Planning a dream wedding in California comes with many decisions, and one of the most beautiful venues worth considering is Mountain Terrace. Nestled in the heart of Woodside, California, this venue is known for its enchanting forested setting, panoramic views, and warm rustic charm. But before you fall in love with the location, one important question remains: how much do Mountain Terrace weddings cost?
This article breaks down the complete cost details, venue features, and budgeting tips to help you decide if Mountain Terrace is the right venue for your big day.
About Mountain Terrace
Mountain Terrace is a picturesque wedding venue perched along Skyline Boulevard in Woodside, California. With its towering redwoods, serene ambiance, and blend of indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, it’s an idyllic setting for couples seeking a romantic, nature-filled wedding.
The venue is well-regarded in the California wedding community, offering a mix of rustic elegance and modern comfort. With space to accommodate up to 300 guests, Mountain Terrace is a flexible venue for intimate ceremonies or large-scale celebrations.
Mountain Terrace has also earned recognition for its commitment to excellence, including the prestigious Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards 2025, which showcases its popularity among newlyweds and event professionals alike.
Mountain Terrace Wedding Venue Details
Here is a snapshot of the most essential venue information at a glance:
| Venue Name | Mountain Terrace |
|---|---|
| Location | 17285 Skyline Boulevard, Woodside, CA, 94062 |
| Call | 6508511606 |
| Starting Price | $3,000/Event |
| Capacity | Up to 300 guests |
| Awards | Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards 2025 |
| Website | www.themountainterrace.com |
| @mountainterrace | |
| Facilities | – Ceremony Area – Private Bridal Suites – Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Area – Dressing Room – Reception Area – Wireless Internet |
Location and Surroundings
Mountain Terrace is located in the charming town of Woodside, California, right along Skyline Boulevard. This venue offers a unique combination of accessibility and seclusion. Surrounded by majestic redwoods and overlooking the San Francisco Bay, it delivers a breathtaking natural backdrop that’s perfect for wedding photography.
The venue’s hilltop position also provides cool breezes in the warmer months, making it a comfortable outdoor setting year-round. Its close proximity to San Francisco and Silicon Valley also makes it a convenient destination for guests traveling from across the Bay Area.
Factors Influencing Mountain Terrace Weddings Cost
Every wedding is unique, and the final price you pay to tie the knot at Mountain Terrace will vary depending on a variety of factors. While the venue offers a starting price of $3,000 per event, most couples find that the total cost reflects a combination of personal preferences, seasonal elements, and service selections. To help you better understand where your money goes, let’s dive into the key components that influence the total wedding budget at this scenic venue.
Guest Count and Capacity
One of the most significant cost drivers is the number of people attending your wedding. Mountain Terrace can accommodate up to 300 guests, which gives you flexibility for everything from intimate micro-weddings to grand celebrations. However, keep in mind that a larger guest list means:
- More meals to cater
- More tables and chairs to rent
- Additional staff to manage the event
- Increased bar service and drink packages
In general, the per-person cost quickly adds up, especially when food and beverages are calculated based on headcount. Smaller weddings are not only more personal but often come with a lower price tag.
Season and Day of the Week
Like many venues, Mountain Terrace experiences price fluctuations depending on the time of year and the day of the week you choose to celebrate. Spring and fall are considered peak wedding seasons in California due to the pleasant weather and beautiful natural scenery. These periods tend to book out fast and come at premium rates.
If you’re looking to save money:
- Consider a weekday wedding, which often comes with a reduced venue fee
- Look into off-season months like January, February, or even late November
- Avoid major holidays, which can also incur surcharges or limited availability
Booking your event in the off-season or on a non-traditional day can open up more budget for décor, entertainment, or a honeymoon upgrade.
Catering and Beverage Options
Food and drink play a central role in any wedding celebration, and at Mountain Terrace, this is no different. The venue typically offers customizable catering packages, ranging from simple to gourmet menus. Here’s how catering choices impact your total cost:
- Menu Type: Buffet-style meals tend to be more affordable than plated service. Family-style service offers a middle ground.
- Cuisine Complexity: Specialty dishes, vegan options, or international cuisines may increase the cost due to special ingredients or chef expertise.
- Bar Packages: Whether you opt for an open bar, limited bar, or cash bar will drastically change your beverage costs. An open bar, especially for a full evening, can run several thousand dollars depending on the number of guests.
Mountain Terrace’s in-house catering team often works with couples to design a menu that aligns with their vision and budget, which helps streamline the planning process.
Rental Duration and Event Time
Time is money, especially at sought-after wedding venues. Mountain Terrace’s rental packages are usually based on hourly blocks or full-day events. Additional costs may apply if you:
- Need more time for elaborate setup or teardown
- Want to host a rehearsal dinner the night before
- Plan to extend the event into the evening or add an after-party
Keep in mind that extra hours usually involve added labor costs, especially for coordination staff, servers, and cleaning crews.
Vendors, Décor, and Personalization
Your choice of vendors and level of customization can significantly alter your budget. While Mountain Terrace allows flexibility in choosing outside vendors, many couples choose to work with preferred professionals familiar with the venue’s layout and logistics.
Here’s how vendor decisions impact your final cost:
- Photography and Videography: High-end professionals with experience in outdoor venues often charge a premium but deliver stunning visuals.
- Florals and Décor: While Mountain Terrace offers a naturally beautiful backdrop, many couples still invest in floral installations, lighting, and table settings to enhance the ambiance.
- Entertainment: Whether you choose a live band, DJ, or string quartet, entertainment costs vary based on performance length and reputation.
- Also, don’t forget the smaller details: custom signage, personalized favors, lighting upgrades, and themed installations may seem minor, but they can add thousands to your overall budget.
Additional Services and Amenities
While Mountain Terrace provides essential amenities like a dressing room, reception area, and wireless internet, you might want to upgrade or supplement with extras, such as:
- Portable restrooms (for very large guest counts)
- Transportation for guests (especially given the remote location)
- Luxury lounge furniture or photo booths
- Tent rentals for unexpected weather
Each of these services contributes to the final budget and should be considered during your planning process.
Breakdown of Mountain Terrace Weddings Expenses
To give you a realistic view of what a wedding at Mountain Terrace might cost, here’s a general breakdown of expenses based on a 100-guest wedding.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental Fee | $3,000 – $6,000+ |
| Catering (per person) | $85 – $150 |
| Bar Service | $30 – $60 per person |
| Wedding Planner | $2,500 – $6,000 |
| Photography | $2,500 – $5,000 |
| Videography | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| DJ or Live Band | $1,500 – $4,000 |
| Floral Design & Décor | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Hair & Makeup | $500 – $1,000 |
| Rentals (tables, linens, etc.) | $1,000 – $3,000 |
| Transportation | $500 – $1,200 |
| Wedding Cake | $500 – $1,200 |
| Miscellaneous & Tips | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Estimated Total | $25,000 – $50,000+ |
Note: These are average estimates and may vary based on customization and vendor choice.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Mountain Terrace Weddings
Weddings at Mountain Terrace promise unforgettable moments beneath towering redwoods and sweeping views of the Bay Area, but beautiful doesn’t have to mean budget-breaking. With thoughtful planning, creativity, and smart financial choices, couples can host a stunning wedding at Mountain Terrace without overspending.
Below are strategic and effective tips to help you make the most of your wedding budget—without sacrificing the magic of your big day.
1. Choose Off-Peak Dates for Big Savings
Timing is everything. One of the easiest ways to cut down on venue and vendor costs is to choose a non-peak date. Saturdays in the spring and fall are usually in high demand, which means higher prices for venues, photographers, florists, and more.
Consider these options:
- Book a weekday wedding (Monday–Thursday)
- Opt for a winter month (December–February)
- Host a morning or brunch wedding instead of an evening affair
Many vendors offer discounted rates for off-peak dates, and you’ll have more availability and flexibility when it comes to choosing your dream team of professionals.
2. Keep Your Guest List Intimate
Every guest adds to the cost—from meals and drinks to table settings and favors. While it can be tempting to invite everyone you know, trimming your guest list is one of the most powerful ways to stay within budget.
Benefits of a smaller wedding:
- More intimate and personal atmosphere
- Reduced catering and bar expenses
- Fewer rentals (tables, linens, chairs)
- You can allocate more budget toward experiences (like live music or a premium photographer)
If you’re worried about leaving people out, consider hosting a casual post-wedding celebration or livestreaming your ceremony for distant friends and family.
3. Let Nature Be Your Décor
Mountain Terrace offers natural beauty in every direction—from lush forest surroundings to elegant wooden architecture. Take full advantage of the setting and let the venue’s charm reduce your need for extra decorations.
Simple ways to decorate with less:
- Use minimal floral arrangements and focus on greenery
- Incorporate candles, string lights, or lanterns to enhance the ambiance
- Reuse ceremony florals at the reception to save on flower costs
- Skip elaborate backdrops—the redwoods are all the drama you need
By embracing the rustic elegance of the location, you can cut down your floral and décor budget significantly without compromising aesthetics.
4. Use In-House and Preferred Vendors
Mountain Terrace partners with trusted vendors who are familiar with the venue’s layout and requirements. Booking in-house or recommended professionals can help reduce hidden costs, streamline communication, and ensure a smooth event day.
Why this helps:
- Packages or bundled services may be offered at discounted rates
- These vendors know the venue’s policies, timing, and best practices
- Less risk of last-minute surprises or additional coordination fees
While outside vendors are allowed, sticking with a curated list can offer peace of mind—and sometimes, better deals.
5. Embrace DIY Where It Makes Sense
If you or your loved ones are crafty, DIY projects can be both meaningful and budget-friendly. Handmade details often leave a lasting impression and add a personal touch to your wedding day.
Popular and easy DIY ideas:
- Wedding favors or welcome bags
- Seating charts or signage
- Simple centerpieces using local flowers or candles
- Custom photo booths or props
However, be selective with what you DIY—some tasks (like florals or food) are better left to professionals unless you have the time, skill, and support to execute them flawlessly.
6. Opt for a Buffet or Family-Style Meal
The way your guests are served can also affect your overall catering bill. While plated meals are elegant, they typically require more staff and increase per-head costs. A buffet or family-style meal can offer variety and a more relaxed dining experience while helping you stay on budget.
Other catering tips:
- Limit the number of entrée choices
- Offer a signature cocktail instead of a full open bar
- Skip passed appetizers and go for a stationed appetizer bar
Talk to your caterer about options that balance taste, service, and cost-efficiency.
7. Prioritize What Matters Most
Instead of trying to have it all, identify your top priorities and focus your budget on what will make the biggest emotional and visual impact. For some couples, that might be photography; for others, live music or gourmet food.
Questions to guide your priorities:
- What do we want guests to remember most?
- What elements will be captured in our photos and video?
- What are we personally excited about?
By focusing on what truly matters, you can avoid overspending on things that don’t align with your vision.
8. Plan Ahead and Stick to Your Budget
Finally, the best budgeting tool is organization. Start with a realistic budget and track all expenses along the way using spreadsheets or budgeting apps. Include buffers for unexpected costs, and keep communication open with vendors about what’s included in every quote.
Pro budgeting tips:
- Ask for detailed, written proposals from all vendors
- Don’t forget taxes, tips, and service fees
- Schedule regular budget check-ins as you plan
A well-planned budget doesn’t just reduce financial stress—it also helps you enjoy the process of planning your Mountain Terrace wedding.
Budget Estimate Summary
If you’re planning a wedding at Mountain Terrace, here’s a quick summary to help you budget smartly based on your vision:
| Budget Range | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| $15,000 – $25,000 | Off-season or weekday event, smaller guest list (under 100), minimal décor |
| $25,000 – $40,000 | Moderate guest count (100-150), mixed vendor selection, mid-range catering |
| $40,000 – $60,000+ | Weekend peak date, full guest count, premium services and elaborate décor |
Final Thoughts
Mountain Terrace offers one of the most magical and naturally beautiful wedding experiences in the Bay Area. Whether you’re drawn to the venue for its forest ambiance, panoramic views, or award-winning service, it’s essential to understand the associated costs before booking.
With careful planning, smart budgeting, and the right team of vendors, your wedding at Mountain Terrace can be everything you’ve dreamed of—and more.
For more information or to start planning your wedding, visit www.themountainterrace.com or check out their Instagram @mountainterrace.