Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Weddings Guide

While there are many wedding venues in Tampa and the surrounding areas in Florida, there is one that takes the cake for its European elegance and destination feel. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens weddings provide an elevated European feel, by blending Mediterranean romance, lush gardens, and waterfront views. This stunning Wedding venue in Miami transports you to what feels like the coast of Italy right here in Florida. 

A Brief History of Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

Vizcaya was built between 1914 and 1922 as the winter residence of industrialist James Deering. The estate was developed on the shores of Biscayne Bay and incorporates Italian materials, artisan craftsmanship, and carefully designed landscapes.  

The result is a historic landmark which now operates as a museum and event venue allowing couples to host dreamy, European style weddings in a sub-tropical environment.  

Venue Aesthetic & Location

Located in the Coconut Grove area, the estate is surrounded by subtropical forest along with the beautiful waters of Biscayne bay. From the moment you arrive at Vizcaya, you’re transported to another world. Inspired by Northern Italy and the Veneto region, the estate evokes old-world grandeur. Architecturally, the main house is composed in Mediterranean Revival style with Baroque and Italian-Renaissance influences. The Italian villa inspired house was also designed to take full advantage of its location on Biscayne Bay, providing the most stunning views. 

The formal gardens feature fountains, sculptures, stone balustrades, and a secret garden feel. The mix of historic interiors and manicured exterior gardens offers multiple backdrops for ceremony, portraits, and reception.

Ceremony & Reception Spaces

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a treasured National Historic Landmark that features breathtaking water views of Biscayne Bay. This little slice of Tuscany here in Miami is an absolutely gorgeous location for a wedding. When planning Vizcaya Museum & Gardens weddings, there are various spaces to consider, each offering something unique. 

The East Terrace

For larger weddings, The East Terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay and the historic gardens is a picturesque spot to host your wedding reception and can accommodate up to 300 seated guests. However, for guest counts over 90, a tent rental is required, which is an additional cost. Here guests will enjoy both the architectural grandeur while also enjoying the calming presence of the water.  

The Gardens

The gardens at Vizcaya are said to be among the most elaborate in the United States. Mimicking gardens seen in Italy and France, the overall landscape design is similar to that of different rooms. There are various garden spaces from the Secret Garden, Maze Garden, and the Fountain Garden. The gardens are a visual treat and truly reminiscent of classic English gardens that may come to mind. A garden wedding at Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a romantic dream.

The Courtyard

The Courtyard of the Main House is wonderful for smaller receptions with less than 100 guests. The intimate setting allows you and your guests to admire the Mediterranean-style architecture of Vizcaya’s Main House while being surrounded by lush greenery. 

Vizcaya Museum Wedding Cost

The cost of a Wedding at Vizcaya Museum & Gardens depends largely on the number of people you plan to invite. Here are the starting costs for a Vizcaya wedding to help you evaluate whether the venue fits your budget.

The venue offers a Daytime Garden Ceremony, which is the perfect option for more intimate weddings. These ceremonies can host up to 50 guests total, and take place from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The cost starts at $2,000 for up to 25 guests. Then, there is an additional guest fee of $25 per guest, for up to 50 guests total. It is important to note that you do not have full use of the venue with this option, just the main garden area. 

For a full evening celebration, you can rent out the venue for up to 300 guests. There is a base fee that begins around $23,000 for the first 100 people. The price increases from there as you add additional guests and services, such as tent rental or extended rental hours. With an evening rental you will have exclusive use of the inner courtyard, outside terraces, and gardens. 

As with most historic estate venues, this cost just covers the venue use, and all additional items, like catering, rentals, decor, photography, lighting, etc., are a separate cost. 

Why Couples Choose Vizcaya Museum & Gardens

This stunning wedding venue stands out for couples seeking a location steeped in history with a European-destination feel, but especially for those couples who love and appreciate European style and elegance. The architecture and gardens create a refined, and unique wedding vibe. The versatile backdrops set the stage for the most stunning Vizcaya Museum wedding photos.

The various spaces offer something for everyone, whether you are dreaming of an intimate garden wedding or a grand celebration with a larger guest list. As a Miami wedding photographer, this wedding venue is a dream for capturing those timeless and romantic wedding photos. Everywhere from the sweeping gardens, the luxurious estate, or the idyllic Bayfront creates a backdrop that is unforgettable.  

Considerations for Planning Your Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Wedding

When planning any wedding, booking early is always suggested. Vizcaya Museum & Gardens wedding venue is one of those popular Florida wedding venues that books well in advance, especially for weekend weddings during peak season.  Inquire and plan ahead to secure your dream wedding day date.

Since this is a historic landmark, there are also rules and regulations for couples and vendors to protect the grounds. All couples are required to use caterers, planners and vendors, from Vizcaya’s Approved Vendor List. The approved vendors have already agreed to the venue’s rules and restrictions. It is always important to double check your vendors with the venue before booking anyone.  

As the name suggests, the Vizcaya is also a museum during the day that is open to the public. Therefore, they do not allow wedding vendor setup to begin until 3:00 p.m. on the upper East Terrace, 4:00 p.m. in the gardens, and 5:15 p.m. in the Courtyard of the Main House. However, there is an option to set up earlier for an additional fee.  

Another item to consider is parking. While the Vizcaya is about 15 minutes from South Beach and close to the Miami airport making it convenient for traveling guests, the parking at the venue may require some planning, as Vizcaya’s parking lot provides 125 spaces. Parking spaces are included in the evening rental fee, but for larger weddings you will have to utilize the additional parking available across South Miami Avenue from the Main House. This is something to be aware of so you can prepare and plan for your guests. 

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens Wedding Photographer

As your photographer, I bring an expert eye to make the most of Vizcaya’s beauty. I’ll be sure to capture your happiest moments, along with the architectural details, golden-hour light over the bay, and enchanting garden areas.

If you’re looking for a Florida wedding venue with architecture, history, and grandeur, while also providing a destination feel, then Vizcaya is a top contender among Miami wedding venues and estate weddings in Florida. Vizcaya’s classic elegance pairs perfectly with my luxury photography approach. If this venue resonates with your vision, I’d love to guide you through capturing your Vizcaya Museum & Gardens wedding photos. I’ll photograph every detail of your special day, from the candid getting ready moments to the epic send off. Reach out and let’s connect to book your Vizcaya Museum & Gardens wedding.

I love getting to capture these special moments so that you can remember your wedding day for the rest of your life. For me, your wedding day is so much more than just a day.You deserve a wedding photographer who is invested in you and capturing every moment. Reach out and let’s connect to book your wedding day here in Florida (or around the world)