1. Silver Creek Valley Country Club – Nestled in the hills of San Jose, there is an oasis of lush grounds and cascading waterfalls. A European style pergola is perfect for portraits and the ballroom has panoramic views of the surrounding golden hills. The staff are amazing as well and golf cart guests to and from the outdoor ceremony area to the ballroom reception.

2. Montalvo Arts Center – Based in Saratoga, Montalvo Arts Center is a non-profit center for the arts. The landscape and architecture is what sets this venue apart. The Spanish Mediterranean Revival mansion is set facing a great lawn. From there you have your pick of a Spanish courtyard, oval garden, or a love temple lined with Italian cypress trees.

3. MacArthur Place – Further North in Sonoma is the idyllic MacArthur Place. This wine country retreat was founded over a century ago as a vineyard and working ranch. The 5 acre property has lush surroundings and a variety of dining options. The staff are super friendly and you have options for outdoor or indoor areas for your celebration.

4. Gamble Garden – This is the perfect setting for a smaller wedding. Gamble Garden is a historic place in Palo Alto with a beautiful white gazebo, a variety of florals and botanicals, and classic architecture. There is a serene water fountain where you can host a ceremony as well as brick paved areas for reception and cocktail hour. Please note that there is no amplified music here, but you can have string musicians.

5. Legion of Honor – With views of the Golden Gate Bridge, this San Francisco fine art museum is a timeless dream with it’s French inspired architecture. Whether overcast or sunny, the courtyard is a grand setting for an elegant wedding.

6. Carneros Resort – A Luxury Napa venue that has incredible views and unique architecture. A fine balance of California modern vibes and well-manicured gardens, the sunsets here are dreamy and there’s lots of space for a unique guest experience.

7. Sea Ranch Lodge – A bit of a drive past Bodega Bay, this mid-century modern style venue is a unique setting sat front and center to a stunning ocean view. There’s a nod to vintage nostalgia with a record player, paper lanterns, and all wood exterior that is a photographer’s dream. This might be a road trip but it’s well worth it!

8. San Francisco City Hall – If you haven’t heard about this iconic landmark, I’d be surprised. This stunning city hall is probably the best in the USA and harkens back to past era of opulence and grandeur. Weddings here are varied from simple elopements, to intimate ceremonies on the Mayor’s Balcony, to a full buy-out. If you love timeless photos, this is the venue for you.

9. Filoli Gardens – If you are looking for an English garden vibe, this is the perfect venue. You have a grand mansion, sunken gardens, and beautiful florals dotted across the property. Filoli offers both microwedding and buy-out weddings. We recommend coming in the spring or summer for the best blooms.

10. Tre Posti – Located in St. Helena, this venue is perfect for a summer time wedding. There is plenty of space for a comfortable cocktail hour in the herb gardens and a ceremony area that faces lush vineyards. A lawn area can be perfectly set with tables for your reception, so there’s plenty to do and see at this wine country retreat.

Wherever you choose to have your special day, we are happy to help you navigate your photo timeline and help choose the best locations for portraits. Have questions? Reach out for a free consultation!