🌊
With its breathtaking coastline, charming vineyards, and historic estates, the Carmel and Monterey area offers some of the most stunning wedding venues in California. Whether you envision an intimate garden ceremony, a rustic ranch wedding, or a grand oceanfront celebration, these six exceptional venues provide the perfect backdrop for your special day.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Mission Ranch, owned by iconic actor and director Clint Eastwood, is a historic property that combines rustic charm with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and Point Lobos. The ranch offers a unique blend of pastoral serenity and coastal beauty, making it a sought-after wedding destination. The expansive green lawn, often adorned with grazing sheep, provides a picturesque setting for ceremonies, while the historic barns offer a warm and inviting atmosphere for receptions.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Although it is often overcast in Carmel, Ashley + Christian were treated to the most sun-soaked ceremony over the Mission Ranch lawn for their fall wedding. Taking a stroll by the sheep grazing area is always a perfect way for couples to get a moment to themselves and capture some fabulous portraits as well.
Other magical moments here: The Patio Barn features a wall of glass doors that open onto a brick patio, allowing guests to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and scenic views, creating an inviting and relaxed atmosphere.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Venue Capacity: Mission Ranch can accommodate both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. It's essential to discuss your guest list with the venue coordinator to ensure a perfect fit.
Accommodations: The ranch offers charming on-site accommodations, allowing guests to immerse themselves fully in the experience.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Perched atop a cliff overlooking the majestic Big Sur coastline, the Hyatt Carmel Highlands offers an unparalleled wedding venue that seamlessly combines natural splendor with refined elegance. Ceremonies are held on an open-air redwood deck, surrounded by glass, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the stunning surroundings. Receptions can be hosted in various elegant spaces, such as the Oceanside Ballroom, which features natural hardwood floors, vaulted 16-foot ceilings, and two wood-burning fireplaces, all overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: The ceremony view on the open-air deck is always spectacular, and Claire + Andrew’s day did not disappoint. They also decided to drive a bit further down the historic Big Sur Coast and go on an adventure for some epic ocean views and portraits.
Other magical moments here: Dancing the night away in the Oceanside Ballroom, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the ocean cliffs, under a canopy of stars, adds a magical touch to the celebration.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Wedding Packages: The Hyatt Carmel Highlands provides wedding packages that include essentials such as ceremony chairs, reception chairs, linens, banquet tables, and more. Reviewing these packages can help streamline your planning and ensure all necessary elements are covered.
Weather Considerations: Coastal weather can be unpredictable, so having a contingency plan for outdoor events is advisable to ensure comfort for all attendees.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Located in the heart of historic downtown Monterey, The Barns at Cooper Molera is a beautifully restored property that combines rustic charm with modern amenities. Originally developed by an American sea captain in the early 19th century, this historic venue now serves as a vibrant, all-inclusive event space. Managed by the Events By Classic Group, the venue offers a range of indoor and outdoor spaces, including lush gardens, expansive outdoor terraces, and a picturesque barn, providing abundant photo opportunities. The property can accommodate up to 300 wedding guests, ensuring a memorable experience for all.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Cassia Foret Floral knocked it out of the park for Jessica & Alex’s Ceremony & Reception setup. There are several different ceremony setups depending on what you want as your backdrop, and Cassia did such a beautiful job blending the floral into the environment. The Barn itself is picture-perfect for receptions, and its indoor/outdoor vibe fits perfectly for wedding days.
Other magical moments here: As night falls, the venue’s string lights illuminate the space, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere for you and your guests to enjoy. The venue’s rich history adds a unique and timeless backdrop to your wedding, making your special day even more memorable.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Vendor Policies: The venue may have a list of preferred vendors familiar with the property's layout and requirements, ensuring a smooth planning process.
Parking and Accessibility: Located downtown, consider transportation arrangements for guests, such as shuttle services, to alleviate parking concerns and ensure easy access.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Nestled in a sunlit valley just five miles inland from the Pacific coast, The Holly Farm is a secluded, family-owned estate offering an intimate and enchanting setting for weddings. Established over a century ago, this six-and-a-half-acre property features the last holly "farm" in California, with 49 majestic holly trees lining both sides of the entrance drive. The estate boasts lush gardens, winding paths, sun-filled cottages, and diverse plant life, providing a magical backdrop for couples seeking a private celebration.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: The venue’s unique landscape offers a captivating backdrop for Katy & Bill’s ceremony, with guests gathered under towering trees adorned with vibrant floral. The rich greenery and secluded atmosphere created such a cozy, magical vibe. Ending the night with disco vibes, tons of ABBA, and an ice luge was an epic end to a perfect day.
Other magical moments here: There are so many chances to add touches of the couples vibe into the venue, and The Holly Farm is always super open and flexible with customizing based on the couple’s needs, to make every wedding day truly reflect the couple’s personalities.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Exclusive Use: The Holly Farm offers exclusive use of the property, allowing for personalized and uninterrupted celebrations.
Accommodation: On-site lodging is available for a limited number of guests, enhancing the intimate experience and providing convenience.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
The Club at Pasadera, located in Monterey, California, is a private country club renowned for its Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course and elegant event spaces. The venue’s design is inspired by old-world Spanish architecture, featuring rustic buildings, neatly manicured lawns, and lush gardens, creating a distinctive hacienda setting. This combination of architectural charm and natural beauty provides a romantic backdrop for weddings and events.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Ashley’s day began with getting ready in the venue’s Spanish style villa, with rolling views of the golf course. Joe waited patiently outside the villa for an intimate, heartfelt first look moment.
Other magical moments here: Receptions under the stars in the picturesque cobblestone courtyard with a splashing triple-tiered fountain and a majestic 100-year-old oak tree, is an ideal way to end the night.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Event Spaces: The Club at Pasadera offers multiple indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for flexibility in planning your ceremony and reception.
Wedding Packages: Comprehensive wedding packages are offered that can simplify your planning. These packages may include essentials such as ceremony and reception chairs, linens, banquet tables, and more.
WHY IT’S SPECIAL:
Tehàma Golf Club, owned by Clint Eastwood, offers a distinctive and enchanting setting for weddings, harmoniously blending natural beauty with refined elegance. Perched atop a hill, the venue provides panoramic views of Carmel Valley and Monterey Bay, creating a breathtaking backdrop for ceremonies and cocktail hours. The Spanish-style clubhouse features a bar, restaurant, ballroom, and four elegantly appointed guest suites, ensuring a luxurious and comfortable experience for couples and their guests.
BEST WEDDING FILM MOMENTS:
In the above featured film: Kayla & Hayden exchange vows on the expansive lawn with panoramic views of Monterey Bay as their backdrop. Later for portraits, the setting sun cast a warm glow over the hillside, creating a breathtaking glow for the couple to bask in.
Other magical moments here: Having cocktail hour on the expansive terrace allows guests to mingle while taking in the panoramic views and gentle ocean breezes. You can extend the celebration outdoors by dancing beneath the stars on the terrace, with twinkling lights creating a magical ambiance.
PLANNING ADVICE:
Exclusive Venue: As a private club, Tehàma offers an exclusive and intimate setting for your wedding.
On-Site Accommodations: The club's four guest suites provide convenient lodging options for the wedding party or close family members.
Selecting the perfect venue is a pivotal step in crafting your dream wedding. In the Carmel and Monterey regions, options abound, from the rustic charm of Mission Ranch to the cliffside elegance of Hyatt Carmel Highlands, the historic allure of The Barns at Cooper Molera, and the secluded enchantment of The Holly Farm. Each venue offers a unique backdrop that can transform your special day into an unforgettable experience. By choosing a setting that resonates with your vision, you’re ensuring a celebration that reflects your love story amidst California’s stunning central coast.