Lake Nona Wave Hotel is a modern, tech-forward luxury venue located in the heart of Orlando, Florida. Known for its bold architecture, curated art installations, and vibrant atmosphere, the hotel offers a unique setting for weddings that blend sophistication with innovation. With a variety of indoor and outdoor event spaces, the hotel caters to both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations.
Location and Contact Information
- Venue Name: Lake Nona Wave Hotel
- Address: 6100 Wave Hotel Drive, Orlando, FL 32827
- Phone: (407) 675-2000
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.weddingsatwave.com
- Instagram: @lakenonawavehotel
Venue Overview
| Venue Name | Capacity (Seated) | Capacity (Standing) | Square Footage | Rental Cost | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wave Ballroom | Up to 150 | Up to 250 | 3,000 sq ft | $8,000 | Ceremony, Reception, Rehearsal Dinner |
| The Nectar Room | Up to 60 | Up to 90 | Not specified | $4,000 | Cocktail Hour, Intimate Reception |
| Haven Deck | Up to 170 | Up to 300 | 3,000 sq ft | Please Inquire | Outdoor Ceremony, Reception |
| Sculpture Garden | Up to 250 | Up to 300 | 5,000 sq ft | $4,000 (Ceremony) | Outdoor Ceremony, Reception, Cocktail Hour |
Factors Influencing Lake Nona Wave Hotel Wedding Costs
When planning a wedding at a luxury venue like Lake Nona Wave Hotel, one of the most important things to understand is what truly drives the final price tag. While the starting cost may begin at $4,000, there are several key elements that can significantly affect the total wedding expense. Here are the top factors that influence how much you might spend on your big day at this iconic Orlando venue.
1. Venue Selection and Event Space Size
The Lake Nona Wave Hotel offers multiple venue spaces, each with its own capacity, ambiance, and rental price. Choosing a larger space such as the Wave Ballroom for a grand wedding will naturally come at a higher cost compared to a more intimate setting like The Nectar Room.
- Wave Ballroom is ideal for larger receptions and ceremonies with up to 150 seated guests, featuring modern design and elegant finishes.
- Sculpture Garden offers a stunning outdoor setting, perfect for picturesque ceremonies and cocktail hours.
- Haven Deck combines an open-air experience with breathtaking views, suited for both ceremonies and receptions.
Each space comes with its own setup and rental fee, so your selection will directly impact the total wedding budget.
2. Guest Count and Catering Choices
The number of guests you invite plays a major role in determining your costs. More guests mean more food, drinks, seating, and staff to accommodate everyone comfortably. The Lake Nona Wave Hotel offers custom catering services, with menu options ranging from plated dinners to gourmet buffets and themed stations.
Also, don’t forget to factor in:
- Cocktail hour hors d’oeuvres
- Late-night snacks
- Non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverage packages
- Cake-cutting service
All of these choices affect the per-person cost, which can add up quickly with a larger guest list.
3. Bar and Beverage Service Options
Depending on your preferences, the type of bar you choose can either help save money or increase your budget substantially. The hotel provides various beverage service models, including:
- Open Bar – Best for a luxurious guest experience but typically the most expensive option.
- Cash Bar – Guests pay for their own drinks, which reduces your overall cost.
- Consumption-Based Bar – You pay only for what guests drink, which can be more economical depending on the crowd.
You can also upgrade your beverage offerings to include signature cocktails, premium liquors, or a champagne toast—all of which can increase the final cost.
4. Wedding Date and Season
Just like with any wedding venue, your choice of date significantly affects pricing. Peak wedding season in Florida typically runs from late fall to early spring (October to April), and venues during this time tend to be in high demand.
- Weekend weddings, especially Saturdays, usually come with premium pricing.
- Weekday weddings and off-season bookings (summer months) may offer lower rates and additional perks.
- Being flexible with your date is one of the easiest ways to save money without compromising on quality.
5. Custom Décor and Floral Arrangements
Lake Nona Wave Hotel provides a sleek and modern backdrop, but many couples choose to enhance the atmosphere with custom décor elements such as:
- Floral arches and centerpieces
- LED lighting and draping
- Themed table settings
- Custom signage and backdrops
Depending on the scale and complexity, décor expenses can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars. Working with an in-house planner or preferred vendor can help streamline this process and possibly offer bundled deals.
6. Entertainment and Audiovisual Needs
Whether you’re hiring a live band, DJ, or even a string quartet, entertainment is another major element of your wedding cost. Lake Nona Wave Hotel can accommodate various audio and lighting setups for both indoor and outdoor events.
You might also need:
- A professional MC or host
- Dance floor rental
- Lighting enhancements or projections
- Photo booth installations
These features help create a memorable experience but must be included in your overall budgeting plan.
7. Photography and Videography Packages
Capturing every magical moment comes at a cost. Most couples spend anywhere from $2,000 to $8,000 on professional photo and video services. The hotel can connect you with preferred photographers who are familiar with the venue’s layout and best angles.
If you’re looking for cinematic videos, drone coverage, or same-day edits, be prepared to invest a bit more.
8. Accommodations for You and Your Guests
Since Lake Nona Wave Hotel is a boutique hotel, many couples choose to book room blocks for out-of-town guests. The hotel offers:
- Group rates for wedding parties
- Luxurious bridal suites
- Late check-out options
- Room service and spa access
These add comfort and convenience to your big day, but they should be factored into your total wedding budget, especially if you’re covering accommodations for VIP guests or family.
9. Wedding Planning and Coordination
The good news? Lake Nona Wave Hotel provides a dedicated event planner to help manage logistics and ensure everything runs smoothly. This is a huge value-add, as third-party planners can often cost between $1,500 to $5,000 on average.
Still, if you choose to work with an external coordinator or hire a full-service planner, your budget will need to reflect that additional cost.
Breakdown of Lake Nona Wave Hotel Wedding Expenses
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $4,000 – $8,000+ | Depending on selected space and event type |
| Catering (per person) | Varies | Customizable menus; pricing upon consultation |
| Bar Services | Varies | Options include open bar, cash bar, or consumption-based billing |
| Décor and Lighting | Varies | Custom packages available |
| Entertainment | Varies | DJ or live band; pricing varies |
| Photography/Videography | Varies | Packages available through preferred vendors |
| Wedding Planner | Included | Dedicated event specialist provided by the hotel |
| Accommodations | Varies | Special room rates for wedding guests; inquire for block pricing |
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Lake Nona Wave Hotel Weddings
Planning your dream wedding at Lake Nona Wave Hotel does not mean you have to break the bank. With thoughtful planning, creative strategies, and the right vendor choices, you can craft a luxurious wedding experience that aligns with your budget. Below are essential tips to help you save money while still celebrating in style at this exceptional Orlando venue.
1. Book During Off-Peak Season
One of the easiest ways to save big is by choosing a wedding date during the off-season. Lake Nona Wave Hotel typically experiences lower demand during the summer months (June to August) due to Florida’s warmer weather. Booking during this time can result in:
- Lower venue rental fees
- More flexible vendor availability
- Special discounts or package upgrades
If you’re open to weekday weddings—especially Thursdays or Sundays—you might even score additional savings.
2. Trim the Guest List Thoughtfully
It’s tempting to invite everyone you know, but more guests mean higher costs across the board: catering, bar, rentals, and even venue size. Consider limiting your guest list to those who matter most to you.
A smaller, more intimate wedding offers several advantages:
- More meaningful interactions
- Lower food and drink expenses
- Possibility to use smaller spaces like The Nectar Room instead of the larger Wave Ballroom
By trimming your guest list even by 20 to 30 people, you can save thousands without sacrificing the celebration.
3. Go for All-Inclusive or Bundled Packages
Lake Nona Wave Hotel often collaborates with preferred vendors and offers inclusive packages that bundle key services such as:
- Catering and bar service
- Event planning and coordination
- Décor and lighting setups
- Basic AV equipment
Choosing these packages can simplify your planning process and help you stay on budget by avoiding hidden fees or last-minute additions. Always ask if any current promotions or packages are available when you inquire.
4. DIY Certain Wedding Elements
If you or your family members are creative, take advantage of those skills. Many couples successfully DIY aspects of their wedding to personalize the experience and reduce costs. Some ideas include:
- Handcrafted wedding favors
- DIY welcome signage or table numbers
- Homemade desserts or treats for the dessert table
- Creating your own playlists for cocktail hour
Just make sure to balance DIY efforts with your timeline and stress level—if it’s going to cost more in time and energy, it may not be worth the trade-off.
5. Limit the Bar Options Strategically
While a full open bar is glamorous, it can also be expensive. You can control bar costs without compromising guest enjoyment by:
- Offering beer, wine, and a signature cocktail only
- Setting a cap on consumption with a hosted bar
- Choosing a cash bar for less formal celebrations
Discuss options with the hotel’s catering team—they’ll help you design a bar package that keeps guests happy and your wallet intact.
6. Repurpose Ceremony Décor for the Reception
Get the most out of your floral and décor investments by reusing ceremony pieces at the reception. For example:
- Use altar arrangements as head table centerpieces
- Move aisle floral arrangements to entryways or bar areas
- Repurpose the arch or backdrop for a photo booth
Not only does this save money, but it also ensures a cohesive look and feel throughout the entire event.
7. Opt for Digital Invitations and RSVPs
Printed invitations, RSVP cards, and postage may seem like small expenses, but they can add up quickly—especially with a larger guest list. A modern and eco-friendly alternative is to go digital:
- Design elegant e-invites that reflect your theme
- Use platforms like Zola, Paperless Post, or Greenvelope
- Collect RSVPs via your wedding website or email
This approach reduces paper waste, saves time, and allows for real-time guest tracking and communication.
8. Negotiate Where Possible
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request adjustments to proposed pricing. While Lake Nona Wave Hotel is a luxury venue, many vendors they work with are open to:
- Customizing packages based on your priorities
- Matching competitor pricing for similar services
- Providing complimentary upgrades or extras
Be polite, flexible, and open in your conversations—it never hurts to ask.
9. Set a Realistic Budget and Track Every Expense
Start your planning by setting a realistic, all-inclusive budget. Include every possible line item—from tips and taxes to parking fees and last-minute beauty services.
Use digital tools like:
- Budgeting spreadsheets
- Wedding planner apps (such as WeddingWire or The Knot)
- Shared Google Sheets for easy access between you and your partner
Consistently track your expenses, keep receipts, and revisit your budget monthly to stay on course.
Budget Estimate Summary
| Budget Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $4,000 – $8,000+ |
| Catering (100 guests) | Varies |
| Bar Services | Varies |
| Décor and Lighting | Varies |
| Entertainment | Varies |
| Photography/Videography | Varies |
| Wedding Planner | Included |
| Accommodations | Varies |
| Total Estimated Cost | $27,000+ |
Note: The total estimated cost is based on average pricing and can vary depending on specific choices and customizations.
Conclusion
Lake Nona Wave Hotel offers a distinctive blend of modern luxury and personalized service, making it an exceptional choice for couples seeking a memorable wedding experience. With a variety of venue options, customizable packages, and a dedicated event team, the hotel caters to diverse preferences and budgets. By understanding the factors that influence costs and planning accordingly, couples can create a wedding that reflects their vision while staying within budget.
For more information or to begin planning your wedding at Lake Nona Wave Hotel, visit their official website at www.weddingsatwave.com or contact their sales team at [email protected].