So, what does a private estate wedding actually cost? Let’s break it down.
Venue Fee: $15,000 – $100,000+
Unlike traditional wedding venues, many private estates do not operate as event spaces year-round. Some charge a flat rental fee for access to the property, while others require a weekend buyout, especially if accommodations are included. Estates in sought-after locations (think waterfront in Newport, coastal Maine, or the Berkshires) will be on the higher end.
Tent & Flooring: $30,000 – $100,000
Unless the estate has a dedicated event structure, you’ll likely need a tent—and not just any tent. A full-flooring system to level out uneven lawns, clear-top or sailcloth tenting, heating or cooling systems, and statement lighting (chandeliers, draped café lights) can push this cost well beyond what most couples anticipate.
Catering: $300 – $600 per person
With private estate weddings, you’re building a kitchen from scratch. Caterers will need to bring in ovens, refrigeration, and prep stations, which means additional costs beyond food and service. Expect pricing to reflect high-touch service, custom menus, and premium ingredients.
Restrooms, Generators & Infrastructure: $10,000 – $30,000
You’ll need upscale restroom trailers (yes, even the glamorous ones) and a power setup that can support catering, lighting, and entertainment. Generators, HVAC units, and supplemental lighting will add to your infrastructure investment.
Design & Floral: $20,000 – $60,000+
Private estates provide a stunning natural backdrop, but they also require more design to transform an open-air space into a fully realized wedding environment. Think custom-built bars, lush florals that enhance (not overpower) the landscape, and layered tablescapes that make a tent feel like a warm, intimate dinner party rather than an outdoor event.
Planning & Coordination: $15,000 – $50,000+
Estate weddings require expert-level coordination. There’s no in-house staff managing the logistics, and every detail (from valet to security to vendor load-ins) needs to be meticulously planned. A full-service planner with estate wedding experience will be invaluable in pulling it all together seamlessly.
The Bottom Line? Expect $250,000+
For a 150-200 guest wedding at a private estate, total costs often start around $250,000 and scale up quickly based on level of design and vendor selection. The result? A wedding that feels personal, immersive, and entirely one-of-a-kind.
If you’re dreaming of a private estate wedding but want a team who knows exactly how to make it happen smoothly, let’s talk.