Bay Preserve at Osprey
400 Palmetto Ave.,
Osprey, Florida 34229
(941) 918-2100
View their website
Average Base Cost: $28,000
Average base cost for a wedding at Bay Preserve at Osprey is calculated by figuring a 125-person guest list on a Saturday night in July using a food/beverage cost of $150/pp. Transportation to venue, entertainment, decorations, additional rentals, valet, DJ, and photography are not included. Average price includes gratuity and state sales tax. Price is rounded up to the nearest thousand.
*Prices subject to change
How it Breaks Down
Facility Rental Fee:
2019 & 2020:
Wedding Ceremony Only:
- Friday – Sunday: $2,000
Wedding Ceremony + Reception, Reception Only, or Private Parties:
- Friday or Sunday
- September – June: $5,000
- July – August: $2,500
- Saturday
- September – June: $6,000
- July – August: $3,000
What’s Included: The fee only covers the venue rental, which gives you exclusive use of Bay Preserve grounds and the Burrows-Matson House for the day.
Extras: There is tax on the rental rate as well as a $1,000 security deposit. The security deposit is fully refundable after the event assuming no damage has occurred.
SEE MORE: The Best Florida Wedding Venues
Food/Beverage: Catering is exclusively provided by Michael’s on East. For appetizers, a plated meal and beverage service expect prices to average $150+/pp.
More Stats
Space Type: Both indoor and outdoor space is available, however the space is mostly outside. Ceremonies typically take place under the trees on the water, cocktail hour on the performance pavilion or on the Bayfront Lawn, and receptions either on the Great Lawn under a tent or under the Tuscan lights on the Bayfront Lawn.
Size:
- Indoor seated dinner for up to 60 guests in 3 connected galleries
- Indoor cocktail reception for up to 85 guests
- Outdoor seated dinner on the water for up to 175 guests behind Burrows-Matson house on Bayfront Lawn
- Outdoor seated dinner for up to 285 guests in tent on Great Lawn
Bridal Suite: Yes, there is space available onsite (included in the rental cost) for both members of the couple to get ready.
Parking: Parking is available onsite. All events with more than 50 guests require valet parking booked through the caterer.
Food Service Type: Your choice
How Will Grandma Get There? Sarasota Bradenton International Airport is just 30 minutes from the venue, and the airports in Tampa and Orlando are one and two hours away, respectively. There are several hotels within a 10-20 minute drive, including the 4-star Turtle Beach Resort and 3-star Hampton Inn & Suites Venice Bayside South Sarasota.
Party On! Per noise ordinance regulations music must stop at 11:30 p.m. Access to the property ends at midnight.
Important Note: Michael’s On East is the exclusive caterer, but all other vendor decisions are your choice.
The Report
Bay Preserve at Osprey on Little Sarasota Bay is a waterfront community park owned and operated by Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast. In addition to providing access to the bay and numerous environmental experiences for the public, the 4.3-acre nature preserve also hosts events and weddings. The site boasts a Bayfront Lawn and Terrace, Performance Pavilion, Bayside Oaks Ceremony Site, The Historic Burrows-Matson Mansion, Great Lawn, and Boathouse Observation Deck. There’s also a bridal room available in the Burrows-Matson House along with a separate groom’s cottage on the property.
Woman Getting Married Says
If you’re looking for a (mostly) outdoor venue with lots of Florida charm, this venue should definitely be on your must-see list. Brides rave about the venue staff as well as the caterer, which is always a plus. Since Florida weather can often be unpredictable, there’s always a chance you’ll need to have your reception under a tent (not always ideal but you’ll still have the beautiful view of the water and trees). If you love the venue but would rather have an inside reception option, opt for a smaller guest list under 60. Fun Idea: If you’re getting married off-site you can have a boat deliver you and your wedding party for a big entrance!
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