George Boyle
The Pacific Coast, stretching from Washington State to San Diego, is a popular location for destination weddings. The coastline is home to quaint seaside villages, pristine beaches, and lush national forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for wedding ceremonies. The region offers a variety of venues, from boutique hotels with rooftop decks to luxurious resorts with private beaches. For those seeking a more intimate setting, there are also secluded farms and resorts perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. When planning a wedding on the Pacific Coast, couples can take advantage of the region's natural beauty, mild climate, and array of accommodations to create their dream wedding.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Location | Washington State down to San Diego |
| Scenery | National Forests, rocky coastline, pristine white beaches, quaint seaside villages, misty cliffs |
| Activities | Whale watching, biking, hiking trails |
| Venues | Whidbey Island, Oregon Coast, Newport Beach, Big Sur coastline, Central Coast |
| Features | Rustic receptions, Spanish-style guest rooms, rooftop decks, waterfront views, spas, kayaking |
| Timing | 4 a.m. PT for viewers in Los Angeles |
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What You'll Learn
Wedding venues in California State Parks
California's State Parks offer a variety of unique and beautiful wedding sites, from historic buildings to mansions, redwood forests, and beaches.
Benicia Capitol State Historic Park
Tucked behind the historic Fischer-Hanlon home, this intimate Solano County venue may accommodate up to 40 guests.
Empire Mine State Historical Park
The Gardens & Grounds at this park are available by reservation for weddings from April 15th through October 15th annually on Friday, Saturday, and Sundays only. Other dates and days are considered on an exception basis.
Sutter's Fort State Historic Park
Sacramento's earliest European settlement, this park is a wedding and reception location for couples seeking a historic setting reflecting early California.
La Purisima Mission State Historic Park
This park offers a unique setting surrounded by historic buildings and tucked within a small canyon, La Cañada de los Berros. It features a variety of venue options, including The Main Church, The Padre’s Chapel, The Historic Mission Garden, and La Sala.
Crystal Cove State Park
This park in Laguna Beach has bluff-top wedding sites and allows beach weddings.
Ed Z'berg-Sugar Pine Point State Park
This park features a beautiful lake-side location for ceremonies, with receptions taking place on the grounds of the elegant and historic Ehrman Mansion, which has a gazebo.
El Capitán State Beach
This park has a spacious yet private meadow next to the beach with pristine ocean views, making it a wonderful venue for large weddings and celebrations.
Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
This park is suitable for small weddings, with Cheatham Grove being the most popular wedding location. Due to the parking lot size and popularity as a trailhead, weddings are limited to 7 people during the summer (May to September) and 10 people at other times of the year.
Andrew Molera State Park, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park
These parks offer Big Sur-area weddings with panoramic views of the Pacific.
Carpinteria State Beach
Located 12 miles south of Santa Barbara, this park offers serene white sand beaches as a backdrop for wedding ceremonies. It also has two potential reception venues: Linden Field or covered Ramada (picnic) areas.
Other notable mentions
- Kingsburg Historical Park
- Wolf Lakes Parks, Inc.
- The Lodge at Two Moons
- Citrus Park Weddings & Events
- Lot 8
- The Fensalden on Navarro Ridge
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Pacific Coast wedding food options
Planning a wedding on the Pacific Coast? Congratulations! You've chosen a stunning location, now it's time to think about the food. Here are some ideas and options to consider for your special day:
Resort Catering
Many resorts along the Pacific Coast offer in-house catering services for weddings. These can range from basic buffets to exquisite, customized menus prepared by award-winning chefs, featuring fresh and sustainable local fare. When opting for in-house catering, be sure to read reviews and ask for recommendations to ensure the food meets your expectations.
Restaurant Catering
If you're looking for something more intimate or unique, consider hosting your wedding at a restaurant. Restaurants often have private dining rooms or can offer exclusive use of their space for special events. This option can be ideal for smaller weddings, as you'll have the food and venue taken care of in one go. Plus, restaurants are experts at putting on a great dining experience!
BYO Catering
If you're looking for a more hands-on approach, some venues along the Pacific Coast offer the option to bring your own catering. This can be a great way to personalize your wedding menu and work with a caterer or specific food vendors of your choice. Keep in mind that this option may require more coordination and planning on your part, but it can also be a fun way to create a unique dining experience for your guests.
Local Specialties
When planning your wedding menu, consider incorporating local specialties and ingredients. The Pacific Coast is known for its fresh seafood, so think about including dishes like grilled fish, crab cakes, or even a seafood bar. Local produce, such as avocados, citrus fruits, and berries, can also add a delicious touch to your menu.
Drinks and Cocktails
Don't forget about the drinks! The Pacific Coast offers a variety of beverage options, from local wines and craft beers to creative cocktails featuring fresh juices and mixers. If your venue has a swim-up bar, you can even offer signature drinks or a fun cocktail hour for your guests to enjoy.
Remember, the key to a successful wedding menu is to choose options that reflect your taste and style while also considering the preferences and dietary needs of your guests. Bon appetit and happy nuptials!
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Pacific Coast wedding dates and seasons
The Pacific Coast is a popular destination for weddings, with its picturesque coastline stretching over 1,000 miles from Washington State down to sunny San Diego. The region offers a variety of romantic beaches, quaint seaside villages, and serene locations for couples to exchange their vows. From the misty cliffs of Washington to the white sandy beaches of Southern California, the Pacific Coast provides a stunning natural backdrop for any wedding ceremony.
When it comes to choosing a date for a Pacific Coast wedding, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, the region experiences a Mediterranean-like climate, with mild, rainy winters and dry, sunny summers. As such, the summer months of June, July, and August are popular for outdoor weddings, as couples can take advantage of the warm weather and minimal rainfall. However, it is important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, which can result in higher prices and more crowded venues.
For those seeking a more intimate setting or looking to save on costs, the spring and fall seasons can be ideal. These shoulder seasons offer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, while still providing a good chance of pleasant weather. Spring, in particular, is a great time to take advantage of the vibrant wildflowers and blooming gardens that the Pacific Coast has to offer. Additionally, fall brings a change of scenery with colorful autumn foliage, creating a unique and romantic atmosphere for wedding celebrations.
It is worth noting that the winter months should not be overlooked, especially for those seeking a cozy and intimate wedding. While the weather can be cooler and rainier, there are still many clear days, and the dramatic backdrop of stormy seas can make for stunning wedding photos. Additionally, winter is considered the off-season, which often means lower prices and more availability at venues and accommodations.
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Pacific Coast wedding budgets
Planning a wedding on the Pacific Coast is a dream for many, with its stunning natural scenery, quaint seaside villages, and pristine beaches. Whether you're looking for a luxurious resort or a more intimate gathering, creating a budget for your special day is essential. Here are some things to consider when budgeting for a Pacific Coast wedding:
Location and Venue:
The location and venue of your wedding will likely be one of the biggest expenses. The Pacific Coast offers a variety of options, from boutique hotels to beachfront resorts and intimate bed and breakfasts. Consider the size of your guest list and the amenities you desire. Some venues charge a rental fee, while others have a food and beverage minimum. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider a public park or beach with a rentable hall or yurt for a unique and budget-friendly celebration.
Catering and Food:
Catering costs can vary significantly depending on the venue and your specific needs. Some venues offer in-house catering, while others allow you to bring your own caterer or choose from a preferred list. Consider the style of dining you prefer, such as a buffet or a seated dinner, as this will impact the cost. Don't forget to include the cost of cake, as well as any special dietary requirements for you and your guests.
Alcohol:
Alcohol can be a significant expense, especially if your venue requires you to use their bar services. Consider the number of guests and their drinking preferences. Some venues offer a consumption-based pricing model, where you pay for what your guests consume, while others may offer a flat rate per person. Don't forget to include the cost of bartenders and any bar setup fees.
Wedding Planner and Coordinator:
Hiring a wedding planner or coordinator can be a worthwhile investment, especially for destination weddings. They can help you navigate the local area and vendors, ensuring your day runs smoothly. Wedding planners typically charge a flat fee or a percentage of your total wedding budget.
Entertainment:
From bands to DJs, entertainment can add a significant cost to your budget. Consider the atmosphere you want to create and whether you require entertainment for the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Some venues may have restrictions on noise levels or the types of entertainment allowed, so be sure to check with them beforehand.
Decorations and Flowers:
The cost of decorations and flowers can vary widely depending on your taste and the availability of local florists and rental companies. Consider whether you want fresh or silk flowers, and whether you'll be using arches, centrepieces, or other decorative elements.
Remember, when creating your budget, it's important to prioritize what is most important to you and your partner. The Pacific Coast offers a range of venues and options to suit different budgets, so you can create your dream wedding without breaking the bank.
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Pacific Coast wedding locations
The Pacific Coast is a stunning location for a wedding, with its dramatic cliffs, sprawling dunes, black sand beaches, and quaint seaside villages. From Washington State down to San Diego, the Pacific Coast offers a wide array of wedding venues to choose from. Here are some ideas for Pacific Coast wedding locations:
Oregon Coast
The Oregon coast offers dramatic cliffs, sprawling dunes, and driftwood-covered shores. Consider the coastal fishing town of Pacific City, the black sand beaches of Shelter Cove, or the famous Cannon Beach for your wedding location. There are also secluded resorts perched on bluffs overlooking the Pacific, where you can wed on a private beach between Gold Beach and Brookings.
Central Coast, California
The Central Coast of California, between San Francisco and Los Angeles, is home to charming beach towns and sandy shores that are less crowded than their Southern California counterparts. Consider a historic hotel perched on a cliff overlooking the Big Sur coastline, with ceremonies on an open-air redwood deck offering panoramic views of the Pacific. There are also lavish resorts in the area with unique event spaces, such as the Redwood Cathedral and the Ocean Lawn Meadow.
Newport Beach, California
Newport Beach offers a luxurious resort wedding with sophisticated amenities and a boutique vibe. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of a sparkling bay, sleek yachts, and romantic sunsets. The resort also offers an elaborate on-site spa, perfect for pre-wedding pampering.
Carmel, California
Carmel Fields in Carmel, California, is a charming and rustic wedding venue located in a nature preserve with mature trees and beautiful views. You can choose between a beach ceremony along the coastline or a lawn ceremony with a classic gazebo backdrop.
Pacific Coast Wedding Resorts
If you're looking for a resort wedding, the Pacific Coast has many options to choose from. Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit and The Grand Bliss at Vidanta Nuevo Vallarta are two highly-rated resorts that offer a swim-up bar option for your wedding celebrations. Other resorts, such as Azul Ixtapa and Imanta, also provide excellent customer service and stunning locations for your special day.
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Frequently asked questions
The key to a wedding that runs smoothly is planning ahead. The more detailed your wedding timeline, the better.
This depends on the size of your bridal party and the complexity of the hair and makeup looks. Your hairstylists and makeup artists can advise on timing.
The photographer should arrive 30 minutes before the couple is dressed and ready.
Most couples get married between 12 pm and 5 pm. The ceremony usually lasts 30 minutes to an hour.
