Planning a wedding in Miami offers a blend of vibrant culture, stunning venues, and unforgettable experiences. Among the city’s premier wedding destinations is The CocoPlum, a historic venue nestled in Coral Gables. Renowned for its Mediterranean-style architecture and exceptional service, The CocoPlum provides an enchanting setting for couples seeking a memorable celebration. This comprehensive guide delves into the costs associated with hosting a wedding at The CocoPlum, offering insights into venue details, influencing factors, expense breakdowns, budgeting tips, and a summarized budget estimate.
Venue Details
| Venue Name | The CocoPlum |
|---|---|
| Location | 1375 Sunset Drive, Miami, FL 33143 |
| Phone | 305-665-6567 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | www.thecocoplum.com |
| @thecocoplum | |
| Average Price | $23,500 |
| Capacity | Up to 220 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards (2011–2025) |
| Facilities | Ceremony Area, Private Bridal Suites, Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Spaces, Dressing Room, Reception Area, Wireless Internet |
About The CocoPlum
The CocoPlum, established in 1912, stands as a testament to timeless elegance in Coral Gables. Its Mediterranean Revival architecture, characterized by red-tiled roofs and arched windows, provides a picturesque backdrop for weddings. The venue boasts both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a grand ballroom with cathedral ceilings and a charming courtyard ideal for ceremonies or cocktail hours. With a dedicated team led by seasoned coordinator Rosie Hayden, The CocoPlum ensures every detail, from invitations to catering, is meticulously handled, offering couples a seamless and personalized wedding experience.
Location
Situated in the heart of Coral Gables, The CocoPlum offers easy access to Miami’s vibrant attractions while providing a serene and exclusive setting. Its location ensures convenience for guests and a variety of nearby accommodations, making it an ideal choice for both local and destination weddings.
Factors Influencing The CocoPlum Wedding Costs
Understanding the elements that shape the total cost of a wedding at The CocoPlum is essential for couples aiming to plan a financially sound celebration. While the average price sits at around $23,500, this figure can fluctuate depending on several key variables. From guest count to wedding season, each choice you make contributes to the final investment. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most significant factors that impact wedding costs at this luxurious Miami venue.
Guest Count and Its Direct Impact
One of the most critical cost determinants is the number of guests you plan to invite. The CocoPlum can accommodate up to 220 guests, making it suitable for both intimate and grand affairs.
The more guests you invite, the higher your overall expenses will be—especially for catering, seating, bar service, table settings, and favors. Even small additions per guest can quickly add up. For example, adding 50 guests at a catering rate of $150 per person means an extra $7,500. Being intentional with your guest list helps you control expenses and maintain a more personal experience.
Date, Season, and Day of the Week
The timing of your wedding has a powerful effect on pricing. Like most venues, The CocoPlum sees its peak season during spring and fall, especially on Saturdays. These dates are often in high demand and come with premium rates.
Opting for a weekday, a Sunday afternoon, or an off-season month such as June through September can help you access more favorable pricing. In fact, some couples report saving thousands simply by shifting their wedding date to a Friday or Sunday.
Planning well in advance gives you more flexibility with dates, enabling you to find a slot that meets both your vision and your budget.
The Type of Wedding Package Chosen
The CocoPlum offers a range of customizable packages designed to cater to different tastes and budgets. Full-service packages may include catering, coordination, décor, rentals, and entertainment. While these packages may seem more expensive upfront, they can offer better overall value when compared to hiring each vendor separately.
On the other hand, choosing à la carte options allows for greater customization and can help you avoid paying for services you don’t need. Understanding the inclusions and negotiating the package that works best for you is key to maximizing value.
Vendor Selection: In-House vs. Outside
Another factor that influences cost is whether you use The CocoPlum’s in-house vendors or bring in your own. The venue works with trusted partners and provides a well-integrated planning experience when using their recommended team.
However, couples who already have a preferred photographer, caterer, or band may choose to hire externally. While this adds flexibility, it may also result in additional fees, including vendor coordination costs or service surcharges.
Collaborating with your venue coordinator to create a balanced plan between in-house and external vendors is often the most efficient route.
Level of Customization and Personalization
Every couple wants their wedding to reflect their unique love story, and personalization is what makes each event special. However, these custom elements—such as bespoke décor, themed lighting, unique furniture rentals, or special menu items—often come with a higher price tag.
If you’re aiming for a highly stylized or themed wedding, it’s important to set a realistic budget for these details. The CocoPlum’s elegant setting allows for minimalistic décor that still feels luxurious, so many couples choose to highlight the venue’s natural charm rather than over-customizing every detail.
Entertainment Choices and Enhancements
Entertainment is central to the guest experience. Whether you want a classical quartet for your ceremony, a DJ with a full light show for the reception, or a live band for dancing under the stars, each option varies widely in cost.
Additional features like cold sparklers, a photo booth, or even a late-night snack bar can elevate your event but also increase your final invoice. Couples should carefully evaluate what kind of entertainment they value most and ensure it aligns with their overall budget and guest expectations.
Catering and Beverage Preferences
Food and drink are often among the largest portions of any wedding budget. The CocoPlum’s catering services are highly customizable, which means you can scale up or down based on your preferences.
Gourmet multi-course meals, premium cocktail bars, and late-night dessert tables are exciting additions but can quickly inflate your bill. Opting for a buffet-style meal or selecting mid-range bar options can help reduce costs without compromising on quality.
Consult with the venue’s catering manager to create a menu that reflects your tastes while respecting your financial boundaries.
Daytime vs. Evening Celebrations
The time of day also plays a role in the pricing structure. Evening weddings typically require more elaborate lighting, extended service hours, and higher-priced dinner menus.
Choosing a brunch or early afternoon wedding can help reduce costs across catering, staffing, and venue usage. Not only is this option more budget-friendly, but it also provides a unique and relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Travel, Accommodation, and Guest Logistics
For couples planning a destination wedding or hosting out-of-town guests, accommodation and transportation can significantly affect your total spending. While The CocoPlum is conveniently located in Coral Gables, providing shuttle services, hotel room blocks, or even welcome gifts for guests adds to your budget.
Being proactive with travel logistics and leveraging group discounts can help offset these costs. Additionally, booking nearby hotels in advance ensures your guests have affordable lodging options.
Unexpected Extras and Hidden Costs
Finally, don’t forget about small but essential items that can sneak into your budget. These include marriage license fees, insurance, gratuities, overtime charges, and last-minute rentals.
It’s wise to build a contingency buffer of at least 10% into your budget to cover these unforeseen expenses. Working with The CocoPlum’s experienced coordination team will also help minimize last-minute surprises and keep your finances on track.
Breakdown of The CocoPlum Wedding Expenses
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $1,630–$4,514 (varies by day and season) |
| Catering (per guest) | $100–$200 |
| Beverage Services | Varies based on selection |
| Event Planning & Coordination | Included in packages |
| Floral & Décor | Customized per event |
| Entertainment | Varies based on choice |
| Photography & Videography | Varies based on package |
| Additional Rentals | Included in packages |
| Taxes & Service Charges | Approximately 20% |
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on The CocoPlum Weddings
Planning a dream wedding at a stunning venue like The CocoPlum does not have to mean breaking the bank. While this elegant Miami location offers top-tier services and picturesque charm, there are smart strategies couples can implement to manage costs effectively without sacrificing quality or experience. Here are expert tips and practical advice to help you stay within your wedding budget and still enjoy every magical moment of your big day.
Prioritize Your Must-Haves
Start your budgeting journey by identifying the most important aspects of your wedding. Is it the food, the photography, the music, or the décor? By narrowing down your top priorities, you can allocate a larger portion of your budget to those elements while being more frugal in less important areas. At The CocoPlum, many essentials are already included in their packages, allowing you to invest more intentionally in areas that matter most to you.
Consider Off-Peak Dates and Days
Choosing to get married during the venue’s off-season can result in significant savings. The CocoPlum offers lower rates during the summer months (June through September) and often provides incentives for weekday weddings. Not only will you save money on the venue rental, but vendors may also offer discounts for less busy dates. This is a smart way to get the same premium experience at a fraction of the price.
Limit Your Guest List Strategically
The more guests you invite, the more you’ll spend on food, drinks, rentals, and even invitations. While The CocoPlum can accommodate up to 220 guests, consider whether a smaller, more intimate gathering could be just as meaningful—if not more so. Trimming your guest list to only close friends and family will dramatically reduce costs while maintaining the elegance of your event.
Make the Most of In-House Services
One of the major advantages of hosting your wedding at The CocoPlum is their comprehensive range of in-house services. From event coordination and catering to décor and setup, using the venue’s team streamlines the planning process and often proves more cost-effective than sourcing each service separately. Plus, their team knows the space intimately and can guide you toward smart decisions that stay within your budget.
Embrace Simplicity in Décor
While lavish floral installations and custom backdrops are beautiful, they can also be costly. Let the natural beauty of The CocoPlum work in your favor. The Mediterranean-style architecture, lush gardens, and historic interiors provide a naturally romantic setting that requires minimal enhancement. Consider using seasonal flowers or greenery, candles, and elegant table settings for an upscale look that won’t deplete your funds.
DIY Where It Makes Sense
If you or your family and friends have creative talents, consider taking on some DIY projects like wedding favors, signage, or even portions of your floral arrangements. Not only does this add a personal touch to your celebration, but it can also help you save significantly on professional design or production fees. Just be sure not to overcommit and overwhelm yourself close to the big day.
Bundle Services and Negotiate Packages
Always ask the venue coordinator if bundling services could offer savings. For instance, some packages at The CocoPlum may include the photographer, DJ, or even the wedding cake. Bundled pricing is often more economical than hiring each vendor individually. Don’t be afraid to negotiate either—many vendors are open to customizing packages to better suit your financial needs, especially if you are booking during a slower season.
Reuse and Repurpose Décor
Maximize the value of your décor by repurposing it throughout your event. Ceremony flowers can be moved to the reception, bridesmaids’ bouquets can double as table centerpieces, and signage can be reused in multiple areas. Being resourceful with your decorations is both environmentally friendly and budget smart.
Monitor and Adjust Your Budget Regularly
Create a detailed wedding budget spreadsheet and track your spending from day one. Be honest about what you can afford and adjust your plans as needed. Leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses and review your budget regularly to avoid surprises. The team at The CocoPlum is experienced in helping couples plan responsibly and can offer insights on where it’s wise to splurge and where to cut back.
Choose Simpler Food and Drink Options
Catering costs can quickly climb, especially with a large guest list. Opt for a plated meal with fewer courses or a creative buffet instead of a formal sit-down dinner. You can also choose beer and wine instead of a full open bar to reduce alcohol expenses. The CocoPlum offers flexible catering packages to suit different budgets and preferences.
Budget Estimate Summary
| Guest Count | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|
| 100 Guests | $23,500 |
| 150 Guests | $35,250 |
| 200 Guests | $47,000 |
Note: These estimates are based on average costs and can vary based on specific choices and customizations.
Final Thoughts
The CocoPlum offers a harmonious blend of historic charm, elegant settings, and comprehensive services, making it a sought-after venue for weddings in Miami. By understanding the various factors influencing costs and implementing strategic budgeting, couples can craft a memorable celebration that aligns with their vision and financial considerations. Engaging with the venue’s experienced team ensures a seamless planning process, culminating in a wedding day that reflects your unique love story.