You Have A Lot of Questions...
We Have Some Answers
Are there always crops growing in the fields below the site?
Most of the time, but we can’t guarantee it. The fields below our site are owned and maintained by farmers who plant according to weather and market price. The rotation that produces vegetables for market is a constant process of tilling the soil and then planting, watering, and harvesting the crops. No odor comes from the fields. A photo shoot in the fields on your wedding day requires a shoot fee and contract.
Can we pick our own caterer?
No. We work exclusively with Command Performance Catering. With more than 30 years of experience and more than 17 years of being our exclusive caterer, we have more confidence and trust than ever in Command Performance Catering’s ability to create a meal that will complete your day. You can choose from a selection of five price points, and numerous food choices within that range. Our couples appreciate their flexibility and desire to help bring your vision to life — so, if you have a special idea, be sure to take it to Robert, our catering manager.
Can the caterer provide a Kosher meal?
Command Performance Catering does not provide an entire Kosher reception, but they can bring in a small amount of Kosher meals at an additional price.
Will Maravilla Gardens fit into my budget?
Including the site, catering, and rentals, our 2024 weddings run from a minimum of $19,000 on a Friday or Sunday (75-person guest count, buffet meal) to a minimum of $24,000 on a Saturday (125-person guest count, buffet meal).
What is included in your package?
Our packages include the site, caterer, day-of coordinator, and all the rentals you will need.
What is it that I will need to supply?
You will need to supply the music, flowers, photography, videography, photo booth, and the officiate. You will also be responsible for bringing your own alcohol (no corkage fee) and dessert (no cutting cost).
When can I visit?
We show the venue by appointment only. That way, we can focus on you and your needs. Please contact us to inquire or schedule a tour.
How far in advance should I reserve my date?
Typically, we book 12 months prior to each wedding, but that varies. Our season begins the first weekend in March and ends after the last weekend in December.
Is there a rehearsal?
Yes. Depending on whether or not we have a wedding the day before your wedding, our rehearsals are held on our first available early afternoon or evening prior to your wedding.
How many guests can you accommodate?
We can accommodate up to 275 guests, and offer ample parking with 150 designated spaces.
How late can we stay in the evening?
The site is yours from 2:30 p.m. to 10:30 pm. Vendors may arrive at 1:30 p.m. The music must be off by 10 p.m., but may now be extended to 11:00. If you want an after-party, we recommend M on High, The Slate Bistro, The Manhattan, Twisted Oak Tavern, or The Courtyard Marriott (they have a lobby area with a bar and food service).
Is a coordinator included? What are the coordinator’s duties?
Yes, we provide a day-of coordinator who goes above and beyond what is typically offered at other venues. Before your wedding day, our coordinator will begin working with you 8 months in advance, provide guidelines to design a timeline for the day, and attend your 10-day prior meeting.
On the day of your wedding, our coordinator will arrive one hour before you to set up your items and work with the vendors you hired, as well as the caterer, to keep them on schedule. The coordinator will also direct guests throughout the evening — from start to finish — to ensure you and your friends and family can relax and enjoy your wedding day.
Is your site handicapped accessible?
Yes, it is.
What do you do if it rains?
It rarely rains between April thru October. On the off chance it rains, tenting will be rented and installed by Maravilla Gardens at an additional fee.
Where are the restrooms?
Early in the day, guests can access restrooms located near the ceremony area. For the cocktail hour and reception, guests can use our easily accessible executive restrooms.
How is a date reserved ?
For 2024, our Non-Refundable Site Rental Reservation Fee of $7,950 is due to reserve the event date and a contract must be signed.
What is your minimum number of guests for Friday, Saturday and Sunday?
For Saturdays and holiday Sundays, our minimum is 125 guests. For Fridays and Sundays, our minimum is 75 guests. If you do not meet the required number of guests, you can still get married at Maravilla Gardens by paying for the minimum number of guests for that day.
What lighting is included? Can more be added?
Our included lighting is more than sufficient for your wedding. Market lights strung across our reception area, as well as accessory lighting around the perimeter, and landscape lighting throughout the site.
Is the dance floor included? How many can it accommodate?
Our built-in dance floor is made of stamped and stained concrete material, and works well for weddings up to 275 guests.
Can we have candles on the tables?
Yes, though candles must be in glass votives or hurricane shields. Be sure they are designed to burn for 6 hours. Tapered candles melt in the sun during set up and then burn against the glass, so the are discouraged.
Do you recommend vendors?
Yes. When you complete your signing packet, we will provide a list of preferred, experienced vendors who we know and love.
What form of payment do you accept?
We can accept check, credit card, cash, money order, or cashier’s check.
What can we do if it is too hot or too cold?
At your 10-day meeting, we will look at the weather forecast, and then advise you based on our experience. If it’s too cold, we have heaters available on site that rent for $85 each. You will likely need one heater for every 20 guests. On warm days, we have a mild coastal breeze, shade provided by large trees, and a custom-made shade canopy to cover guests in the ceremony area.
Do I need liability insurance?
Yes, you will need day-of liability insurance. Our insurance will cover general liability for the property. Your insurance will cover any unforeseen issues related to you and your guests. Additional insurance protects both of us. You can often get this insurance through your homeowner’s policy or through R.V. Nuccio at www.rvnuccio.com. The cost is $125.
Do you require security?
Yes, you will need to purchase 8 hours of security through Sandman Security. You can complete this purchase at your 60-day prior meeting. Security comes dressed as a wedding guest and will respond to any unexpected situations to ensure your guests stay safe all evening.
Do you have an indoor option?
Maravilla Gardens is an outdoor wedding venue. No permanent structures are allowed for use in Ag or Open Space in Ventura County.
Can we have a full-sized band?
Yes. We are currently building an exclusive list of bands for the reception. Up to four musicians may play in the ceremony area, during the cocktail hour, and during dinner. The DJ will still cover the sound system and mic for the ceremony, the cocktail hour (if you wish), and take over from any musicians during the toasts.