A Dream Wedding In California: Is It Possible?

Planning a wedding can be stressful, and one of the most important aspects is deciding on the guest list. A recent social media post by a bride-to-be sparked a discussion about whether it is appropriate to invite coworkers to a wedding. The user explained that she had worked at the same company for four years and enjoyed good relationships with her coworkers, but felt nervous about mixing her professional and personal lives. Commenters and an etiquette expert weighed in, agreeing that it is generally acceptable to invite colleagues to a personal event like a wedding. However, the situation may become tricky if all coworkers are not invited, in which case it is recommended to send invitations privately and minimise public discussion about the event.

Wedding venues in California

California is a great place for a wedding, with its mild weather, stunning scenery, and a wide range of venues to choose from. Whether you're looking for a beach wedding, a vineyard celebration, or a rustic barn setting, the Golden State has something for everyone.

Northern California Wedding Venues

Northern California offers a variety of scenic backdrops for your big day, from the rolling hills of Napa Valley to the sandy beaches of San Francisco. Here are some notable venues in the region:

• The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe: This luxurious resort offers a woodsy lodge experience on the shores of one of the most beautiful lakes in the world.
• Alila, St. Helena: A Northern California wedding venue situated next to the Beringer Estate Winery, offering several indoor and outdoor options with a modern-rustic aesthetic.
• Auberge du Soleil, Rutherford: This 33-acre property features 50 rooms and suites, olive and oak trees, sunshine, and fine dining experiences.
• The Ahwahnee, Yosemite Valley: Yosemite's premier upscale resort offers breathtaking views and four-course wedding meals served indoors or outdoors.
• San Francisco City Hall: A classic and iconic choice for civil ceremonies, with the option to book larger events through the San Francisco City Hall Events Department.
• The Ritz-Carlton, San Francisco: A glamorous choice for indoor or outdoor weddings, featuring an elegant ballroom and a circular patio surrounded by manicured hedges and flowers.

Southern California Wedding Venues

Southern California is known for its sunny skies and diverse venues, ranging from beachfront resorts to rustic vineyards. Here are some popular choices:

• The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara: This venue offers Spanish Colonial architecture and unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean for your dream beachfront ceremony.
• Rosewood Miramar Beach, Montecito: Accommodating up to 400 guests, this venue features a Great Lawn just steps from the train tracks and the beachfront area, as well as three additional outdoor event spaces.
• Bel Vino Winery, Temecula: Located in the heart of Temecula Valley, this venue offers a secluded and romantic outdoor wedding experience with panoramic views of vineyards and a Mediterranean atmosphere.
• Surf and Sand Resort, Laguna Beach: This waterfront resort boasts scenic oceanfront views, tranquil fountains, and a pampering spa, providing a breathtaking backdrop for your special day.
• San Diego Mission Bay Resort and Spa, San Diego: A premier beachfront resort offering romantic picture-perfect spaces overlooking the water, including white sand beaches and palm-rimmed patios.

Central California Wedding Venues

Central California also has its fair share of charming wedding venues, including rustic vineyards and elegant banquet halls. Here are some options to consider:

• Evanelle Vineyards, Madera: A rustic-yet-chic wedding destination offering a beautiful Tuscan-style villa and convenient access to California's Central Valley.
• The Gardens at Heather Farm, Walnut Creek: This exquisite indoor/outdoor venue encompasses 6.5 acres of landscaped gardens and a two-level banquet and meeting facility that can accommodate up to 150 guests.
• Park Winters, Napa Valley: A five-star, historic wedding venue and country estate nestled amidst verdant farmlands, featuring formal gardens, a Victorian Inn, and a chic event barn.
• Brea Community Center, Brea: A classic banquet hall venue offering several lovely event spaces, perfect for weddings of all sizes, as well as engagement parties, showers, and other special occasions.
• VINA Estate, Roseville: A barn and farm wedding venue that appeals to couples seeking a relaxing and tranquil setting, surrounded by nature and offering exclusive experiences.

California's diverse landscape and year-round mild weather make it an ideal location for outdoor weddings, with venues to suit every taste and budget.

Wedding costs

Location

The cost of a wedding in California can differ significantly depending on the chosen venue and its location. For example, the average cost of a wedding in San Francisco is $51,000, while a wedding in a smaller city like Sacramento will set you back around $30,000. If you're looking for a more rural setting, a wedding in California City will cost an average of $37,673 to $46,045.

Number of Guests

The number of guests you invite will also impact the overall cost. Each additional guest can add an estimated $167 to $204 to your total budget. In 2023, the average number of guests at a wedding was 115, but this number can vary greatly depending on your preferences and budget.

Major Expenses

When it comes to wedding expenses, there are several key areas that tend to be the most costly. These include:

• Venue rental: Reserving a venue is often one of the priciest components, with the typical cost amounting to thousands of dollars.
• Catering: Providing food and drinks for your guests is another significant expense, with an average cost of $4,075 for a wedding of 66 guests.
• Engagement ring: The cost of an engagement ring can vary widely, but on average, it costs around $5,204.
• Entertainment: Hiring a band for the reception can be expensive, with an average cost of $3,263. A DJ is a more affordable option, usually costing around $1,058.
• Photography and videography: Capturing your special day through photos and videos also comes at a price, with an average cost of $2,117 and $1,588, respectively.
• Florist and decorations: Flowers and decorations can quickly add up, with an average cost of $1,764 for a florist.

Ways to Save

If you're looking to keep costs down, there are a few areas where you can save money:

• Wedding favours: These tend to be one of the least expensive parts of a wedding, with an average cost of $353.
• Wedding cake: A wedding cake usually costs around $441, but you can save money by serving smaller pieces or opting for a smaller cake with additional sheet cakes.
• Invitations: Instead of fancy invitations, consider making your own cards or sending electronic invitations via email.
• Transportation: You can limit the size of a hired vehicle or even walk to the reception venue if it's close by to reduce transportation costs.

Average Costs in California

To give you an idea of the overall cost, the average price of a wedding in California with 100 to 150 guests is estimated to be between $20,880 and $25,520. However, this can vary greatly depending on your specific choices and preferences.

Planning a wedding can be a complex and costly endeavour, but with careful consideration and budgeting, you can create your dream wedding within your financial means.

Wedding invitations

Design and Materials

The design of your invitations should ideally coordinate with your wedding theme and venue. For instance, if you are having a beach wedding, you could opt for invitations with a watercolour beach backdrop or palm tree illustrations. If your wedding has a floral theme, you could deck out your invitations in floral illustrations, perhaps even hand-painted in splashy shades to make the blooms life-like. If your wedding venue is the focal point of your day, you could showcase it by including a picturesque illustration of the setting.

You could also consider the following design ideas:

• Acrylic or vellum backgrounds for a modern, elegant look
• Fun shapes, such as circles, ovals, or arches, instead of the conventional rectangular card
• Playful font colours, hand-painted artwork, or emblems that symbolise your relationship
• Chinoiserie, a charming, wallpaper-inspired print that features cherry blossoms and bas-relief birds
• A celestial theme, featuring constellations, stars, a crescent moon, and sunbeams, perfect if you're a spiritual couple or are getting married beneath a starry night
• A vintage vibe, with hand-torn edges, gold foil, and old-world calligraphy

Wording and Information

When it comes to the wording and information included on your invitations, it is important to provide your guests with all the necessary details while also keeping the text concise and clear. Here are some tips:

• Include the names of the couple, the date, time, and location of the wedding, as well as any other relevant information such as the dress code or wedding website.
• Be mindful of the format and alignment of the text. You can opt for a traditional left-aligned format or get creative with a non-traditional format, such as displaying each word in a random pattern.
• If you have a lot of information to include, consider a multi-page booklet-style invitation or direct guests to your wedding website for additional details.

Stationery and Printing

When choosing your wedding stationery, consider the type of paper or material you want to use, as well as any additional decorations or finishes. Here are some options:

• Cardstock: This is a traditional choice and can be paired with elegant black font or playful font colours.
• Acrylic: A modern and elegant option, especially when paired with gilded touches like gold font or borders.
• Vellum: A translucent paper with a waxy, smooth finish that is durable and perfect for modern invites.
• Leather: A chic and unexpected addition, especially for Western-themed weddings.
• Scrolls: For an ultimate luxury feel, consider replacing plain paper with a scroll, perhaps with an intricate border and gold details.

You can also add a delicate edge to your invitations by wrapping them in ribbon or finishing them with a wax seal.

California-Based Wedding Invitation Services

If you are looking for professional help with your wedding invitations, here are some California-based companies that can assist you:

• 300pxl (Redondo Beach): Offers a range of products, including invitations and thank-you cards, with a personal touch.
• VIP Invitations and Events (Burbank): An event planning and stationery company that can help bring your wedding vision to life.
• Inscriptu, Inc. (San Diego): Provides a wide selection of custom wedding stationery, from gold foil RSVPs to laser-engraved wooden invitations.
• Coffee n Cream Press (San Francisco): A full-service stationery business specialising in letterpress and fine art background designs.
• Cartalia (Newport Beach): A luxury wedding stationery service specialising in personalised, one-of-a-kind designs.
• Invitation Design Studio (Tustin): A full-service invitation business offering customised invitations as unique and beautiful as your relationship.
• Adrienne D. Keats Calligraphy (San Francisco): A wedding invitation company offering fluid script and print styles ranging from casual to elegant.
• Hello Hapa (Newport Beach): Provides a range of calligraphy services and products for your special day.
• Corrick's Stationery (Sonoma County): Premier source for invitations and stationery, featuring hundreds of samples and offering free consultation appointments.
• Triple C's Invitations (Fresno): A wedding invitation and stationery company serving couples in and around the Central Valley.
• Siraj Studio (Anaheim): Specialises in Islamic, Middle Eastern, and South Asian designs, collaborating with you to celebrate your special day your way.
• Tawny Tsang Calligraphy (Inland Empire): An affordable calligrapher offering wedding invitations, name tags, name cards, and save-the-date banners.
• Fabulously Unique Designs (Huntington Beach): Provides custom invitations and stationery goods for weddings across the United States.

You can also explore online platforms like Etsy, which offers a wide range of California-themed wedding invitation designs, including digital and printable options.

Wedding planning

Planning a wedding in California involves several steps, from choosing a venue to selecting vendors and obtaining the necessary legal documents. Here is a guide to help you navigate the process and create your dream wedding in the Golden State.

Decide on the Type of Wedding:

Before diving into the details, it's essential to have a clear vision of the type of wedding you want. Do you dream of a grand celebration with all your friends and family or an intimate gathering? Do you prefer a traditional ceremony or something more unique? Defining the style and size of your wedding will guide your planning process.

Determine Your Budget:

Weddings can be expensive, so setting a realistic budget is crucial. Discuss your financial situation and decide how much you can comfortably spend. Consider creating a spreadsheet to track expenses and allocate funds accordingly. Don't forget to include a contingency amount for unexpected costs.

Choose a Venue:

Selecting a venue is one of the most critical decisions in wedding planning. California offers a diverse range of options, from beachside locations to rustic wineries and elegant ballrooms. Consider the number of guests, your preferred setting, and whether you want an indoor or outdoor space. Research and visit venues to find the perfect spot that aligns with your vision and budget.

Set a Date:

The choice of date may depend on the availability of your chosen venue and vendors. If you have a preferred season or month in mind, check the availability of your desired venue and start reaching out to vendors to secure their services. Fridays and Sundays are typically more affordable than Saturdays, and opting for an off-peak season may provide more flexibility and cost savings.

Hire Vendors:

Vendors play a crucial role in bringing your wedding to life. This includes caterers, photographers, florists, musicians, and rental companies. Research and compare different vendors, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from friends or other couples who have recently tied the knot. Meet with potential vendors, discuss your vision, and ask for quotes to find the best fit within your budget.

Legal Requirements:

To legally marry in California, you must obtain the necessary documents from the relevant authorities. Research and understand the state's marriage laws and requirements to ensure you have all the required paperwork in order.

Create a Timeline:

Develop a detailed timeline for your wedding day, including preparations, the ceremony, and any other activities. Share the timeline with your wedding party and vendors to ensure a smooth flow of events.

Send Invitations:

Finalise your guest list and send out invitations with clear information. Include RSVP options and track responses to manage your guest list and catering needs effectively.

Finalize the Details:

In the lead-up to your wedding, confirm all the logistics with your vendors and wedding party. Create a comprehensive plan for the day, including a timeline and any special requests or instructions.

Enjoy Your Big Day:

On your wedding day, let go of any worries and savour the moments. Delegate any last-minute tasks to your wedding party or vendors, and focus on celebrating with your loved ones.

Wedding music

Music is an integral part of a wedding, and California offers a wide range of musical options to make your big day memorable. From solo musicians to bands and ensembles, you can choose the style and sound that best suits your taste and vision.

For a touch of elegance and sophistication, consider hiring a harpist or a string quartet. Harpists like Krista Strader, Aysha Gomez-Kureishi, and Naomi Alter are experienced performers who have played for international royalty, Hollywood celebrities, and government dignitaries. Their heavenly-sounding harp music can add a touch of magic to your wedding, creating an elegant and romantic atmosphere. Alternatively, string quartets such as Eliana Strings or the Organic String Quartet can provide beautiful classical music or even pop arrangements for a unique twist.

If you prefer the sound of a guitar, there are many talented guitarists in California who specialize in wedding music. Jason Sulkin, Luke Metzler, and Christopher Nicklin are just a few examples of musicians who offer classical and contemporary guitar arrangements. They can create a warm and romantic ambiance for your ceremony and cocktail hour. For something a little different, you could also consider a saxophonist like Cameron Black or Tyler Varnell, who can bring unmatched energy and stage presence to your celebration.

Vocalists are also a popular choice for wedding music. The Diaz Duo, a husband-and-wife team, offer an unforgettable musical experience with their powerful voices. Jemille Vialet is another talented vocalist who seamlessly blends various genres, including reggae, R&B, pop, and soft rock, to cater to different musical preferences.

Whether you choose a solo musician or a band, live music can add a magical touch to your wedding. Be sure to book your favourite artist well in advance, as their schedules can fill up quickly!

Frequently asked questions