Historic Wedding Locations in Southern California

There are many historic locations and venues where your wedding in Southern California can have a little piece of romantic time-gone-by in the background. No matter how many are on your guest list, you can find a venue that will accommodate your needs, and leave your guests breathless with the beauty of the location.  Most allow you to bring in your own caterer or at least have a preferred vendor list to choose from.

Some offer the availability of a horse and carriage or have beautiful gardens where you can say your vows. Others will have majestic art pieces or sculpture setting the stage.  And so many venues to choose from!   Museums, mansions, missions and more.  Southern California offers a rich history of ranches with beautiful grounds, old elaborate theaters, wonderful once upon a time churches and sea going tall ships, all waiting to make your wedding day magical and amaze your guests!

Here are some to consider:

• The historic Mission Inn in Riverside, California.  Movie stars and celebrities have gotten married there.

• Balboa Park in San Diego (pictured).  There are many museums and gardens locations to choose from. The architecture is stunning.

• The Abbey in San Diego was an Episcopal church in 1910. It makes a splendid wedding venue.

• Mission San Luis Rey in North San Diego County is rich in the California Mission history and in fact is know “King of the Missions".

• Leo Carrillo Ranch in Southern California was actually a working ranch where the actor lived. The ranch has beautiful facilities for memorable weddings and receptions.

• Twin Oaks House and Gardens estate is an exquisite mansion built in 1810 that is surrounded by magnificent gardens.  Imagine your arrival by a horse drawn carriage to the ceremony site.

• The Maritime Museum offers four different sea going ships where you can have your wedding.  From the tall ship, Star of India to the paddle wheeler, The Berkeley, you can plan your ceremony and reception around California’s maritime history.  After all, California was first discovered because of the ocean.

• And for that special Hollywood glam, consider the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. Since 1927, the hotel has been the playground of stars and celebrities.  The Roosevelt was where the Academy Awards were born and there is even a Marilyn Monroe Suite!

There are so many locations that breathe of beauty, magnificence and history in Southern California.  Including a little history in your wedding is a sure way to create memories.  Depending on the two most important elements, the budget and guest count, I know you can find the perfect place to have that historic wedding!

Photos: Balboa Park Tower courtesy of San Diego Museum of Man