Explore all that Southern California has to offer and check out the list I have compiled just for you!! Here is my “Top 10 California Wedding Venues” I have either had the pleasure of photographing myself or have dreamed of photographing at! Each venues offering a unique and stunning backdrop for your special day. From coastal beachfront overlooks that capture breathtaking ocean views to charming wineries nestled in picturesque valleys, Southern California has it all. Imagine exchanging vows in a desert oasis or celebrating in a Tuscan/Italian-inspired estate. Each venue provides a distinct atmosphere, ensuring a memorable experience.

Don’t worry! I did the research for you on these California Wedding Venues!

You will find that I not only shared the names of these venues with you but I also included location, capacity, quick link to their contact page for pricing info, and overall style and aesthetic from each venue!! This wedding photographer is here to make your wedding planning journey as stress free as possible!

1. The Darlington House

Capacity: Can seat up to 200 guests

Location:San Diego, California

Contact: Inquire here

Top Features: Just blocks from the ocean hidden near the coastal neighborhoods of La Jolla is “The Darlington House.” Charming architectural details, colorfully tiled patios, and lush gardens create a beautiful and romantic backdrop that your guests will talk about for years to come.

Style: Historic Architecture, Coastal Charm, Tuscan Villa Vibes

2.The Valencia

Capacity: Accommodate up to 250 guests

Location: San Diego, California

Contact: Inquire here for pricing

Top Features: Offering classic glamour and coastal charm above the cliffs of La Jolla Cove, La Valencia Hotel. It gives a Hollywood vintage vibe with it’s pink walls, ocean overlooks, and classy ballroom! Whether you are a California local or planning a destination wedding “The Valencia” is the picture-perfect setting for your California wedding.

Style: Oceanfront, Coastal Hollywood Charm

3.Bougainvilla Estate

Capacity: Can seat up to 250 guests

Location: Indio, California

Contact: Inuire here

Top Features: A little oasis hidden in the deserts of Indio, California. This 5 acre venue has natural landscapes, which featured gardens, a pool, and, as the name suggests, bougainvillea as far as the eye can see. With it’s beautiful white exterior and pops of color from the bougainvilla and gardens this venue truly is “A Hidden Gem.”

Style: Mediterranean, Desert Oasis, Modern/Bohemian

4.Monserate Winery– California Wedding Venues

Photos by @shootiriephoto

Capacity: Can seat up to 250 guests

Location: Fallbrook, California

Top Features: A stunning estate nestled in the rolling hills of San Diego County. With its beautiful vineyards, rolling hills, towering trees, gorgeous lakes, and immaculately kept landscaping, Monserate Winery is the perfect place to celebrate your love.

Contact: inquire here

Style: Italian Inspired, Modern Elegance, Timeless

5.Grand Gimeno

Photos taken by the talented film photographer: Kari Tello

Capacity: Can seat up to 200 guests

Location: Orange, California

Top Features: Revival design and an interior that has been reimagined with influence from the structure’s past while incorporating modern-day, custom details. Grand Gimeno’s expansive back patio features something extra special and unique to the venue: A custom wood-fired pizza oven and live fire cooking station to flawlessly execute their traditional Argentine asado experience. This romantic wedding and event venue combines one-of-a-kind al fresco dining features with swoon-worthy architecture.

Contact: inquire here

Style: Spanish, Modern, Elegance

6. The Richland

Capacity: 150-200 guests

Location: Old Town Orange, California

Top Features: The indoor ceremony space has exposed wood beam ceilings paired with wainscoting detail and bright natural light provide an acoustically rich environment. Their intimate outdoor cocktail space has jasmine vine-covered pergolas surrounded by lush greenery for a refreshing, romantic ambiance. The Richland has a back house cottage and rooms on site for your family and wedding party available for booking for a convenient stay!

Contact: inquire here

Style: Modern Historic, Bright and Airy

7. Franciscan Gardens

Capacity: seated-250, standing-350

Location: San Juan Capistrano, California

Contact: inquire here

Style: Spanish Style Garden, Romantic, Historic

8. Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara

Capacity: seated-250, standing-350

Location: Santa Barbara, California

Contact: inquire here

Style: Lush, Coastal, Spanish Architect

9. Cielo Farms

Capacity: 200

Location: Malibu, California

Contact: inquire here

Style: Tuscan Inspired, Romantic, Nature

10. Leo Carrillo Ranch

Capacity: 300

Location: Carlsbad, California

Contact: inquire here

Style: Romantic, Spanish Style, Outdoor

11. The Guild

Capacity: 370+

Location: San Diego, California

Contact: Inquire here

Top Features:  A unique space that showcases a modern aesthetic blended with original historic features. Natural Light, Original textured brick walls & vaulted ceilings

Style: Elegant, Urban, European Inspired

Meet your California Wedding Photographer!

Hi! I’m Dani! The girl who created this blog with the intention of inspiring you to dream big for your wedding day! In case you didn’t know I am a California wedding photographer. Here to help you have a stress-free & fun experience as you check off those boxes on your wedding checklist! If you haven’t already go ahead and check out what’s included in my wedding packages & experience! You’ll learn what it’s like to work with me, what planning help I offer, read FAQs, see the booking process, starting pricing, and more!

I truly hope that you have found this blog helpful and if you choose any of these venues, tell me which one had your head turned in the comments! Happy planning!