Question 1

How many guests can the venue accommodate?

Accepted Answer

The largest space, the Lawn Garden, seats 300 for a ceremony and 200 at tables for a reception. The Walled Garden seats 180 for a ceremony and 72 for a reception, and the Lawn House Garden holds 60 seated or 150 for a cocktail reception. A standing capacity for the whole venue is not listed.

Question 2

What is the starting price for a wedding?

Accepted Answer

Starting prices are $4,500 in the off-peak season and $5,000 in the peak season. Daytime 2-hour ceremonies run $1,800 to $4,000, 4-hour ceremony and reception packages run $4,500 to $5,000, and evening exclusive events run $7,500 to $8,500.

Question 3

How much is the deposit, and when is the balance due?

Accepted Answer

The deposit is $250 for a daytime ceremony, $500 for a daytime ceremony and reception, or $1,000 for an evening event. The remaining balance is due 90 days before the event, or at contract signing if the event is less than 90 days away. A refundable security deposit of $250 or $500 also applies, and payment plans are not available.

Question 4

Can we bring our own caterer and alcohol?

Accepted Answer

Outside catering is allowed, and the venue does not offer in-house catering. A third-party listing says caterers must be approved and the kitchen is for prep only. You may bring your own alcohol, which must be served by a licensed bartender or caterer.

Question 5

Is parking included for our guests?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The rental fee includes parking and garden admission for the wedding party and guests on the event day, and the venue has a large parking lot.

Question 6

Does the venue have on-site accommodations?

Accepted Answer

No. The venue does not offer on-site lodging or guest rooms.

Question 7

What is the backup plan if it rains on an outdoor ceremony?

Accepted Answer

The garden has no bad-weather facilities, since all spaces are outdoors. A rental company can arrange tenting for weather protection.

Question 8

What items are not allowed at the venue?

Accepted Answer

Rice, birdseed, confetti, balloons, and sparklers may not be used anywhere in the garden. Smoking is also not permitted.

Question 9

What is included in the rental, and what decor can we rent?

Accepted Answer

The rental includes a bride's dressing room and liability insurance, and a third-party listing says chairs and outdoor lighting are included. Decor rentals include arches and lighting, and food and beverage rentals include tables and chairs.

Question 10

Are we required to use the venue's preferred vendors?

Accepted Answer

No. The venue publishes an approved vendor list for catering, florists, DJs, rentals, photography, and other services, but the official site does not state that these vendors are mandatory.

San Diego Botanic Garden

Select a Package

Waterfall Deck

Lawn House Garden

Walled Garden

Gazebo Lawn

Venue Highlights

Photo Gallery

Explore the Property

Lawn Garden

The Walled Garden

The Lawn House Garden

The Waterfall View Deck

Lawn Garden

The Walled Garden

The Lawn House Garden

The Waterfall View Deck

Lawn Garden

Amenities & Features

San Diego Botanic Garden

FAQs

Verified Venue