What’s Included in a Wedding Venue Rental?

If you're newly engaged and starting your venue search, you’ve probably noticed something confusing: one venue says $4,000 for the day, another says $15,000… and neither one gives a clear picture of what’s actually included.

The truth is, wedding venue pricing can be deceptive. A lower sticker price doesn’t always mean a better deal—especially if it’s a “space-only” rental with dozens of hidden costs still to come.

To help you compare apples to apples, here’s what to look for—and how Mirabelle Estate’s all-inclusive approach helps you save money, time, and stress.

Why “Venue Rental” Can Mean 10 Different Things

Many couples assume the venue fee includes basics like tables, chairs, setup, and maybe even a coordinator. But often, “venue rental” only includes access to the space—and nothing more.

Here’s what’s often not included in a space-only rental:

  • Tables & chairs

  • Linens, flatware & glassware

  • Portable restrooms

  • Florals & décor

  • Lighting or draping

  • Catering

  • Cake & desserts

  • Bartending staff

  • Music or DJ

  • Officiant

  • Coordination staff

  • Setup & teardown

  • Cleanup & trash removal

  • Ceremony seating or arch

  • Parking or security

  • Event insurance

Once you start layering in those costs, that $4,000 venue can easily become a $25,000+ event—and you’re doing all the coordination yourself.

What’s Included at Mirabelle Estate

At Mirabelle Estate, we believe in transparent, all-inclusive pricing that removes the guesswork. Our wedding packages include everything you need for a beautiful, seamless day—without hidden fees.

Included in our packages:

  • Ceremony & reception space

  • Indoor, ADA compliant restrooms

  • Tables, chairs & linens

  • Florals (bouquets, boutonnieres, & centerpieces)

  • Professional DJ & sound system

  • Wedding Planner & Day-of coordinator

  • Full catering with staff

  • Cake & desserts

  • Bartender

  • Photographer

  • Officiant

  • Event security

  • Photo booth

  • Setup & cleanup

  • Parking

  • On-site honeymoon suite

  • Private bridal & groom suites

  • Heat lamps & outdoor seating

  • Timeline planning & vendor management

There’s no need to chase down rental companies, figure out logistics, or worry about setup and cleanup—we handle it all.

Other Common “Surprise” Fees to Watch For

When comparing venues, always ask about:

  • Service fees or gratuity (sometimes 18–25% added later)

  • Payment processing fees

  • Cake cutting fees

  • Setup and teardown access time

  • Rehearsal access or day-before fees

  • Required vendor minimums

  • Late-night or overtime charges

  • Parking Attendant fees

  • Dance Floor or Stage Rentals

  • Trash Removal Fees

  • Corkage Fees

  • Generator Rental

At Mirabelle, we keep things simple: our packages are clear, inclusive, and designed with your budget in mind.

Final Thoughts: Know What You’re Really Paying For

When it comes to wedding venues, the base price isn’t the whole story. A venue may look affordable up front when you sign your contract, but by the time you add in rentals, staffing, and vendors, you’re far beyond your initial budget, deep in the weeds of coordination, and it’s too late to back out.

That’s why so many Bakersfield and Tehachapi couples choose Mirabelle Estate: our affordable, all-inclusive wedding packages are built to give you everything you need—without the sticker shock or planning burnout.

Curious what’s included? Download our full pricing guide or reach out to schedule a consultation & tour. We’ll walk you through exactly what you get—no surprises, just peace of mind.

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