California's diverse landscapes and vibrant settings make it a premier destination for weddings. You can choose from a diverse range of wedding venues that cater to various tastes and budgets. From secluded forested getaways to majestic historic buildings, the Golden State presents a wide array of wedding venues to suit every preference and budget plan. Here are ten of the best wedding venues in California, ensuring your special day is everything you dreamed of and more.
1. NESTLDOWN
Nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Nestldown is one of the most enchanting forest wedding venues in Northern California. Surrounded by towering redwoods and lush gardens, this venue offers a fairytale-like setting perfect for nature lovers. Couples can choose this location for its serene ambiance and stunning landscapes, making it one of the most beautiful wedding locations available.
Imagine exchanging vows under the canopy of ancient redwoods, with the sound of a gentle stream in the background. Nestldown’s dedication to maintaining its natural beauty makes it a truly magical place for a wedding. Read more of our Nestldown blog.
Caterer: Poetry in Motion
Floral: Apis Floral
Photobooth: 143 Photobooth
Rentals: Danny Thomas Party Rentals
For those seeking affordable wedding venues in California, having your wedding at San Francisco City Hall is a top choice. Its grand architecture and stunning rotunda offer a beautiful setting at a reasonable price but still provide elegance without breaking the bank.
The Beaux-Arts architecture, sweeping staircases, and magnificent dome make it a breathtaking location for wedding photos. City Hall offers several ceremony options, from simple civil ceremonies to grand events in the rotunda or on the Mayor's Balcony. This iconic venue combines historic charm with modern sophistication. You can read more of our San Francisco City Hall wedding blog here.
3. REDWOOD CANYON BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
Redwood Canyon, located in Castro Valley, is one of the most scenic and beautiful wedding venue in California. With its picturesque outdoor spaces and budget-friendly packages, it’s perfect for couples looking for cheap wedding venues in the Golden State. The natural beauty of the redwoods adds to its charm, making it a popular choice for those on a budget.
The place offers several beautiful outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions, including a romantic garden and a spacious lawn. With customizable packages, Redwood Canyon provides a beautiful and affordable option for weddings without sacrificing quality or ambiance making it the perfect wedding venue for those on a budget during their planning process.
Located in Saratoga, this venue offers a beautiful forest setting with majestic trees and a peaceful creek. Saratoga Springs is ideal for those seeking woodsy wedding venues in California. Its natural beauty creates a serene and romantic atmosphere, making it one of the best wedding venues.
The location offers several outdoor ceremony sites, including a charming meadow and a rustic amphitheater. Saratoga Springs also features beautiful reception spaces, including a covered pavilion and a spacious lawn. The venue's natural beauty and tranquil setting make it a perfect choice for a romantic, nature-inspired wedding. You can check our Saratoga Springs blog.
Hair and Makeup Artists: Kala Ketchum / CD Artistry
Situated in Morgan Hill, Willow Heights Mansion offers an elegant setting for weddings. Its historic charm and beautiful grounds with grand interiors and picturesque surroundings provide a magical backdrop for any wedding.
The venue features beautifully manicured gardens, a romantic gazebo, and elegant indoor spaces for receptions. With its combination of affordability and elegance, Willow Heights Mansion is an excellent choice for couples seeking a sophisticated wedding venue without spending a fortune.
6. RUBY HILL
Located in Pleasanton, Ruby Hill combines luxury and elegance. With its grand ballroom and lush landscapes, it’s perfect for couples looking for a distinctive and beautiful wedding venue. The property features stunning Mediterranean architecture, expansive lawns, and beautiful gardens, providing numerous photo opportunities.
Ruby Hill offers both indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies and receptions, allowing couples to customize their wedding day to fit their vision. The venue's luxurious amenities and attentive staff ensure that every detail is taken care of. Check out our Ruby Hill content here.
Situated in San Francisco, this historic site offers a beautiful setting with a grand rotunda surrounded by tall columns and a peaceful lagoon, creating a stunning backdrop for weddings. The gardens and pathways around the rotunda provide lovely spots for wedding photos against the backdrop of classic architecture and natural scenery.
What makes the Palace of Fine Arts truly special is its flexibility to host various wedding styles. Whether couples prefer a large ceremony under the rotunda or a smaller gathering in the gardens, the venue can accommodate different preferences. Its central location in San Francisco ensures convenience for guests, with nearby attractions adding to its appeal as a wedding venue. Overall, with its blend of impressive architecture, serene environment, and versatility, this unique wedding location offers couples an unforgettable wedding experience in California.
8. PARK WINTERS
Situated in Winters, Park Winters is one of the most beautiful outdoor wedding locations. Its lush gardens and scenic views provide a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable wedding. The venue’s charming and serene ambiance makes it one of the prettiest wedding venues in California.
The property features elegant gardens, a romantic barn, and a picturesque Victorian inn for overnight guests. With its combination of natural beauty and elegant amenities, Park Winters is ideal for couples seeking an outdoor wedding venue that offers both charm and sophistication.
Wedding Coordinator: With Grace & Love Events
Hair & Makeup (Morning): Orchid Duong
Hair & Makeup (Evening): Lisa's Hair-N-Makeup
Located in Livermore, this unique wedding area combines vineyard charm with spa luxury and offers beautiful greenery views, creating a peaceful atmosphere that's perfect for couples looking for a unique and stunning place to get married. The lush vineyards and olive trees create a romantic backdrop for wedding photos.
Additionally, the venue offers spa services, so the bridal party can relax and pamper themselves before the big event. With its combination of rustic elegance and luxurious amenities, Purple Orchid is perfect for those looking for something special and unique.
10. CATHEDRAL BASILICA OF ST. JOSEPH
Located in San Jose, the Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph is a stunning venue with magnificent architecture. Its historic significance and breathtaking interiors make it one of the most beautiful wedding venues in California. The grandeur of the cathedral provides a majestic setting for a memorable wedding ceremony.
The venue features beautiful stained glass windows, ornate woodwork, and a magnificent altar. Couples can also take advantage of the surrounding gardens for beautiful outdoor photos. The Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph offers a truly unique and awe-inspiring setting for weddings.
From the towering redwoods of Nestldown to the grand halls of San Francisco City Hall, California has a wide range of beautiful wedding venues that cater to every couple's dream. Whether you're looking for affordable options, unique cultural settings, or the natural beauty of outdoor locations, the Golden State has it all. Explore these venues to find the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable wedding day.
Additional Tips for Planning Your California Wedding Destination
When planning a wedding in California, it's essential to consider the following tips to ensure your day goes smoothly:
1. Weather Considerations. California's climate can vary significantly depending on the region. Coastal areas tend to be cooler and foggy, while inland areas can be hot and dry. Always have a backup plan for outdoor weddings in case of unexpected weather changes.
2. Venue Availability. Popular wedding venues in California can book up quickly, especially during peak wedding season (spring and summer). It's advisable to book your venue at least a year in advance to secure your preferred date and location.
3. Budget Planning. California offers a range of wedding venues, from luxurious estates to affordable public spaces. Determine your budget early on and prioritize what's most important to you, whether it's the venue, catering, or photography. Look for packages and discounts that venues may offer for off-season or weekday weddings.
4. Vendor Selection. California is home to many talented wedding vendors, including photographers, caterers, florists, and musicians. Research and book your vendors well in advance to ensure they are available on your wedding date. Personal recommendations and reviews can help you find reliable and high-quality vendors.
If you're searching for wedding photography and videography services in California, our team at Inspired By studio provides exceptional quality for capturing your unforgettable moments on your special day. We offer a range of packages, covering everything from wedding photography to videography, as well as proposal photo and video services. Our 2024 Elopement Special Package is also worth checking out. Contact us now.
1460 Tully Rd, San Jose, CA 95121, United States
5. Legal Requirements. Ensure you understand the legal requirements for getting married in California. This includes obtaining a marriage license, which can be done at any county clerk's office in the state. Make sure to bring the necessary identification and paperwork, and check if there are any waiting periods or additional requirements.
By keeping these tips in mind and exploring the incredible wedding locations California has to offer, you'll be well on your way to planning a beautiful and unforgettable celebration. Whether you're dreaming of a grand affair or an intimate gathering, the Golden State's diverse and stunning venues provide the perfect backdrop for your special day. Happy planning!
