THE MOST BEAUTIFUL WEDDING VENUES IN CALIFORNIA

As a wedding photographer, I’m often asked what are some of the most beautiful wedding venues in California. 

Good question! There’s lots to choose from and so many things to consider, but over the years, I’ve seen some standouts. Let’s talk about them! These are the places I’ve visited time and time again and that are so professional and GOOD at pulling off a wedding, I just love working at them. Plus, in my opinion, they’re some of the most beautiful wedding venues in California. 

Edgewood, Lake Tahoe, CA

You had me at Tahoe. Truly, there’s no better backdrop than Lake Tahoe. The lighting there hits different for some reason. This venue really takes advantage of Tahoe’s stunning surroundings and makes it an easy pick as one of the most beautiful venues in California. Nestled on the edge of the big lake, on the south side, this private resort offers amazing views and an exclusivity that’s hard to find. This is a high-end facility with the price to match, but if you’re going for THE BEST, this is it. Rooms are available on-site which makes getting ready easy. Plus, it’s a resort. Your guests will thank you for making you feel like you’re on vacation while at a wedding. There’s even fun things to do like boating and biking and hiking in the hills. This is the gold standard of venues and a place I love to visit even when there’s not a wedding!

The Hideout Weddings, Lake Tahoe, CA

This venue is in Tahoe, too, but this is more country charm than big city. From log cabins to rocky out croppings and even a small lake, this place is AH-MAZING as far as photography goes. When you look at their website you’ll see why I pikced it as one of the most beautiful wedding venues in California. What I love about this place is how versatile it is. You can chose from bucolic pasture or tall pines or even a tiny lake. There’ more than one place to have your ceremony. There’s even a lodge! I mean, this place really is unique.

Nestledown, Los Gatos, CA

Here’s another stunner. High in the hills above the Bay Area, on top of the Santa Cruz mountains, is a hidden gem beneath sweeping redwoods. There’s lots of versatility to this venue that, as a photographer, I enjoy. There’s an elegant indoor venue with what seems like wall-to-wall glass, acres and acres of gardens, and the pièce de résistance, the redwoods. If you’re looking for a venue that makes you feel as if you’re in a fairy garden, this is it. Is it pricey? Yes, but worth every penny.

Wind & Sea Estate in Big Sur, CA

The backdrop of the ocean makes this place easily one of the most beautiful wedding venues in California. You can literally feel the mist on your face! A ceremony can be held at a spot overlooking crashing waves, and your guests can enjoy a view that can’t be matched. What I love about this venue is the ocean. From stormy seas to summer calm, it’s an amazing backdrop. There’s gardens, too, and towering cypress trees. So pretty in so many ways. I’m always so excited to return.

The Barn at Pheasant Trail Ranch, Chico, CA

If country is more your thing, here’s another of the most beautiful wedding venues in California–western style–Pheasant Trail Ranch. The star of this venue is the barn. There’s a stunning walnut orchard and a fabulous spot to get married out of doors. Probably my favorite thing about this venue, though, are the nearby pastures. Golden hour is a dream at this venue, and with the backdrop of the barn for your wedding, this makes for some amazing photos. You can get ready on-site in their bridal suite, and walk down the aisle either out of doors or indoors or even right in front of the barn. Truly, a hidden gem.

Leal Vineyards, Hollister, CA

This is a venue that never fails to take my breath away. There’s something so magical about grapevines, no matter what time of day or year. I love how this venue is perched atop a little hill. There’s some cute bridal photo ops that management has set up around the property, too. Plus, the people that run the place are beyond amazing. They’re so good at bringing my brides’ visions to life. And the weather, you can’t beat Hollister weather!

Carmel Fields by Wedgewood, Carmel by the Sea, CA

(Truly one of the most beautiful wedding venues in California!)

Okay, so I love Wedgewood weddings!! They have a bunch of different venues up and down the state, and they’re always so well managed and the staff is amazing. Everything is included in your wedding package, and while that might make their prices seem high, they’re really not that bad when you consider that’s it’s everything. Trust me, I’ve seen enough weddings to know that not having to think about anything other than your ceremony is worth the price.

What makes this venue standout? Well, you can actually get married on the beach! Yup. Right on the sand.  They’ll bring out chairs for your guests and everything. The reception hall is to-die-for, too, with stunning views, and wall-to-wall windows, and the staff is the cherry on top. Really, you can’t go wrong with Wedgewood! I mean, just look at these photos. The lawn and the pathways and the gorgeous trees surrounding the property made this wedding simply breathtaking.

River Highlands Ranch, Smartsville, CA

If you love rolling hills and acres of green lawn, this is the place for you. The center piece of this facility is the 7,500 square foot barn. It’s huuuuge and gorgeous inside. Believe me, it’s magical, especially at night with the string lighting on the trees and pathways. It makes for some seriously gorgeous photos. Plus, it’s close enough to Sacramento that your guests won’t mind the drive. My brides tell me the venue is super affordable, too. Overall, just an amazing place with great staff and unique feel.

At the Bluff, Ferndale, CA

Okay, you want to talk about cute and country and A LOT of charm, this place is it!!! Not only is it reasonably priced, but the location is to die for. Close to the Victorian town of Ferndale, this adorable farm-turned-venue features and amazing bridal boudoir that’s an old farmhouse. Not only is it a great spot to get ready in, it makes for great photos, too! That barn is spacious with just the right amount of light. There are green pastures nearby and the ocean is just a hop and a skip away. I. Love. This. Venue.

Amador Cellars, Plymouth, CA

Lastly, we have The Barn at Amador Cellars. If your vibe is wine and chilling outside, you’ve found your venue. Here’s another place that won’t break the bank, too, which is always nice. The venue itself, the barn, is gorgeous. Old-fashioned with aged wood, it’s been plunked down right in the middle of a vineyard that makes for some stunning photo ops. There’s a bridal boudoir on-site which is always nice, and plenty of room for your guests. Golden hour was to-die for here, too. Just a charming and delightful venue. Highly recommended!

Whew! That’s a lot of venues. But in all honesty, there are so many beautiful wedding venues in California, it’s hard to cover them all. Check out my website for more ideas. My portfolio showcases a few more spots. Hope you found this blog helpful! If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to contact me.