Temescal Beach House Wedding
Sarah and Chris held their Temescal Beach House Wedding in Oakland in front of 60 of their closest friends and family. They wanted to acknowledge their Japanese and Jewish roots in the Ceremony with hundreds of handmade cranes for the chuppah and the breaking of glass.
They opted to do their family formals before the ceremony, which gave me my first impression of these two goofballs. When Chris was added into a group family photo on Sarah’s side, they immediately started making crazy faces and biting each other without me even directing them! This initial impression let me know that he was so welcomed into their family and that their personalities matched perfectly. It was nice foreshadowing into what turned out to be such a memorable day!
I always love personalized ceremonies in the décor, but especially in the actual ceremony. This particular wedding was interesting because they involved more audience participation that what I normally see, asking a handful of the guests to share an anecdote about the couple, based on their own personal stories. It made for touching moments that showed how much the two were loved by everyone.
During the reception, after the standard parent and sibling speeches, they allowed for an open invite for the microphone and ten different people stood up to share their well wishes and stories, which further complemented the fact that they were a very loved couple. It was great to get different viewpoints from various guests and I felt that I knew them my whole life from the stories and moments that were shared about the two.
Once the music started playing for the group dancing, this group continued on in their goofy ways, encouraging Chris to do his famous monkey dance to everyone’s delight. If you can find the photo, Sarah’s brother ended up mimicking this famous dance move, almost performing it with as much character and emotion as the Groom! 🙂
Sarah and Chris’s Temescal Beach House Wedding will be one to remember!
If you are interested in discussing your wedding, please CONTACT ME to chat details!

How to Plan an SF Botanical Garden Wedding
How to Plan an SF Botanical Garden Wedding Ultimate Guide for Planning an SF Botanical Garden Wedding(complete with pricing and photos) Interested in having a SF Botanical Garden wedding? This wedding venue, in the heart of Golden Gate Park, offers multiple backdrops and settings for your day whether it is for several hundred or a few handful. Read below to see why this is one of the best locations for a wedding in Golden Gate Park. Why an SF Botanical Garden Wedding A San Francisco Botanical garden wedding offers a stunning backdrop for your day, with over 8,000 varieties of plants from all over the world surrounding you. Whether you’re a nature lover, a plant enthusiast, or simply seeking a beautiful outdoor venue, a botanical garden wedding in San Francisco will surely exceed your expectations. From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, the SF botanical garden also offers a range of venues to suit your style and preferences. Each venue has unique features and capacities, ensuring you will find the perfect setting for your special day. How to Rent the Garden Email: info@sfbg.orgPhone: (415) 661-1316Website: https://www.sfbg.org/event-rental SF Botanical Garden Wedding Cost Rental Fee: ranges from $875 to $10,000 depending on location SF Botanical Garden Wedding Locations Celebration Garden Capacity: Up to 400 seated, 600 standing The Celebration Garden is SF Botanical Garden’s largest and most versatile outdoor venue. It was newly renovated in 2019 and features an amazing array of iconic plants worldwide. Located by the Main Gate, the Celebration Garden offers an expansive manicured garden that can accommodate a variety of events for the largest of celebrations. Garden of Fragrance Capacity: Up to 100 The Garden of Fragrance is a romantic venue perfect for smaller weddings or commitment ceremonies. It features a large green lawn surrounded by an expansive collection of uniquely scented flowering plants. Moon Viewing Garden Capacity: 15 Standing Only The Moon Viewing Garden offers a zen-like atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of the city, making it a perfect setting for couples to exchange their vows in a more intimate setting. Redwood Grove Capacity: 60 The Redwood Grove is a tucked-away gem in the middle of the Garden, surrounded by towering redwood trees that create a setting similar to a Muir Woods wedding. It is currently only available for weekend ceremonies. Zellerbach Garden of Perennials Capacity: 150 With an abundance of pastel flowering perennials, stone columns, and three wooden arbors, this venue provides a romantic backdrop for ceremonies and light cocktail receptions. Its adjacent green lawn also allows for grander events. Best Time for a San Francisco Botanical Garden Wedding SF Botanical Garden Photos Conclusion From intimate ceremonies to grand receptions, the Garden has a variety of venues to choose from to cater to most every couple. By following the tips and choosing the best location for you, you can ensure a successful and memorable wedding day that captures the natural beauty of the Botanical Garden as well as the love of the people present. Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com Related Posts on the Blog

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

10 Best Wedding Venues in Pleasanton CA
11 Best Wedding Venues in Pleasanton CA The Ultimate Guide to the 11 Best Wedding Venues in Pleasanton CA(complete with pricing and photos) Are you interested in wedding venues in Pleasanton CA? This pretty suburb in Contra Costa County is consistently included on lists of some of the best towns in the US to visit or live in. And for good reason! Its historicity, the beautiful parks, and the light and happy atmosphere are welcoming for not just visitors, but also wedding parties. Below, we’ve highlighted some of the best wedding venues in Pleasanton, CA that you won’t want to miss.. Palm Event Center Rental Fee + F&B Min: $39,000+Capacity: up to 300 guestsHours: 6PM – 12AM (end by 11PM) 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 wedding venues in Pleasanton CA. The Club at Ruby Hill Rental Fee: $3,500 – $4,500Food $ Bev: $11,000 – $15,000 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. Catering is provided by the venue only, and they offer a full service menu along with late night snacks and bar services. Every little detail is taken care of by the Club’s in house event specialists, from the decor to the ambiance to preparing the complimentary dance floor and dressing rooms. They’ll also provide on site staff to coordinate all the events on your special day. You’ll want for nothing when you book the Club at Ruby Hill. Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery Contact for pricing Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery is one of the most popular wedding venues in Pleasanton CA, 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. The formal menu by the award winning culinary staff is tailored to meet your specific tastes, and you’ll get to taste vintage wines straight from the Ruby Hill Winery. Callippe Preserve Rental Fee: $750 – $2,500Food & Bev: $1,000 – $7,000 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. Callippe Preserve provides the menu, which ranges from appetizers to a buffet meal to a plated dinner. And of course, no wedding reception in the wine country would be complete without a bar service and a selection of fine local wines to choose from. For a simple yet tasteful wedding in the heart of Pleasanton’s charming countryside, choose Callippe Preserve. The Purple Orchid Resort and Spa (Livermore) 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. You also get a lavish indoor venue to customize how you desire and create the wedding of your dreams. Canyon Lakes Brewery (San Ramon) Rental fee: $8,000 – $15,000Capacity: 125 guests Canyon Lakes Brewery is a brewery that also doubles as a Pleasanton wedding venue. Since it is firstly a brewery, it does have limited periods that you can rent the space. It is not available during peak season, March through October. Chairs, linens, and tables are included with your rental. Little hills (San Ramon) Rental fee: $2K- $6.5KCapacity: 150 guests Little Hills provides an intimate environment for your wedding, as lovely as its name suggests. If you want to tie the knot in a picturesque location surrounded by nature’s grandeur, here is the place to do it. There is also a lovely tent for dinner, which will give your wedding a bohemian vibe. With trees, birds, and butterflies around, this place is a paradise for nature lovers. Garre Winery (Livermore) Contact for pricing 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 can host up to 370 guests and makes a great option for guests who want less than a traditional wedding. There are lush flower beds, and the wisteria-covered Arbor in the missing style environment gives the weddings an elegance, unlike most Livermore CA wedding venues. The design options here are endless and the perfect place to make your wedding dreams come true. Check out my Garre Winery Wedding Planning Guide https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6YoUQ0V8e-Y&feature=youtu.be The Five Willows (Livermore) Contact for pricing The Five Willows is nestled within the wine regions of Livermore hills. It is an equestrian center with simplistic beauty and a serene surrounding covered by vineyards. It can host up to 200 guests and provides excellent indoor and outdoor venues for any style of wedding. The venue is open for pre-wedding use for bridal and groom parties, making a great onsite home for both parties. The main venue is surrounded by manicured lawns, a pond in the background, beautiful willow trees, and horse pasture to make for a unique wedding experience. Del Valle Winery (Livermore) Contact for pricing 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

How to Plan a Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding
How to Plan a Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding Ultimate Guide for Planning a Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding(complete with pricing and photos) Many couples choose to have a Hakone Estate and Gardens wedding because of its gorgeous natural backdrop that makes it a perfect choice for an outdoor ceremony. Its unique and beautiful setting offers anywhere from a koi pond, bamboo garden, and wooden bridge that offer photogenic backdrops for your wedding day. Read below for more reasons why a Hakone Estate and Gardens wedding might be best for you. TLDR – With a koi fish pond, pink Sakura, and a waterfall, the Hakone Estate and Gardens wedding evokes a Japanese garden theme.– Available ceremony times: 10am – 11am & 5pm – 10pm, overtime billed $500 per hour– The Hakone Estate and Gardens ceremony can host 150 guests; the reception can seat 60 guests indoors + 40 guests seated on the nearby decks.– The cost of a wedding at Hakone Estate and Gardens begins at $500 and will vary on the amount of guests.– Packages available equipped with traditional wedding preparations, etc.– Elopements on weekdays are allowed 10AM – 3PM Why a Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding When Oliver and Isabel Stine started a Japanese garden as their escape to remind them of their voyages to Japan, they couldn’t imagine what their humble 18-acre garden would turn out to be. The main gate looks like something you will find in a Japanese village, pink Sakura tree blossoms pave the path for you, and a cascading waterfall and a koi fish pond make up the scene. If you have always dreamed of an evening wedding, this is the venue for you because Hakone estate and Gardens stay open to the public until 5:00 pm. Events begin after the gates have been closed to the public. Photo by Ian Chin Photography Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding Cost Rental Fee: $500 – $7500 depending on detailsCapacity: 60 guests (indoors). 180 guests (outdoors)Hours: 5PM – 10PM You are allowed to host a ceremony from 10 am to 11am and from 5 pm to 10 pm, and any overtime is billed at $500 per hour. Ceremony-only packages start from $550 to $2250, and reception-only packages will cost between $1500 to $7500. You can also book the ceremony and reception packages which will range from $2100 to $7500. How to Book a Hakone Garden Wedding Email: Events@Hakonegardens.orgPhone: 408-741-4957Website: https://www.hakone.com/weddings-and-receptions Hakone Estate and Gardens Elopements Rental Fee: starting at $550 weekdays from 10 am to 3 pm You can host your elopement at the Wisteria Pavilion, Tea House Garden, Moon Bridge, and Upper Wisteria Pavilion and still get most of the benefits of a full wedding. Afterwards, taking advantage of the redwood trees, bamboo forest, and koi pond is suggested for photos! What’s Included Pre-event meetings, walk-through, referrals, and consultations with Event Manager Photo shoot Set up and break down time before and after the event Free admission and parking for guests Ceremony rehearsal time Dressing area for Bride Hakone Event Staff (day of your wedding) Chairs and tables Ceremony chair setup and breakdown Membership for one year Admission Pass Access to our gardens during your entire event Best Time for a Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding Hakone Estate and Gardens Wedding Photos Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com Related Posts on the Blog

27+ Best Marin County Wedding Venues
27+ Best Marin County Wedding Venues The Ultimate Guide to the 27+ Best Marin County Wedding Venues(complete with pricing, photos, and videos) If you are looking for the best Marin County wedding venues, you are in luck! This is an ultimate guide to some of the best wedding venues in Marin County and outlines a variety of settings for your celebration! If you wanting something more casual, a wedding in Muir Woods is one of the more popular ideas for Marin County wedding venues, but read below for others that you may not have heard of! Cavallo Point (Marin) Rental fee: inquire for custom quote Of all the Marin County wedding venues, this one has my favorite view with a beautiful backdrop of the Golden Gate Bridge amidst rolling hills. Couples will find six venues to choose from that can host up to 250 people at this venue with one of the best views in Marin County. Check out my guide on how to plan a Cavallo Point Lodge wedding for more info If you’d like to see a real wedding from this venue, check out this full gallery from a Cavallo Point wedding photo by Ian Chin Photography photo by Ian Chin Photography Mill Valley Community Center (Mill Valley) Rental Fee: $160 – $180/hour; 4-hour minimumDeposit: $500 – $1,000 Mill Valley Community Center is one of the more affordable Marin County wedding venues. The Cascade Room features a cathedral ceiling and wood floors with a built-in sound system and can hold 285 people with a dining setup. Residents of Mill Valley receive a small discount. There is an option for ceremonies in the redwoods nearby at Old Mill Park. Check out my Mill Valley Community Center wedding guide for more info photo by Ian Chin Photography Old Mill Park (Mill Valley) Rental fee: $175 – $275 / hour Outdoor seating an a raised stage at this quiet Redwood Park is perfect for a small gathering for your wedding under the trees. It is one of the only places I know outdoors that offers seating, so this is the perfect choice when considering other guests,. The seating is roughly 25 feet away so having a mic would be helpful if the guests are going to be seated. Popular after the ceremony here is to have a reception at Outdoor Art Club or Mill Valley Community Center, making this one of the most popular Marin County wedding venues. Check out my Old Mill Park Wedding Planning Guide photo by Ian Chin Photography photo by Ian Chin Photography Deer Park Villa (Fairfield) Rental fee: Submit contact form for info Specializing in beautiful fairytale weddings, this is one of my favorite outdoor Marin County wedding venues that allows you to exchange vows in a gorgeous redwood grove beneath the towering trees, a perfect backdrop for photos. Have a truly enchanting wedding with a natural theme. Check out my Deer Park Villa wedding guide for more info Community Congregational Church (Tiburon) Rental fee: contact for pricing This hidden gem offers views of the rolling hills of Tiburon with a panoramic view of the San Francisco Bay, the Golden Gate Bridge and Mt. Tamalpais out on the ceremony lawn. photo by Ian Chin Photography The Outdoor Art Club (Mill Valley) Rental fee: $5,000 – $5,400 The Outdoor Art Club is a Mill Valley nonprofit organization that seeks to preserve and promote natural outdoor spaces. As such, it is one of the more surprisingly affordable Marin County wedding venues centrally located in Mill Valley. It offers a nice secluded location for an outdoor ceremony with a reception following in the century-old clubhouse. The Haven at Tomales (Tomales) Rental fee: Submit contact form for info Craft your perfect wedding with your choice of a number of serene settings. Personal favorites include the Terraced Garden with a sweeping canyon view or in front of the waterfall tree. While there are many excellent Marin County wedding venues, The Haven at Tomales stands out for rustic elegance. CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS MARIN COUNTY WEDDING VENUES University of Redlands Marin Campus (San Anselmo) Rental fee: $1,000 – $3,500 (six venues to choose from) The University of the Redlands Marin Campus is truly one of the more unique and stunning Marin County wedding venues with its castle grounds. This San Anselmo wedding venue features six venues; however, my personal favorite is Alexander Hall, a stunning indoor reception area with a stone, castle-like exterior. Geneva Terrace provides another excellent option for your outdoor ceremony or reception with its labyrinth. Check out my University of Redlands Wedding Planning Guide The Clubhouse at Peacock Gap (San Rafael) Rental fee: $750 – $6000Service : 20% Located in San Rafael, the Peacock Gap is a picture perfect setting with views of the native landscape and golf course. Their popular terrace provides awesome photo opportunities and great views that you would expect from a world class golf course. This is one of the larger Marin County wedding venues that can accomodate up to a thousand guests since they have two main areas to hold a wedding. Landmarks Art & Garden Center (Tiburon) Rental fee: $3,500 – $4,500 depending on guest count (8 hours)Extra hours: $300/hourDeposit: 50% A beautiful, scenic seaside retreat awaits you at this wedding venue in Marin County. Here you’ll find beautiful gardens and an old farmhouse, perfect for an elegant setting with up to 150 people. Located in charming Tiburon, you’ll have panoramic views that make for excellent photos. Maan Farms (Bolinas) Packages: $9,440 – $18,880 Maan Farms provides all-inclusive service including use of an antique barn and covered patio, full setup, and a buffet dinner with options to upgrade. Packages vary based on time of day and number of guests. This site has an idyllic country charm with three ceremony sites including one with a view of Mt. Baker, surrounded by sunflowers. Olema House (Olema) Rental fee: Submit contact form for info A peaceful respite for a beautiful ceremony, the Olema House can host up to 150 people. The tranquil garden setting overlooks a small creek.

Carmel Valley Wedding Venues
Carmel Valley Wedding Venues The Ultimate Carmel Valley Wedding Venues Guide (with Pricing + Photos) Carmel Valley wedding venues offer an authentically Californian experience with wineries, rustic landscapes, and golf courses, making it a favorite choice for destination weddings. Just a short drive from the Pacific Ocean, Carmel Valley offers a rustic respite from the busy coastal life. Whether you live nearby or are traveling from around the world, there are plenty of perfect options for your Carmel Valley Wedding. Here are some of the top Carmel Valley wedding venues to consider! Gardner Ranch Rental Fee: $8,000 Gardner Ranch is a great location for wedding large and small alike. The sprawling estate provides many locations including three banquet rooms, a clubhouse, an outdoor patio, and many different lawn locations. The backdrop of the Santa Lucia Mountains makes for a great setting for an outdoor wedding in virtually any season. This is also surprisingly one of the more affordable Carmel Valley wedding venues given its elegance and charm. All weddings include exclusive use of Gardner Ranch, plenty of on-site parking, wine barrel cocktail tables, landscape lighting, wooden chairs, and plenty of other perks. This is one of the more popular Carmel Valley wedding venues around for good reason. Bernardus Lodge & Spa Rental Fee: $5,500 – $13,500 This is one of the larger Carmel Valley wedding venues that offers six different wedding locations that range from vineyard views to rose gardens. For intimate ceremonies or elopements of 10 people or less, the Vintner’s Suite is a favorite or can be used as a bridal suite. Of all the locations, the Wedding Garden is possibly the most beautiful with immaculate landscaping, over 100 varieties of roses, and the chef’s own vegetable garden. Wedding packages include luxury accommodations for the couple and an open bar with Bernardus’s own wines. Los Laureles Lodge Rental Fee: $2,500 – $3,300 One of the more unique Carmel Valley wedding venues, Los Laureles Lodge is a ten-acre ranch with three different options for settings. The largest is the Terrace Garden, a stunning area beneath cascading oak trees where guests watch from wooden pews. This holds up to 200 people. Intimate weddings of up to 30 guests can celebrate at Hill House, a beautifully adorned home with a hillside deck. The Hill House has a full kitchen and, true to its namesake, supports sweeping views of Carmel Valley. Finally, the Terrace Garden Banquet Room can hold a small reception or rehearsal dinner. Quail Lodge & Golf Club (Carmel by the Sea) Contact for pricing Quail Lodge Golf Club provides six different options for your ceremony. Quail Meadows is likely the favorite for outdoor weddings, which features a lush meadow on the banks of a stream, creating a perfect location for wedding photos. The Peninsula Ballroom in the Clubhouse is a great choice for a reception whether opting for buffet style or a sit-down dinner. This venue specializes in weddings from small groups to up to 200 guests. This is one of the more affordable Carmel Valley wedding venues for the budget-conscious bride and groom, providing beauty at a lower price than many local venues. Stonepine Estate Resort Rental Fee: starts at $9,000 As you approach through a road lined with oak trees, you will soon catch a glimpse of Chateau Noel, an architectural experience that will have you thinking you have somehow landed in Tuscany. Guests can opt for a California Country package which includes use of the Paddock Lawns or a Chateau Exclusive which involves use of Chateau Noel. Can’t decide? Book the entire estate to have one of the most regal wedding venues in Carmel Valley all to yourself! For a more Old West style feel, try the Blacksmith Bar where guests can practice archery and horseshoes while drinking beer. Needless to say, this is one of the most varied Carmel Valley wedding venues on this list. Holman Ranch Packages: $18,000 – $35,500 Holman Ranch is one of the few Carmel Valley wedding venues that can accommodate a larger number of guests with a capacity of 500. With 400 acres of land, Holman Ranch provides several wedding location options, but most couples choose the recently restored 1928 stone hacienda, an iconic building with an intimate courtyard. Others opt for a stone terrace adorned with flowers with the Santa Lucia Mountains serving as a great backdrop. Combine your ceremony with an elegant reception at the Carriage House, allowing guests to dine beneath twinkling lights. This huge estate offers something for everyone! The Holly Farm Rental Fee: starts at $28,000 One of the most beautiful Carmel Valley wedding venues, The Holly Farm is filled with winding gravel paths, towering bamboo and banana trees, and rustic cottages. The unique design of the grounds presents a variety of options for photos, ensuring you will have plenty of mementos of your wedding. In addition to no corkage or cake cutting fees, you’ll also find a number of other perks including hundreds of island orchids for décor. CONTACT ME TO DISCUSS CARMEL VALLEY WEDDING VENUES Best Wedding Venues in Carmel Valley for Elopements Joullian Vineyards Rental Fee: starts at $6,500 Located high above Carmel Valley, Joullian Vineyards’ Venue in the Vines is a premier wedding location. This is a place for weddings of many sizes, able to accompany as few as 50 guests or as many as 250. Smaller parties may instead be interested in The Overlook, which allows couples to exchange nuptials in front of a wood and floral arch with the entire Carmel Valley as the backdrop. With 20 to 50 guests, this is one of the more popular Carmel Valley wedding venues that caters to smaller weddings. Best Outdoor Carmel Valley Wedding Venues Chateu Carmel Ranch Contact for pricing Holman Ranch is one of the few Carmel Valley wedding venues that can accommodate a larger number of guests with a capacity of 500. With 400 acres of land, Holman Ranch provides several wedding location options, but most couples choose the recently

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

Shakespeare Garden Wedding San Francisco
Shakespeare Garden Wedding San Francisco Ultimate Guide for Planning a Shakespeare Garden SF Wedding (with pricing, photos, and videos) Why a Shakespeare Garden SF Wedding? Choosing a Shakespeare Garden wedding is a recommended choice for those who want an intimate wedding venue at a reasonable price in the middle of San Francisco. Being the most popular wedding venue in Golden Gate Park, couples commonly have a Shakespeare Garden wedding ceremony before holding their reception elsewhere. Run by the SF Parks and Recreation, a Shakespeare Garden wedding San Francisco is an affordable way to get married in a beautiful setting. If you want more options, check out these other locations on where to have a wedding in Golden Gate Park. Shakespeare Garden San Francisco Wedding Cost Reservation Fee : $531Rental Fee : $152 hourly rate (2 hour min)Refundable Deposit: $500 Reservation Process for a Shakespeare Garden Golden Gate Park Wedding Email: RPDReservations@sfgov.orgPhone: 415-831-5500Rental Application: https://fs18.formsite.com/sfrpsurvey2/jtlyfqhycd/index.html Wedding reservations at Golden Gate Park can be made up to a year in advance. Payments can be made by check or card. If making a reservation less than two months form the wedding date, payment must be made in full immediately by card. Restrictions Unfortunately, there are no onsite restrooms at the Shakespeare Garden. In addition, they have strict music and decor regulations to minimize the damage to the park and do not provide tables or chairs. Shakespeare Garden does not allow any food or drink receptions so you will have to find a secondary location to celebrate. Take a look at this list of 50+ San Francisco wedding venues, if you are looking for all inclusive wedding venues similar to Shakespeare Garden. Best Times for an SF Wedding While San Francisco never gets too cold or too hot throughout the year, “Summer” in San Francisco (aka the warmest months) is actually September and October, rather than the summer months June – August. Throughout the year, it consistently averages the low to mid 60s, so there’s not really a bad time to have a Shakespeare Garden wedding San Francisco! Shakespeare Garden Wedding Walkthrough https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JIF4ytamSm0 Wedding at Shakespeare Garden Photos Related Posts on the Blog Interested In More Information? Please Fill Out the Form Below! 415 756 9335 ianchinphotography@gmail.com 762 10th Ave San Francisco, CA 94118

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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415 756 9335
ianchinphotography@gmail.com
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