Planning a Private Estate Wedding – What Costs to Expect

Planning a wedding or special event at a private estate can be very appealing. Clients love the privacy (no unexpected poolside spectators making cameo appearances) and the ability to fully customize the design and layout of the event.

Here are some of the additional costs that a private estate wedding often requires:

1. Rentals:  Everything must be brought-in from tables, chairs, furniture (lounge area), market umbrellas, bars, linens, rugs, heaters, kitchen, a dance floor, including the restrooms. Restrooms have come a long way and they are very upscale.  Many of the nicer ones have wood floors and individual wood doors (different types of wood), area rugs, vanities, air conditioning and bathroom attendants.
2. Generators:   These are important to give power from the kitchen to the band and/or DJ.  Please make sure that your generator is quiet and away from the ceremony area.
3. Security:  We require security to keep party crashers away, and in some cases the paparazzi. Property owners require them for protection – especially when there are areas that are off-limits to guests. We appreciate our security team to handle any issues that may arise with shuttles and load in and load out.
4. Event insurance:  We require a certificate of property and liability insurance. This protection is for you and the homeowner.  Policies are reasonably priced and they work along with the refundable security deposit, since the deductibles can cost $1000 per occurrence.
5. Permits:  Upscale cities like Malibu require a temporary use permit (TUP) to have a party at a private estate.  Malibu allows up to four events per year.
6. Bad Weather:  Always have a contingency plan in place in case of bad weather. Renting a tent with a sub-floor can add-up.
7. Parking  for guests with valet depends on the venue’s accessibility, layout and the owners’ preferences. Uber and Lyft offer a safer option for your guests and accounts can be pre-set, so your guests can enter a code.