Santa Cruz Dream Inn

Dream Inn My ideal venue criteria was specific- ocean view, outdoor ceremony with an option to pivot indoors, easy transition between the ceremony, cocktails, and dinner, delicious and plentiful food, doesn't look like a dank banquet room.  We had a 75-person wedding with a beach ceremony, cocktail hour, buffet dinner, and dancing. I loved the idea of everything in one place, but was hesitant about a hotel banquet room wedding reception and banquet food. We got neither. It was gorgeous and intimate and people are still talking about the food.  Staff- I have to start with Shelby and Briana. When I say these two women went above and beyond, that doesn't scratch the surface. From the first contact, through the endless pivots and quote adjustments,  tours with my mom and best friend and me on video, to  constant changes as the wedding evolved, they were gracious, responsive, and accommodating.  They were proactive, honest, and worked seamlessly with all of my vendors. They were genuinely lovely to have as part of the lead up and day.  Beach Ceremony- The ceremony was at the end of January, so we had no idea what the weather would be. We created a backup plan we didn't have to execute. In fact, Shelby and team provided last minute shade for a my guests in the unseasonably warm weather. The ceremony location is easy access from the hotel and valet parking was included for guests. Among the best parts was the seating provided on the pool deck that provided guests with mobility issues a perfect view of the wedding.  Cocktail Hour- I was a bit worried about the cocktail hour feeling like it was in a parking lot, but no. It was intimate and lovely. We opted for a selection of passed appetizers and the charcuterie station. Guests were well-fed, even before dinner started.  Reception- A wraparound view from the Boardwalk to West Cliff speaks for itself majorly reduces the need for decor. The lighting was warm and festive, not fluorescent and conferencey. We had ample space for our guests, dancing, and a big photo setup. The serving and bar staff was friendly and attentive. The food was incredible! We did the short rib and chicken option for dinner and churros and wings for a late night snack. While they don't do menu tastings, you can visit O'Neill's to taste many menu items and wine offerings, and get a feel for the food.  Overall, I am beyond pleased. My family and friends still talk about how much they loved the wedding, the vibe, the food, the ease. It would not have been all that it was without the Dream Inn, Kelsey, and the staff. 

We were very happy with our Dream Inn wedding this August. On top of Dream being a gorgeous, vibey venue, Shelby Getsla made the experience seamless, supporting us from the moment we reached out all the way through to the wedding reception. Shelby is so easy to work with, and she and her team put in so much work to help bring our vision to life. I highly recommend working with Shelby at Dream Inn if you get the opportunity!