Okay girl I see you! You just got engaged to the love of your life! They are everything you’ve ever wanted AND MORE so now it is time to get started on wedding planning! I know you have dresses to buy, cakes to choose, colors to design on, and photographers to look at. There is so much on your plate! But before you can really get into the planning process- first you have to choose a venue. 

The venue you choose is arguably one of THE MOST important parts of the planning process. It sets the vibe for the whole day. Your venue is what will be in every wedding photo, what all your guests will see, and sets the tone of your wedding. Choosing a venue that matching what you are going for is so important because everything else falls around it. For example, if you want a rustic outdoorsy wedding, it probably is not a good idea to get married in a historic mansion or villa. Or, if you really love that classy elegant vibe, choosing an outdoor venue is probably not the best option. 

Getting married in California means that there are a million and one venues to choose from, it can be the biggest gift because of all the options, but also sooooo stressful because how are you expected to choose one? Don’t worry I got you! I went and rounded up my top three favorite wedding venues in California that I think you are going to love too!

1. Dos Pueblos Orchid Farm (Santa Barbara) 

This historic venue is on the coast of Santa Barbara surrounded by lush greens, the beautiful pacific ocean, and California’s sprawling hills. You can have your ceremony on the gorgeous bluffs of California  and then move the party over to one of their fabulous glass green houses for the reception. This venue is breathtaking and serene, but has very few frills or amenities (meaning that you may have to rent restrooms, tables, dance floors, etc in order to make it wedding ready) but this means you and customize it to for your wedding vision. This venue is perfect if you have a very specific vision for your wedding day, and want the ability to bring in your own decor and vendors.

2. Sparrow Valley Retreat (Santa Cruz) 

This venue is perfect for the laid back couple that wants to incorporate nature elements into their big day, while still giving their guests an intimate elevated wedding experience. It is surrounded by beautiful wedding woods that makes the whole place look and feel like a fairytale. There are even elements such as guest lodging, outdoor hot tubs, and decks that allow you to relax and soak in the views. They have options for full weddings that can accommodate everyone on your invite list, smaller two day retreats perfect for smaller events, and a four hour elopement package. This venue is perfect for my wedding weekend package, because if you want to make your wedding a weekend long event, you can be rest assured that every moment will be documented.

3. Hotel San Buena (Ventura)

There is so much history in this venue that you can feel through every detail of the decor and structure of the buildings. A recently renovated hotel that opened its doors for guests in December 2023 and for weddings in January 2024, it is a newer venue that is perfect for the couple that wants to combine class with elegance. There are two locations for wedding ceremonies: a rich and iconic restored theater, or a spacious courtyard surrounded by Spanish style architecture. And of course getting married in beautiful Downtown Ventura means that there is no end of locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and lodging options for you and your guests! And the beach is just a short distance away, which would be so perfect for sunset bridal portriats. If you are looking for a venue that is as unique as you are, this is definitely the place for you!

4. The Santa Barbara Court House (Santa Barbara)

Truly one of THE most iconic places to get married in California. It features beautiful Spanish architecture, stunning palm trees, and so much history! This spot is so popular that couples travel from all over the world to get married, or even just take couples photos, here. The two most popular places to get married there is the courtyard and the mural room, both of which are so stunning. And if you are planning on getting married on a weekday you can even go inside the courthouse for your bridal portraits, but it is a fully functioning courthouse so there may be courtrooms in sessions while you take your photos.

Image above second shot for Jen Luce Photography

5. The Santa Barbara Historic Museum (Santa Barbara)

Truly one of my favorite venues in California, so of course I had to save it for last! This venue is perfect for a sweet summer whimsical garden wedding. You will have your ceremony in a beautiful courtyard surround by trees, under the most perfect wooden arch. Then you can walk around historic Downtown Santa Barbara for bridal portraits. And finally end your night in the courtyard for drinks, dancing, and celebration with your loved ones. And since everything is so close together you won’t need to worry about renting golf carts to get guests to the different locations, or have your ceremony and reception be across town from each other.

While choosing a venue is the first and most important step of planning a wedding, it doesn’t have to be hard or scary! I hope this list of venues gives you some inspiration for your planning journey, and helps you narrow down what you want and don’t want from a venue. For any wedding tips or questions or if you need help please feel free to reach out to me by clicking here, I’d love to chat with you and help your dream wedding come to life!