Finding the right wedding venue does take time, research and some good note taking on your site visits. We have come across several companies that take weddings very seriously, realizing couples want options and not every couple have the same wants and desires for their special day.
These companies offer Multiple Choices to Love, when it comes to wedding venues, all having a little different offering and vibe. We wanted to highlight these great companies offering couples with many ways to fall in love over with their venue selection. We also asked their onsite coordinators what made their venues so special unique about their venues, it was refreshing to see that they all love to build relationships with their couples through the wedding planning process.
Trademark Venues
Likely one of the most popular venues among Southern California couples with 3 breathtaking venues. Rarely do they have an open weekend, so our advice is to lock in your dates early, as they book out up to two years in advance. All of Trademark venues offer warm and inviting ambiance, wonderful privacy as you have the venue space for the entire day, amazing get ready salons and rooms on the properties with a relaxed atmosphere for both brides and grooms to kick back before their big day. Another very unique element is the Trademark Venue teams first class styling and planning experts as part of your wedding package. Although a knowledgeable professional planner is included, some couples still opt for an additional hired wedding coordinator outside of Trademark that can arrange other outside tasks and details, which they welcome. Their packages include a preferred list of top vetted vendors, that they work with on a weekly basis, to select from for important elements like your entertainment. Need we mention their onsite chefs are incredible, helping make each couple feel very special and so… “You are able to customize your day… your way!” We love that they do allow your own choice of florist and photographers as they are not included in their packages. These elements do still allow that each wedding is unique in it’s own way, but we encourage you to request their recommendations on their favorite wedding pros .
Keep an eye out for another great Trademark Venues coming in early 2020. Here are the spectacular venues open now for 2020 and beyond weddings, call for your tours.
GREEN GABLES
In the shade of a lush, landmark forest, this historic garden estate is surrounded by ivy-covered arbors, blooming rose gardens, trickling fountains, picturesque statuary, and thousands of bright twinkling lights. A plethora of earthy, light, airy and feathery accents and furnishings, provide the perfect scenery for your preparations before reciting your vows in one of our three breathtaking ceremony spaces. Finish tying the knot under the chiffon draped grand tent pavilion illuminated by sparkling crystal chandeliers overlooking the poetic gardens and beaming starlight.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What do you love most about planning weddings at Green Gables? A: “It’s so rewarding to be able to be a part of a couples special day; to be there from the beginning and see them think through all their ideas and see how it comes to fruition. They’re so happy at the end, and we see how their hard work paid off and how the family all comes together – it’s definitely the best part for me. And our team is so amazing because we really care about our clients and seeing their day come to life – we all vibe and we’re all a family.” -Hannah
TWIN OAKS GARDEN ESTATE
Allow yourself to be transported back to 1891 with the ultimate storybook setting with lush gardens, twinkling rose arbors, tranquil waterfalls, and romantic statuary surround a historic estate nestled among the towering trees of a private, intimate forest. The Grand Parlor offers the perfect quarters for your bridal party to prepare for the special day and capture memories among classic turn-of-the-century furnishings and artistry. Their traditional Gentlemen’s Clubhouse provides a separate vintage setting for relaxation, celebration, and those final man-to-man words of wisdom. Dance the night away with your guests in a grand tented pavilion adorned with elegant peaks of chiffon, glimmering crystal chandeliers, and your own customized arrangements and décor.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What is so unique or special about Twin Oaks Garden Estate?
A: “I think for me it’s all about the personal connection with the brides – the grooms too, but more so the ladies! What they really need is someone who understands what they’re going through and can listen and let them vent, and be that shoulder they can lean on. We’re constantly reminding them we’re here for you, and that our whole team is here to support you. Just being able to see the complete finale, the day of the wedding, and seeing how their vision comes to life is really great.” -Chloe
ETHEREAL GARDENS
Set on 40 acres of edible gardens, surrounded by old growth orchards and 100 acres of organic herb and vegetable farms… An “out of the box” venue that is completely private and not just another golf course, winery, banquet hall or hotel. Here they are open to creative ideas and outside vendors such as florists, photographers, photo booths, food trucks and so much more.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: Is there anything special about why you love your job as a wedding planner at Trademark Venues- Ethereal Gardens?
A: “For me, there is nothing more special than holding someone’s hand through such an exciting time. Because really, that’s what we’re doing! We’re there to guide them, reassure them, laugh with them, sometimes even cry with them. There are so many emotions that a couple goes through leading up to their wedding day, and I just love that I can be their confidante – the one that they call when they need to hear that everything about their day is going to be perfect! We’re in their lives for a brief moment, but knowing that I will forever be someone who helped make their day happen is so incredibly rewarding.” – Anne
Wedgewood Weddings
Over 40 Venues nationwide to choose from with a variety of options.
This company has truly got the packaging down to a science, where they can virtually be a one-stop for couples who want to simplify the planning process and remove some of the extra stress. With over 30 years serving couples and now 41 venues strong nationwide they have taken the wedding market quite seriously. They continue to find new gems to revamp and manage and turn them into first class wedding venues. With over 5,000 5-star reviews Wedgewood has a venue for all tastes and budgets. These venues are quite popular as well, so we encourage you to shop early and let them know we sent you. They work with a preferred vendor options and upgrades, offering a stream-lined system to planning your dream wedding. Here are the local venues in our area we wanted to spotlight.
GALWAY DOWNS BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
Like a Temecula fine wine, Galway Downs has an earthy, sultry, and elegant taste. So drink it in! Located in Temecula Wine Country, this venue will amaze you with its stunning blend of lush green meadows, modern amenities, and a dressing suite you’ll want to sign a lease on. Enjoy a rustic-yet-sleek reception in the modernized barn known as “The Carriage House,” featuring a stately built-in bar, a two-way fireplace, and generous room for dancing. A dreamland that combines sophisticated flare with epic photo opportunities, Galway Downs will spark your love affair with equestrian culture.
FALLBROOK ESTATE BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
If you’re looking to blend cultural sophistication with a relaxed intimate vibe, Wedgewood Weddings Fallbrook is calling to you. Tucked away in the hills of northern San Diego county, the location offers easy access to ocean views, city lights and wine country. Tie the knot under palm trees, mingle with guests in the spacious courtyard, and dance the night away under the ambient lighting of the grand ballroom.
CARLSBAD WINDMILL BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
San Diego’s newest 5-star wedding venue, this Iconic Carlsbad landmark has been completely reimagined.
With flower fields on one side and the ocean waves on the other, The Carlsbad Windmill by Wedgewood Weddings combines a quirky Danish-style building with luxe modern amenities and a trendy locale. It’s all topped off with spectacular event spaces, expert staff, raved- about service, a dressing suite fit to spoil you, and standout decor that feels both grand and grounded. The white beam ceiling scream Instagram photos and this new renovation is sure to be a new favorite.
MENIFEE LAKES BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
Lavish greenery, an alluring fountain, and glimmering lakes welcome you to their grand yet casually welcoming escape. Located in the up- and-coming city of Menifee, this classic venue is one of the originals. Paired with popular amenities like high vaulted ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and expansive windows, the reception room is your sanctuary to wine, dine, and let loose. And with the centrally-located dance floor, your guests won’t be able to help but get in on the memory-making.
THE ORCHARD BY WEDGEWOOD WEDDINGS
You don’t have to kiss a frog to get the ultimate love story experience (in fact, it’d be better if you didn’t) because, in this secret garden oasis, Wedgewood Weddings Orchard feels like a true fairytale escape. It will be all eyes on you as you say your vows at the enchanting lily pond and dance the night away under the stars and twinkling lights of this dreamy outdoor pavilion! No need to pinch yourself because this locale is a fairytale come to life.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What are some unique qualities about why planning weddings at Wedgewood weddings is so enjoyable?
A: “The all-inclusive packages at a Wedgewood Weddings venue make the planning process incredibly easy and stress-free. More than half of your wedding services are included in our packages, which means you save a ton of time, work, and effort. You even get a step-by-step planning binder to guide you! Our planners are available every day to answer your questions and give you advice. And on your wedding day, you get to relax and take in the day, knowing that our expert wedding coordinator and trusted vendors will execute a flawless wedding for you. We’ve been perfecting the planning process for over 30 years, so we’ve got this down to a science!”
-Kaylyn Campbell, Marketing Coordinator
Cohn Restaurants Group (CRG)
With unique spaces from historic Balboa Park, to the one of a kind Harbor Float overlooking the spectacular San Diego skyline, to a beach front venue where you can get expansive and space in inland north county. Cohn was one of the first restaurant companies to realize the potential of the event market and how it could be a great additional to their already popular and busy restaurants through out the county. They hired a true event pro, Tracey Amernick as the VP of Event Sales in 2013, she knows the event industry well and has helped unify great teams, automate their sales systems to maximize growth within the brand, and implemented the highest of standards. The restaurant business is one of re-creation time and time again and Tracey has an innovative approach to doing business and continuing to stay ahead of the pack. Along with their award winning chefs, CRG have created some spectacular menus for couples to make their events more customized and special. The Cohn entities that have great event space are listed below.
COASTERRA
This coastal venue combines the breathtaking views of the San Diego skyline with exquisite cuisine. Opened in 2016, Coasterra is a customized mid-century modern space. It features an expansive indoor ballroom and patio terrace, as well as the new floating event deck. The Bayview Ballroom has floor-to-ceiling windows and a large interior space. The Skyline Terrace holds up to 300 guests for a seated dinner of reception. The Harbor Float accommodates 250 guests all while offering incredible views of San Diego’s skyline. Take a look for yourself and you will see why I couldn’t help but have Coasterra as a TOP venue choice for your wedding.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What do you love about your job and helping couples plan weddings at Coasterra?
A:“We love taking a couple’s vision and helping them make it all come together perfectly. Helping create happiness and joy is what makes it all worth it for us. Being a part of one of the most important moments of their life is perfect is a huge responsibility and we realize the importance of this. Seeing the smiles and knowing that we were a part of the success is extremely rewarding. Often during the planning process lifetime friendships are formed and we love when we work with couples on other occasions, that is a full circle for us.”
– Tracey Amernick, VP of Event Sales, Cohn Restaurant Group
THE PRADO AT BALBOA PARK
With many options to choose from, this gem of Balboa Park is elegant with beautiful hardwood floors, a 27-foot high hand-stenciled ceiling, chandeliers, skylights, a theatrical stage and bride’s dressing room. Located adjacent to the Fountain Courtyard, the large ballroom can seat up to 320 guests.
The Spanish Colonial styled Fountain Courtyard is perfect pre- function space or cocktails while you finish photos in the park. Another two smaller rooms Loggia and Alhambra are located on the second floor overlooking Balboa Park’s Plaza and gardens, these spaces are great for smaller more intimate events or rehearsal dinners. The multi- level terraces, which feature historic fountains, reflecting pool, wishing well and beautifully landscaped gardens, are all intricate details have made this venue the premier wedding site for generations of San Diegans.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What makes CRG Events so Special/Unique?
A: Each one of the Cohn Restaurants has their own unique touch, The Prado specifically would be our synchronized service that guests absolutely love. We pride ourselves in a family like culture with personalized service and fantastic cuisine. The core of our culture comes down to the owners who you see personally bussing tables and greeting guests as they frequent most of their restaurants on an almost daily routine.
– Rachael Wilkerson, Catering Sales Manager
VINTANA WINE + DINE
Allow award-winning Chef/Partner Deborah Scott to use her culinary creations to create a menu that is a reflection of your event’s style and theme. Exchange your vows on one of the many outdoor terraces; enjoy cocktails overlooking the rolling hills of Escondido and dance the night away while enjoying The Center’s signature Fountain of Living Water. Help from an event manager will help your wedding be stress free.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What seems to be the most unique quality about Vintana?
A:“We have great clients at Vintana. The Centre Lexus Escondido is such a unique location. When guests come in, they always comment on how crazy it is to have a restaurant on top of a dealership and all the extra venues for events, but we are blessed as it works and we have amazing events!”
– Krista Romberg, Director of Events at Vintana Wine + Dine
SEA180
This beautiful South Bay venue is beachfront and draws couples who rate getting married, with your toes in the sand, as a top priority. With a large request for weddings of 100 guests or less, it is an ideal fit to experience top quality food and service known from the Cohn Restaurant Group. Destination weddings have been their specialty for couples coming from Arizona, Central California and the East Coast to taken in the California sunshine at its best.
Coordinator Quotes:
“Our beachside location is very beautiful (and one of the few places in San Diego you can actually get married in the sand). With this unique venue as part of a hotel, it is very easy for brides and grooms to have their ceremony, reception, and overnight accommodations all in one place.”
-Meg Vinton, Catering Sales Manager
Evans Hotels
Respectfully established in the wedding industry, Evans Hotels with top resort style hotels, plus two sternwheeler boats and affordable accommodations are just steps to the sand. Both venues have a beachy and relaxed vibe and offer customized wedding packages for your guests. Another plus is the ease of access to the favorite of Mission and Pacific Beach for the after wedding fun and nightlife. The sternwheelers offer beautiful bay views for your guests to realize why you all live in and chose San Diego, America’s Finest City for your nuptials.
CATAMARAN RESORT HOTEL
Embrace San Diego’s warm climate and treat your wedding guests to upfront views of the sparkling waters of Mission Bay. Create an unforgettable outdoor experience and host your reception on the Catamaran’s lawn for a customizable cocktail hour and dinner. Another option is the breathtaking views you’ll get from the Aviary Ballroom, stay outside on the bayfront outdoor lawns, or dance the night away in their unique Polynesian Kon Tiki Ballroom. The Catamaran offers reception venues to fit every taste.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: Why are weddings at the Catamaran so special?
A: “Having your wedding at the Catamaran is unique because it truly feels like a Polynesian escape. Our resort offers casual elegance with palm trees, tiki torches, koi pods and waterfalls along with the option for toes in the sand or lush grass ceremony venue options. Guests will be swept away with the tropical breezes and stunning views of Mission Bay and the sparkling city skyline.” -Amber Lighty, Catering Sales Manager
BAHIA RESORT HOTEL
The Bahia offers intimate ceremony sites including a romantic gazebo surrounded by lush tropical gardens and trickling streams. Or, embrace the beachside locale and exchange your vows on the sandy shores of Mission Bay. Choose from a variety of indoor or outdoor settings including their versatile ballrooms and historic sternwheeler banquet facilities. Each venue can be styled to cater to your personal preferences. Bahia offers very iconic SoCal weddings.
WILLIAM D EVANS & BAHIA BELLE
If you’re looking for something a little different than the traditional ballroom, look no further than the fun and timeless William D. Evans sternwheeler. The majestic boat is Bahia Resort Hotel’s most popular wedding venue and its elaborate design details make a statement without the need for many additional decorations Another great option is the charming Bahia Belle which provides the ultimate venue for an unforgettable wedding celebration on the water. This Victorian- style paddlewheel boat, the smaller of the two Bahia sternwheeler boats, maintains an air of 19th century grace with hand-carved oak, polished brass, etched glass and winding staircases. Your wedding will be smooth sailing with the Sternwheeler or Bahia Belle.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What makes being an event planner at Bahia Hotel so unique?
A: “The best thing about planning weddings at the Bahia is that we have a variety of venue options. Whether couples are looking for a private, toes in sand beach or a secluded garden pond, we really have something for everyone. At the Bahia we have multiple beachfront ballrooms so you can have your wedding adjacent to the water. But if beach-front is not close enough, you can have your wedding on the water aboard one of our sternwheeler boats cruising the waters of Mission Bay. Our two Victorian-style sternwheeler boats are perfect for those who want something unique and less traditional. I love walking couples up to the second floor of the William D. Evans. Their faces light up as they gaze upon the custom stained glass skylight. It’s a priceless moment!”
– Monique Milan, Catering Sales Manager
OMG Hospitality
We welcome newcomer OMG Hospitality to the wedding market, as the are focusing more on rehearsal dinners, engagement parties, showers, and bachelor/ette parties. With five venues that are open for these types of joyful celebrations. They have added the events side to their business as a growing request from some of their favorite patrons. The type of couple who is drawn to their restaurants are couples looking for a fun party vibe. The OMG Hospitality brand is “devoted to the craft” focusing on delicious food and drinks using local and seasonal ingredients in a casual San Diego atmosphere. Check them out for yourselves they all offer a little something unique for events.
UNION KITCHEN & TAP ENCINITAS
Located in downtown Encinitas they offer a heated outdoor patio and private dining room.
UNION KITCHEN & TAP
Located right on 5th Avenue in the heart of the Gaslamp, offering a covered and heated patio along with three bars.
PB ALE HOUSE
Rooftop patio with private bar, lower outdoor patio with a bar and lava rock fire pit, only one block to the beach.
WATERBAR
Amazing direct views of the Pacific Ocean and the beach/boardwalk, two full bars- take in the Pacific and Mission Beach fun.
UNION FOOD TRUCK
Let them bring the party to you with the great food and drinks of Union Kitchen & Tap.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What makes your venues so desirable for the event market?
A: “Definitely the proximity to the beach for Waterbar and PB Ale House. The food and fun atmosphere at Union Kitchen & Tap is likely a big draw, both being in the center of action in the Gaslamp are and the other one in the chill beach town of Encinitas.”
–Jennifer Wooddy, Event Sales Manager
Baumann Family Restaurants
BaliHaiRestaurant.com | TomHamsLighthouse.com
Arguably offering two of the most amazing venues with views on the water, with a comfortable vibe for your SoCal wedding. If water is a must for you, definitely check out these landmark restaurants offering well thought out event space for weddings. Opened in 1955 by Tom Ham a history lover and San Diego local, today the restaurants are operated by his daughter Suzi and her sons.
BALI HAI
Who needs Hawaii when we have the Bali Hai? Rich in history, this 65 year old San Diego landmark restaurant has been hosting weddings and parties of all types for decades. Highlights include their Polynesian influenced menus and complete covered venue space which overlooks the San Diego skyline and beautiful Pacific Ocean. They have couples whose parents got married at Bali Hai or families that have celebrated many special events as it is exciting to book multiple generations of new memories each year. The versatile event space including their very own Hawaiian Village, is a covered outdoor pavilion located directly behind the restaurant. If you’re looking for a destination wedding in San Diego, look no further.
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What sets Bali Hai apart from others venues couples can choose from in San Diego?
A: “We’re our own little island with an aloha vibe and an amazing view of the bay and downtown. It’s like going to Hawaii without the 6-hour plane ride or travel expense.”
-Jenny Benitez, CMP, Catering and Events Sales Manager
TOM HAMS LIGHTHOUSE
Tom Ham’s Lighthouse is a historic wedding venue located in San Diego, California. Weddings here feature panoramic views of San Diego Bay and the city skyline. Nestled on Harbor Island just five minutes from San Diego International Airport, the venue is both picturesque and convenient for guests traveling to the wedding. This venue offers multiple private event space with views from every window. Tom Hams is also known as a hotspot for wedding proposals, stop in and make your reservation today!
Question for the Coordinator:
Q: What do you like best about planning Tom Hams Weddings?
A: “Working so personally with each couple to make one of the most important days of their lives magical and run smoothly. No one couple is alike, so it is really great to see the many different dynamics and personalities of each couple. We are wedding obsessed ourselves, so this just feels like a hobby to us more than just a job! “
-Brooke Otto, Event Sales Coordinator
