Are you dreaming of saying “I do” in a luxurious and romantic setting by the sea? The Belle Mer wedding venue in Newport, Rhode Island, offers just that. However, before you start planning your fairytale wedding at this stunning waterfront location, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the expenses associated with a Belle Mer wedding, giving you a clear picture of what to expect when budgeting for your special day.
Venue Rental Cost
Belle Mer Venue Options
When planning a wedding at Belle Mer, you have three breathtaking venue options to choose from: The Water Salon, The Island House, and The Loft. Each space offers its unique ambiance and capacity, catering to different wedding sizes and styles.
| Venue Option | Capacity | Rental Fee (Peak Season) | Rental Fee (Off-Peak Season) |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Water Salon | 260 | $12,000 | $8,000 |
| The Island House | 180 | $15,000 | $10,000 |
| The Loft | 200 | $10,000 | $7,000 |
The Water Salon: This elegant space features floor-to-ceiling windows with panoramic views of the ocean, creating a stunning backdrop for your ceremony and reception.
The Island House: A charming seaside retreat with a private deck overlooking the water, perfect for intimate gatherings and outdoor celebrations.
The Loft: A chic and modern loft-style venue with an outdoor terrace, ideal for couples looking for a contemporary and stylish setting for their big day.
Whether you envision a grand affair or an intimate gathering, Belle Mer has a venue option to suit your preferences and guest count.
What’s Included in the Venue Rental?
When you book a venue at Belle Mer, the rental fee typically covers the following:
- Exclusive use of the designated event space for a set number of hours;
- Tables, chairs, and linens for dining and cocktail hour;
- Setup and breakdown of the event space by the venue’s staff;
- On-site parking for guests;
- Access to bridal suites for getting ready on the day of the wedding.
Keep in mind that additional services and amenities, such as catering, bar service, and décor, may come at an extra cost and should be factored into your overall budget.
Catering and Bar Packages
Catering Options
One of the highlights of hosting your wedding at Belle Mer is the exquisite culinary experience offered by their in-house catering team. From plated dinners to elaborate buffets and innovative food stations, you can customize your menu to reflect your taste and style.
Sample Wedding Menu Selections:
Plated Dinner Menu
- First Course: Lobster Bisque or Caprese Salad;
- Entrée: Filet Mignon or Pan-Seared Halibut;
- Dessert: Chocolate Lava Cake or Lemon Tart.
Buffet Style Options
- Seafood Station: Oysters, Shrimp Cocktail, and Crab Cakes;
- Carving Station: Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin and Roasted Turkey Breast;
- Pasta Station: Made-to-order Pasta with Assorted Sauces and Toppings.
Bar Packages
Belle Mer offers a variety of bar packages to keep your guests’ glasses filled throughout the celebration. Whether you prefer a full open bar, beer and wine only, or signature cocktails, there’s an option to suit your preferences and budget.
Sample Bar Package Inclusions:
Premium Open Bar
- Top-shelf liquors, specialty cocktails, and premium wine selections;
- Champagne toast for all guests;
- Experienced bartenders and full bar setup.
Beer and Wine Only
- Assorted beer and wine selections;
- Non-alcoholic beverages and mixers;
- Upgraded wine options available upon request.
When selecting your catering and bar packages, consider your guest’s preferences, dietary restrictions, and any special requests you may have to create a personalized dining experience that will impress your attendees.
Additional Services and Enhancements
Décor and Design
Elevate the ambiance of your Belle Mer wedding with custom décor and design elements to reflect your unique style and vision. From floral arrangements and lighting design to table settings and drapery, the possibilities are endless when it comes to enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your event space.
Décor Elements to Consider:
- Floral Design: Bouquets, centerpieces, arches, and aisle décor;
- Lighting Effects: String lights, chandeliers, uplighting, and monograms;
- Tablescapes: Charger plates, napkin rings, place cards, and table numbers.
By working closely with Belle Mer’s preferred vendors or bringing in your own creative team, you can transform the venue into a captivating setting that reflects your personality and love story.
Entertainment and Music
Create unforgettable moments for you and your guests with live entertainment, music, and interactive experiences throughout your wedding day. Whether you opt for a live band, DJ, or solo musician, the right sound and entertainment choices can set the tone for each part of your celebration.
Entertainment Options:
- Live Band: Energize the dance floor with a versatile band playing hits from various genres and eras;
- DJ Services: Keep the party going with a skilled DJ mixing crowd-pleasing tunes and taking song requests;
- Specialty Acts: Surprise your guests with a performance by dancers, acrobats, or magicians for a memorable twist.
From the ceremony procession to the last dance of the night, the right entertainment choices can enhance the atmosphere and create lasting memories for you and your loved ones.
Wedding Planning and Coordination
In-House Event Coordinator
When you book your wedding at Belle Mer, you’ll have the support of an experienced in-house event coordinator who will assist you every step of the way. From initial planning meetings to day-of coordination, their professional team will ensure that your vision is brought to life flawlessly.
Services Provided by the Event Coordinator:
- Vendor Referrals: Recommendations for trusted vendors such as florists, photographers, and cake bakers;
- Timeline Creation: Assistance in developing a detailed timeline for the wedding day;
- Logistical Support: Coordination of deliveries, setup, and breakdown with vendors;
- Ceremony Rehearsal: Facilitation of the rehearsal to ensure a seamless ceremony execution.
By entrusting your wedding planning to the dedicated team at Belle Mer, you can relax and enjoy the journey to your special day with confidence and peace of mind.
Customized Wedding Packages
To streamline the planning process and simplify your decision-making, Belle Mer offers customizable wedding packages that combine essential services and offerings at a bundled price. These packages are designed to cater to different budgets and preferences, allowing you to select the elements that matter most to you while staying within your financial means.
Sample Wedding Packages:
- Essential Package: Includes venue rental, catering, and basic décor options;
- Luxury Package: Adds premium bar service, upgraded menu selections, and enhanced design elements;
- All-Inclusive Package: Covers all aspects of wedding planning, from invitations and transportation to accommodations and post-wedding brunch.
By choosing a tailored wedding package that aligns with your priorities and budget, you can focus on enjoying the planning process and anticipating your special day with excitement.
Accommodations and Guest Services
Overnight Stay Options
For out-of-town guests or those looking to extend the celebration, Belle Mer partners with nearby hotels and accommodations to offer discounted room blocks and special rates. By providing convenient lodging options, you can ensure that your guests have a comfortable and enjoyable stay during your wedding weekend.
Recommended Partner Hotels:
- Oceanfront Resort: A luxury beachfront hotel with ocean view rooms and suites;
- Historic Inn: A charming bed and breakfast in the heart of Newport’s historic district;
- Boutique Hotel: A trendy boutique hotel with rooftop bar and contemporary amenities.
In addition to partner hotels, Belle Mer also offers on-site bridal suites for pre-ceremony preparations and post-reception relaxation, allowing you to make the most of your time at the venue.
Guest Concierge Services
To enhance the overall guest experience and provide attentive service to your attendees, Belle Mer can arrange for guest concierge services to assist with transportation, recommendations for local activities, and answering any questions or special requests your guests may have.
Guest Concierge Offerings:
- Transportation Coordination: Arranging shuttle services, car rentals, and taxi pickups for guests;
- Local Activity Suggestions: Recommending sightseeing tours, shopping destinations, and dining options in the area;
- Welcome Bag Assembly: Creating welcome bags with area maps, event schedules, and personalized touches for guests.
By offering guest concierge services, you can ensure that your loved ones feel welcomed, informed, and cared for throughout their stay, creating a memorable and enjoyable experience for all.
Post-Wedding Details and Add-Ons
Day-After Brunch
Extend the joy of your wedding celebration with a relaxed and festive day-after brunch for close family and friends. Whether you choose to host the brunch at a nearby restaurant, on the Belle Mer property, or in a private dining room, it’s a wonderful opportunity to unwind, reminisce about the previous day’s events, and thank your guests for their presence and support.
Brunch Menu Ideas:
- Continental Breakfast Buffet with Pastries, Fruits, and Yogurt Parfaits;
- Omelette Station with Fresh Ingredients and Assorted Toppings;
- Mimosa Bar with Champagne, Juices, and Fruit Garnishes.
By organizing a day-after brunch, you can continue the celebration in a more casual and laid-back setting, creating lasting memories and cherished moments with your nearest and dearest.
Photography and Videography Packages
Capture every heartfelt moment and magical detail of your Belle Mer wedding with professional photography and videography services. From getting-ready shots to candid portraits and cinematic highlight reels, investing in a talented photography and videography team ensures that your memories are preserved for a lifetime.
Photography and Videography Inclusions:
- Full-Day Coverage: Documenting all aspects of the wedding day, from preparations to the reception;
- Edited Images and Videos: Providing high-quality edited photos and videos for digital download or physical albums;
- Engagement Shoot: Offering a complimentary engagement session to capture your love story before the big day.
By hiring skilled photographers and videographers, you can relive the emotions and beauty of your Belle Mer wedding for years to come, sharing the joy with future generations and treasuring the timeless mementos captured on film.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planning a wedding at Belle Mer encompasses a meticulous consideration of various elements to curate a remarkable and sophisticated seaside celebration. By exploring the venue’s rental fees, catering and bar packages, additional services and enhancements, wedding planning and coordination options, accommodations and guest services, and post-wedding details and add-ons, you can craft a personalized and unforgettable wedding experience that mirrors your unique love story and vision.
With the guidance and expertise of Belle Mer’s seasoned team and esteemed vendors, you can embark on the journey towards your dream wedding with confidence, knowing that every detail will be executed with precision and care. Here’s to a splendid beginning and a lifetime of happiness at Belle Mer!