When it comes to planning a dream wedding in Scottsdale, Arizona, The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale stands out as a premier luxury destination. Known for its stunning desert scenery, upscale amenities, and exceptional service, this venue offers couples a romantic and unforgettable backdrop for their special day. But, how much does a wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale cost? Let’s break down the details so you can plan your perfect day with confidence.
About The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale
Nestled in the heart of the Sonoran Desert, The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is renowned for its unique natural beauty, blending dramatic rock formations with lush desert landscaping. This resort offers a tranquil yet sophisticated ambiance, making it ideal for weddings that combine elegance with the natural charm of Arizona’s desert.
As part of the Curio Collection by Hilton, The Boulders Resort & Spa delivers exceptional service and luxury accommodations for couples and their guests. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, the venue caters to various wedding styles, whether you envision a romantic garden setting, a scenic outdoor ceremony with panoramic views, or an elegant indoor reception in the resort’s beautifully appointed ballroom.
Quick Facts About The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale
| Venue Name | The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale |
|---|---|
| Location | 34631 N. Tom Darlington Dr, Scottsdale, AZ 85262 |
| Contact | – 888-579-2631 (Reservations) – 480-488-9009 (Resort) |
| Starting Price | From $4,500 per event |
| Guest Capacity | Up to 300 guests |
| Awards | Wedding Wire Couples Choice Awards 2016, 2019, 2022, 2025 |
| Website | https://www.theboulders.com |
| @thebouldersresort | |
| Facilities | Ceremony Area Private Bridal Suites Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Spaces Elegant Ballroom Dressing Room Reception Area Wireless Internet |
Location and Atmosphere
Located at 34631 N. Tom Darlington Drive in Scottsdale, The Boulders Resort & Spa is situated in North Scottsdale, a region known for its luxurious resorts, high-end dining, and breathtaking desert views. The resort’s proximity to Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport also makes it a convenient option for destination weddings.
The venue’s natural boulder formations, lush golf courses, and serene desert vistas offer picture-perfect backdrops for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and photoshoots. Whether you want a sunset ceremony with the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert behind you or an elegant ballroom reception, The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale can make it happen.
Factors Influencing The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale Weddings Cost
Several key factors can influence how much you’ll spend on a wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale. Understanding these factors can help you tailor your plans to fit your budget.
1. Wedding Date and Season
Scottsdale’s peak wedding season typically falls between October and April when the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months, demand for venues like The Boulders is higher, which can increase rental rates and catering minimums. If you opt for a summer wedding, you may benefit from off-season discounts.
2. Guest Count
The Boulders Resort & Spa can accommodate up to 300 guests, and the size of your guest list will significantly impact your costs, especially for catering, seating, and bar services. Smaller, intimate weddings will naturally cost less.
3. Venue Spaces and Setup
The resort offers multiple ceremony and reception locations, including:
- Outdoor spaces with stunning desert views
- An elegant indoor ballroom
- Private suites for bridal preparations
Each space comes with different rental fees and package options. Outdoor ceremonies might require additional décor, shading, or climate control, which can add to the cost.
4. Catering and Bar Services
The resort requires in-house catering with customized menus ranging from elegant plated dinners to interactive food stations. Bar packages can be tailored to your preferences, from premium open bars to signature cocktails.
5. Packages and Inclusions
The Boulders Resort offers wedding packages that may include essentials like tables, chairs, linens, glassware, and service staff. Premium packages might cover floral arrangements, décor, and entertainment, making it easier to manage your budget.
Breakdown of The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale Expenses
Below is a general breakdown of potential expenses to expect when planning your wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale:
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental (Ceremony & Reception) | $4,500 – $10,000 |
| Catering (Per Person) | $100 – $200 |
| Bar Packages (Per Person) | $30 – $60 |
| Wedding Cake | $5 – $10 per slice |
| Ceremony Décor | $1,500 – $5,000 |
| Reception Décor | $3,000 – $10,000 |
| Floral Arrangements | $2,500 – $8,000 |
| Photography & Videography | $3,500 – $8,000 |
| Entertainment (DJ/Band) | $2,000 – $6,000 |
| Wedding Planner (Optional) | $3,000 – $8,000 |
| Officiant Fee | $300 – $800 |
| Bridal Suite & Groom’s Lounge | Included or $500 – $1,000 |
| Guest Accommodations (Per Night) | $300 – $600 |
| Transportation (Optional) | $500 – $2,000 |
Please note: These are estimated costs and can vary based on custom packages, peak season rates, and additional services.
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale Weddings
Planning a luxury wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale doesn’t mean you have to exceed your budget. With some strategic planning, smart decisions, and a bit of flexibility, you can create a stunning celebration without compromising on style or quality. Here are some practical and creative tips to help you save money while still enjoying all the elegance this venue has to offer.
1. Choose Off-Peak Wedding Dates for Significant Savings
One of the biggest factors influencing your wedding cost at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is the season and date you choose. Like most sought-after venues, the resort experiences high demand during peak season, which typically spans from October to April when the desert weather is mild and comfortable.
However, if you’re open to off-season dates, particularly in the summer months from June to September, you can unlock substantial discounts on venue rental fees, catering minimums, and even vendor pricing. While Scottsdale summers can be hot, indoor receptions in the resort’s elegant ballroom paired with a sunset ceremony can make for a magical experience at a fraction of the cost.
2. Be Mindful of Guest Count – Intimate Weddings Mean Bigger Savings
Every guest you invite adds to your per-person costs, including catering, bar services, rentals, and décor. By keeping your guest list intimate, you not only create a more personal and meaningful experience but also free up funds to splurge on areas that matter most, such as floral arrangements, entertainment, or even a luxury honeymoon.
At The Boulders Resort & Spa, smaller weddings can take advantage of more intimate spaces, like the resort’s lush garden areas or smaller indoor venues, which often come with lower rental fees than larger reception halls designed for 200+ guests.
3. Explore All-Inclusive Wedding Packages for Built-In Savings
The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale offers several wedding packages that bundle essential services such as:
- Venue rental
- Tables, chairs, and linens
- Catering and bar service
- Setup and teardown
Choosing a comprehensive package can lead to significant savings compared to hiring each vendor individually. In addition to cost savings, working with a single point of contact simplifies planning and helps ensure all elements of your wedding blend seamlessly.
4. Embrace the Venue’s Natural Beauty to Minimize Décor Costs
One of the standout features of The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is its breathtaking natural scenery. With towering boulder formations, stunning desert landscapes, and vibrant sunsets, the venue provides a spectacular backdrop that requires minimal additional décor.
By incorporating the desert aesthetic into your theme think succulents, natural stone accents, and earth-toned florals you can cut back on expensive floral installations and elaborate decorations while still achieving a stylish and cohesive look.
5. Consider Weekday or Morning Ceremonies for Lower Fees
Most couples dream of a Saturday evening wedding, but this prime time slot comes with a premium price tag. If you’re open to hosting your wedding on a Friday, Sunday, or even midweek, many venues, including The Boulders Resort & Spa, offer discounted rates.
Morning or brunch weddings are another creative option they come with lower food and beverage minimums, and you can serve elegant yet cost-effective brunch menus like gourmet omelet stations, mimosas, and artisanal pastries. Plus, daytime ceremonies highlight the stunning desert views in full sunlight.
6. Take Advantage of On-Site Resort Amenities for Pre-Wedding Events
The Boulders Resort & Spa isn’t just a wedding venue — it’s a full-scale luxury resort with world-class amenities. Consider hosting your rehearsal dinner, welcome party, or post-wedding brunch right on the property. Many resorts offer package pricing for couples who book multiple events on-site, saving you money and eliminating the need for additional transportation.
Moreover, if you block rooms for your guests, the resort may offer complimentary perks such as a free suite upgrade for the couple, discounted spa treatments, or a private poolside cabana for pre-wedding relaxation.
7. Work with Preferred Vendors to Unlock Discounts and Perks
The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale maintains a curated list of preferred vendors, including photographers, florists, musicians, and planners who have extensive experience working at the venue. Preferred vendors often offer exclusive discounts to couples marrying at the resort since they are familiar with the property’s layout, logistics, and requirements.
Working with vendors who already know the ins and outs of the resort can also help you avoid costly setup fees, delivery charges, or logistical hiccups that might occur with unfamiliar vendors.
8. Skip the Traditional Wedding Favors in Favor of Meaningful Experiences
Wedding favors are a nice touch, but they can quickly add up, especially for larger guest counts. Instead, consider using that portion of your budget to enhance your guests’ experience, such as:
- Hosting a welcome cocktail hour at the resort’s lounge.
- Offering a sunset golf cart tour around the property.
- Providing a spa discount code for guests staying at the resort.
These experiential gifts not only create lasting memories but also feel more personal and meaningful than traditional favors.
9. Combine Your Wedding and Honeymoon for Added Savings
The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale is already a dream honeymoon destination, with its luxury casitas, private villas, world-class golf courses, and award-winning spa. By extending your stay for a honeymoon at the same property, you may be eligible for special discounts or room upgrades, especially if you’ve booked a wedding package.
This approach also helps save on travel costs and allows you to unwind immediately after your celebration, all while enjoying the beauty of the Arizona desert.
Budget Estimate Summary
Here’s a summarized estimate for a wedding with 100 guests at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale:
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $7,500 |
| Catering & Bar | $13,000 – $26,000 |
| Décor & Floral | $5,000 – $12,000 |
| Photography & Videography | $5,500 |
| Entertainment | $3,500 |
| Miscellaneous (Cake, Officiant, Transportation) | $3,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $37,500 – $57,500 |
This estimate can fluctuate based on your guest count, date, and personal preferences, but it gives you a realistic range to start planning.
Final Thoughts
A wedding at The Boulders Resort & Spa Scottsdale promises more than just a stunning venue — it offers an unforgettable experience in one of Arizona’s most picturesque desert settings. While the cost can vary depending on your vision and guest count, the resort’s award-winning service, luxury amenities, and breathtaking backdrop make it worth the investment.
Whether you’re planning a lavish celebration or an intimate gathering, The Boulders Resort & Spa offers the flexibility, elegance, and professional service to bring your wedding dreams to life.