Riggers Loft Wedding
Maly and Vet held a Riggers Loft wedding in Richmond, California, choosing this winery setting for its rustic look, open space (enough to host two different ceremonies), and great location overlooking San Francisco. Originally, they intended on having 200 people, but it ballooned to an additional 100+ because of the many friends and family that were added within the last few months leading up to the wedding! Needless to say, the extra people made the festivities that much more lively and added to the party atmosphere that occurred later that evening. But first…a little background 🙂
It was my first Lao wedding (and Riggers Loft wedding) and I was excited to be introduced to the new traditions that are specific to Lao culture. One of the more entertaining things about this celebration was the gathering and drinking of Lao Lao, a popular (and strong!) drink used to celebrate special occasions, by mostly the aunts and uncles. I took one sip when offered by one of the Aunties, and it was a strong yet sweet alcoholic mix! I can see why it is popular! 😀
Blending their cultures and lives together, they wanted to have an American ceremony as well as a Lao ceremony. having the American portion first outdoors then immediately going inside to hold the Lao one. I have been exposed to similar back-to-back ceremonies before and it is always great when Couples are able to acknowledge their roots in their own preferred ways. One of the more interesting moments of the Lao ceremony involved a wrist tying tradition in which family and friends would tie a simple knot around the Bride and Grooms’ wrists while giving them a personal blessing and marriage advice. During this portion, I was touched to see the symbolism of unity from both sides of the Bride and Groom whereas they remained in physical contact to them with a gentle hand on the shoulder or a subtle touch of the elbow. It was a very impressionable part of the day that I really noticed and respected.
Riggers Loft weddings allow couples to bring their own drinks into the venue, but despite bringing an excessive amount of beer and alcohol in relation to the attendance, the guests ended up drinking through all their wine, alcohol, and half of the beer! Needless to say, their friends and family enjoyed themselves and, as you can tell in the photos, provided some amazing photo opportunities that they may or may not regret! 😀
It was an amazing opportunity to experience this new culture and hang out with this fun and rowdy group!
Venue : Riggers Loft
Florist : Sunbeam Arcilla
Hair : Lynn Do

Wedding Venues in Fremont
Wedding Venues in Fremont The Ultimate Guide to the Best Wedding Venues in Fremont(complete with pricing and photos) Are you looking for wedding venues in Fremont? This little big town in Northern California has much more options than you would expect, and this guide will highlight some of the best wedding venues in Fremont and nearby cities. Whether you are looking for a small or large wedding venue the locations below should offer a wide variety to choose from to help make wedding planning easy! Ardenwood Historic Farms Rental Fees: $14,000 – $16,000Capacity: 200 guests Ardenwood Historic Farm is the ideal location for a vintage-style wedding. The monument holds a great historical significance, and it was established in the 1800s. So, if you are a history buff, you will fall in love with this place. It’s a massive property with 240 acres of land. It is without a doubt regarded as one of the most beautiful wedding venues in Fremont. This picturesque wedding venue’s breathtaking view will captivate the hearts of all your guests! Check out my guide on an Ardenwood Historic Farm wedding for more info Paradise Ballrooms Rental fee: Depends on the wedding packageCapacity: 50 to 1300 guests Paradise Ballrooms provide services comparable to those found in high-end hotels. This is one of the more regal Fremont wedding venues with its ballroom, adorned with a dazzling collection of chandeliers, to make your occasion magnificent. Palm Event Center (Pleasanton) Rental fee: $16k – $21K for 100 guestsCapacity: Up to 300 guests At the Palm Event Center you can exchange marriage vows in the sweet smelling vineyards of the Livermore Valley Wine Country. After the ceremony, you can dine in high style in the Ballroom or outside on the Vineyard terrace, and then dance the night away under the glow of a thousand twinkle lights. For the sophisticated wine loving couple, Palm Event Center in the Vineyard is a delightful option and one of the best Fremont wedding venues. Check out this Palm Event Center wedding for inspiration Century House and Gardens Rental Fee: you can contact the venueCapacity: 250 guests Century House and Gardens is one of those wedding venues in Fremont that has its own elegance, as it has been around for over 120 years. It is suitable for both indoor weddings in the Ballroom (known for its massive chandelier) and outdoor weddings, with its gazebo in the gardens. With natural decor from the garden this is a perfect summer time venue. Elliston Vineyards (Sunol) Rental Fee: $20K- 27K for 100 guestsCapacity: 200 guests Vineyards are ideal locations for weddings since the beauty of any vineyard is unrivaled, and Elliston Vineyards is no exception. The massive mansion will astound you from the moment you arrive, and provide an awesome backdrop for some photos. This is one of the few vineyard Fremont wedding venues in the area. Check out this guide on Elliston Vineyards weddings for inspiration Crow Canyon Country Club (Danville) Rental fee: $300K-1800/eventCapacity: 330 guests Who wouldn’t want to marry with a view of the magnificent Mount Diablo highlands as a backdrop? If this is your desire, your hunt for wedding venues in Fremont should end. With views of the mountain and a golf course, Crow Canyon Club is the ideal setting. The staff is really pleasant and willing to assist you with any needs you may have. The lounge and lobby area are connected to the reception area, and it looks beautiful with natural light streaming in through the windows. No matter where you sit, you will always enjoy a great view. Nella Terra Cellars (Sunol) Rental Fee: $23K for 50 guestsCapacity: up to 300 guests This is one of the few wedding venues in Fremont that offers a winery view. As a result, this is one of the more popular Fremont wedding venues that boasts lovely, well-kept gardens with a spectacular view of the vineyards. Check out this guide on Nella Terra Cellars weddings for more info CONTACT YOUR FREMONT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER Callippe Preserve Golfcourse (Pleasanton) Rental Fee: $2000- $2500Capacity: up to 200 guests This lovely golf course is located above the Tri-Valley area’s golden hills. As a result, you will get a one of the best wedding venues in Fremont offering breathtaking views of the mountains and rich greenery. Check out this guide on Callippe Preserve weddings for more info TPC Stonebrae Country Club (Hayward) Rental fee: Contact for the pricingCapacity: 200 guests It is a magical location that will assist you in creating magical memories. This is one of the more scenic Fremont wedding venues as it offers a panoramic view as it sits atop a mountain. Casa Bella (Sunol) Rental fee: $15K- $17K for 100 guestsCapacity: 250 guests This scenic wedding venue in Fremont is located between Fremont and Pleasanton. It is a charming venue with a vintage vibe and a touch of old-world glitz. Every couple has a vision of how their wedding should be and this is one of those wedding venues in Fremont will help you achieve your vision. The Club at Ruby Hill (Pleasanton) Rental fee: $15K- $19K for 100 guestsCapacity: 230 guests Ruby Hill Golf Club is a Tuscan-style wedding location that will take your breath away the moment you walk in. The region is surrounded by forests, creating the ideal environment for your wedding. The Bridges Golf Club (San Ramon) Rental fee: $13K-$17KCapacity: 300 guests You will be treated to breathtaking views of the sun setting, which will leave you speechless. The outside clubhouse is built on a grass terrace and has a stunning appearance. Check out this guide on Bridges Golf Club Weddings for more info Little Hills (San Ramon) Rental fee: $2K- $6.5KCapacity: 150 guests This location provides an intimate environment for your wedding, as lovely as its name suggests. If you want to tie the knot in one of the more picturesque Fremont wedding venue, here is the place to do it. With trees, birds, and butterflies around, this place is a paradise for nature lovers. Four Points by Sheraton (Pleasanton) Rental fee: $3500- $4750Capacity: 250 There are approximately 10 suites and around two

14 Best Wedding Venues in Oakland CA
14 Best Wedding Venues in Oakland CA The Ultimate Guide to the 14 Best Wedding Venues in Oakland CA(complete with pricing and photos) If you are considering an Oakland, CA wedding, you will want a venue that can perfectly turn your wedding dreams a reality. Here’s a round-up of popular wedding venues in Oakland CA to help in your planning! Chabot Space & Science Center Rental Fee : $10900Capacity : 300 guests The Chabot Space & Science Center offers a spot-lit stage under cover of sky. The mesmerizing planetarium offers a front-row seat to indulge your love for astronomy. There is also an observatory deck, but the highlight is, without a doubt, night viewing in the historic telescopes. Chabot Space & Science Center provides ample indoor and covered outdoor wedding spaces, which are also handicap accessible. It can be used for an event of up to 300 guests. Check out my post on planning a Chabot Space & Science Center wedding for more info Preservation Park Rental Fee : $490 – $1325Capacity : 150 – 300 guests Preservation Park is a throwback to old-time Oakland and sits on two blocks just a short drive from downtown Oakland. It is a gorgeous Victorian-themed park with 16 expertly restored Victorian houses, wrought iron fencing, antique benches, and old-fashioned street lamps. It can hold indoor weddings in the English country style home and can host outdoor weddings on the pavilion. Check out this full gallery from a Preservation Park wedding photo by Ian Chin Photography Preservation Park Wedding Slideshow The Brazilian Room (Berkeley) Rental Fee : $580 – $5538Capacity: up to 150 guests With its affordable rates and prime location, it is one of the most popular Berkeley wedding venues that books out way in advance. Offering a stunning outdoor wedding venue in Berkeley, the Brazilian Room offers a classic hillside view to host your ceremony and is conveniently located next to a garden to offer a variety of images Check out my Brazilian Room wedding guide for more info photo by Ian Chin Photography The Terrace Room at Lake Merritt Rental Fee : $2500Capacity : 200 guests The Terrace Room is a historic wedding venue that has been hosting weddings since 1920. It is a luxurious yet characterful space that offers majestic views of Lake Merritt, a bright interior, and a blank canvas to make the wedding of your dreams happen. It needs minimum décor and will hold up to 200 guests in its Art Deco ballroom. Camron-Stanford House Rental fee: $6000 for a 10 hour blockCapacity: Up to 125 The Camron-Stanford House is a picturesque wedding venue located in Oakland within one of Oakland’s most historic landmark buildings. The magical twinkling garden lights and picturesque veranda with unmatched views of Lake Merritt make this house the perfect wedding venue. The wedding season runs from June through the beginning of October each year. Check out this Camron-Stanford House wedding video for an idea of how it could look Piedmont Community Hall (Piedmont) Check out this blog post for a Piedmont Community Hall wedding photo by Ian Chin Photography Fairyland Weddings Rental Fee : $4500Capacity : 270 – 1000 guests Fairyland Weddings is an outdoor wedding space on Bellevue Avenue, Oakland. However, it features an indoor space that will fit up to 270 people. Outdoors will host up to 1000 guests. It is a children’s park and events space and offers the opportunity for a whimsical wedding. Check out this Fairyland Wedding video to get an idea of how it could look! Fairview Metropolitan Rental Fee : $4K – $12KCapacity : 280 guests The beautiful Metropolitan Golf Course is home to Fairview Metropolitan—a place of great service, value, and beautiful vistas. With views of the Oakland Hills, a romantic gazebo, expansive spaces, and a splashing fountain, you can make your ideal wedding venue on the emerald green fairways. Berkeley City Club (Berkeley) Rental: $14,000 minimum spendCapacity: up to 250 persons Actual pricing varies on the time of day/year, space reserved, guest count, and event duration, but to give you a general idea of pricing it starts at $14,000. For more info, check out my Berkeley City Club wedding guide Sequoyah Country Club Rental Fee : starting at $2500Capacity : 175 indoors – 275 outdoor guests Sequoyah Country Club serves up elegance and antique charm with perfect views of the rolling greens and the East Bay. The club features a Spanish-style interior wedding space with high beam ceilings with a grand elegance in its design. The venue provides a fabulous venue for indoor and outdoor weddings, which you can customize to fit any style of wedding. There is in-house catering, and the staff is professional and experienced at running events. So, you can rest assured that your big day will be a success. For more info, check out my Sequoyah Country Club wedding guide Forage Kitchen Rental Fee : $4K – $12KCapacity : 200 guests https://www.foragekitchen.com/rent Mills College Rental Fee : $1500 – $2500Capacity : 175 guests Mills College offers a beautiful chapel designed by architects Callister and Payne from California. It is inspired by Japanese Shinto temples, and the ambiance it creates is breathtaking, to say the least. It offers amazing sound quality, and the enormous vaulted cedar ceiling that leads to a glass cupola skylight makes for an amazing stage, to say your vows. Couples who hold their weddings here mostly hold their receptions at the Aurelia Henry Reinhardt Alumnae House. Another house with rich architectural background. Morcom Rose Garden Website: https://www.oaklandca.gov/services/submit-morcom-rose-garden-rental-information-packet Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral Check out this previous Ascension Greek Orthodox Cathedral wedding photo by Ian Chin Photography USS Potomac Rental Price: (docked) $900 for first hour, then $500 each additional hourCapacity: up to 110 guestsWebsite: www.usspotomac.org Temescal Beach House Check out this blog post for a previous Temescal Beach House wedding photo by Ian Chin Photography Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate Rental fee: $700 for 50 guestsCapacity: Up to 100 https://www.oaklandca.gov/topics/dunsmuir-historic-estate If you are flexible with location, check out my post for the best San Francisco wedding venues or the best Napa

17 Best Livermore CA Wedding Venues
17 Best Livermore CA Wedding Venues The Ultimate Guide to the 17 Best Livermore CA Wedding Venues(with pricing and photos) Why Choose Livermore CA Wedding Venues If you plan on having your wedding in the Tri Valley area, there are plenty of Livermore wedding venues to choose from to add to your celebration. For starters, you have to consider the style of wedding you want to have and the aesthetic. Do rolling hills, vineyards, or ballrooms catch your eye? Below are some of my favorite options for Livermore CA wedding venues to help you in your wedding planning. Palm Event Center (Pleasanton) Rental Fee + F&B Min: $39,000+Capacity: up to 300 guestsHours: 6PM – 12AM (end by 11PM) Check out this Palm Event Center Wedding for more info Casa Real (Pleasanton) Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery is one of the most popular Livermore CA wedding venues, so you know you will have a stunning wedding. Surrounded by vineyards, this venue is an exquisite collection of beautiful indoor spaces with fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, and a courtyard filled with lush foliage and sparkling fountains. photo by Ian Chin Photography Murrieta’s Well Murrieta’s Well radiates a uniqueness and timelessness that makes it ideal for weddings with up to 100 guests. A fascinating destination, this historic stone vineyard is a stunning example of California architecture in the early time. Check out my guide on planning a Murrieta’s Well Wedding for more info Garre Winery – Bella Rosa If you want an indoor and outdoor wedding venue set in the middle of vineyards and Italian cypress trees, then the Garre Bella Rosa Winery is the venue for you. It is one of the larger Livermore wedding venues that can host up to 370 guests. Check out my Garre Winery Wedding Planning Guide for more info Check out my Garre Winery wedding video for a real wedding Wente Vineyards Established in 1883, this wedding venue can accommodate up to 300 guests and offers full service. You can conduct your wedding on a beautifully kept lawn for an outdoor ceremony or inside a mission-style event space. Check out my planning guide for a Wente Vineyards Wedding Poppy Ridge Golf Course Poppy Ridge Golf Course offers an outdoor ceremony location with rolling hills and a golf course in the background. Check out my planning guide for a Poppy Ridge Golf Course wedding The Purple Orchid Resort and Spa Rental Fee + F&B Min: $23,000+Capacity: up to 120 guestsHours: 2PM – 10AM (20 hours) In California’s wine country, you might still want to have a resort-style wedding, and The Purple Orchid Resort and Spa offers you just that. It is available for outdoor ceremonies and offers tranquil surroundings for your wedding. The olive orchard provides the perfect backdrop to say your “I Do’s,” and its orientation in the sun makes for some fantastic sunset shots. CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS LIVERMORE WEDDING VENUES Reinstein Ranch With dreams of a barn wedding, turn to Reinstein Ranch to make it happen for you. It is one of the few Livermore CA wedding venues that offer sprawling acreage on a woodland and rolling hill for the perfect blend of urban and country charm. There is plenty of space for outdoor ceremonies, and a 600-year oak tree sounds like the perfect place to say your vows under. Del Valle Winery If you’ve always dreamed of having a lovely vineyard wedding, this place is ideal for you. The winery invites weddings, parties, and rehearsal dinners with breathtaking views of the vines and event rooms surrounded by beautiful flora. Up to 120 guests can be seated in the Barrel Room without feeling crowded. Check out this Del Valle Winery Wedding Planning Guide Rios Lovell Winery It’s time to fall in love again, but with this lovely setting. This location is surrounded by the breathtaking Merlot Vineyard and is located in Livermore Valley’s Wine Country. It makes the ideal backdrop for your wedding. Check out this Rios Lovell Winery Wedding Planning Guide The Bridges Golf Club (San Ramon) The Bridges Golf Club is the ideal California location for a quiet wedding or a lavish celebration, with facilities that can accommodate 25–300 people. It offers magnificent views, a warm ambiance, and exceptional service. Check out my planning guide for a Bridges Golf Club wedding Concannon Vineyard Concannon Vineyard in Livermore sits along the popular Tesla Rd, where it is hard to miss! They have a limited number of dates available for weddings so contact them sooner than later! Check out this planning guide for a Concannon Vineyard wedding The Club at Ruby Hill (Pleasanton) The Club at Ruby Hill offers award winning service and gorgeous green vistas for your wedding ceremony and reception. Rolling golf courses and picturesque vineyards form the backdrop outdoors, and beautiful hardwood and tile welcome you indoors. This is a sister company to Casa Real so you know with two locations, this is one of the best wedding venues in Livermore area. Elliston Vineyards (Sunol) Built-in 1890, this lovely wedding location is lovely as it presents an ideal location for an event to remember with its picturesque surroundings, stylish decor, and helpful staff. Couples can savor richness and charm on their wedding day thanks to the venue’s historic surroundings. Check out my guide on Elliston Vineyards weddings for more info photo by Ian Chin Photography CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS LIVERMORE WEDDING PACKAGES Callippe Preserve (Pleasanton) Callippe Preserve in Pleasanton commands an incomparable view of the gently sloping hills and vineyards of northern California. The venue is set primarily outdoors against green lawns and white lawn chairs and an elegant arbor. Check out this planning guide for a Callippe Preserve wedding Crow Canyon Country Club (Danville) Located within a gated community, this Danville wedding venue offers a lush golf course, perfect for wedding photos. When you enter the club’s stunning foyer, the high ceiling with its sparkling crystal chandelier first catches your attention. The club can accommodate up to 400 guests indoors and 300 outside. Retzlaff Vineyards Retzlaff Vineyards offers a limited booking season for weddings, since it offers outdoor spaces for

26+ Best Santa Cruz Wedding Venues
26+ Best Santa Cruz Wedding Venues Ultimate Guide to the 26+ Best Santa Cruz Wedding Venues (updated 2024) If you are interested in learning the best Santa Cruz wedding venues you have come to the right place! In many ways, Santa Cruz is the quintessential Californian town with a mix of the coast, mountains, and local charm. For those ready to tie the knot in Santa Cruz, you will find many excellent locations to host your wedding regardless of whether you’re eloping or choosing to have a large celebration. Check out some of my personal favorite Santa Cruz wedding venues below. Nestldown (Los Gatos) Packages: $9,500 – $28,000 Just a short ten-minute drive north of Santa Cruz sits Nestldown, a place that aims to provide extraordinary experiences. Rental gives you and up to 200 guests private access to all 36 redwood strewn acres including a 20 passenter train, life size chess set, numerous photo ops, and beautiful gardens. You’ll also receive a dedicated four-person event planning staff to customize your wedding and reception over nine hours. Check out my Nestldown weddings guide for more info OVY Camp (San Gregorio) Rental Fee : $13,000 – $19,000 (rate includes 130 beds between lodging accomodations)Rental Period: Friday at 11am – Sunday at 1pmCapacity: up to 200 guests OVY Camp and Event Center can be rented by the weekend (exclusive use) for an incredibly reasonable price. It is one of the more flexible and affordable redwood wedding venues in the Bay Area. They provide the backdrop – you choose the rest. You are not tied down to a list of caterers, florists, or event suppliers – assemble your own vendor team at no additional cost. Check out my OVY Camp wedding guide for more info https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D-9bvDRopSo Seymour Marine Discovery Center Rental fee: $3,350 Whether you’re a fan of museums or not, you’ll find the Seymour Center to be one of the most fun Santa Cruz wedding venues. This package includes expansive views of Monterey Bay, all-day use of the La Feliz Room & Deck, private use of the aquarium and Shipwreck Deck after 5 p.m., and a staffed aquarium touch table in the exhibit hall during the reception for your guests. It is a beautiful setting with great options for stunning photos. Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History Rental fee: $2,875 – $5,175 (ceremony & reception package) Art lovers will rejoice at a wedding at this Santa Cruz venue. With several ceremony locations including a rooftop sculpture garden, the Santa Cruz Museum of Art & History can host up to 250 people. The full package includes nine hours; however, shorter ceremony & brunch or reception-only options are available for lower rates and up to 5 hour rentals For a more thorough breakdown of everything, check out their online brochure Kennolyn (Soquel) Package: starting at $11,000 With Kennolyn’s wedding package, the entire Hilltop Hacienda Estate is yours for a ceremony and reception. The package includes a wedding coordinator, music, tables, décor, and a wide array of perks. They also offer excellent catering packages. If you want a serene, peaceful location, this will be at the top of your list. Check out my Kennolyn weddings guide for more info Waterfall Lodge (Ben Lomond) Rental Fee: $7,800 – $22,900 Waterfall Lodge is a gorgeous redwood forest wedding venue in the Santa Cruz mountains. It offers a choice of two sites for weddings wide terrace and patio areas for cocktail parties and dining in the middle of uplifting redwood scents. A reclaimed wood barn makes up the dancing area and some chic 1970’s style cabins for accommodation—summer camp style. It is incredibly serene, and if you hadn’t deduced from the name, there is a gorgeous waterfall just to make it extra special and one of the most romantic redwood forest wedding venues. Check out my Waterfall Lodge weddings guide for more info CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS WEDDING VENUES IN SANTA CRUZ Inn at Pasatiempo Ceremony Fee : $1,500Reception Fee : $275 – $800 Here you’ll find the recently renovated Wedding Garden that features a lush lawn circled by a terrace featuring redwood bark décor and evergreen pear trees. The Inn at Pasatiempo also features indoor seating for up to 150 guests with three different rooms that can be booked for a reception dinner. A number of buffet menu packages are also available. Sydalyn Hill (Felton) Rental fee: Submit contact form for info A family run farm is the setting for this venue, which offers weddings between May and September each year. Offered only on Saturdays, a Sydalyn Hill wedding features rustic décor amidst walnut trees. Orchards, a garden, cabin, and barn are all available for photos. Felton Guild (Felton) Rental fee: contact the venue for the package This venue offers a serene setting and is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Therefore, if you love the outdoors, this peaceful, lovely location is an excellent choice. A beautifully planted space serves as the banquet area. More than 200 people may easily fit in the reception space. Around 100 guests can be seated on the cathedral’s redwood benches and seats, and there is plenty of standing area and capacity for additional chairs if there is a need. Check out my Redwood wedding venues guide for other similar Bay Area wedding venues Shadowbrook (Capitola) Ceremony fee: $250Rental fee: $200 – $2,000 Shadowbrook restaurant is located in nearby Capitola and probably the most romantic restaurant in the county. There are a number of options for location but the Creekside Patio is a personal favorite. The restaurant’s trolley is a must-have photo for the happy couple. Secret Garden Ceremonies (Santa Cruz County) Rental fee: $3,850 – $7,850 Specializing in micro-weddings of up to 40 people, there are two main areas for ceremonies and celebrations, the Secret Redwood Retreat and the Secret Garden Estate. Roaring Camp Railroads (Felton) Ceremony $700 – $2,950Reception $4,500 Create your own magical day with Roaring Camp Railroads. While there are a number of options, the most charming takes you and 100 guests round trip on a 100 year old

How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur
How to Plan a Wedding in Big Sur The Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Big Sur (complete with tips and venue information) There are few places on the west coast as stunning as having a wedding in Big Sur. Known for state parks and coastal scenery, countless couples have planned their wedding in Big Sur and it is becoming one of the more popular locations to exchange vows and take wedding photos. Below is the ultimate guide for all your planning needs for a wedding in Big Sur. 1 Simple Method to Having a Wedding in Big Sur All you really need to plan your elopement or wedding in Big Sur is an officiant, a marriage license, and one witness. And of course, CONTACTING a photographer like me! Getting the Marriage License Your wedding in Big Sur can’t be official without a marriage license. In California, a marriage license can be obtained in any county for a ceremony held in the state, even if the marriage is held in a different county. Big Sur is in Monterey County, so you can get the license from San Francisco County, for example. However, you must return the license to the county that issued it, along with the signature of the officiant and at least one witness. For out of town couples, it’s popular to stay in San Francisco while having your wedding in Big Sur. If this is the case with you, read up on how to get your marriage license in my San Francisco City Hall Weddings Planning Guide And if you are flexible with locations, take a look at the Best Places to Have an Elopement in San Francisco Big Sur Wedding Permit Best Times of the Year for a Wedding in Big Sur There are more ideal times to have your wedding at Big Sur. Perhaps the safest is Fall for its warmer weather, color, and clear skies. However, anytime between March and October is suitable while the winter months may be a bit too cold and overcast. Rain does tend to occur in early Spring so plan accordingly. If you plan it right, you can time your wedding in Big Sur with the warmest time of the year around September and October and if you’re lucky, can make a stop to see the visiting monarch butterflies nearby in Pacific Grove Photo Locations for a Wedding in Big Sur Regardless of where you host your wedding at Big Sur, you will have many breathtaking locations for photos nearby. The Bixby Bridge on Highway 1 provides a unique backdrop and is probably the most popular. Pfeiffer Burns State Park is a majestic location, particularly near sunset. Rocky Point Restaurant provides a scenic overlook set aside rugged coastal cliffs. Finally, Garrapata Trail is a perfect backdrop filled with wildflowers during spring and summer. Bixby Bridge Iconic Big Sur Coastline Big Sur Elopement Packages Big Sur elopement packages are typically customized to fit your needs, but start at $2000 for 3 hours. A sample elopement in Big Sur consists of getting ready/details, the wedding ceremony, group photos, couples portraits, and a reception. For the more adventurous couples, doing multiple photo locations around gorgeous Big Sur is highly recommended to take advantage of the stunning coastline and scenic views Best Wedding Venues in Big Sur CA Big Sur is popular for elopements and marrying on cliffs overlooking the ocean, but for those who want an actual venue that’s no problem either! Let’s take a look at some of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. Big Sur Lodge Rental Fee: $599 – $1,199 This is one of the most classic Big Sur wedding venues around the area. Big Sur Lodge is located in Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park with indoor and outdoor seating. Most popular is the Redwood Patio, located next to a flowing stream. There is also an option for a picnic style rehearsal dinner in the state park. This is easily the most popular place to have a wedding at Big Sur. Ventana Contact for pricing Ventana is a resort that prides itself on a wide variety of options for your wedding in Big Sur. The blending of the ocean, forests, and mountains at this Big Sur wedding venue will leave you in awe. With over 12,000 feet of event space, there is a setting for a wedding of any size. Sur Visa is an outdoor overlook adorned with picnic tables and elegant landscaping. Redwood Cathedral provides a space surrounded by towering trees. The Loft blends natural woods with modern décor to create an intimate indoor setting. This is definitely one of the most diverse wedding venues in Big Sur CA to fit your needs. Check out my Ventana Big Sur Wedding Guide for more details Loma Vista Gardens Rental Fee: $5,400 – $18,400 depending on size and day Loma Vista was named for the its beautiful views, making this one of my favorite wedding venues in Big Sur CA. The location is backdropped by mountains and has elegantly manicured landscaping including cactus gardens. With packages for traditional and elopement weddings, Loma Vista Gardens can customize the perfect ceremony for any types of wedding in Big Sur. This locale is a great choice for couples wanting a rustic feel for an outdoor ceremony. Point 16 Contact for pricing Located about half an hour outside of downtown, Point 16 is an area off of Highway 1 that is frequently used for planning a wedding in Big Sur. There is perhaps no better view in the area as Point 16 overlooks the beauty of the Pacific Ocean from a lush hillside meadow. There is no bad time for a wedding here as any time of day will provide an excellent view for your wedding at Big Sur. Post Ranch Inn Rental Fee: $6,000Small weddings: $5,500 – $6,600Elopements: $3,900 You haven’t seen Big Sur until you’ve seen a sunset from the Post Ranch Inn’s view of the Pacific Ocean. Couples will find a variety of packages

Venues for Weddings in San Francisco
The 50+ Most Popular Venues for Weddings in San Francisco Ultimate Guide to the Top Venues for Weddings in San Francisco (with pricing, photos, and videos) Here is a list of the best venues for weddings in San Francisco (updated for 2022!). We are so lucky to have such a wide variety of settings in the Bay Area ranging from giant redwood groves, rustic barns, elegant historic buildings, and more, and within a short drive from San Francisco. With so many options for venues for weddings in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area, it is inevitable I missed some so please feel free to let me know. I will periodically update this page with more photos, individual blog posts, or videos to give you the best most comprehensive information to help plan your dream wedding. If you would like my honest opinion of your venue choices feel free to CONTACT ME – happy to help! Favorite San Francisco Elopement Locations: The Mountain Terrace, Shelldance Orchid Gardens, Hastings House Garden Weddings My Personal Favorite Venues for Weddings in San Francisco: Muir WoodsShelldance Orchid GardensPalace of Fine ArtsSan Francisco City HallLegion of HonorStern GroveThe Olympic ClubThe Mountain TerraceHastings House Garden Weddings Best “Only in San Francisco” Venues for Weddings in San Francisco: Want a location that shows off that you are in San Francisco? All of these wedding venues in San Francisco have views of the Golden Gate Bridge or other San Francisco landmarks. Hornblower Cruises (SF) Rental Fee : $118 / person For one of the more unique venues for weddings in San Francisco, why not sail around the San Francisco Bay! This popular and unique excursion allows you and your guest unique views of San Francisco as well as the ability to sail under the Golden Gate Bridge for some unique photographs. In addition, their food is world class from my own experiences. Cavallo Point (Sausalito) Rental Fee : Contact for pricing Located across the Golden Gate Bridge in Sausalito, no other wedding venues in SF shows off the Golden Gate Bridge as nicely as Cavallo Point. Sitting across a hill overlooking the Bridge and the Bay, choosing this San Francisco wedding venue will treat your guests to one of the most breathtaking views of San Francisco. Hotel Vitale (SF) Packages : $185 – $260 / person Situated along the Embarcadero, Hotel Vitale offers a panoramic view of both the Bay Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. It is one of the few rooftop venues for weddings in San Francisco as well. Being a hotel, they offer all inclusive services for you and your guests. Fort Mason Center (SF) Rental Fee : $1,650 – $11,000 The Fort Mason Center offers several wedding venues in SF but the most popular ones are the General’s Residence, Gallery 308, and the smaller Firehouse, each offering their own unique setting for your wedding day. Best Outdoor Wedding Venues in San Francisco: Love to be surrounded by trees and being outdoors in nature? These are the best wedding venues in SF and beyond with gorgeous views. The Mountain Terrace (Woodside) Rental Fee : $2,500 – $4,500 (ceremony only) With decades-old trees acting as a wedding ceremony backdrop, The Mountain Terrace is the ideal setting for anyone who appreciates natural beauty and basking in the sun and fresh air. With a recently remodeled mega deck, they allow several options for outdoor and indoor receptions, making this one of my favorite wedding venues in SF. Read more about The Mountain Terrace with my walkthrough https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibmrGG9xbac Muir Woods (Mill Valley) Permit Fee : $60 for up to 30 guests This popular elopement destination offers the perfect escape to nature by surrounding you with redwood groves all around. It is centrally located between San Francisco and Napa, allowing your out of town guests options in how they explore northern California. In addition to SF City Hall, this is one of my favorite wedding venues in SF for its simplicity and beauty for elopements and small weddings. Check out my Ultimate Guide to Planning a Wedding in Muir Woods for more details! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHcJNX09nCk Hastings House Garden Weddings (Half Moon Bay) Packages start at : $12,000 If you are looking for a secluded “secret” garden look no further than the Hastings House Garden Weddings for your elopement! This enchanting garden only allows for a small number of guests and is seemingly made just for elopements. You need little to no decor at this wedding venue in Half Moon Bay since the beauty is all around you! Read more about Hastings House Garden Weddings with my walkthrough Shakespeare Garden (SF) Reservation Fee : $506Hourly Rate : $144 (2 hour min)Refundable Deposit : $500 One of the best places to elope in San Francisco, this small garden in Golden Gate Park allows a great setting for an intimate place to say your vows. One of the more affordable and secluded wedding venues in SF, this is also the most popular Golden Gate Park wedding venue for those wanting a more natural background. Check out this Shakespeare Garden Wedding for inspiration! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIF4ytamSm0 Like what you see? Which venues for weddings in San Francisco fit your style? CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS SAN FRANCISCO WEDDING VENUES Old Mill Park (Mill Valley) Rental Fee : $125 – $275 / hourRefundable Deposit : $100 – $1,000 Located in Mill Valley across the Golden Gate Bridge, Old Mill Park is one of the most popular venues for weddings in San Francisco and perfect for those who love nature. They have a separate ampitheater that comes with its own staging and seating, making it a convenient wedding venue in San Francisco for large and small weddings. Check out my Ultimate Planning Guide for an Old Mill Park Wedding SF Botanical Garden Rental Fee : $875 – $10,000 This well manicured Garden in the middle of Golden Gate Park is one of the more forgotten wedding venues in SF since Golden Gate Park is so large. With 55 acres showcasing plants from all over the world, they offer the perfect natural
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