Planning a wedding involves numerous decisions, with the choice of venue being paramount. Casa Feliz, located in Winter Park, Florida, offers a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a popular choice for couples. Understanding the associated costs is crucial for effective budgeting. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into hosting a wedding at Casa Feliz, including venue details, cost factors, expense breakdowns, budgeting tips, and a budget estimate summary.
Venue Details
| Casa Feliz Venue Details | |
|---|---|
| Venue Name | Casa Feliz |
| Location | 656 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789 |
| Phone | 407-628-0230 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | www.casafelizvenue.com |
| @casafelizvenue | |
| Starting Price | $2,850 |
| Capacity | Up to 120 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples’ Choice Awards 2010–2025 |
| Facilities | – Ceremony Area – Private Bridal Suites – Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Areas – Dressing Room – Reception Area – Wireless Internet |
About Casa Feliz
Casa Feliz, meaning “Happy House” in Spanish, is a beautifully restored Spanish farmhouse designed by acclaimed architect James Gamble Rogers II in 1932. This historic home, now a museum and event venue, is nestled in the heart of Winter Park, Florida. With its whitewashed brick walls, original Spanish roof tiles, and lush gardens, Casa Feliz offers a picturesque setting that exudes old-world charm and elegance.
The venue’s interiors have been meticulously refurbished to their original splendor, evoking 19th-century Spain. The living room, dining rooms, library, courtyards, and garden room can all be configured for celebrations of up to 120 guests. The beautifully furnished hospitality suites provide a comfortable and relaxing place for the wedding party to prepare for the big day.
Location
Situated at 656 N Park Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789, Casa Feliz is conveniently located in the heart of Winter Park. This vibrant suburb of Orlando is known for its charming shops, cozy accommodations, and delightful restaurants, making it an ideal location for both local and destination weddings. The venue’s central location offers easy access for guests and a variety of nearby accommodations and attractions.
Factors Influencing Casa Feliz Weddings Cost
While Casa Feliz offers a stunning and timeless backdrop for weddings, the overall cost of hosting your special day at this venue can vary significantly. Understanding the key factors that influence pricing will help you plan more effectively and avoid unexpected expenses. From the time of year to the number of guests, every choice you make contributes to the total cost. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the major elements that can affect your Casa Feliz wedding budget.
1. Season and Date of the Wedding
One of the most significant pricing variables is the time of year. Like many venues in Florida, Casa Feliz experiences high demand during peak wedding seasons — particularly spring (March to May) and fall (October to November). These months offer ideal weather for outdoor ceremonies and picturesque settings, which naturally attract more couples.
Weekends vs. Weekdays:
Weekend dates, especially Saturdays, tend to be more expensive due to their popularity. Opting for a weekday wedding can result in a notable price reduction, both in venue rental and vendor services. If you’re flexible with your date, you can leverage this for budget savings.
Off-Peak Discounts:
Winter and summer months, which can be either too cool or too warm for some, are considered off-peak. During these periods, Casa Feliz may offer discounted rates or additional perks to encourage bookings.
2. Guest Count
Casa Feliz can accommodate up to 120 guests, but the size of your guest list directly impacts your total budget. A larger number of attendees means more food, beverages, seating, staff, and rentals, all of which increase your overall spending.
Hosting a smaller wedding (such as 60 to 80 guests) not only allows for a more intimate and personal experience but also significantly reduces costs in multiple categories. A compact guest list means more flexibility in catering, décor, and venue layout.
3. Daytime vs. Evening Wedding
The time of day your wedding takes place can also impact costs. An afternoon ceremony followed by a luncheon reception tends to be more affordable than an evening celebration with dinner, dancing, and a full bar. Evening weddings often involve extended rental hours and more elaborate lighting, décor, and entertainment.
If you’re envisioning a dreamy evening under string lights in Casa Feliz’s charming courtyard, expect to budget more for ambiance — including lighting rentals, live music, and possibly valet service for guests arriving after dark.
4. Type of Catering Package
Casa Feliz has an exclusive partnership with Arthur’s Catering, one of Orlando’s most reputable catering companies. The catering package you select plays a substantial role in your total cost, with options ranging from buffet-style meals to gourmet plated dinners.
Alcohol service, cocktail hour appetizers, dessert stations, and late-night bites are popular enhancements that add to the overall catering cost. While Arthur’s offers customization and exceptional quality, choosing premium menus or unique service styles can significantly raise your budget.
5. Customization and Décor Preferences
The inherent beauty of Casa Feliz — from its Spanish-style architecture to its lush landscaping — means you don’t need much to create a breathtaking setting. However, for couples looking to personalize every detail, décor customization can become costly.
Décor Expenses to Consider:
- Specialty floral installations or arches
- Custom linens or vintage furniture rentals
- Ambient lighting and draping
- Branded signage and stationery
While these elements can elevate the aesthetic, they should be weighed carefully against your budget priorities.
6. Entertainment and Music Choices
Whether you choose a live band, a DJ, or an acoustic duo for your celebration, entertainment costs can vary dramatically. Live bands often cost more but can provide an unforgettable experience with dynamic performances.
Some entertainment providers also charge additional fees for equipment rental, extra setup time, or specific song requests. Ensure these costs are clarified in your contract to avoid budget surprises.
7. Photography and Videography
Preserving memories from your wedding day is an investment many couples are willing to prioritize. Professional photography and videography services range widely depending on the length of coverage, number of shooters, and post-production packages.
Hiring local vendors who are familiar with Casa Feliz may offer both cost savings and creative advantages. They already know the best lighting, backdrops, and timing for photo sessions around the venue.
8. Additional Rentals and Services
Though Casa Feliz provides many built-in amenities, additional rentals such as specialty chairs, upgraded tables, heaters, or tents may be required depending on your vision and guest needs.
Additional Services May Include:
- Valet parking
- Event coordination
- Restroom attendants
- Extra security or insurance policies
These add-ons, while optional, can contribute significantly to your final expense.
9. Duration and Event Schedule
The rental duration also impacts pricing. If you require early access for setup or want to extend the party late into the night, expect to pay for additional hours. Casa Feliz typically includes a set number of hours in its standard package, but extra time comes with additional fees.
Efficiently organizing your timeline to stay within your allotted hours can prevent costly overtime charges and help everything run smoothly.
Breakdown of Casa Feliz Weddings Expenses
Here’s a general breakdown of potential expenses when hosting a wedding at Casa Feliz:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $2,850 – $4,550 |
| Catering (per person) | $75 – $150 |
| Beverages/Bar Service | $20 – $50 per person |
| Photography/Videography | $2,000 – $5,000 |
| Floral Arrangements | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| Entertainment | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Rentals (tables, chairs) | $500 – $2,000 |
| Attire and Accessories | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Officiant | $200 – $500 |
| Miscellaneous | $500 – $1,500 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $15,000 – $30,000 |
Note: These estimates are approximate and can vary based on individual preferences and choices.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Casa Feliz Weddings
Planning a wedding at a historic venue like Casa Feliz is a dream come true for many couples. However, it is essential to balance that dream with a realistic budget. Whether you’re planning a lavish celebration or a more intimate affair, smart financial planning can help you enjoy the magic without breaking the bank. Below are practical and effective tips to help you manage your wedding expenses while still creating an unforgettable event.
Understand Your Total Budget First
Before diving into the details, sit down with your partner and establish your total wedding budget. This includes not just the venue and catering but also attire, entertainment, floral arrangements, transportation, and more. Having a clear understanding of your financial limits will help guide your decisions and prevent overspending.
Prioritize What Truly Matters to You
Every couple has different priorities. For some, it may be gourmet catering or live music, while others may care more about photography or floral décor. Make a list of your top three must-haves and allocate your budget accordingly. By focusing your spending on what’s most meaningful, you can trim costs in areas that are less important to you.
Choose an Off-Peak Wedding Date
One of the easiest ways to reduce costs is by choosing a wedding date during the off-season or on a weekday. Casa Feliz typically sees high demand during spring and fall weekends. Opting for a winter or summer weekday can lead to substantial savings, not only on venue rental fees but also on vendor costs.
Keep Your Guest List Intimate
The size of your guest list directly impacts nearly every aspect of your wedding budget — from food and drinks to seating and space requirements. Hosting a smaller wedding with 60 to 80 guests rather than the maximum 120 can reduce expenses significantly and create a more personal, intimate experience.
Utilize Casa Feliz’s Included Amenities
Casa Feliz includes many amenities in its rental price that can help you save money. From private bridal suites and a ceremony area to a reception space and Wi-Fi, the venue is well-equipped to host a full-service event. Make the most of these included features to avoid renting or sourcing them elsewhere.
Stick to In-House and Preferred Vendors When Possible
Casa Feliz has an exclusive partnership with Arthur’s Catering — a top-tier catering provider known for its exceptional quality and service. Choosing this in-house vendor can streamline planning and sometimes even provide cost benefits through bundled packages or pre-negotiated rates.
Opt for Simple and Elegant Décor
The beauty of Casa Feliz lies in its architectural charm and lush gardens, which means you don’t have to over-decorate. A minimalist, elegant style that complements the venue’s natural features can be just as striking as a high-budget setup. Consider using seasonal flowers, greenery, or candles to enhance the ambiance on a budget.
DIY Where It Makes Sense
Do-it-yourself elements can add a personalized touch while saving money. Think handmade table numbers, invitations, welcome signs, or guest favors. Just make sure to start early and only DIY elements you are confident in executing to maintain a polished look.
Limit the Bar Options
Offering a full open bar can be one of the most expensive aspects of a wedding. Instead, consider serving beer, wine, and a signature cocktail or two. This approach keeps guests happy while maintaining control over your beverage budget. Alternatively, you might opt for a consumption-based bar package through your caterer.
Choose a Wedding Planner Wisely
Hiring a professional wedding planner may seem like an added cost, but it can often save you money in the long run. Planners are experienced in budgeting, negotiating with vendors, and keeping the timeline on track. If a planner is not within your budget, consider working with a “day-of” coordinator or recruiting a highly organized friend or family member to help manage the event.
Consider Renting or Borrowing Attire and Décor
Wedding attire and décor items can be rented or borrowed to cut costs. Look into bridal gown rentals, bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, and accessories. For décor, consider renting items like centerpieces, candle holders, or ceremony arches instead of buying everything new.
Avoid Last-Minute Decisions
Planning ahead gives you time to compare vendors, hunt for deals, and avoid costly rush fees. Last-minute decisions often lead to impulse buys or premium pricing. Create a detailed timeline early in the process and stick to it to stay on track and within budget.
Budget Estimate Summary
Here’s a sample budget estimate for a wedding at Casa Feliz with 100 guests:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $3,500 |
| Catering ($100 per person) | $10,000 |
| Beverages/Bar Service | $3,000 |
| Photography/Videography | $3,500 |
| Floral Arrangements | $2,000 |
| Entertainment | $2,000 |
| Rentals | $1,000 |
| Attire and Accessories | $3,000 |
| Officiant | $300 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $29,500 |
Note: This is a general estimate and actual costs may vary based on specific choices and circumstances.
Final Thoughts
Casa Feliz offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal venue for couples seeking an elegant and memorable wedding experience. With its picturesque setting, versatile spaces, and dedicated staff, Casa Feliz provides a beautiful backdrop for your special day. By understanding the various factors that influence costs and implementing strategic budgeting tips, couples can plan a wedding that aligns with their vision and financial goals.
For more information or to schedule a tour, visit www.casafelizvenue.com or contact the venue at 407-628-0230 or via email at [email protected].