Since becoming a wedding floral specialist in 2005, I’ve seen firsthand how couples who chose the wrong venue dampened the day’s enchantment, causing logistical headaches, insufficient amenities, and too small spaces. I’ve compiled the ultimate list of the best wedding venues in California that can complement any floral arrangement.
Best Wedding Venues in California According to an Expert
Four Seasons Calistoga, Montage Healdsburg, Stanly Ranch, Carneros Resort, Edgewood Tahoe, Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, and Beaulieu Garden Napa provide some of California’s most beautiful and luxurious wedding venues. With stunning backdrops and natural charm, these resorts offer indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception sites to fit any wedding style.
California’s landscape offers a stunning array of wedding venues to suit every taste. As a floral expert, I’ve had the pleasure of arranging blooms in these locations. Selecting the perfect venue is paramount, as it serves as the canvas upon which the wedding aesthetic unfolds.
Four Seasons Calistoga
In the heart of wine country, the Four Seasons Calistoga provides an idyllic backdrop for a wedding. I often recommend this venue because of its versatility, which makes it easy to incorporate wedding flower trends.
“Get married at the lakeside with the olive trees surrounding you or in the middle of a vineyard in a beautiful barn…whatever you desire. A grand affair or the more quaint design you dream of for your big day, the Four Seasons has it.”
- Location: Silverado Trail North, Calistoga
- Best for: Vineyard ceremonies, luxury receptions
- Capacity: 50-170
Montage Resort, Healdsburg
The luxury hotel at Montage Healdsburg is where luxury meets nature, providing a canvas that I can adorn with florals to complement the breathtaking vistas.
“The Montage Resort is ideal for an exclusive wedding weekend or corporate event. Your ceremony can be on a hillside surrounded by majestic oaks with a tented reception centered in a vineyard. So timeless and picturesque.”
- Location: Montage Way, Healdsburg
- Best for: Opulent outdoor weddings, modern elegance
- Capacity: 450
Stanly Ranch
Stanly Ranch, Auberge Resorts Collection is the epitome of a Napa Valley Vibe. As you arrive, drive down pretty vine-lined roads to the property. The rooms are all bungalow-detached style and very curated and well-appointed for that home-away-from-home atmosphere.
“Lavender-cutting gardens and gravel pathways keep the vibe rustic yet somehow perfect for everyone who strolls these pathways wherever in the world your real home is. Your ceremony can be on a hillside dwarfed by the massive infinity sign, on a lawn, in a vaulted modern bar, or in the cutting garden.”
- Location: Stanly Crossroad, Napa
- Best for: Wine country elegance, rustic chic
- Capacity: 300
Carneros Resort and Spa
An expansive property, gardens, bocce balls, and amazing restaurants are just a glimpse of the Carneros Resort and Spa. The private and exclusive feel of giant gates as you drive onto the property.
“Your ceremony can be on a hillside overlooking the rolling hills and fields or at the massive built-in arbor with a private lawn. Reception spaces at Carneros Resort vary from vaulted ballrooms to tented or untented lawns and giant courtyards complete with fireplaces.”
- Location: Sonoma Highway, Napa
- Best for: Wine country elegance, rustic chic
- Capacity: 300
Edgewood Tahoe
Situated between Nevada and California, the Edgewood Tahoe offers a lakeside locale unlike any other. This venue is unparalleled for couples wanting lakeside vows with mountain views. I find it perfect for incorporating natural woodland florals.
“Vaulted entry windows open up to the huge view of Lake Tahoe. Directly on the shoreline is a massive lawn for you and all your guests to take in the majesty of the lake and mountain vistas.”
- Location: Lake Parkway, Stateline
- Best for: Rustic lakeside ceremonies, mountain backdrops
- Capacity: 130-150
Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe
At the Ritz Carlton Lake Tahoe, winter weddings are magical. Mountain views meet luxury service here, and the alpine setting is a dream for creating warm, inviting flower arrangements.
“A timeless wood shaker-style lodge in the pine-wooded forest surrounding this classic spot. Wooded wonderland or a French château design, either look can be achieved.”
- Location: Ritz Carlton Highlands Court, Truckee
- Best for: Winter weddings, upscale mountain events, modern luxury
- Capacity: 400-520
Beaulieu Garden Napa
Beaulieu Garden Napa is a hidden gem bursting with old-world charm. Its lush gardens provide a naturally romantic setting that is a joy to enhance with my floral designs.
“We love the quiet and charming and private atmosphere at the Beaulieu Garden. There are so many amazing options at this venue, from pergolas dripping with blooming vines and Italian gardens to poolside lawns and long stretches of canopied tree-lined streets.”
- Location: Saint Helena Highway, Rutherford
- Best for: Garden weddings, historical venues, boho chic
- Capacity: 375-400
Rosewood Sand Hill
Rosewood Sand Hill marries the sophistication of Silicon Valley with the tranquility of the Santa Cruz Mountains. It’s my go-to for creating high-tech couples’ dream weddings amid natural splendor.
There’s secured parking and street parking around the area, so delivering the flowers to the wedding venue is a breeze.
- Location: Sand Hill Road, Menlo Park
- Best For: Chic, serene weddings, garden romance
- Capacity: 200-350
Rosewood Miramar Beach
The Rosewood Miramar Beach exudes coastal elegance. Beach weddings are becoming more popular because they can provide a chill, laid back vibe.
This venue is sublime for brides and grooms seeking beachfront vows, and the ocean provides the perfect backdrop for seaside floral arrangements.
- Location: South Jameson Lane, Montecito
- Best for: Beach weddings, luxury retreats, California casual
- Capacity: 400
Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach
Legendary golf scenery and coastal allure define Spanish Bay, Pebble Beach. It’s a quintessential California venue where I love to curate florals that echo the coastal charm and link to golf heritage.
“The iconic venue of Spanish Bay has spectacular ocean views. Load-in for the lawn is a bit of a walk up and downhill on a golf path. While the loading dock is easily accessible, beware of strong gusty winds.”
- Location: Mile Drive, Pebble Beach
- Best for: Golf enthusiasts, ocean views
- Capacity: 340-800
Ojai Valley Inn
Ojai Valley Inn blends rustic elegance with chic California style, making it a favorite among couples and florists alike.
“The Ojai Valley property feels like an oasis. There are many ceremony locations to choose from, such as the courtyard, cottage lawn, and farmhouse lawn. Load-in for the farmhouse is easy, with parking directly behind for easy load-in and out.”
- Location: Country Club Road, Ojai
- Best for: Rustic yet luxurious weddings, bohemian
- Capacity: 60-600
Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach
The pristine Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach setting is perfect for those dreaming of an oceanfront wedding. The expansive sea vista is a splendid canvas for beach-themed floral installations.
“Weddings at Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort are celebrations beyond expectation. Choose from romantic indoor and outdoor venues offering breathtaking views and elegant details that reflect the coastal setting.”
- Location: Monarch Beach Resort North, Dana Point
- Best for: Coastal ceremonies, grand receptions, beachside glam
- Capacity: 300
Calamigos Ranch
With enchanting natural landscapes, the Calamigos Ranch provides a woodland retreat for a fairytale wedding. I find the natural setting ideal for whimsical and wildflower-inspired bouquets.
Research shows that even a few minutes of exposure to nature can relieve stress, making the ranch a helpful place to alleviate wedding jitters.
- Location: Latigo Canyon Road, Malibu
- Best for: Rustic glamour, outdoor festivities, boho chic
- Capacity: 50-600
Terranea Resort
The Terranea Resort feels like a Mediterranean escape. Cascading bouquets and lush greenery enhance its cliffside location, making it a breathtaking choice for any nuptial event.
About 60% of destination weddings happen outdoors, implying that breathtaking views and sun-drenched beaches remain popular among weddings.
- Location: Terranea Way, Rancho Palos Verdes
- Best for: Ocean bluff ceremonies
- Capacity: 900
Parker Palm Springs
The Parker Palm Springs carries a playful yet elegant atmosphere that is an absolute pleasure for theming with vibrant and unique florals suited to its quirky style.
The venue’s layout makes it efficient to repurpose wedding flowers from the ceremony to the reception.
- Location: Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs
- Best for: Chic, designer weddings, Mid-century modern
- Capacity: 30-410
Resort at Pelican Hill
The Resort at Pelican Hill offers panoramic ocean views and an Italian-inspired ambiance. Its elegant grounds are a dream to accent with traditional, romantic floral designs.
“The iconic rotunda is so picturesque and an unforgettable backdrop for your wedding ceremony overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The Rotunda fabric can be challenging, so hire someone with experience for this.”
- Location: South Pelican Hill Road, Newport Coast
- Best for: Coastal Italian villa, Tuscan-inspired
- Capacity: 400-600
Montage Laguna Beach
With the Pacific Ocean as its backdrop, Montage Laguna Beach is a venue that captures the essence of California luxury. Its stunning setting inspires me to create lavish and graceful floral creations.
“However, load-in for this venue is very difficult because parking is non-existent or street only. There is no easy access to the lawn except for long pathways with carts.”
- Location: Coast Highway, Laguna Beach
- Best for: Beachfront luxury, panoramic views
- Capacity: 240-500
Ritz Carlton Laguna
The Ritz Carlton Laguna combines oceanfront opulence with impeccable service. It’s the perfect venue for grand and sophisticated floral displays that match the venue’s prestige.
“There are so many reception spaces here at the Ritz Carlton Laguna, including private detached ballrooms, lawns, and terraced ballrooms. Walk along the beach path and catch a few sunsets you will never forget.”
- Location: One Ritz Carlton Drive, Dana Point
- Best for: Grand oceanfront events, clifftop views, nautical chic
- Capacity: 700-900
Park Hyatt Aviara
Set amidst coastal beauty, Park Hyatt Aviara shines for its verdant spaces and luxurious touch. I love to create floral arrangements that play off the venue’s natural elegance.
“Park Hyatt Aviara is ideal for an exclusive wedding weekend with so much to do in the area. Your ceremony can be on an extensive lawn space overlooking the ocean in the distance. The reception spaces are just as numerous.”
- Location: Aviara Resort Drive, Carlsbad
- Best for: Sophisticated weddings with a natural touch, golf course glam, modern elegance
- Capacity: 50-300
Fairmont Grand Del Mar
Fairmont Grand Del Mar reflects the grandeur of old Europe. It’s the perfect location for creating opulent, classic floral arrangements that complement its majestic architecture.
“A beautiful premier venue in sunny San Diego, the Fairmont Grand Del Mar has the perfect amenities for party entertainment. There is easy access to the lawn. It’s a short-hand carry-on walkway around the perimeter.”
- Location: Grand Del Mar Court, San Diego
- Best for: Classic, European-style weddings
- Capacity: 600
Lodge Torrey Pines
At Lodge Torrey Pines, I find that the craftsman architecture pairs beautifully with organic and earthy floral designs that evoke the surrounding coastal reserve.
“Your ceremony can overlook the ocean vistas and pristine lawns of the golf course beyond. The reception spaces of Lodge Torrey Pines are cozy and romantic.”
- Location: North Torrey Pines Road, La Jolla
- Best for: Elegant, nature-inspired weddings, craftsman elegance
- Capacity: 220
Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
The perfect place to begin your life together, the Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa resort combines romantic gardens and groves for special moments, stunning bungalows, and glowing lantern-lit pathways.
Intimate courtyards, trickling fountains, and pristine lawns — all you need to do is pick which style is for you! The 45-acre property of Rancho Valencia is an elegant and remarkable setting for an unforgettable year-round wedding and wedding reception venue.
- Location: Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe
- Best for: Nature-inspired weddings, Spanish hacienda, garden luxury
- Capacity: 500
Related Questions
How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Venue in California?
To pick the perfect wedding location in California, you should first determine your wedding size and style. Then, research venues that fit your budget and offer desired amenities like catering options and lodging.
How Can I Include Flowers at California Wedding Venues?
Most venues allow outside florists and decor, so you can work with a florist to design arrangements for the ceremony and reception, like bouquets, centerpieces, and ceremony backdrops. You may also check if the venue provides floral services and customize arrangements to match your wedding color scheme and style.
What Is the Average Cost of Wedding Venues in California?
Wedding venue costs in California typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, with higher-end venues averaging $10,000 to $15,000. The key factors impacting cost are location, size, amenities, and the time of year you book. Off-peak seasons and weekdays are more budget-friendly.
Conclusion
I’ve had the joy of crafting floral arrangements and event designs that complement California’s diverse venues. By considering your priorities, budget, and wedding style when researching venues, you can narrow down the best wedding venues in California to find your perfect wedding location.
