Saving the Date and SoCal Wedding Venues
We are in the midst of, what us in the wedding industry lovingly refer to as, engagement season! You are probably noticing the influx of engagement announcements flooding your newsfeed, or getting snaps of your friend's new bling, or perhaps are now newly engaged and doing the announcing yourself. After all the excitement of being newly engaged settles, you are now faced with the gauntlet of decisions that come with planning a wedding.
Fret not! As most people who have "been there and done that" with wedding planning can tell you, the hardest part is picking the date and venue. You may decide that the date doesn't matter so much as finding the perfect venue and snag the first availability if they book out far in advance. The more popular venues book out (at least) a year in advance. On the other hand, you might have your heart set on a specific date that holds special meaning to you and your partner, thus you may need to search a bit more for a venue that is available. Either way you go about venue hunting, you will heave a huge sigh of relief once you set the date!
Planning a wedding will be the biggest party you will ever throw in your life, so relax and rest assured there IS something out there for every couple, style, and budget.Being a wedding photographer myself, I have the skinny on a plethora of venues in and around the San Diego area. For the sake of keeping things short and sweet, I've only included a handful of my favorites for today.
In no particular order...
I'll start with a new favorite of mine, Green Acre Campus Pointe. I just can't say enough wonderful things about this venue! It's endlessly eclectic style makes for a truly unique space needing little decor for couples in search of something more simple. The patio and nearby garden offer beautiful photo opportunities in addition to the more modern spaces inside.
Since the beginning of my career...
I've had the pleasure of shooting at Marina Village in Mission Bay for multiple weddings, and no two weddings have looked the same! One perk of this venue is that they offer multiple ceremony and reception spaces that vary in size so you can choose the right one to fit your needs, complete with waterfront views. The beauty of this site is your ability to choose!
DIY brides rejoice!
For the true DIY bride this next venue is the perfect blank slate to bring your creative vision to life! BRICK in Liberty Station is a truly unique venue. What used to be a Navy barracks unit is now the perfect setting for your big day! Boasting enough room to seat 300 guests, you can create the perfect seating arrangement with plenty of room to dance the night away. Brick also offers the flexibility for you to bring all your favorite vendors. WHAT?!?
Woodlands and Wine
Next up, is a venue I hadn't heard of until recently, but instantly fell in love with. Milagro Winery is a fantastic outdoor venue nestled in the Ramona Valley, with sweeping views of gorgeous vineyards and meadows. Tie the knot surrounded by your family and friends beneath magnificent oaks trees. You will also have access to unique spaces such as the Granite Wine Cave, the Old Crush House, and a private stone patio.
The Old Crush House
Timeless Style
Twin Oaks Golf Course in San Marcos exceeds all expectations with all inclusive packages or mix and match to fit your needs. Offering a peaceful outdoor setting complete with lush rolling hills, tranquil ponds and fountains, and a wide open sky this venue has it all to celebrate your love in style!
Once you get the hardest part of deciding on your date and venue, the rest is cake! (Figuratively and literally, cause I love me some cake!)