FAQ
Some Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in your package? What is it that I will need to supply?
Our Brides and Grooms are looking for a perfect Wedding Day that they can enjoy with their friends and family, and is easy to plan. We have accomplished this by including in our presentation the site, caterer, day of coordinator, and all the rentals. We do not provide music, flowers, photography, or the officiate. You will be responsible for bringing your own alcohol, with no corkage fee, and wedding cake, without a cutting cost.
When can I visit?
We like to show The Gardens by appointment only. In that way, we are here to focus on you and your needs. Call us at (805) 432-7488 or email jo@mgardens.com for an appointment.
How do I reserve my date?
You begin by reserving an appointment to take a tour of the site, sign the contract, and make your deposit. At that point the date is yours. We encourage you to take the time to answer all your questions before making your commitment.
How long before my wedding can I book with you?
We are able to begin booking between a year and eighteen months before your wedding.
Who is the caterer and how flexible are they with the menu?
Command Performance is our exclusive caterer. As you may know, they also are the caterer for the Reagan Library, and as such, cook for heads of state and international dignitaries. They are known for their ability to create the dinner that completes your day. You have a selection of five price points, and within that range there are numerous choices. If you have a special idea, I always encourage you to take it to our Catering Coordinator. One thing couples appreciate about them is their flexibility and desire to help you create the wedding of your dreams.
Can I bring my own caterer?
We are extremely happy with our exclusive caterer, and know you will be as well. The price per head includes all the food, tables and chairs, linen and napkins, china, glassware, flatware, cake cutting, the chilling and service of your champagne and alcohol, service by the catering staff and bartender, and clean-up. By so doing, we are offering you fantastic dinner selections, the best pricing, and detailed customer service.
When do I make payments?
A deposit is made when you sign the contract, a partial payment is due 60 days before the wedding, with the final payment being made 10 days before the wedding.
Is there a rehearsal?
Yes. Typically, the rehearsal is held the day before your wedding, between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm. It is a one hour commitment, during which you deliver and store all your alcohol and personal items in a secure location at Maravilla Gardens. We encourage you to bring your officiate if you wish, or we can successfully practice with just you, your parents and bridal party.
How many guests can you accommodate?
We have the ability of host up to 300 guests at a time. More than ample parking is available with 150 designated spaces.
How late can we stay in the evening?
Our standard wedding period is 7 hours, from 3:30 pm to 10:30 pm, with music off by 10:00. If you would like an after party, we recommend a bistro, just down the road, that will stay open until 2:00 am.
How early can we come in?
The bride and groom and their families can come in as early as 2:00 on their wedding day. There is a small charge for this service.
Is there a coordinator included? When do I start working with her? What will she do for us?
Yes, there is a “Day Of” Site Coordinator included. She begins working with you 30 days before your wedding, once you know the details of the day. She will provide some guidelines to design a timeline for the day. On the day of your wedding, she will coordinate between the vendors you have hired, as well as the caterer, to keep your scheduled on track. She arrives two hours before you and begins to put out your favors, arrange your place cards, display all your programs and pictures, and all other agreed upon tasks. She directs your guests throughout the evening, from when it is time to begin the wedding ceremony, until the final event, the cutting of the cake. It is her aim that you and your family can relax and enjoy your wedding day.
Is your site handicapped accessible?
Yes, it is.
What do you do if it rains?
That is one of the good things about living in a desert; it seldom rains between late April and early November. If by the off chance there would be rain, Command Performance is able to handle a tent rental for you. After reserving one at your 10 day meeting, they will watch the weather to see if it is really needed.
Where are the restrooms?
Our restrooms are located at the level of the cocktails and reception. This makes them very accessible.
What is your site fee?
Our site fee is $3,500.00 for a wedding. If you choose to get married on a Saturday, there is an additional fee of $5.00 per guest. That fee is waived for Friday and Sunday events.
What is your minimum number of guests for Friday, Saturday and Sunday?
Our minimum number of guests for Saturday is 125 guests. For Friday and Sunday, it is 75 guests. If you would like to be married at Maravilla Gardens, but do not have the required number of guests, you can still be married here, but you would have to pay for the minimum for the day. Depending on the date of the event there can be some flexibility.
What lighting is included in your site fee? Can more be added?
Our standard lighting is sufficient for your wedding. There are twinkle lights in four of the large trees in the reception area, as well as accessory lighting around the perimeter and landscape lighting throughout the site. In our rental department we also have Market Lighting, a stunning addition to the evening, as well as other lighting options available.
Is the dance floor included? How many can it accommodate?
We have a wonderful built in dance floor, designed to be sufficient for 350 guests.
Can we have candles on the tables?
Yes, though we do require that they be in votives or hurricane shields. Be sure they are designed to burn for 6 hours.
Do you recommend vendors?
Yes. When you complete your signing packet we give you a list of vendors. These are vendors who have worked here previously that we are confident in.
What form of payment do you accept?
Check is the most common, but we can also accept cash, money order, or cashier’s check. We are not equipped to accept credit cards.
What can we do if it is too hot or too cold?
At your ten day meeting, we take a look at the weather forecast. At that time I will advise you according to our experience. We have heaters available on site and they will take care of any drop in temperature. Although we do have a strong coastal breeze, we have a lovely shade canopy that covers the ceremony site if needed. Both of these items are upgrades.
Can I rent the site for only a Ceremony?
Yes, we do schedule ceremony only weddings between the hours of 11:00am and 2:00 pm for a 3 hour period. That gives you plenty of time to come and settle in, have your ceremony and also get some wonderful pictures.
Do I need Liability Insurance?
Yes, you will need Day Of insurance. Our insurance covers general liability for the property in case someone trips or falls on the grounds. You need insurance to cover the possibility of your guests becoming drunk at your party, getting behind the wheel, and being involved in an accident once they leave. Being mutually insured protects both of us. Often you can get this insurance through your homeowner’s policy or we recommend R.V. Nuccio at www.rvnuccio.com.
