Planning a wedding involves numerous decisions, with the choice of venue being paramount. Secret Gardens Miami, nestled in Homestead, Florida, offers a blend of natural beauty and modern amenities, making it a sought-after location for couples. Understanding the associated costs is crucial for effective budgeting. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into hosting a wedding at Secret Gardens Miami, including venue details, cost factors, expense breakdowns, budgeting tips, and a budget estimate summary.
Venue Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | Secret Gardens Miami |
| Location | 14450 SW 248th Street, Homestead, FL 33032 |
| Phone | 305-507-7405 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | www.secretgardensmiami.com |
| @secretgardensmiami | |
| Average Price | $7,750 |
| Capacity | 150 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards 2019–2025 |
| Facilities | – Ceremony Area – Private Bridal Suites – Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Areas – Dressing Room – Reception Area – Wireless Internet |
About Secret Gardens Miami
Secret Gardens Miami is a breathtaking property located in the Redlands agricultural area of Miami. Spanning six acres, the venue features lush tropical foliage, flowing waterfalls, and crystal-clear lagoons, creating a serene and romantic setting for weddings. The natural ambiance and tranquil environment make it an ideal location for couples seeking an intimate and picturesque celebration.
Location
Situated at 14450 SW 248th Street in Homestead, FL, Secret Gardens Miami is easily accessible from major highways, yet offers a secluded atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of the city. The venue’s location provides guests with the convenience of nearby accommodations and attractions, enhancing the overall wedding experience.
Factors Influencing Secret Gardens Miami Weddings Cost
While the venue’s average wedding price hovers around $7,750, your final costs can vary significantly based on several important factors. Secret Gardens Miami offers flexibility and customizability, which is great—but it also means pricing can shift depending on your unique preferences, event size, and date. Let’s break down the key elements that influence how much you’ll end up spending for your wedding at this beautiful tropical oasis.
1. Wedding Date and Season
The time of year and day of the week you choose to tie the knot plays a major role in determining the overall price.
Peak Season vs. Off-Peak Season
Weddings scheduled during the high-demand months—typically spring and fall—often come with higher venue rental rates. These are the most popular times to get married due to favorable weather in Miami.
Weekday vs. Weekend
A Saturday wedding is generally the most expensive, while weekday weddings (Monday through Thursday) offer more affordable pricing tiers. Secret Gardens Miami, like many venues, adjusts its rates based on demand, so opting for a weekday can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars.
2. Guest Count
The number of guests you invite has a direct impact on nearly every aspect of your wedding budget.
More Guests = Higher Costs
From catering and seating to decor and staffing, every additional guest means added expenses. Secret Gardens Miami offers different packages based on guest capacity, such as the Villa Laguna package (up to 80 guests) or the Paradise Found and Grand Gardens packages (up to 150 guests).
Per-Person Pricing
Some services, especially catering and rentals, are priced on a per-person basis. Keeping your guest list lean is one of the most effective ways to control costs.
3. Selected Wedding Package
Secret Gardens Miami offers tiered wedding packages, each with its own amenities, access level, and price point.
Basic vs. Premium Packages
- Villa Laguna Package: Ideal for intimate weddings with limited guest numbers and access to essential venue areas.
- Paradise Found Package: A mid-range option with access to both ceremony and reception spaces, plus bridal suites.
- Grand Gardens Package: The most luxurious option, offering full access to the entire property, overnight accommodations, and enhanced amenities.
Why it matters:
Your choice of package affects everything from venue access to the number of included services, such as bridal suites, ceremony areas, and restrooms.
4. Customization and Add-Ons
Personalizing your wedding is part of the fun—but it can also increase your expenses.
Common Add-Ons Include:
- Additional time for setup and teardown
- Upgraded lighting or sound systems
- Luxury seating and linens
- Extended use of the bridal suite
- Overnight accommodations for the couple or guests
How it affects pricing:
While the base package might include the essentials, any extras or special requests will raise the total bill. Secret Gardens Miami allows for customization, which is a huge advantage, but couples should be mindful of how quickly costs can rise.
5. Vendor Choices
Secret Gardens Miami allows outside vendors, which gives you flexibility—but also introduces variability in cost depending on your selections.
Premium vs. Budget Vendors
- Choosing a high-end caterer, florist, photographer, or planner will naturally increase your budget. Conversely, working with budget-friendly or local vendors can help you stay within your desired price range.
Coordination Costs
- Hiring a wedding planner or day-of coordinator can be an added cost, but many couples find it’s worth the investment to avoid stress and ensure smooth execution.
6. Décor and Floral Arrangements
The natural beauty of Secret Gardens Miami means you may not need much decor—but if you decide to go big on design, costs can rise quickly.
Minimalist vs. Lavish Design
- A simple ceremony with minimal florals and DIY touches may cost a few hundred dollars, while elaborate themes with custom installations, chandeliers, or imported flowers could run into the thousands.
What to consider:
- Think about whether your vision complements the venue’s tropical and rustic charm, or if it requires significant transformation.
7. Catering and Beverage Services
Food and drinks are often one of the largest expenses at any wedding—and this is no different at Secret Gardens Miami.
Per-Guest Pricing
- Catering services typically charge based on the number of guests and type of service (buffet, plated dinner, food stations).
Bar Options
- An open bar, premium liquor, or signature cocktails will add more to your total than a limited or cash bar option.
Tip: Ask caterers if they offer package deals including service staff, rentals, and cleanup—it can reduce costs and simplify logistics.
8. Entertainment and Music
Whether you hire a live band, string quartet, or professional DJ, entertainment is both essential and variable in pricing.
Basic Sound Setup vs. Full Experience
- A basic speaker system and playlist might be cost-efficient, but a professional DJ or band can elevate the event atmosphere.
Venue Regulations:
Make sure to discuss any sound restrictions or timing limitations with the venue in advance to avoid additional fees.
9. Photography and Videography
Capturing memories is priceless—but professional services can take up a large chunk of your budget.
Pricing Range:
- Depending on hours of coverage, number of shooters, and level of editing, photography and videography services can range from $2,000 to $5,000 or more.
Suggestion:
- Look for bundled photo-video packages or off-season discounts from trusted local professionals.
10. Transportation and Accommodation
While Secret Gardens Miami offers a beautiful location, it is slightly removed from downtown Miami, so transportation and lodging logistics should be considered.
Shuttle Services:
- For guest convenience, some couples provide shuttles or group transportation, especially if alcohol is served.
Nearby Hotels or Airbnbs:
- Some packages may include overnight stays or honeymoon suite access, which could offset accommodation costs for the couple.
Breakdown of Secret Gardens Miami Weddings Expenses
Understanding the breakdown of potential expenses helps in effective budgeting. Here’s an overview:
| Package | Description | Weekday | Saturday | Sunday |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Found | Up to 150 guests Two wedding suites Outdoor ceremony and reception Private restrooms |
$4,250 | $5,000 | $4,750 |
| Villa Laguna | Up to 80 guests One wedding suite Outdoor ceremony and reception Private restroom Additional guests: $15 each |
$2,500 | $3,000 | $2,750 |
| Grand Gardens | Full property access Honeymoon suite overnight Two wedding suites Indoor and outdoor ballrooms Private restrooms |
$8,250 | $9,500 | $9,000 |
Note: Prices are site fees only and do not include additional services such as catering or rentals.
Additional Services and Rentals
- Catering: Prices vary based on menu selection and guest count.
- Photography/Videography: Depending on the package and hours of coverage.
- Entertainment: DJ or live band services may range in cost.
- Decorations: Custom decor and floral arrangements can add to expenses.
- Transportation: Shuttle services for guests if needed.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Secret Gardens Miami Weddings
Weddings are magical, but let’s be honest—they can also be expensive. When you’re planning a wedding at a dreamy venue like Secret Gardens Miami, managing your budget becomes even more important. Thankfully, there are smart and creative ways to save money without sacrificing your vision. Below are some tried-and-true tips that can help you plan your perfect day while keeping your finances in check.
Choose an Off-Peak Date or Day
One of the easiest ways to save money at Secret Gardens Miami is by selecting a less popular wedding date. Saturdays during peak season are the most expensive, but booking your wedding on a weekday or during the off-season (such as summer or winter) can reduce venue rental fees significantly.
Why it matters:
- Secret Gardens offers lower pricing for Monday–Thursday events, making this option ideal for couples who want the same stunning setting at a reduced rate.
Bonus tip: Vendors may also offer lower rates on weekdays, from photographers to florists, so the savings can really add up.
Keep Your Guest List Intimate
It’s tempting to invite everyone you know, but each guest adds to the total cost—more food, more chairs, more table settings, and potentially a larger venue space.
Why it matters:
- Secret Gardens Miami accommodates up to 150 guests, but if you can keep your guest list closer to 80, you may qualify for more affordable packages like the Villa Laguna option.
Budget-friendly strategy: Prioritize close family and friends, and consider a virtual livestream for guests who can’t attend in person.
Maximize the Venue’s Natural Beauty
Secret Gardens Miami is renowned for its tropical gardens, waterfalls, and lagoon settings—why spend a fortune on extra decorations when nature has already done the work for you?
Why it matters:
- The lush landscape at Secret Gardens creates a magical atmosphere without the need for excessive decor.
Money-saving idea: Stick to minimalistic design themes and focus on key decor pieces like floral centerpieces or a ceremony arch to complement the natural surroundings.
Reuse Décor Items Throughout the Event
Being strategic about how you use decor can save hundreds of dollars. For example, ceremony flowers can be reused for the reception or as photo backdrop elements.
Why it matters:
- When you repurpose items, you’re maximizing every dollar spent.
Smart planning tip: Work with your planner or coordinator to design a setup that allows for seamless transitions between ceremony and reception without needing duplicate decorations.
Bundle Services When Possible
Secret Gardens Miami allows you to work with your own vendors, but you may also benefit from bundled vendor packages.
Why it matters:
- Many vendors offer discounts when you book multiple services through them, such as a photographer who also provides videography or a caterer who offers rentals.
How to approach it: Ask vendors if they have package deals or partnerships with other professionals. Not only can you save money, but it also makes coordination much smoother.
Consider DIY Elements—Within Reason
DIY projects like invitation design, table numbers, signage, or wedding favors can be fun and cost-effective—if done thoughtfully.
Why it matters:
- Personal touches can make your wedding feel even more special, and they can reduce spending on smaller details.
Cautionary tip: Don’t take on too many DIY projects at once, especially close to your wedding date. Time is money, and your sanity matters too.
Communicate Your Budget to Vendors
Honesty is the best policy when working with wedding vendors. Let them know your budget up front and ask how they can help you stay within it.
Why it matters:
- Experienced vendors often have creative solutions for budget-conscious couples, such as offering scaled-back packages or suggesting alternatives that provide similar impact at a lower cost.
What to ask: “Here’s our budget. What are some ways we can still get the look or experience we want within this price range?”
Take Advantage of the Bridal Suites and Overnight Options
If you’re planning to stay overnight or get ready on-site, utilize the venue’s private bridal suites and honeymoon accommodations included in some packages.
Why it matters:
- This eliminates the need for booking separate hotels or rentals, and offers a convenient, stress-free wedding day experience.
Tip: The Grand Gardens Package includes an overnight stay—this can offset lodging costs and allow you to savor the moment longer.
Cut Costs on Favors and Extras
Favors, programs, and extra printed materials can be surprisingly expensive. Consider digital RSVPs, a wedding website, or eco-friendly minimalism.
Why it matters:
- Your guests will remember the experience more than a monogrammed wine opener.
Suggestion: If you do want to provide favors, make them edible or useful—like cookies, mini plants, or custom hand sanitizers.
Use a Wedding Budget Tracker
Staying organized helps you avoid overspending. Use a wedding budget spreadsheet or app to track deposits, due dates, and unexpected costs.
Why it matters:
- When you see everything laid out, it’s easier to make adjustments and spot where you can save.
Recommendation: Allocate a contingency fund of 5–10% of your budget for last-minute changes or upgrades.
The Bottom Line
Planning a stunning wedding at Secret Gardens Miami doesn’t have to break the bank. By being strategic, flexible, and creative, you can enjoy all the magic this venue has to offer—without the financial stress. Use these budgeting tips to guide your decisions and ensure that your special day is not only beautiful but also affordable.
Budget Estimate Summary
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental (Average) | $7,750 |
| Catering (per person) | $50–$100 |
| Photography/Videography | $2,000–$5,000 |
| Entertainment | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Decorations and Floral | $1,500–$4,000 |
| Transportation | $500–$1,500 |
| Miscellaneous (favors, permits) | $500–$1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $15,000–$30,000 |
Note: These estimates are approximate and can vary based on specific choices and vendor pricing.
Final Thoughts
Secret Gardens Miami offers a picturesque and versatile setting for weddings, accommodating various styles and budgets. By understanding the factors influencing costs and implementing strategic budgeting tips, couples can plan a memorable celebration that aligns with their financial goals. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit www.secretgardensmiami.com or contact the venue directly at 305-507-7405.