The best venues of Southern California
(based off the ones I’ve actually been to)
I know, I know, this is totally subjective to taste and preferences, but I wanted to share some of the best venues I’ve been to in the past year. And by the best, I really just mean my favorites. I’m determining my favorites based off a few things as a photographer:
lighting - natural and even lighting isn’t a deal-breaker, but it undoubtedly has a major impact on your photos. Venues with lots of shaded areas or backlit ceremonies are my preferred locations.
look and feel - I gravitate towards the Spanish style architecture that’s infused in SoCal culture, but having a clean, clutter-free space is most important
the grounds - Is there space for large group photos? Is there a variety of backdrops for couples locations?
vibe - yes, I’m going there. I like to consider the experience of the evening. Is it romantic? casual? upscale? What elements of the venue help create your perfect atmosphere?
There are what feels like an infinite amount of venues down here in Southern California. In my first year here, I’ve been to over 30 different venues and they all have something beautiful and unique to offer.
I want to share some of my favorite venues that I’ve been to in the past year that I hope to see again soon!
Building 177, Liberty Station
Located in one of my favorite urban spots in San Diego, you’ll find Building 177 in the heart of Liberty Station. It’s owned by Moniker Events, and we all know they do a fabulous job giving us modern and clean spaces to transform into a beautiful wedding space.
My favorite part about the venue:
It’s a toss up between the vaulted ceilings and all the natural light. But honestly, I don’t think you can have one without the other so I have to say those two things together give the space it’s unique open and airy feel.
Side note: could you imagine how FUN it would be to have disco balls hanging from the ceiling, spreading little light beams all over the space?
Ole Hanson Beach Club
There’s so much to love about Ole Hanson Beach Club, located in San Clemente, California. The Spanish revival style white stucco building, the hand-painted tile staircases, the rooftop terrace, the manicured palm trees, and the sweeping ocean views are what make this venue a total GEM.
My favorite part about the venue:
Easy, spending the evening on the open air terrace, with stunning views of the water. We are so dang spoiled here in Southern California.
La Valencia Hotel, La Jolla
You may have heard of this venue as ‘the pink hotel in La Jolla.’ Its official name is La Valencia, but no matter what you call it, it’s still iconic.
There is quite a bit of moving around to do in this venue, but you’ll be glad to see the entire hotel as each space gives you fantastic views of the ocean, the gardens, and the architecture.
The dream is to have a ceremony in the garden space, surrounded by bougainvillea’s, and then enjoy a delicious dinner (I can’t forget to mention how incredible their food is) on the patio of The Mediterranean Room.
My favorite part of the venue:
I love love love the iconic pink look. Where else have you ever seen a pink building look this gorgeous?
The Lane
It’s modern, it’s saturated with natural light, and it gives you the perfect view of the San Diego Harbor.
The Lane is Moniker’s newest Waterfront venue, and its blank-canvas bones make it the perfect space for a couple who is looking to design their wedding from top to bottom.
Another plus, it’s located in the heart of downtown San Diego. Your out of town guests will easily be able to get there from the airport, lodge in a nearby hotel, and dine at nearby restaurants.
My favorite part of the venue:
The opportunity to dress it up in any style you can imagine. I’ve seen this space transform from a clean, white blank canvas, to a bright, colorful, and dare I say funky, celebration space.
Botanica
There’s no question as to why they call this venue, “Botanica.” As you walk through the venue, you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise, surrounded by palm trees, waterfalls, bamboo trees, and other sorts of lush greenery.
If you’re looking for a tropical paradise, that’s just a few miles off the 5, then Botanica is your place to go.
My favorite part about the venue:
The abundance of greenery reminds me of the time I spent becoming a wedding photographer in Seattle. If you haven’t been to the PNW, everything is green, everywhere, all the time. While you’re not going to see palm trees and other tropical botanicals, the deep green hues always transport me back to the PNW.
Ranchos Las Lomas
It’s the adorable bungalows, the hand-painted tiles, and the picturesque locations at every turn that make Ranchos Las Lomas one of my favorite Southern California wedding venues. This private estate is nestled in the foothills of Orange County and is made up of a variety of lush botanical gardens.
my favorite part about the venue:
There are so many things to choose from, but what I love most is that everywhere you turn, there’s a gorgeous space giving you plenty of location options for couples photos, wedding party photos, and family photo.
These photos were created while working with: Kate VanAmrige, Erin Weise, Kate Garcia, and Erin Marton.
