Planning a wedding in Southern California and don’t know where to start when it comes to choosing a venue? I have put together a list of 10 SoCal wedding venues that I think are the top 10 wedding venues to choose from!
Santa Monica Proper Hotel
BRIDES votes The Santa Monica Proper Hotel #1 Best Wedding Venues in Los Angeles!
This stunning hotel, designed by Kelly Wearstler, is conveniently located just blocks away from the beach in downtown Santa Monica. If you'd love to have the refreshing scent of the sea as the backdrop for your wedding ceremony, the Santa Monica Proper hotel is the perfect choice. The hotel offers a variety of venue options to suit the scale of your wedding. The Canela Ballroom is an elegant space with earth-toned decor, wooden accents, and stunning lighting. It also features its own foyer and elevator bank, adding a touch of grandeur to your special day. For those who prefer an outdoor setting, the Olea Garden Terrace offers a lush and open-air space for a romantic ceremony. If you're planning a smaller celebration or a rehearsal dinner, the Calabra Lounge on the rooftop is a textural and intimate setting. It boasts panoramic views of the ocean and can be fully reserved for your event, including access to the swimming pool, sundeck, cabanas, fire pit, and a beautiful circular bar made of teak and marble. One of the highlights of the Santa Monica Proper hotel is their onsite events team. They are dedicated to customizing every aspect of your occasion, ensuring that your wedding reflects your personal style and preferences. They will work closely with you to create a tailored menu, showcasing the best and most in-season ingredients that California has to offer.
With its prime location, stunning design, and attentive events team, the Santa Monica Proper hotel is the ultimate choice for a stylish and unforgettable wedding celebration by the sea.
Historic Greystone Mansion and Park
If you've always envisioned a fairytale wedding at a grand French estate, allow me to introduce you to the Historic Greystone Mansion and Park. Located in the heart of Southern California, this gorgeous venue will transport you to the elegance and romance of a French chateau. The Greystone Mansion offers a unique and captivating setting for your special day. Step onto the meticulously manicured grounds with vibrant gardens, fountains, and long pathways. The breathtaking architecture of the mansion itself will leave you in awe. While it's true that the venue fee for the Greystone Mansion may be on the higher end, it's important to note that it includes exclusive site usage. This means you have the opportunity to create a wedding experience unlike any other, customized to your preferences and dreams. You'll find it difficult to find another venue in Southern California that can compete with the allure of this historic estate. Though additional expenses may be incurred for catering, decor, and other wedding essentials, the investment is well worth it for the perfect blend of grandeur and intimacy that the Greystone Mansion and Park provides. Imagine exchanging vows in the enchanting French-inspired gardens, surrounded by your loved ones in an atmosphere that exudes an air of timeless romance. From the moment you arrive at the Greystone Mansion and Park, you'll be transported to another world. This prestigious venue offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fulfill your dream of a French estate wedding, without the need to travel to France. Revel in every moment of your special day as you celebrate amidst the breathtaking grounds and architecture that this remarkable venue has to offer. If you're searching for a wedding venue that will surpass your wildest dreams, embrace the allure of the Historic Greystone Mansion and Park and create memories to last a lifetime.
San Ysidro Ranch
The San Ysidro Ranch has become synonymous with exclusive and glamorous weddings. This legendary venue has played host to a multitude of iconic celebrity weddings, making it a sought-after destination for the rich and famous. From Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson to the romantic vows shared by Lily Aldridge and Caleb Followill. It is rumored to be the location for the wedding of Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin. It's no wonder that this place continues to be a magnet for Hollywood's elite. Even JFK and Jackie chose this location as the setting for their first romantic escape as husband and wife. But beyond its celebrity status, the appeal of the San Ysidro Ranch extends to couples seeking a serene and intimate wedding venue. With its peaceful ambiance and breathtakingly beautiful backdrops, this sanctuary offers the perfect backdrop for a wedding. Imagine saying "I do" under a canopy of towering oak trees, surrounded by vibrant gardens and rolling hills. Every corner of this venue exudes natural beauty and a sense of timeless elegance. To complement the stunning surroundings, the San Ysidro Ranch has some of the most impressive hotel rooms you'll ever lay eyes on. Immerse yourself in luxury and indulge in the comfort that perfectly blend classic charm and modern amenities. From cozy cottages with crackling fireplaces to luxurious suites with private patios, each space is thoughtfully designed to provide an enchanting retreat for newlyweds and their guests. Whether you seek a wedding experience fit for a celebrity or a romantic escape, the San Ysidro Ranch offers an unforgettable setting that embodies elegance, luxury, and romance.
Casa Romantica
Prepare to be captivated by the mesmerizing beauty of this Southern California wedding venue. With its breathtaking ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see, you'll be left in awe. The stunning Spanish architecture, intricately designed with a layout that seems destined for unforgettable weddings, will leave you spellbound. From the moment you set foot on the grounds, you'll find it hard not to fall in love with every aspect of this venue. The combination of historical charm and panoramic ocean vistas creates an unparalleled backdrop for your special day. If you're a bride in search of a distinguished historical wedding venue in Southern California that offers unparalleled ocean views, I highly recommend checking out this extraordinary spot.
The Biltmore Santa Barbara
If you're seeking the perfect wedding destination in Southern California that everyone in the family can enjoy, look no further than the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara. Built in 1927, this historic hotel boasts Spanish Colonial Revival architecture that will transport you back in time. This venue offers an array of wedding locations on the lush property that are sure to exceed your expectations and will take your breath away. The Biltmore's breathtaking location, located between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offers stunning panoramic views that are sure to leave you and your guests in awe. Not only will your guests be able to revel in the majestic beauty of the surrounding area, but they will also be able to relax and unwind at the resort, enjoying the world-class amenities and luxurious accommodations that Four Seasons is known for. The resort's unparalleled wedding venues are equally astounding. Say your vows on the enchanting outdoor terrace, surrounded by fragrant roses and lush greenery, with the sparkling ocean as your backdrop. Dance the night away under the stars in the romantic courtyard, adorned with twinkling lights and Mediterranean-inspired details. Or say "I do" in the charming garden, filled with blooming flowers and citrus trees, providing a serene and intimate setting for your wedding ceremony.
But the Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara offers much more than just a stunning wedding venue. It allows your guests and loved ones the opportunity to experience a true vacation, with an abundance of outdoor activities and attractions in the area. Take a stroll on the nearby beach, soak up some sun by the pool, or venture into the vibrant city of Santa Barbara, filled with art, culture, and world-renowned wineries. With its exquisite beauty, luxurious amenities, and unbeatable location, The Biltmore is an ideal wedding destination for those seeking a genuinely unforgettable experience. Embrace the historic grandeur and romantic ambiance of this iconic resort, and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Ole Hanson Beach Club
Brides on a budget, this one’s for you! The Ole Hanson Beach Club offers an oceanfront setting with perfect indoor/outdoor space for less than $15,000! It's hard to find a deal like that in Southern California where real estate is at a premium. You also have the freedom to bring in your own caterer, which means you'll be saving even more money without sacrificing space or location. It's truly a picture-perfect setting that will make your special day even more memorable. Whether you're planning a small and intimate wedding or a larger celebration, this venue has everything you need to make your day unforgettable. And with such an affordable price tag, you'll have more room in your budget to splurge on other important aspects of your special day
The Parker Palm Springs
The Parker Palm Springs is truly a hidden gem in the heart of Southern California. Designed by Jonathan Adler, this hotel has a unique and visually stunning aesthetic that will leave you speechless.
What sets The Parker apart from other wedding venues is that there are two incredible restaurants on the property that can cater your special day. No need to worry about finding an outside vendor or worrying about the food quality. The Parker has you covered. And let's talk about the beautiful decor. With modern designs and a perfect blend of colors and patterns, you won't need to do much in terms of wedding decorations. Just imagine saying your vows under a canopy of lemon trees, it doesn't get more romantic than that! The Parker also offers a fire pit and Pétanque courts for your guests to enjoy during breaks from dancing. And let's not forget about the unbeatable weather and scenery that Palm Springs has to offer.
Overall, The Parker Palm Springs is more than just a wedding venue - it's an experience. So if you're looking for a one-of-a-kind, visually stunning location for your special day, look no further than The Parker. Trust me, it will quickly become one of your favorite places in Southern California too.
The Ebell of Los Angeles
As a wedding photographer, I've noticed that most brides these days are looking for venues with both indoor and outdoor spaces. This is especially true for Southern California brides who want to take advantage of the beautiful weather. The Ebell is located in the heart of Los Angeles. Not only does it offer both indoor and outdoor space, but it also has modern amenities and a rich history. The Ebell was the site of the first Cotillion, making it a historical landmark in itself. In 1982, the Italian Renaissance-style building was designated as a Los Angeles Cultural Monument. It is a 75,000 square foot complex, giving couples plenty of options to customize their dream wedding. Whether they want a grand indoor ceremony or an intimate outdoor reception, The Ebell can accommodate both. So if you're a bride-to-be searching for the perfect wedding venue in Southern California, look no further than The Ebell. With its stunning setting and rich history, it's the perfect place to say "I do" and create unforgettable memories. Plus, with the option for both indoor and outdoor space, you won't have to worry about rain ruining your big day. Trust me, as a wedding photographer, that's a huge relief!
La Jolla Cove Rooftop
If you're looking for the perfect venue to host your next event, look no further than La Jolla! What sets this venue apart from the rest is its open-air layout. This allows for a unique and unforgettable experience. Imagine sipping cocktails while overlooking the ocean waters or dancing under the stars with your loved ones. But it's not just the breathtaking views that make this venue a standout choice. With onsite hotel accommodation, you and your guests can relax and enjoy all that La Jolla has to offer without having to worry about transportation. You'll have access to a charming village atmosphere and panoramic views.
The Sanctuary
The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings in Long Beach is a hidden gem full of vintage flair and modern amenities
It is located in the heart of Long Beach. The historical cathedral has been recently renovated to provide an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. The outdoor courtyard is the ideal setting for a romantic ceremony, with its beautiful walls and rustic accents creating a picturesque backdrop. When it's time to move indoors, you'll be blown away by the stunning vintage cathedral and grand hall. With vaulted ceilings, ornate lighting, and exposed wood beams, this space can be transformed to fit any style or theme. It's the perfect canvas to bring your dream event to life.
Not only is The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings a stunning venue, but it also offers convenience and accessibility. Just minutes from both the beach and downtown Long Beach, your guests will have plenty of options for entertainment and accommodations. Plus, with its central location, you won't have to worry about anyone getting lost on their way to the celebration.
Don't settle for a generic event space - make your special day one to remember at The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings. From its rich history to its modern amenities, this venue has everything you need to create an unforgettable experience for you and your loved ones. So why wait? Book now and get ready to make some magical memories at this hidden gem in Long Beach! The Sanctuary by Wedgewood Weddings is not just a venue, it's an experience. From the moment you step onto the property, you'll be swept away by its charm and beauty. And with its versatile spaces and top-notch service, it's the perfect place to host any type of event - from weddings to corporate gatherings.
Happy planning!
