Great Places To Get Hitched And/Or Celebrate

Marriage to Go - Mobile Marriage Licensing and Wedding Officiant Services

The Ritz Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Photo by Chris Griffiths, Imagery Immaculate Photography

LOCATIONS FOR WEDDING CEREMONIES AND CELEBRATIONS

Creative Wedding Locations: Gardens, Museums, Boats, Private Clubs, And More

Restaurants and Tea Houses

Hotels and Event Locations
The Great Outdoors: Public Parks, Beaches, and Forests

Creative Locations: Gardens, Museums, Boats, and Other Novel Sites
The Home Office Want to have a "come-as-you-are" civil ceremony with fewer than four guests but don't want to go to some government office? Consider MarriageToGo's Home Office on the Westside of Los Angeles. Our convenient and fun Office location can save you stress, time, and money; witnesses are not required for those who qualify for the California confidential marriage license. Please click here for details, rates, and photos.
Walt Disney Concert Hall If you haven't visited L.A.'s newest showpiece building for a concert, goggled at the Neo-Space-Age swirls of its stainless steel roof, or settled for a sip of tea in its placid city garden, you're due for a Downtown adventure. The Concert Hall offers several possible ceremony sites and the Founders Room is perfect for your reception; Patina Restaurant does the fabulous catering. Contact Patina Group at 213.972.7565 to book your event, and don't be scared--because WDCH is partially publicly-funded, the rates are better than you might think.
The Ebell of Los Angeles Aah, if there's a sweet spot in Los Angeles, this is it. The multi-story Italian Renaissance building hosts several large and stately event rooms, a charming courtyard, in-house catering, and more. Call my friend Melissa Allen (the Ebell's Event Director) at 323.931.1277 to get started (by the way, the website doesn't do the Ebell justice; I recommend you check it out in person.)
La Venta Inn, Palos Verdes This charming restored Spanish villa from the 1920's is quiet and lovely yet has a comfortable, homey patina; the tremendous views of the Pacific Ocean will make you feel like royalty about to set sail on an exciting adventure (which, in getting married, you are.) World-class catering by New York Food Company tops off the bill; call 310.373.0123 for more information or send an email inquiry via the site.
Rancho Sol Del Pacifico, Malibu Ahh, Malibu--just the word invokes celebrity, wealth, and spectacular mansions with ocean views. Though Rancho Sol del Pacifico can't help you with Items One or Two, it can provide a breathtaking Spanish-style mansion with panoramic ocean vistas for your sunny ceremony. Balconies, tiled courtyards, koi ponds, a tower and amphitheatre; large and lush, a beautiful and elegant place for your California-style nuptials. 310.457.9295
The Museum of Latin American Art, Long Beach Vivid colors and striking design are the hallmarks of MoLAA's event spaces; the desert-themed sculpture garden is a delightful and whimsical setting for your outdoor wedding, and the adjacent Balboa room will accommodate large indoor events. There's plenty of parking too. Call my buddy Hazel Walker, Event Coordinator for MoLAA: 562.437.1689.
Whittier Art Gallery, Whittier I was charmed by this little local non-profit gallery (on South Painter Avenue, appropriately enough) and if you need an affordable yet well-kept and creative venue for your smaller Whittier wedding, you'll be charmed too. Much of the art on display is also for sale, so you can buy a unique memento of your wedding day. 562.698.8710
Pasadena Museum of California Art You can see the 1927 dome of Pasadena's City Hall from the Rooftop Terrace of PMCA, but you'll like the vistas inside even more. The inviting modern design and natural lighting will please the art lover in you even before you see the exhibits, and the rental fees are very reasonable. A unique and very enjoyable choice for your ceremony. 626.568.3665 x13
The Long Beach Museum of Art I love the Long Beach Museum of Art, because it's human-sized, beautiful, welcoming, and well-run. The historic home/museum always has a fascinating collection (the gift shop is equally engaging) and the fountain patio and lawn have wide ocean views. Enjoying the sunset over the sea with cocktails and dinner al fresco is a superb way to celebrate. Call 562.439.2119 x234 or specialevents@lbma.org; you can go check out the museum in person (Fridays are free!) and have a little lunch at the cafe for a pleasant scouting outing.
Castle Green Pasadena's Castle Green is an amazing multi-purposed urban historical site; people actually live in the Moorish Colonial and Spanish style splendor of this unique building, and you can have your wedding there too. Castle Green was built in 1898 and is located next to Central Park in Old Pasadena at Raymond and Green Streets; the ballrooms, gardens, and sitting rooms still gleam with old-world style and elegance. Inquire about events and weddings at 626.793.0359.
The Queen Mary If you're fabulous and you know it, you and your partner may want to have your wedding on the Queen Mary, that historic, haunted ocean liner out in Long Beach Harbor. Have your wedding in their chapel or outside on the deck overlooking Long Beach; start the party right away in one of the gigantic Art Deco ballrooms or celebrate privately in your bridal suite/stateroom. 562.499.1770
Arroyo Trabuco Golf Club, Mission Viejo Even if you're not a golf fanatic, the lush green of Arroyo Trabuco's wedding garden and the upscale ranch-style atmosphere of its Trabuco Ballroom will make you want to whip out your tuxedo and golf togs to enjoy a luxurious and fun wedding weekend (by the way, tam-o-shanters are out this year.) The ballroom is fully equipped with internet access, video projection, and wireless audio, so you can easily wow your guests with an AV presentation; the catering is also divine. Call 949.305.5111 for event info.
Bel Air Bay Club, Pacific Palisades The Bel-Air Bay Club has one of the most beautiful views of Santa Monica Bay you'll ever see; from the lawn of the Upper Club, you'll be delighted by jumping dolphins and dramatic sunsets over the water. The formal dining areas, fountain patio, and guest rooms are excellent locations for a wide variety of events; the service--as you'd expect at a private club--is tip-top. 310.454.1391 to inquire.
The Marina City Club, Marina del Rey You don't have to be a member to have a private club wedding; the Marina City Club offers complete event planning along with valet parking, a state-of-the-art sound system, romantic Marina views, and several close-by hotels for your guests to choose from. Download wedding package info from the website or call 310.822.0611 and ask to speak to the Director of Food and Beverage.
The Victorian Built in 1894, this elegant historic home was moved by preservationists to its current location on Ocean Park and Main Street in Santa Monica. It's a warm and romantic place for a small to medium-sized event; you'll love its dark cherry and oak furnishings, candles, and twinkle lights, the great in-house catering by Duck Duck Mousse, and the private parking lot (so you don't need to worry about petitioning the Santa Monica City Council for more space.) They have a cafe open for breakfast and lunch too, if you want to see (and taste) for yourself. Call 310.392.4956 or email info@thevictorian.com.
Silent Movie Theatre Silent Movie Theatre on Fairfax has been a local magnet for cinemahounds of all stripes since the 1940's; now it also serves as a unique and stylish event venue for those who appreciate a vintage Hollywood setting. In addition to a 210-seat Deco-style movie theatre (where the immortal faces of Greta Garbo, Lulu Brooks, and Rudolph Valentino will look down upon you and your guests) there's a sweetly appointed garden patio out back for your post-ceremony celebration. Call for more information at 323.655.2510; check out the wedding photos on the website to see some great Hollywood theme ideas.
Blue Water Sailing, Marina del Rey Their fleet of beautiful yachts and courteous captains make your at-sea wedding dreams come true. Hello, Sailor! Call 310.823.5728 for details. If you're in the South Bay, you can also check out Spirit Cruises in Long Beach to charter a motor yacht with dinner or their more intimate sailboat for your Long Beach harbor cruise wedding. 562.495.5884 or 310.548.8080 for info.
Gondola Getaway, Long Beach Si signore, kiss under the Bridge of Sighs...you'll have a singing gondolier, too! Enjoy a fun and romantic ceremony on the water for up to 64 people; dock located near Naples Island in Long Beach. I really love GG; you'll be surprised at how quiet and lovely your boat ride can be. For more info or booking call Tim at 562.433.9595 and tell him MarriageToGo sent you. A more intimate gondola option is Gondola Amore in Redondo Beach; call 310.396.6977 for info on their wedding and sunset dinner packages.
Don O'Melvany Art Gallery Contemporary artworks grace the walls at this West Hollywood ceremony site; perfect for the smaller, hipper wedding. 310.273.7868.
The Malibu Nature Preserve Once the Malibu Tennis and Riding Club, this ancient Chumash site in Nicholas Canyon is now under the protection of the Nature Trust of the Santa Monica Mountains. Two meadows with stately native trees are available for ceremonies (one meadow is handicapped accessible) and the former clubhouse offers an indoor option for your reception. Call 310.457.9783 for more event information or to support the Nature Trust.
The Earl Burns Miller Japanese Garden at Cal State Long Beach This beautiful and wedding-friendly garden in Long Beach is perfect for your elegant wedding, reception, or business event. Coordinator services included; contact Lynette Roberts at 562.810.9660 for more information, or check out their excellent and informative website for photos and rates.
VRBO: Vacation Rentals By Owner Ever wanted to rent a mansion and have your intimate wedding in privacy and luxury? Think you'd like to stay in a beautifully appointed home instead of a tired old hotel on your honeymoon? Check out Vacation Rentals By Owner--almost anyplace in the world you want to go, private homes are available for your holiday or event planning. You can even search specifically for houses that will accommodate large groups by clicking on the "Family Reunion or Group Travel" link on their homepage. Bon Voyage!

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Restaurants and Teahouses
The Sunset Restaurant (Formerly the Gray Whale) With a wedding hall downstairs and ocean view dining upstairs, it's no wonder The Sunset is the most romantic place on Zuma Beach. Friendly service and great food; the culotte steak and the apple tartin are phenomenal. I had my own wedding night dinner here, so no foolin'. Call (310) 589-1007 for reservations and info.
Il Cielo, Beverly Hills Il Cielo's graceful Italian villa setting is perfectly matched with its warm and elegant service. I love conducting ceremonies in their lovely bougainvillea-laced courtyard, and the Tuscan food is terrific! You'll sigh, "Bellissima!" as you experience all the reasons Il Cielo is rated as one of the top places to marry in L.A. 310.276.9990
The Inn of the Seventh Ray Nestled by a brook in Topanga Canyon, this beautiful natural foods restaurant will delight you and your guests with its fragrant herb garden, gently splashing fountain, and twinkling lights. The food is delicious and healthful, too! Contact Angelica for parties of 49 or less at 323.953.0453, or Sally for parties of 50 - 250 at 310.444.9160.
The Raymond Restaurant, Pasadena The Raymond is a restored caretaker's cottage built in 1900 for the opulent hotel up the hill; you'll think caretakers didn't have it so bad in those days when you see the beautiful woods, leaded glass, and interior design details. The Raymond is a cozy and romantic venue for your intimate event; the garden patios and great food will make your celebration a memorable one. Talk to Manager and Event Coordinator Brighid Maguire at 626.441.3136 or by email BMaguire@TheRaymond.com.
Social Hollywood Social Hollywood is the hottest place in town, not just because of its tricked-out two-level industrial warehouse event space in back, its brooding dark-wood decor out front, and the dim, secluded, private rooms upstairs. Honestly, I liked the food--and that's because SH's menus are created by L.A.'s top chefs and brilliantly implemented. So, you gothy/techno types can go for the ambience--I'll sit in a corner and chow down, thank you very much. 323.462.5222 to book your event.
Yamashiro Restaurant, Hollywood You've seen this beautiful teak and cedar Japanese-style mansion gracing the hillside bear the Magic Castle; built in 1914, it retains a magical appeal even today and has one of the best city views in L.A. The central Zen garden courtyard is a peaceful setting for your ceremony and reception; even the koi fish look happy for you. Other rooms available offer intimate dining, sunset views, or dancing, as you see fit. 323.466.5125
Rococo Room at Cafe Santorini, Old Pasadena I was delightfully surprised by the upbeat staff and newly-upgraded tech at the Rococo Room; the staffers were fun and very attentive to every detail, and they even knew how to properly set up and play an iPod (and they have the right gear to do it.) In addition to lovely and lighthearted service, the food's really good! In the heart of Pasadena's Old Town, there's ample parking in the structure across the street and lots to do and see right around the corner. 626.564.4203 to inquire about the Rococo Room (events up to 170 people); Cafe Santorini reservations at 626.564.4201.
The Hideaway Cafe at Malibu Country Inn With its charming lawn and rose garden, great gourmet menu, and view of Zuma Beach, The Hideaway Cafe is the perfect venue for a refreshingly unpretentious "California Casual" wedding and reception. The Inn is right around the corner from Point Dume State Beach, so it's also a nice place for guests attending your Malibu wedding to stay. The Cafe can accomodate up to 150 guests; call (310) 457.2602 for banquet availability or call 310.457.9622 for hotel reservations.
Koutoubia Restaurant--Innovative Moroccan Cuisine Ever want to lean back on soft pillows in a fabric-draped tent, eat exotic tagines all night, and bellydance the night away? It's all awaiting you in Westwood; owner Ohayon Michel puts the rockin' back in Moroccan with excellent cuisine, unbelievable hospitality, and terrific bellydancers. Don't want to go out on the town? Ask them to cater for you in their Moroccan tent. 888.317.9377
The Lobster Nestled just south of the Santa Monica Pier, The Lobster is consistently rated one of the best seafood restaurants in L.A. It's just a hop/skip/scurry from all of Santa Monica's oceanside hotels, and the view is spectacular. Call 310.458.9294 for reservations or event info, or check out the website for photos, directions, and menus.
Ca' Del Sole This inviting North Hollywood eatery has a beautiful garden patio perfect for a smaller wedding or reception; you and your guests will enjoy the fine food and excellent service, Mediterranean-style. Call Natalya Starenkova for event reservations: 818.753.8889.
Sam's Seafood in Huntington Beach As one tiki-loving groom said, "Sam's isn't "retro"--it's VINTAGE." That's the truth! Sam's is the real thing, an old-style tiki bar and restaurant replete with reasonably-priced seafood, "Hidden Village" wedding chapel, and A Polynesian Spectacular dance show every Friday night. If you're into All Things Tiki, you'll love the carved wooden columns and the hula-girl mural in the bar. Call 562.592.1321 for reservations and info.
Coppacabana Restaurant and Nightclub The happening spot in Pomona, Coppacabana not only sports an elegant tiered marble outdoor wedding plaza, but great Cuban food and live music (dance lessons too!) Call 909.469.1965 and ask for Daniel Lima, the general manager--his attentive service will help make your event effortless.
Cafe Piccolo You'll love the warm and engaging ambience, the fine North Italian cuisine, and the impeccable service at Cafe Piccolo in Long Beach. They host private parties, showers, weddings, and can cater your event elsewhere too! Call 562.438.1316 for reservations and info.
The Vintage Tea Leaf Tea in Long Beach? TeaMistress Beverly Terfloth hosts lovely Victorian-style tea parties for bridal or baby showers, or just an afternoon cuppa with a friend. Select a hat and antique china teacup from her collection and enjoy your choice of over 120 teas in style! Holiday events, tea tastings, tea cuisine classes and an exquisite gift shop make the Vintage Tea Leaf a delightful place to explore the fine ritual of tea time and time again. 562.435.5589 for reservations.
McCharles House If you're looking for charm in Orange County check out McCharles House, a lovingly preserved Victorian home in Tustin with its beautiful garden, serves one of the best afternoon and high teas in the Southland. Their seasonal menu features heirloom recipes made with the freshest ingredients and lots of loving care. Call 714.731.4063 for reservations.
Jin Patisserie Tucked away at 1202 Abbott Kinney in Venice, Jin Patisserie is a petite, designer tea garden that serves what might be called "Nouvelle Asian Afternoon Tea." Menu changes from moment to moment depending on what's fresh in the kitchen, but the sandwiches and pastries are excellent and beautiful to behold--snag a rose-flavored meringue if you can, or savor some green tea mousse. Available for smaller weddings, showers, and catering; their custom chocolates make excellent gifts! Call 310.399.8801 or check out their website for more.

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Hotels, Event Spaces, and Reception Halls
The Figueroa Hotel The beautifully restored and maintained Figueroa Hotel is a Moroccan oasis in the middle of Downtown Los Angeles. Just steps away from Staples Center, its rich colors and glorious decor evoke the exotic and romantic: the huge fireplace and brass fittings of the Rabat Room bring a warm ambience to your ceremony, or you and your guests can play it cool in the Verandah Bar by the palm-appointed swimming pool. Noah the Camel often stops by (really, a real camel!); check out the website for photos, go have a drink in the bar next time you're downtown, or book a weekend in one of their Moroccan-style suites. 800.421.9092 or 213.627.8971 for info.
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel Now a shining example of the "hip luxury" that exemplifies Thompson Hotels, the Roosevelt--once a faded, neglected, almost-condemned beauty from Hollywood's Golden Age--has been restored beyond even its former glory. There's a little something for everyone here: photos from early Hollywood for the grandparents, uber-chic hidden cocktail lounges with black leather and stunning crystal lightworks for your gothy Gen-Y party friends, and seamless integration of modern style with the beautiful, irreplaceable original woodwork and ceilings for your design-oriented peeps. Steps from the Chinese and El Capitan theatres, the Knitting Factory, and countless other Hollywood attractions, you'll have as much of a blast just hanging around as getting married (and the weddings here are also uber.) Drop Catering Director Ernie Carillo a line at 323.769.7280; he's the big guy with the cool haircut, and he'll set you up for the Hollywood wedding of your dreams.
The Viceroy, Santa Monica An imaginative and luxurious redesign of the old Santa Monica Holiday Inn, The Viceroy offers exceptional cuisine and cocktails in one of the Westside's most bustling urban retreats. The Bristol Room can accommodate up to seventy guests for a sit-down dinner, or 40 for dinner and dancing; poolside cabanas are lovely for small groups or a private rendezvous with your new spouse after the reception. Don't be surprised if you see a few stars and movers/shakers sipping cocktails in the lobby lounge! You can submit an request for proposal online via the website or call 310.434.2836 for booking information.
Shutters On The Beach, Santa Monica For the ultimate in elegance at land's end, you can't beat the beach-y opulence of Shutters On The Beach or its partner facility, Hotel Casa del Mar. Steps to the sand from your ceremony site, and the personalized service you'd expect from the leading player in L.A. locations. (If you have epilepsy or get eyestrain easily, you might want to call them at 310.458.0030 rather than be subjected to their overly kinetic, Flash-y website.)
Hotel Casa Del Mar This romantic boutique hotel right on the Santa Monica Boardwalk, now partnered with Shutters On The Beach, is considered one of the world's leading small hotels, and they'll host your wedding celebration in regal style. 310.581.5533 for more, and see warning above about the shared Shutters/Casa del Mar website.
Le Merigot Santa Monica Le Merigot's waterfall patio is an elegant and cozy place for your mid-size event; both the reception rooms and the beach are just steps away. Have a wedding, take some photos, eat some lunch, do some surfing? You bet! They also feature a newly-renovated spa to help you relax should your wedding day become just too too hectic-making. Call Catering/Events Staff at Le Merigot: 310.395.9700 or email via the website.
Shade Manhattan Beach Oooooooo!--that's the only response possible when you walk into Shade, Christopher Lowell's green vision of a boutique beach hotel. Newly built and exquisitely executed, you'll immediately be filled with a sense of comfort and luxury when you walk through its beautifully designed spaces. Shade has an intimate feel and can accommodate up to 160 for a sit-down reception (or choose a smaller wedding celebration on the rooftop Sky Deck.) The event staff is friendly, fast, and really on the ball. Call Jen Peterson, Events Manager at 310.546.4995 or email via the website. By the way, the Bridal Suite is FABOO.
The Langham Huntington Hotel--Pasadena The Ritz-Carlton Huntington Hotel and Spa was rebranded by Langham Hotels in January 2008; we have yet to see how Langham operates events on the property, but they have an excellent reputation worldwide and they have been wise enough to preserve the Huntington in its beautiful, Old-World glory. The bridal bungalows provide privacy for your wedding preparations and the comfort for a local honeymoon; the grounds, rooms, and dining are all elegant and impressive. The Huntington is near the world-famous Norton Simon Art Museum, Huntington Library Gardens, and Cal Tech, and many other sites of interest; the only drawback is you may never want to go home. 626.568.3900
Calamigos Ranch Calamigos Ranch is a rambling 120-acre event ranch in the Santa Monica Mountains between Malibu and the Valley. They have several beautiful outdoor wedding areas (sheltered by oak trees or perhaps by a brook or bridge, as you prefer) with adjacent indoor reception cottaqes. A wedding coordinator is included in the package; their staff members are some of the most knowledgeable and flexible in town--not a typical experience at many event locations. They now offer overnight accommodation so you can rest well before your woodland wedding. 800.821.2097 and check out the photos on their website.
The Fairmont Miramar Hotel--Santa Monica This is my favorite of all the luxury hotels on the coast -- beautiful private bungalows and specialty suites for smaller ceremonies, ballrooms for your grand affair. The warmest and most attentive service of any Santa Monica location. 310.576.7777.
Ayres Hotel, Hawthorne/Manhattan Beach Right on the 405 between LAX and the South Bay is this clean, quaint, and affordable business hotel that also hosts weddings. Their inner courtyard is a charming location for your smaller gathering, or you can choose from an array of indoor ballrooms with catering in-house by Matisse Restaurant. 310-536-0400 to inquire.
Doryman's OceanFront Inn/21 OceanFront Restaurant, Newport Beach If you want an intimate and elegant setting but lots of nearby possibilities for romping and fun, Check out Doryman's Inn and 21 OceanFront. Located right next to the Newport Beach Pier (and needless to say, Newport's welcoming beach itself) this inn/restaurant combo makes for a relaxing but entertaining destination wedding. The Inn is sweetly appointed, comfortable and luxurious but not too frouffy; many a time I've met couples there before an elopement ceremony by the water and they are always pleased with the location and friendly service. The adjacent restaurant is sized for intimate events; have your reception in their private wine cellar or the oceanview Sunset Room. For restaurant reservations please call 949.673.2100; hotel reservations 949.675.7300
Hotel Oceana Santa Monica For the style-minded seeking silver service, Hotel Oceana will more than fulfill your expectations. Quiet, private, overlooking the north end of Santa Monica's Palisades Park and the Pacific Ocean, you'll start to unwind from the moment from you enter the whimsical faux-Chagall lobby. The suites with their balconies and kitchenettes can accommodate a small wedding gathering or celebration; there is no onsite event room or restaurant, but all Santa Monica's amenities are nearby. Call 800.777.0758 for reservations.
Loew's Santa Monica Beach Hotel The expansive, sunny, palm-filled lobby and bar are impressive enough, but the best perk Loew's offers is direct access to Santa Monica Beach right from their back door--no commute required! Access to the sand is not only convenient, but Loew's also offers a privately-owned beach patio and lawn for pictures and socializing after your ceremony. Because Loew's is one of the larger luxury hotels on the water, they often offer great deals on room rates and romance packages. Call 310.458.6700 for more information, or check out the "Best Rate" link on the Loew's website.
The Victorian Built in 1894, this elegant historic home was moved by preservationists to its current location on Ocean Park and Main Street in Santa Monica. It's a warm and romantic place for a small to medium-sized event; you'll love its dark cherry and oak furnishings, candles, and twinkle lights, the great in-house catering by Duck Duck Mousse, and the private parking lot (so you don't need to worry about petitioning the Santa Monica City Council for more space.) They have a cafe open for breakfast and lunch too, if you want to see (and taste) for yourself. Call 310.392.4956 or email info@thevictorian.com.
Occasions L.A. Located off the beaten path in El Segundo, Occasions is a sweet little event location with a tranquil hidden garden in back, replete with gazebo and real flowering vines. Who knew? Beverly and Janelle are your coordinators; they are friendly, efficient, and really care about making your day the happiest one possible. Call them at 310.322.9626 for more info; they can accomodate up to 150 guests for ceremony and dinner. A good choice for the budget-minded bride.
Surf & Sand Resort, Laguna Beach This beautiful hotel on the sand in Laguna Beach will provide an elegant and relaxing wedding experience. Check out their website for a visual tour, room packages, and more; contact Michele Frank for catering or wedding event information at 949.376.2750.
Ellison's Chateau
An enchanting and unique banquet location in Torrance, with fireplace, wood floors, greenery and more. Catering by Seven Susans; accomodates up to 120 guests. 310.373.2794 for reservations.
Swiss Park Banquet Center Once a community building for Swiss ex-pats, this clean and well-maintained hall offers excellent value for those planning a larger family-style ceremony (kids and adults loved the miniature Alpine tram diorama!) Your choice of indoor rooms and the charming outdoor gazebo area make it a convenient location for both your ceremony and celebration; on-site catering means your guests won't have to wait for dinner. Swiss Park can accomodate groups over 350 and caters off-site too; we loved the hard-working owners and think you will, too. 1.800.242.2433 or 562.699.1525 for information.
The Grand: Long Beach Event Center The Grand can handle it all and offer great value too: with room for up to 750 people in their Grand Ballroom or for a group as small as 30 guests in their Board Room, onsite catering, an outdoor wedding gazebo, its own parking garage, AND an online event budget estimator, The Grand offers a reasonably-priced alternative to an expensive hotel. Call 562.426.0555 for availability.

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The Great Outdoors: Public Parks, Beaches, and Forests

Permits are usually required for use of public areas and each administration (city, state, county, or federal) has its own rules about events. Some require permits with groups of ten or more, some only if over 100 people will be in attendance. Permits are usually required if you're going to be setting up chairs or risers, have amplified music, or bring other equipment no matter how many guests are attending. It's worth a phone call to the proper agency to find out what is required so your wedding day can go smoothly.
With most public spaces the amenities and service are bare-bones; keep in mind that you'll have to rent any equipment that is needed (including lighting and catering necessaries) so you'll need to factor that into your budget. Though often quite beautiful, Nature isn't always handicapped-accessible or pleasant if you or your guests are out of shape, allergic, or sensitive to heat or cold; bear these factors in mind, and formulate your wedding plans accordingly.
To check out some of the many public parks and amenities in the Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy--a zone that covers an area from the edge of the Mojave Desert to the Pacific Ocean--go to LAMountains.Com. (you can even request date availability online.)
Temescal Gateway Park Nestled off Sunset Blvd. in Pacific Palisades, Temescal Canyon is a hidden treasure of hills and hiking trails among old oaks and sycamores--even a grassy meadow or two, perfect for your outdoor wedding. You can have a casual picnic wedding or a major celebration, honeymoon overnight in one of the recently refurbished cottages, and host your reception indoors in historic Stewart Hall. Call Joyce (the lovely and dedicated Temescal Gateway Event Coordinator) at 310.454.1395 x103.
The Los Angeles Arboretum The Arboretum in Arcadia is a vast and beautiful public trust, well worth a visit on a fine day. Within its various gardens are some lovely and very reasonably priced ceremony possibilities; we really loved the little Victorian rose garden, the Queen Anne cottage lawn, and the Sunset Magazine Demonstration Garden. Call the Special Events Coordinator to set up a private tour of the event areas: 626.821.3211.
The Los Angeles River Center and Gardens Efforts to restore the Los Angeles River and the quality of life for downtown denizens have converged at the River Center's educational exhibit and community gardens. The grounds are lovely and there are both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces available. Take the virtual tour on the website, or grab your bike and check it out in person (the Center is also home to one of L.A.'s first community Bicycle Staging Areas.) Event reservations: 323.221.9939 x220.
Monrovia Canyon Park Who have thought that the City of Monrovia would have such a beautiful forested park? Just a few minutes from the main drag is an urban forest with pines, waterfalls, and wildflowers. Not only is it close by, but the park also is well-appointed, with an event center and other facilities. The photos on the website don't really do it justice; go scope it out in person. For information on events and reservations, contact the Nature Center at 626-256-8282--they'll call you back.
The Adamson House Located on Malibu Lagoon, the Adamson House is a historic home built in 1930 and decorated with beautiful locally-made artisan tiles. It's a State historical site so you can't have your wedding inside the house, but the grounds include beautiful lawns and glades right on the ocean for that unique and relaxing California Coast feel. For wedding info call 310.457.8185 or go visit; the rangers at the gift shop can usually answer your questions about the facility.
Charles S. Farnsworth Park, Altadena The 1934 Arts & Crafts style stone community center at Farnsworth Park may be a bit of a faded beauty, but it has a large and handsome stone fireplace, stage, and wood floors; the outdoor amphitheatre is great for performance of ceremonies or music. It's an L.A. County Park so it's pretty affordable, too; call 626.798.6335 for more information.
Pine Wind Japanese Garden at the Torrance Cultural Center This sweet and quiet little garden (max capacity 60 pp) is a tranquil and affordable setting for a smaller ceremony; the adjacent Garden Rooms can be used for dressing and/or reception. Inquire via the website or call 310.781.7150.

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