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Updated Feb 10, 2023The 13 Most Romantic Wedding Venues in the Bay Area
Fall in love all over again in the City by the Bay.
by Kristine Fellizar
Updated Jun 18, 2021
Whether you're looking to have an intimate wedding ceremony or something more grand, the San Francisco Bay Area is home to some of the most romantic wedding venues in Northern California. San Francisco itself is one of the most beautiful cities in the country due to its historical landmarks, Victorian architecture, and overall eclectic vibe. But there's so much more beauty to be found in the surrounding areas as well. For instance, a short drive to the hills of Berkeley and Oakland sits the luxurious the Claremont Club and Spa, also known as the "White Castle on the Hill." It's the epitome of glam and elegance, perfect for those looking to go all out for their wedding day. For an outdoor ceremony that's guaranteed to stun your guests, a June wedding in Sonoma Valley Wine Country is sure to do just that when the lavender is in full bloom.
Truth be told, there are so many reasons why the Bay Area should be the location of your destination wedding.If you're in the middle of wedding planning, The Knot has all the info you need from the best event spaces in the South Bay to hold your rehearsal dinner to the wedding photographers best suited to capture your big day. With that said, check out the 13 most romantic Northern California wedding venues.
Fortino Winery in Gilroy, California
Fortino Winery in Gilroy, CA is one of the many wineries in the Santa Clara County Wine Trail. The historic vineyard and winery was established in 1970, and has been run by the Fortino family since then. The venue is surrounded by gorgeous scenery such as the rolling hillside, vineyards, and redwoods. The indoor event spaces such as the Barrel Room and Tasting Room have a very rustic and old world charm. Both spaces are perfect for intimate gatherings. If you're looking to have a big outdoor wedding, the Redwood Terrace holds up to 300 guests, a large dance area, has great views of their Chardonnay vines, and has a full wine and beer bar.
Nelson Family Vineyards in Ukiah, California
The Nelson Family Vineyards in Ukiah, CA is a 2,000 acre ranch that's been welcoming guests for over 65 years. It's home to acres of vineyards, valley oaks, and Christmas tress during the holiday season. The shaded redwood grove is the perfect setting for a romantic woodland wedding, and they even have a century old barn that can be used for the reception. The best part is, the ranch will be yours to enjoy on your wedding day.
Willow Heights Mansion, Morgan Hill, California
If you're looking an all-inclusive wedding venue that appeals to luxe tastes, Willow Heights Mansion in Morgan Hill, CA may be the right place for you. This award-winning venue gives you exclusive use of the mansion, which features marble fireplaces, crystal chandeliers, and a large veranda that overlooks the valley below. You can choose to have a large outdoor ceremony on the lawn, or a more private one in front of the mansion. It's a stunning chic venue that offers to take care of everything from the floral arrangements and decor, to the caterer and entertainment. Your wedding will be one guests remember for many years to come.
The Clubhouse at Boundary Oak in Walnut Creek, California
The Clubhouse at Boundary Oak is a premiere wedding and event space located in the Boundary Oak Golf Course. It's known for having beautiful views, great food, and an even greater catering team. The Clubhouse itself can accommodate up to 250 guests, and they have two sites available for wedding ceremonies. One is an open air patio that overlooks the gold course, the other is a grassy knoll that overlooks the fountain and lush greenery. It's not only a beautiful space, it's also a pretty affordable venue in the East Bay. They offer several wedding packages and run special promotions specifically for weddings.
The Club at Ruby Hill in Pleasanton, California
Established in 1996, this wedding venue located in Livermore Valley Wine Country is a definite must-see. The Club at Ruby Hill is another award-winning site that promises to deliver the wedding day of your dreams. It's located within a gated community, so there's an exclusive feel to it. The golf course and rolling hills make for amazing backgrounds for wedding photos.They have both indoor and outdoor event venues, as well as on-site catering and event specialists. In fact, no outside catering is allowed.
However, they do pride themselves on their excellent cuisine. So chances are, there won't be any complaints there.
San Ramon Waters by Wedgewood Weddings in San Ramon, California
About 35 miles east of San Francisco is the city of San Ramon. It's worth the drive for those looking to get away from the busy, fast-moving energy of the city. San Ramon Waters by Wedgewood Weddings is a "serene escape" located within the San Ramon Golf Club. It features a newly refurbished ceremony site with a dramatic willow tree to exchange vows under. Rustic stone, a white pergola with nice draping, lush greenery, fencing for privacy, and a built-in bar are all there for you to enjoy on your big day.
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Boulder Ridge by Wedgewood Weddings in San Jose, California
You'll feel like you're on top of the world when you say "I do" at Boulder Ridge by Wedgewood Weddings. The venue located in the Boulder Ridge Golf Club comes highly recommended by couples in Santa Clara County. With its "craftsman-style" architecture and panoramic views of the Almaden Valley, you and your guests have no shortage of photo spots. Just imagine how stunning the view will be once sunset hits and the lights turn on. The venue also features a large ballroom with a cozy fireplace and expansive windows for you to dine in and dance the night away.
Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley, California
Napa Valley has no shortage of amazing wedding venues, but Auberge du Soleil is considered to be the most iconic one out there. This place is as romantic and picturesque as it gets. Exchanging vows in a sunset ceremony with a panoramic view of the valley and the Mayacamas Mountains in the background? It's a magical way to your new life as a married couple. They even have special "intimate spaces" and a Michelin star-rated culinary program for petite weddings or elopements for up to 30 guests.
Poppy Ridge in Livermore, California
Poppy Ridge Golf Course located in Alameda County is a lovely setting for an outdoor ceremony. You and your partner can celebrate your love as you enjoy the hilltop panoramic view of the golf course. Following the ceremony, the site offers guests a terrace for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, as well as a reception room with floor-to-ceiling windows. The best aspect of this wedding venue is pricing. You can have your dream wine country wedding without having to break the bank.
The Mountain Terrace in Woodside, California
If your ideal wedding includes saying "I do" surrounded by California's majestic redwoods, say hello to The Mountain Terrace at Woodside. The Mountain Terrace provides both indoor and outdoor venues to celebrate your big day. If you love nature, you can have your wedding ceremony on their grassy meadow, which features bay views. Afterwards, you can enjoy the reception on their redwood deck. If you're looking for something more cozy, their country-style lodge is perfect for a rustic intimate wedding.
Chaminade Resort and Spa in Santa Cruz, California
Chaminade Resort and Spa is a Spanish-style retreat that sits on a 300-acre hilltop overlooking Monterey Bay. As you might guess, the view is spectacular and is a major draw. They even have two panoramic ocean view sites for the wedding ceremony and the reception, the Courtyard Terrace and the Sunset Patio. Chaminade Resort and Spa is also surrounded by lush greenery and acres of oak trees, redwood, and madrone. As a bonus, the weather in Santa Cruz is sunny and nice nearly all year-round.
The Lodge at Tiburon in Tiburon, California
Talk about a true hidden gem. The Lodge at Tiburon is located in a quiet sailing town just north of San Francisco. It's charming, rustic, classy, and upscale. It was made for both outdoor adventurers and those looking for a relaxing getaway. It's a lovely retreat that makes for a beautiful wedding venue. Guests are even encouraged to take advantage of the waterfront and boardwalk to stage photos with all your loved ones. The Lodge itself has 103 guest rooms for overnight visitors. Wedding parties can even arrange special experiences such as taking a wine tour in the countryside or completing a challenging hike through the rolling hills.
Conservatory of Flowers in San Francisco, California
Planning the perfect San Francisco wedding can be tough. After all, the city is so unique, and there are so many interesting event centers. Having a conventional wedding in San Francisco just doesn't seem exactly right. If you're looking to make your big day even more special, San Francisco's Conservatory of Flowers in Golden Gate Park may be the venue for you. The venue has five exhibit spaces, all of which feature different plants and flowers from all over the world. They also have other event spaces to rent out including a pavilion, a terrace, and a bridal lounge.
