Cost of a Wedding at Canandaigua Lake House: Fast-Track Guide to Budgeting Your Dream Wedding

Hosting your wedding at Canandaigua Lake House is a dream for many couples seeking a picturesque lakeside venue in the heart of New York’s Finger Lakes region. The cost of a wedding at this stunning venue can vary significantly based on several factors, including the season, guest count, chosen amenities, catering options, and whether you’re planning a weekend-long event or a single-day celebration.

As of 2024, couples can expect the average package for a Saturday wedding at the Canandaigua Lake House to range from $25,000 to $50,000 for 100 guests. This estimate usually includes venue rental, basic catering, tables and chairs, and some essential amenities. However, there are many ways to tailor both the experience and the price to your needs:

1. Venue Rental: Fees are typically highest on Saturdays during peak season (May–October), ranging from $8,000 to $18,000. Off-season dates, Fridays, or Sundays may be more affordable.
2. Catering: The in-house catering often starts around $140–$280 per guest, depending on menu choices, cocktail hour, open bar options, and dessert packages.
3. Additional Services: Add-ons like premium linens, floral arrangements, custom décor, and AV services can add several thousand dollars to your total. Many couples also opt for room blocks for guests, which may come with discounts or special rates.
4. Other Fees: Taxes, service charges, and gratuities (often 22–25%) are generally added on top of base pricing. Plan for additional costs for things like photographer, DJ/band, and vendor coordination.

Keep in mind that these prices are starting points—you can achieve a luxurious experience by selecting premium upgrades, or create a more budget-friendly celebration by choosing simpler décor and limiting guest count. As a designer, I always remind couples to focus on the flow and design of the event. For example, crafting a thoughtful layout for the ceremony and reception spaces not only enhances the guest experience but can help utilize each square foot efficiently, sometimes saving on décor costs or maximizing views of the lake.

If you’re in the early stages of planning and want to visualize your setup before committing, I highly recommend experimenting with a room planner tool. It’ll help you test seating arrangements, design custom layouts, and even determine the best placement for focal points—making it easier to see how your vision fits within your venue's actual dimensions.

Tips 1:

To manage costs, prioritize what’s most important to you (like a lakeside ceremony or gourmet dinner) and inquire about off-peak season packages. Also, ask the venue about included amenities, as some upgrades may not be necessary depending on their standard offerings. Don’t forget to check whether there are noise limitations or required end times that could influence your party plans!

FAQ

Q: What is included in the standard Canandaigua Lake House wedding package?

A: Most packages include exclusive venue access, tables, chairs, standard linens, china, flatware, a dance floor, and in-house catering with serving staff. Some packages may also include a ceremony arch, on-site coordination, and discounted room blocks.

Q: Are there additional fees outside the listed package prices?

A: Yes, common additional fees include service charge (typically 22–25%), taxes, extra hours, premium upgrades, vendor fees, and bar packages.

Q: Can I bring in my own vendors or must I use those on the venue's preferred list?

A: The venue typically offers a preferred vendor list but may allow outside vendors for certain services, though this can incur an additional fee or require pre-approval.

Q: How far in advance should I book the Canandaigua Lake House for my wedding?

A: Prime dates, especially Saturdays from May through October, often book out 12–18 months in advance. Early booking is recommended for best availability and rates.

Q: Does the Canandaigua Lake House offer on-site accommodations for guests?

A: Yes, the venue provides a variety of modern and luxurious guest rooms and suites, making it convenient for out-of-town guests to stay on-site and enjoy the event weekend.