Renting A Mansion For Your Wedding: Is It Possible?

Planning a wedding can be a daunting task, and finding the perfect venue is one of the most critical aspects. If you're seeking a grand and luxurious setting, renting a mansion for your special day is an option worth considering. This approach offers not only a breathtaking backdrop but also accommodation for you and your guests, transforming your wedding into an intimate and exclusive event. From enchanting Tuscan ranches to regal manors in Upstate New York, and even Spanish hacienda estates in California, the possibilities are endless.

Where can I rent a mansion for a wedding?

There are many mansions available to rent for a wedding across the United States.

California

The Darlington House in La Jolla, California, is a historic home that has hosted many weddings in its nearly hundred years. Its spaces can accommodate up to 200 wedding guests, and its aesthetic is inspired by European and Egyptian styles, making it a unique site to exchange vows.

The Villa Di Rocca in Malibu, California, is a paradise estate on 2.5 acres in wine country. It can accommodate weddings of up to 500 guests and comfortably sleeps up to 18 guests. The property is over 8300 square feet with 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a pool, a spa, and a movie theater.

The Jefferson Street Mansion in Benicia, California, is a beautiful vintage venue located in the historic area of the city. Overlooking the Carquinez Strait, this neoclassical-style mansion is nestled in the heart of the Bay Area. It features nostalgic decor and authentic period details.

New York

The Bourne Mansion in Oakdale, New York, is a historical landmark that offers traditional stylings on a private estate, giving your guests a taste of grandeur. The grounds can host anywhere from 300 to 1000 guests and offer many spots to wed both indoors and outdoors. It features a wooden staircase, a decorative glass dome, and grand French doors.

The Westbury Manor in Westbury, New York, is a five-acre property that includes landscaped grounds, an 1880s estate, and modern amenities. It hosts only one event per day, providing privacy and dedicated staff to ensure your wedding goes smoothly. It can accommodate up to 300 guests and offers a list of preferred vendors to help with planning.

Other Locations

The Aldrich Mansion in Warwick, Rhode Island, is a wedding venue located on 70 acres of land overlooking Narragansett Bay. With outstanding architecture and a waterfront view, this historic mansion is the perfect setting for a wedding. It can accommodate up to 250 guests and offers an on-site chapel, along with the main house.

The Armour House in Lake Forest, Illinois, is a historic wedding venue that prides itself on creating an unforgettable wedding experience. It combines classic elegance with modern appeal and can accommodate up to 400 guests.

The Stan Mansion in Chicago, Illinois, is a 1920s manor that can accommodate up to 300 guests. It features high ceilings, a bar area, and Versailles-inspired fireplaces. You can choose from several ballrooms for your wedding, including a larger second-floor ballroom, a lower-level ballroom, and a main ballroom near the bar/lounge space.

The list doesn't end there. There are many other mansions available to rent for weddings in states like Florida, North Carolina, Maryland, Arizona, Tennessee, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Texas.

How much does it cost to rent a mansion for a wedding?

The cost of renting a mansion for a wedding can vary depending on several factors such as location, size, amenities, and features.

On average, couples can expect to spend between $14,444 and $49,207 on their wedding venue rental in 2024. Other necessities like catering and photography will add a further $10,000 to $16,500 to the budget. Wedding planners recommend allocating about half of the total wedding budget to the venue.

For a small to medium-sized wedding (50 to 100 guests) in a city with a mid-range cost of living, prices can range from $2,000 for an affordable event centre, restaurant, or banquet hall, to $20,000 for a more expensive option. A park venue may cost between $8,000 and $15,000, while a hotel, resort, or country club can start at $5,000 and go up to tens of thousands of dollars for luxury locations.

When considering a mansion wedding, prices can vary based on the type of mansion and location. On Giggster, for example, mansions in large cities typically rent for $300 to $500 per hour, although some may be found for $100 to $200 per hour with higher minimum hour requirements.

• A Mediterranean mansion in Pasadena, CA, with gardens, a pool, and a stained-glass gazebo costs $863 per hour with a ten-hour rental minimum.
• An ocean-view estate in Pacific Palisades, CA, with ocean views and a large backyard costs $750 per hour with a six-hour rental minimum.
• A Bel Air tropical mansion in Los Angeles, CA, with Mediterranean architecture, a balcony, pool, and golf course views costs $200 per hour with a two-hour minimum.
• A Beverly Hills mansion with a courtyard, indoor pool, and Jacuzzi costs $750 per hour with a ten-hour minimum.
• A Victorian mansion in Oakland, CA, with elegant rooms, fine art, and a garden costs $160 per hour with a four-hour minimum.
• A historic mansion-turned-museum in Chicago, IL, modelled after a French chateau costs $800 per hour with a three-hour minimum and includes two employees for setup and guest greeting.
• A Victorian mansion in West Sussex, England, with tennis courts, an indoor pool, sauna, Jacuzzi, garden, and vineyard costs £250 per hour with a three-hour minimum.

When renting a mansion for a wedding, it's important to consider the number of guests, desired amenities, and location to find the best venue that fits your budget and preferences.

What are some specific mansions that can be rented for a wedding?

There are many mansions available to rent for weddings, and they can be found all over the world. Here are some specific examples of mansions that can be rented for weddings:

The Mill Lakeside Manor, New Jersey

This New Jersey mansion rental offers pristine natural beauty and elegance, with stunning lakeside views. It can accommodate up to 250 guests and provides a dedicated cocktail area for an unforgettable cocktail hour.

Ceresville Mansion, Maryland

Located in the greater Baltimore-Washington Metropolitan area, this venue sits on 26 acres near the Monocacy River, offering breathtaking views. It comfortably fits up to 150 people and includes a garden space, a manor, a ballroom, and more.

Stan Mansion, Illinois

Stan Mansion is a 1920s manor in the heart of Chicago's Logan Square, perfect for a private event or wedding. It can accommodate up to 300 guests and features high ceilings, a bar area, and Versailles-inspired fireplaces.

Elms Mansion, Louisiana

Elms Mansion is an 18th-century estate in New Orleans' Garden District, providing opulent furnishings and modern elegance. It can accommodate up to 400 people and offers multiple ceremony and reception areas, including a gazebo beneath a magnolia tree and a grand ballroom.

Adorn Events, Las Vegas, Nevada

Adorn Events offers the look and feel of an estate while being close to local tourist spots. It can comfortably accommodate up to 300 guests and provides full planning and a la carte options to tailor the event to your specifications.

The Wrigley Mansion, Arizona

The Wrigley Mansion is a historic venue with panoramic views of Camelback Mountain and the Phoenix landscape. It offers both indoor and outdoor locations for ceremonies and receptions and can accommodate up to 300 guests.

The Veranda, Alabama

The Veranda is a stunning seaside estate located on the sandy shores of Alabama. It offers a cozy and luxurious atmosphere, with a 100-foot beach for ceremonies and plenty of indoor space for receptions. Up to 100 guests can enjoy the main deck and open main level, with an elevator and boardwalk also available.

Villa Di Rocca, Malibu, California

Villa Di Rocca is a paradise estate on 2.5 acres in Malibu wine country. It can accommodate weddings of up to 500 guests and comfortably sleeps up to 18 guests. The property is over 8300 square feet with 7 bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, a pool, a spa, and a movie theater.

Darlington House, California

Darlington House is a historic home located just outside of San Diego, California. It has hosted many weddings in its nearly hundred years and can accommodate up to 200 guests. Its aesthetic blends European and Egyptian styles, featuring a Rose Garden, Andalusian Patio, Library, Egyptian Patio, and more.

The Rubber House, New York

Speculated to have once been owned by Julie Andrews, The Rubber House is an artist colony and retreat nestled in the Hudson Valley. It sleeps four guests and starts at $854 per night. It features a luxe primary suite, a calm muted color palette, and a dance studio.

Paradise Point Estates, Hawaii

While not owned by a celebrity, this Hawaiian hotspot has been visited by many stars, including Blake Lively and Ryan Reynolds. It features a five-bedroom oasis with a lagoon-style pool, hot tub, fitness center, gourmet kitchen, and concierge service.

What should I consider when renting a mansion for a wedding?

Renting a mansion for a wedding can be a great option for those seeking a luxurious and elegant setting for their big day. Here are some important considerations to keep in mind when planning a wedding in a rented mansion:

Location

The location of the mansion is crucial. Consider the surrounding area and whether it aligns with your desired atmosphere. Do you prefer a secluded venue surrounded by nature, or would you rather be close to local attractions and amenities? Also, keep in mind any relevant local laws and regulations, and be considerate of the neighbours to ensure your event doesn't cause any disturbances.

Size and Capacity

Mansion rentals can vary in size, so it's essential to choose one that can comfortably accommodate your guest list. Consider the number of guests you plan to invite and ensure the mansion has sufficient space for both the ceremony and reception. Additionally, if you want your guests to stay overnight, ensure the mansion has enough bedrooms or sleeping areas.

Style and Amenities

Mansion rentals offer a range of styles, from historic estates to modern villas. Consider the overall style and ambiance you wish to create for your wedding. Also, think about the specific amenities and features you require, such as outdoor spaces, a pool, or particular architectural details that can enhance your event.

Planning and Services

Inquire about the planning process and the services included in the rental. Some mansions offer on-site wedding planning services or allow you to bring in your own vendors. Clarify what is included in the rental package, such as catering, decor, clean-up, and any additional options like a dedicated cocktail area or exclusive use of the venue for the day.

Alcohol Regulations

If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, be sure to understand the local laws and regulations. In some cases, you may need a liquor license, especially if you intend to provide a full open bar. Alternatively, you could consider a BYOB option, but be sure to communicate this clearly to your guests.

Contracts and Cancellations

When renting a mansion for your wedding, ensure you have a detailed contract in place. Understand the terms and conditions, including any restrictions on events or noise levels. Also, be aware of the cancellation policies, as some venues may have the right to cancel last minute, which could cause significant disruptions to your plans.

What are some alternatives to renting a mansion for a wedding?

If you're looking for a wedding venue that isn't a mansion, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

A Rental or Family Home

This option is perfect for those who want an intimate and unique vibe. You can use your own home, or check out rental homes that allow events. VRBO, for example, has a filter for properties that permit events.

On a Boat, Ship, or Catamaran

This is a great choice for couples who love the water. You can opt for a small rental, use a boat you already have access to, or go big with a larger ship that offers activities and amenities.

On a Rooftop

Imagine exchanging your vows with a view of the city skyline stretching towards the horizon. Rooftop venues, like Roof16 in Denver, offer a modern and unique alternative to a traditional wedding venue.

On a Dock or Pier by a Lake

Lake Tahoe is a popular choice for this option, with its beautiful scenery and easy access to the water. You can even rent a vintage boat for a truly memorable experience.

In the Ocean or on an Island

This option is for the adventurous couple who are comfortable in the water and around wildlife. You can even get some amazing underwater portraits with stingrays!

In a Local, State, or National Park

Why choose a ballroom when you can get married surrounded by nature? National parks offer special use permits for a fraction of the cost of traditional venues, and you can find a park with mountains, rivers, valleys, and rock formations to create a stunning backdrop for your big day.

At a Winery or Vineyard

Sip and savour your first moments as a married couple in a romantic spot like California's wine country. There are plenty of vineyard venues to choose from, offering a elegant and rustic setting for your celebration.

At an Orchard or Farm

Enjoy lush blossoms and mountain views at a place like the Orchard Hood River or the beautiful meadows of The Orchard at Sunshine Hill, located between Seattle and Portland.

In an Airplane Hangar

This is a perfect choice for aviation enthusiasts!

At a Brewery or Distillery

String lights over a gorgeous patio can create a cosy and intimate atmosphere for your wedding celebration.

At a Castle or Estate

If you're looking for elegance, you can't beat the Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina, or Bella Collina in Central Florida. Or, if you want something edgier, consider castle ruins for a unique and historic venue.

In a Botanical Garden

Like something out of a fairytale, botanical gardens offer incredible florals and a serene ambiance for your wedding day.

In a Library

Libraries are full of stories, and your love story could be one of them. The George Peabody Public Library at John Hopkins University in Maryland, for example, can host up to 200 people in a dream-like setting.

In a Museum

Beaming with architectural and artistic charm, museums offer a unique and cultural setting for your wedding. The Cleveland Museum of Art, for example, was founded in 1913 and offers multiple spaces for a ceremony, including an on-site restaurant and private banquet room.

At a Restaurant, Café, or Boutique Hotel

Restaurants, cafes, and boutique hotels often have spaces designed to accommodate large groups and can offer a cosy and intimate atmosphere for your wedding.

In a Theater

Getting married in a theater is a timeless idea, incorporating elements of old-school romance. The Grand Canadian Theatre in Purcell, Oklahoma, for example, offers all-day rentals that include your name on the marquee, bar and lounge areas, tables and chairs, and parking.

In a Garden or Greenhouse

With stunning blooms, brick-paved sidewalks, and lush greenery, gardens and greenhouses make for a romantic and intimate wedding venue.

On a Farm or Ranch

For a rustic-style wedding, you can't beat a farm or ranch with a stunning barn for your celebration. Allenbrooke Farms in Nashville, for example, offers multiple options for the ceremony and reception, as well as suites to get ready in, all for under $7,000.

In a Historic Venue

If you're looking for old-world charm, a historic venue like Atlanta's Rhodes Hall will give you a fairytale vibe at an affordable price.

With so many alternatives to renting a mansion for your wedding, you're sure to find the perfect venue that reflects your personality and style.

Frequently asked questions