Berkeley Plantation

VIRGINIA'S MOST HISTORIC PLANTATION

Host your Wedding & Reception
at Berkeley Plantation on the James River

This beautiful historic site offers breathtaking gardens
and vistas to suit every type of event.

As you drive the tree-lined lane leading to Berkeley, you'll know you're not on the grounds of just any plantation. From the grand expanse of the landscape to the vistas overlooking the river, the setting of this national treasure assures that your time with us will be unique and memorable. By offering a variety of function spaces, we're able to accommodate your group, whether formal or casual, large or small.

Let us help you pick your favorite place for your special day.

These are some of our favorite spots:

Upper & Lower Rose Garden

Magnificent rose-lined lawn overlooking the James River. A path leading from the mansion takes you into this incredible formal garden of two terraces bordered by rose beds. The Upper Rose Garden is a favorite spot for ceremonies with the reception held close by on the lower terrace.

Chippendale Gazebo

A charming bell roof gazebo with Chinese Chippendale railings. Located just 60 yards from the mansion, this is a lovely place to enjoy the magnificent sunsets beckoning across the winding James River. Shaded by Southern Magnolias, this lawn is very popular for cocktail receptions.

1619 Landing

A beautiful area created by river and trees and punctuated by a brick memorial to commemorate the first official Thanksgiving in America. This is a magical setting with gently lapping water and soft river breezes. This is a favorite for river shore photos, ceremonies and cocktails.

Ladies Winter Garden

Formal garden overlooking the James River. Beautiful rose and flower beds.

An intimate garden for small ceremonies or cocktails.

Berkeley’s Eighteenth Century Mansion

Up to 50 guests

Our formal Great Room or expansive hall will make a beautiful location for smaller ceremonies followed by a reception in the Coach House or garden areas.

Click to download a pdf of Wedding Fees, Guidelines and Vendors

Grounds Rental Rates

Saturdays, April through October

Grounds Rental for up to 300 guests: $2,800

For larger events over 300 guests: Call for quote

Off-season and Monday-Friday Event: $2000

Grounds Rental Includes:

one-day for equipment deliveries, set-up, & rehearsal; 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m.
one-day for event; 1:00 p.m. until 11:00 p.m.
Restrooms, parking, bride's Parlor, on-site facility attendant
Use of Gardens for engagement or bridal portrait photo session

Additional restrooms required for all events with over 100 guests.

Deposit: $500

Due within 10 days of booking - non-refundable

Balance due two months prior to event.

Payment: Personal checks, money orders, cashier checks and all major credit cards accepted.

A 5% fee will be charged for all credit card payments.

Cleaning/Damage Deposit: $300 Due with final payment two months prior to event: (refundable after event)

Interior Rentals

Coach House Dining Room (Seats 75 people):

Without grounds rental: $750

With grounds rental: $500

Includes use of Coach House Dining Room & Coach House Garden, tables, chairs, restrooms, parking, bride’s parlor and on-site facility attendant.

Mansion Interior: $1,500

Includes two-hours use of main floor in Berkeley’s mansion for up to 50 guests, 1-hour ceremony & photographs and 1-hour set-up & break down
No food or drink allowed inside mansion

Mansion Interior & Coach House Dining Room: $2,000

Mansion Interior & Grounds Rental: $3,500

Availability:

A signed lease agreement and deposit must be received within 10 days of booking to reserve the grounds for your event.

Dressing Room:

A dressing room is available preceding your ceremony.

Vendors:

Renter is responsible for procuring services from necessary vendors (i.e. tent, caterer, tables, chairs, carriage rides, and musicians). While Berkeley Plantation may make suggestions for possible vendors, it is not responsible for the performance of those vendors.

Parking:

All vehicles, including those of your guests, vendors and deliveries must park at designated parking area, located near the event site. No vehicles are allowed on walking paths or grass/lawn areas.

After delivery, all vehicles must be moved to the parking area.

Cleaning:

The renter (or contracted vendor) is responsible for cleaning the area after the event. Decorations and litter must be removed immediately following the event. Failure to do so will result in a forfeiture of the cleaning deposit. Dance floor must be removed within 24 hours of event.

Arrangements for rental equipment delivery and removal must be made in advance.

Alcohol:

A one-day banquet license must be obtained by the renter (or contracted vendor) from the Virginia ABC board if serving alcoholic beverages.

Inclement Weather:

Inclement weather will not result in a refund for any event.

Renter is responsible for an alternative plan in the event of inclement weather.

Miscellaneous:

Birdseed, flower petals and bubbles may be used if you choose. Candles and sparklers may be used with advanced arrangements. Rice and confetti are not permitted. Helium balloons are not allowed on the grounds.

Indemnification:

Renter agrees to indemnify Berkeley against all claims, expenses and costs, including attorney's fees, resulting from any injury to persons or property caused by renter's invitees or contractors.

We ask that you and your guests treat this national treasure as you would your own.

Take special care as you enjoy your event.

Vendor Recommendations:

Equipment & Tents

Rent-E-Quip (804) 520-7100

Party Perfect (804) 359-2400

Big Top Entertainment (757) 875-0505

Commonwealth Event Company (804) 264-6621

Classic Party Rentals (804) 270-9544

Topside Tent and Party Rentals (804) 751-0202

Caterers

Groovin Gourmet (804) 868-8900