, Scotch, Peachtree Schnapps, Sour Apple Pucker, Triple Sec, Dry and Sweet Vermouth
Beer - select 2
Anaheim Gold Ale, Budweiser Light, Rolling Rock, Michelob Ultra, Miller Lite, Coors Ligh
Wine - select 2
Proverb Cabernet Sauvignon, Proverb Pinot Noir, Proverb Sauvignon Blanc, Proverb Chardonnay
Champagne
Stanford Governor’s Cuvee Brut
Keep in mind that glassware is additional cost.
Staffing Cost
Based on 100 guests, your menu selections, your bar selections and other moving parts. You will see the breakdown for a Lead Server, Servers for the entire event, Lead Chef, Event Chef and Bartenders. Expect to pay anywhere from $4,000 - $5,000.
Photo by Brett Hickman Photography
Tableware rental costs
Tableware package to include your utensils is $5 per person
Linens start at $17.50 and up, depending on the fabric choice
If you are wanting other rentals like tents, farm tables, lounge furniture, this will be for an additional cost.
Lighting
We ALL love that this venue comes with string lights! But, I highly recommend adding their uplight packages! It makes a huge difference for the atmosphere and photos!
I hope I was able to help answer your questions when planning for your Franciscan Gardens wedding in San Juan Capistrano. Let’s schedule a call to go over more details about your upcoming wedding! I can’t wait to party with you!
Creative partners
Event Planner: Lizzy Liz Events
Venue: Franciscan Gardens
Catering: 24 Carrots Catering
Florists: Pink Little Flower Shop, Florals by Jenny