Planning a beachfront wedding at Bilmar Beach Resort offers a blend of natural beauty and comprehensive services. Understanding the associated costs is essential for effective budgeting. This guide provides detailed insights into hosting a wedding at Bilmar Beach Resort, including venue details, cost factors, expense breakdowns, budgeting tips, and a budget estimate summary.
Venue Details
Bilmar Beach Resort is a renowned beachfront wedding venue in Saint Petersburg, Florida. It offers a picturesque setting with versatile event spaces and comprehensive amenities to ensure a memorable wedding experience.
| Venue Name | Bilmar Beach Resort |
|---|---|
| Location | 5250 Gulf Blvd, Saint Petersburg, FL 33706 |
| Phone | 727-360-1811 |
| Website | bilmarbeachresort.com |
| @bilmarbeachresort | |
| [email protected] | |
| Starting Price | $3,500 |
| Capacity | Up to 200 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards 2009–2011, 2016–2025 |
| Facilities | Ceremony area, private bridal suites, indoor & outdoor ceremony areas, dressing room, reception area, wireless internet |
About Bilmar Beach Resort
Bilmar Beach Resort is situated on the pristine shores of Treasure Island, offering couples a romantic beachfront setting for their wedding day. The resort features two primary event spaces:
- Waves at the Bilmar: A 3,025-square-foot venue with floor-to-ceiling windows providing panoramic views of the Gulf of Mexico. It includes a covered patio, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor events.
- Crystal Sands Ballroom: A 2,448-square-foot elegant ballroom accommodating up to 200 guests. It offers direct access to an outdoor courtyard, ideal for cocktail hours or additional seating.
The resort’s experienced team provides comprehensive services, including catering, event coordination, and accommodation options, ensuring a seamless wedding experience.
Factors Influencing Bilmar Beach Resort Wedding Costs
When planning a wedding at a premier venue like Bilmar Beach Resort, it’s essential to understand the variables that can influence the final price tag. From the size of your guest list to the season in which you tie the knot, each decision has the potential to raise or reduce your wedding expenses. Below, we break down the key factors that impact how much your special day at Bilmar Beach Resort might cost.
1. Guest Count: More People, More Costs
One of the most influential factors in determining your overall wedding cost is the number of guests. Bilmar Beach Resort can accommodate up to 200 guests, making it ideal for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations.
However, each additional guest increases the costs of catering, seating, tableware, invitations, and favors. A larger guest list also typically requires more staff, more alcohol, and more space — all of which contribute to a higher bottom line.
2. Seasonality and Wedding Date
The time of year and the day of the week you choose for your wedding can significantly impact pricing. Peak wedding season in Florida typically runs from late spring through early fall, when the weather is most desirable.
Weekend weddings, especially Saturdays, are in high demand and often come with premium pricing. On the other hand, choosing an off-peak season or a weekday wedding can provide more flexibility in pricing and availability.
3. Wedding Package and Inclusions
Bilmar Beach Resort offers various wedding packages that range from basic space rental to all-inclusive experiences that include food, beverages, décor, and coordination services. The more comprehensive the package, the higher the price — but also the more value and convenience it offers.
Packages often include essential services like set-up and breakdown, tables and chairs, linens, and even a day-of coordinator. While these options may cost more upfront, they can save time, stress, and even money compared to hiring everything separately.
4. Venue Spaces and Event Layout
Bilmar Beach Resort offers multiple ceremony and reception areas, including a stunning beachfront, an oceanfront patio, and elegant indoor ballrooms like Waves at the Bilmar and Crystal Sands Ballroom.
The choice of venue space can impact pricing based on factors such as guest capacity, view, exclusivity, and required rentals. Outdoor ceremonies may require tenting or additional weather-related precautions, which could add to the overall expense.
5. Vendor Selection and Custom Services
Couples have the option to use Bilmar Beach Resort’s recommended vendors or bring in outside professionals for certain elements of their big day. While in-house vendors are often more budget-friendly and familiar with the venue’s layout and rules, external vendors may offer specialized or unique services.
However, working with outside vendors can sometimes result in extra fees, such as coordination charges, delivery fees, or venue approval costs.
6. Food and Beverage Choices
Catering is typically one of the biggest expenses of a wedding. Bilmar Beach Resort offers a range of culinary options, from light appetizers and buffet dinners to formal plated meals. They also provide bar packages, with options ranging from hosted bars to cash bars.
The complexity and quality of your menu, the number of courses, and the duration of the open bar can all affect the final cost.
7. Décor and Floral Design
Even with the resort’s natural beauty as your backdrop, most couples still invest in some degree of additional décor. This can include floral arrangements, lighting, table centerpieces, drapery, signage, and ceremony arches.
Customizing the venue with elaborate designs or premium flowers can increase costs quickly. Fortunately, the resort’s beach and ocean views provide a naturally beautiful setting that needs minimal embellishment.
8. Entertainment and Enhancements
Music and entertainment set the tone for your celebration. Whether you hire a DJ, a live band, or an acoustic soloist, each option comes with its own price point. Additional enhancements like photo booths, sparkler exits, or fireworks can further drive up the budget.
Bilmar Beach Resort can accommodate a variety of entertainment styles, so the choice comes down to your budget and vibe.
9. Accommodations and Guest Perks
If you’re hosting a destination wedding or inviting out-of-town guests, providing accommodations or reserving a room block at Bilmar Beach Resort can be a thoughtful gesture. While it may not be mandatory, couples sometimes cover part of the lodging costs or offer transportation to and from the venue.
The resort offers competitive group rates, which can help ease the financial burden on your guests and simplify logistics.
10. Service Charges and Gratuities
An often-overlooked expense in wedding planning is the service charge or gratuity. Bilmar Beach Resort typically includes a service fee of around 24%, which covers staffing, gratuities, and administrative costs.
This percentage is applied to catering and bar services, and it can add thousands to your final bill if not anticipated in advance.
Breakdown of Bilmar Beach Resort Wedding Expenses
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | Starting at $3,500 |
| Ceremony Fee | $1,500 and up |
| Day-of Coordinator | $850 |
| Catering (per person) | $45–$70 |
| All-Inclusive Buffet | $140 per person (includes 4-hour open bar) |
| Bar Services | $35 per person (if not included in package) |
| Service Charge/Gratuity | 24% |
| Additional Rentals | Varies based on selections |
Note: Prices are subject to change and may vary based on specific requirements and selections.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Bilmar Beach Resort Weddings
Planning your dream wedding at Bilmar Beach Resort does not have to mean breaking the bank. With strategic decisions and a clear financial plan, couples can host a breathtaking beachfront celebration while still staying within budget. Here are several practical and proven ways to manage your wedding costs at this stunning Gulf Coast venue.
1. Prioritize Your Wedding Must-Haves
Before diving into contracts and deposits, sit down with your partner and identify your top priorities. Do you envision a gourmet dining experience, or is live entertainment non-negotiable?
By ranking what matters most — such as photography, food, music, or décor — you can allocate your budget toward elements that will bring the most joy to your special day, and trim back on less essential items.
2. Consider Off-Peak Dates and Weekday Weddings
Wedding costs can vary significantly based on the date. Peak seasons like spring and early fall are in high demand and often carry premium pricing. Choosing a wedding date during the off-season, or opting for a weekday instead of a weekend, can result in substantial savings.
Not only will the venue fees be lower, but many vendors also offer discounted rates for off-peak events, helping you cut costs across the board.
3. Limit Your Guest Count
The number of guests is one of the biggest factors affecting your overall wedding cost. Each additional person increases the catering bill, rental needs, and even the size of the venue space required.
While it’s tempting to invite everyone you know, a more intimate guest list allows for a more personal, meaningful celebration — and a more manageable budget. Focus on inviting close family and friends to create a warm, exclusive gathering.
4. Take Advantage of In-House Services
Bilmar Beach Resort offers a range of in-house services, including catering, event coordination, and even décor rentals. Utilizing these built-in amenities often proves more cost-effective than sourcing third-party vendors.
In-house teams are already familiar with the venue’s layout, policies, and timeline, which can also lead to smoother execution on your big day. Plus, bundling services often comes with package discounts.
5. Embrace Simplicity in Décor and Florals
While elaborate floral installations and luxury rentals can elevate your event visually, they can also inflate your expenses quickly. Instead, lean into the natural beauty of Bilmar Beach Resort’s beachfront backdrop.
Use minimalist centerpieces, LED candles, local flowers, and simple drapery to add elegance without overspending. DIY projects or repurposing ceremony florals for the reception can also save you hundreds of dollars.
6. Negotiate Custom Packages
Don’t hesitate to discuss your budget openly with the resort’s wedding coordinator. Many venues, including Bilmar Beach Resort, are willing to tailor packages to better align with your financial goals.
You might be able to substitute certain services for others, scale down food options, or eliminate non-essential extras. The key is communication — being upfront about your needs can lead to creative and affordable solutions.
7. Use Digital Invitations and RSVPs
Paper invitations are beautiful but can be expensive when you factor in design, printing, and postage. Switching to digital invitations or wedding websites not only saves money but is also eco-friendly and easier for guests to access.
You can also use online platforms to manage RSVPs, dietary preferences, and event reminders — streamlining your planning process while trimming your budget.
8. Book Early and Lock in Prices
Venues and vendors tend to raise their prices annually, so booking as early as possible can help you lock in lower rates. Reserving your date at Bilmar Beach Resort well in advance gives you a better chance at promotional pricing or special deals.
Additionally, early booking means more time to plan and pay off your wedding gradually, which reduces financial stress closer to the event.
9. Get Creative with Entertainment
While live bands or high-end DJs offer amazing experiences, they can also come with steep fees. Consider more budget-friendly options like curated Spotify playlists, local musicians, or even a friend who loves to DJ.
You could also add fun, low-cost entertainment like lawn games, photo booths using DIY props, or a guest message video station. Memorable doesn’t always mean expensive!
10. Bundle Wedding and Honeymoon
If you’re planning a honeymoon in Florida or nearby destinations, consider extending your stay at Bilmar Beach Resort. Some resorts offer discounts or perks if you combine your wedding and honeymoon with them.
This approach can save you on travel costs, time, and even reduce the stress of coordinating multiple trips during your wedding week.
Budget Estimate Summary
| Budget Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $3,500 |
| Ceremony Fee | $1,500 |
| Day-of Coordinator | $850 |
| Catering (100 guests) | $4,500–$7,000 |
| All-Inclusive Buffet | $14,000 (100 guests) |
| Bar Services | $3,500 (100 guests) |
| Service Charge (24%) | Varies based on total expenses |
| Total Estimated Budget | $27,000–$35,000 |
Note: These estimates are based on a 100-guest wedding and may vary based on specific choices and guest count.
Final Thoughts
Bilmar Beach Resort offers a comprehensive and picturesque setting for couples seeking a beachfront wedding. By understanding the various cost factors and planning accordingly, you can create a memorable event that aligns with your budget and vision.