Getting married at Capulet by Water in New Orleans exudes elegance, charm, and Southern romance. With its prime riverside location, upscale vibes, and award-winning reputation, it’s easy to see why couples fall in love with this venue. But before you say “I do,” it’s important to unpack the costs involved. This comprehensive guide explores everything—from base pricing and hidden costs to money‑saving tips—to help you plan your dream wedding at Capulet.
About Capulet
Capulet by Water is a picturesque wedding venue nestled along the Mississippi River in New Orleans. Boasting a blend of indoor and outdoor ceremony areas, private bridal suites, modern amenities, and a reputation for quality, this venue is perfect for couples seeking elegance with Southern charm. With a starting price of $3,500 for venue rental and a capacity of up to 250 guests, Capulet balances grandeur and accessibility—making it a standout choice for weddings large and small.
Location & Contact Information
Here’s the key venue info at a glance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | Capulet by Water |
| Location | 3014 Dauphine, New Orleans, LA 70117 |
| Phone | 504‑475‑3021 |
| Price | $3,500 starting price |
| Capacity | Up to 250 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards 2025 |
| Website | https://www.capuletbywater.com/ |
| @capuletbywater | |
| [email protected] | |
| Facilities | Ceremony Area, Bridal Suites, Indoor & Outdoor Spaces, Dressing Room, Reception Area, Wireless Internet |
Capulet earned the WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Award in 2025—an endorsement of its exceptional service, ambiance, and vendor partnerships.
Factors Influencing Capulet Wedding Costs
While the base rental price for Capulet starts at an accessible $3,500, the total cost of a wedding here can vary significantly depending on several important factors. Understanding what drives pricing can help you make informed decisions as you begin budgeting and planning. Below are the main elements that can influence how much you will spend for a wedding at Capulet.
1. Guest Count and Capacity Usage
One of the biggest drivers of cost is the number of guests you invite. Capulet can comfortably host up to 250 guests, but larger guest counts come with increased costs for food, beverages, seating, staff, and rentals. Catering costs are often calculated per person, so trimming your guest list by even 25 people can save thousands. A more intimate gathering may allow for more flexibility in your overall budget and open the door to luxurious upgrades in other areas, like décor or entertainment.
Pro tip: Ask your caterer for price breaks at specific guest count thresholds—some offer discounts when serving certain ranges of attendees.
2. Day and Season of the Wedding
Capulet’s pricing can fluctuate based on the season and day of the week. Peak wedding seasons in New Orleans—typically spring (March to May) and fall (September to November)—often come with higher demand and premium pricing. Saturdays are the most requested days, which can result in a price premium not only from the venue but also from vendors such as photographers and musicians.
Booking a weekday wedding or selecting an off-season month can help you save significantly on venue rental and vendor costs. Additionally, vendors may be more willing to offer package deals or reduced rates during their slower seasons.
3. Timeframe and Booking Window
How far in advance you book Capulet can also affect your budget. Venues and vendors tend to reward early bookers with locked-in rates and more availability, while last-minute bookings may limit your options or come with rush fees. Conversely, couples flexible with dates and timelines may be able to snag a cancellation slot at a discount.
4. Catering and Beverage Packages
Capulet offers catering options through approved partners or allows outside vendors with appropriate licenses. Catering packages range widely in price based on menu style, cuisine, service type (buffet vs plated), and bar service. Custom-crafted menus or high-end culinary experiences will increase the overall cost, especially when paired with premium open bar packages.
If you’re aiming to stay within budget, consider simpler menus, brunch weddings, or limiting bar offerings to wine, beer, and one or two signature cocktails.
5. Décor and Personalization
One of Capulet’s advantages is its inherent beauty—exposed brick, industrial elements, and rooftop views that provide a striking backdrop. However, costs can rise quickly if you want to enhance the space with custom lighting, floral installations, draping, or large-scale décor. The more you personalize the venue, the more you can expect to spend on design labor, rentals, and materials.
A well-chosen aesthetic or theme can guide efficient décor decisions—many couples opt to complement the venue’s character rather than transform it.
6. Vendor Selection and Coordination
Who you hire plays a major role in overall cost. While Capulet allows outside vendors, premium vendors in the New Orleans area can charge top dollar for their services. Well-known planners, photographers, and entertainers may come with higher fees but bring added professionalism and peace of mind. On the other hand, working with newer or local vendors can be more affordable—just ensure they have experience with Capulet’s layout and flow.
Some couples also hire a full-service wedding planner to handle all logistics, while others choose a day-of coordinator to manage just the event itself. Your vendor team and their level of involvement will directly affect your overall spend.
7. Length of Event and Add-Ons
The duration of your wedding celebration also influences cost. Capulet typically includes a standard rental block, but extended hours may incur additional fees. Don’t forget to factor in setup and breakdown time, especially if you’re hiring vendors who require more elaborate staging.
Additionally, optional services like valet parking, lounge furniture, upgraded lighting packages, or audio/visual equipment may be available for an added fee. While these upgrades can elevate the guest experience, they can also raise your bottom line quickly.
8. Accommodations and Transportation
If many of your guests are traveling from out of town, arranging accommodations and transportation can become part of your overall wedding budget. While Capulet doesn’t offer on-site lodging, its central location in New Orleans’ Bywater district means there are plenty of nearby boutique hotels, Airbnbs, and shuttle options. Keep in mind that offering guest shuttles or covering hotel blocks can add convenience—but also cost.
Breakdown of Capulet Wedding Expenses
Here’s a sample cost breakdown for a 150‑guest wedding at Capulet:
| Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $3,500–$5,000 |
| Catering & Bar | $12,000–$20,000 |
| Décor & Floral | $4,000–$8,000 |
| Entertainment (DJ / Band) | $2,500–$6,000 |
| Photography & Videography | $5,000–$12,000 |
| Ceremony-Officiant | $500–$1,500 |
| Rentals & Miscellaneous | $3,000–$7,000 |
| Transportation & Valet | $1,000–$3,000 |
| Estimated Total | $31,500–$62,500 |
Notes:
- Catering is based on a package.
- Décor assumes moderate customization.
- Entertainment covers mid-range options and AV lighting.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Capulet Weddings
Planning a wedding at Capulet in New Orleans can be a magical experience, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little creativity, strategic planning, and smart decision-making, you can host an unforgettable celebration while staying within budget. Here are some of the best ways to save money without compromising on style or substance.
Choose a Weekday or Off-Peak Wedding Date
One of the easiest ways to save thousands on your venue cost is by selecting a less popular wedding date. Saturdays in the spring and fall tend to be the most expensive due to high demand. Consider hosting your wedding on a weekday—such as a Thursday or Friday—or during the off-peak season (typically January through March). Capulet often offers more competitive pricing for non-peak dates, and vendors may be more willing to negotiate discounts when their calendars are less full.
Limit Your Guest Count for Maximum Impact
Your guest list directly impacts your overall budget—more guests mean more food, drinks, rentals, and space. Trimming your list to include only your closest friends and family can significantly reduce costs and create a more intimate, meaningful experience. Capulet’s flexible capacity means you can create a cozy or grand ambiance depending on your preferences. Keep in mind: the smaller the wedding, the greater your ability to personalize.
Leverage Capulet’s Natural Beauty
Capulet’s industrial-chic architecture, exposed brick, rooftop views, and lush courtyard require minimal enhancements. Instead of overdecorating, let the venue speak for itself. Simple greenery, candles, and soft lighting can go a long way. Focus your budget on key focal areas like the ceremony backdrop or sweetheart table to make a big impact without overspending.
Use Preferred Vendors to Bundle and Save
Ask Capulet for their list of preferred or recommended vendors. These professionals are familiar with the venue’s layout, rules, and workflows, which can save time and money on setup, coordination, and potential rental fees. Some even offer bundled packages (e.g., photography and videography or planning and floral design) that reduce overall costs while keeping things streamlined and cohesive.
Go Digital With Invitations and RSVPs
Printed invitations, envelopes, and postage can add hundreds—or thousands—to your budget. Instead, consider digital invites via platforms like Paperless Post or Greenvelope. These services still allow for elegant, customized designs and even tracking for RSVPs, meal selections, and guest messages.
Simplify the Bar Package
Instead of a full open bar with top-shelf liquor, opt for a more limited package. Consider serving beer, wine, and a couple of signature cocktails. This not only controls costs but also reduces overconsumption. You can still provide a personalized and enjoyable experience without stocking a complete bar.
Repurpose Wedding Elements Throughout the Day
Think smart and double-duty: repurpose floral arrangements from the ceremony for your reception tables, use your arch as a photo booth backdrop, or convert the welcome sign into a guestbook station. Reusing decor and signage not only stretches your budget but keeps waste minimal and planning simple.
Hire a Day-of Coordinator Instead of a Full Planner
A full-service wedding planner is a wonderful investment, but if your budget is tight, a day-of coordinator may be a better fit. These professionals ensure your wedding day runs smoothly, handle vendor communication, and help set up and tear down. It’s a great way to get professional support without the cost of full planning services.
DIY Strategically—Don’t Overdo It
DIY can save money if done right. You might create your own signage, wedding favors, or even floral arrangements with help from friends or local workshops. However, avoid DIYing every element—it can lead to stress, inconsistent quality, and time constraints, especially close to your wedding day. Pick one or two meaningful projects and leave the rest to the pros.
Create and Stick to a Detailed Budget Tracker
It’s easy to lose track of spending with so many moving pieces. Build a detailed spreadsheet that includes all anticipated costs, deposits, deadlines, and contact information. Regularly review your tracker to monitor progress, flag potential overages, and ensure you stay on track. Many wedding planning apps also offer built-in budgeting tools that sync with your timeline and vendor list.
Budget Estimate Summary
Here’s a snapshot summary for quick reference:
| Budget Item | Estimated Cost* |
|---|---|
| Venue rental + ceremony | $4,500 |
| Catering & bar (150 guests) | $18,000 ($120 × 150) |
| Décor & rentals | $6,000 |
| Entertainment & AV | $2,500 |
| Photography / Videography | $6,000 |
| Officiant + license | $1,200 |
| Misc. (gratuities, extras) | $3,300 |
| Total Estimate | ≈ $41,500 |
*These are estimates and may vary depending on date, guest count, and vendor preferences.
Final Thoughts
Capulet by Water offers a stunning canvas for a memorable New Orleans wedding. Its riverside charm, capacity flexibility, indoor/outdoor options, and award-winning reputation give couples a wonderful foundation for their day. While the base cost starts at $3,500, the total investment depends on your guest list size, vendor quality, personalization level, and extras.
By booking thoughtfully, selecting trusted vendors, embracing DIY where possible, and choosing cost-effective options, you can host a stunning celebration at Capulet that feels customizable and luxurious—without breaking the bank.