Welcome to I Do Venues—your insider’s view into San Francisco and California wedding ceremony and reception venues. The industry’s best wedding photographers provide daily design inspiration with professional photographs from of real weddings in the hottest Bay area venues. You can visualize the best themes, color palettes, and design concepts for your wedding venue.
Our practical information on each wedding venue is based on first-hand experience from industry professionals who have successfully executed real weddings at your selected wedding venue. Since choosing your wedding venue is the pivotal choice for designing your dream wedding, make the best decision with I Do Venues’ insight and insider knowledge and be inspired along the way.
Wedding Venue: Auberge du Soleil Capture the Moment
Photography By: Julie Mikos
Summary
When planning your wedding, there is really only one thing that you can take away with you – your photographs. Your wedding photographs will be passed on to future generations and mark an event that will impact the rest of your life. When choosing your venue, make sure to consider the type of pictures you want to take home with you. 
Do you want architectural backgrounds, natural gardens, or vineyards?
Auberge du Soleil has the unique ability to transport you and your guests from a vineyard view hilltop terrace to a romantic courtyard, just by turning the corner. The variety of backdrops will not only enhance your portraits, but your guests will be amazed by the surprise around each corner. Overall, a wedding at Auberge du Soleil will give your wedding album a sense of timeless romanticism.
Insider tips
Always make sure you and your photographer walk the property together prior to your celebration. Point out backdrops that you find interesting and enticing, then allow them to use their creative talents to make you portraits into inspiring moments!
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Julie Mikos, Florist – Melissa of A Simple Ceremony, Catering – Auberge du Soleil.
Alicia’s I Do’s: Bringing In The Elements
Photography By: Orange Photography
Summary
I am a huge supporter of bringing elements of Feng Shui into events. It is something I have applied to my own home, so why not my events? The five elements of Feng Shui: fire, earth, wood, metal, and water – surround us everyday. Balance is created by representing the five elements in simple ways.
Chris and Deniz were the perfect clients, allowing me to take the elements of Feng Shui to the next level. They love the Asian culture, having traveled extensively there and using Asian elements in their everyday life, including home décor and cooking.
To come up with a balanced wedding design, I took all five elements and incorporated them into the theme:
Fire – Candles (I know, too easy) and lighting
Earth – Orchids, river rocks, moss
Wood – Bamboo
Water – Columns of floating candles and flowers in water
Metal – Tin containers
We used all of these elements together to create our Asian inspired event. The Dogpatch Studios was the perfect venue for their event – acting as a blank canvas with the 3rd floor as a backdrop for the ceremony. The light and airy space was filled with lights – the city’s own lights as the background. We lined the aisle with petals and pebbles, while the chairs had hanging tins filled with orchids.
After the wedding ceremony, the guests made their way to cocktails where each table held water-filled vases with floating candles, flowers, and river rock. After cocktails, guests were escorted down a flight of stairs lined with columns filled with water and candles. Once they made their way to the reception area, they found a rock and bamboo garden with their escort cards. Long tables were used so all of the elements could be incorporated. Each table featured orchids attached to bamboo in metal containers and succulents running down the center, along with columns of floating candles, river rocks, and moss. It was stunning to view, yet so balanced.
The most important part of Feng Shui is balance. Balance is achieved regardless of theme (you don’t have to have an Asian theme to practice balance). Consider your wedding theme from all angles to embrace balance. Address sights, sounds, tactile, scents, and tastes equally. For example, don’t overpower your guests with an abundance of fragrant flowers but neglect appropriate lighting.
Enjoy and happy designing…
Wedding Venue: Cline Cellars Picture Perfect Garden Ceremony
Photography By: Tiffany Fosnight and Nicola Borland of Adeline and Grace Photography
Summary
As you drive down the Carneros Highway you are surrounded by wineries on all sides, but the Cline Cellars is the first winery you will encounter. It’s a beautiful and welcoming location for your family and friends as an introduction to your wine country celebration.
The team at Cline Cellars have done a remarkable job of creating a lush green garden oasis which can function as a central location for your wedding ceremony and reception. The great lawn sets a spectacular backdrop for the couple looking to host a breathtaking affair, capturing the natural beauty of the picturesque surroundings. I love the mature willow trees – they are the ideal spot to frame in the bride and groom as they exchange vows.
The trees, ponds, and aviaries give your guests the feeling that they are at a private wine country retreat versus a traditional winery. Don’t get me wrong – Cline has been making some of the best vintages for over fifty years.
The couple featured above chose to hold their ceremony on the great lawn. I love the dramatic use of rose petals, which adds color and texture. And what bride wouldn’t want to arrive on a bed of roses? Add to the lush greenery by adding some color. The combination of the rose petals down the aisle along with the bright floral arrangements on the pillars is a perfect choice. A clean and simple design adds to the surroundings rather than outshine it.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Tiffany Fosnight and Nicola Borland of Adeline and Grace Photography, Designer / Coordinator – BA Lipin Event Design, Florist – Catherine Conlin of Wiggy Flowers.
Wedding Venue: Headlands Center For The Arts Capturing Perfe ...
Photography By: Kate Harrison
Summary
Have you ever heard the saying ” We don’t remember days. We remember moments?” That quote immediately comes to mind as I view these amazing photographs by Kate Harrison which document this couple’s special moments at The Headlands Center for the Arts.
Kate’s unique production style is wonderful – so soft and romantic – but consider the unique moments she has captured. You won’t find these expressions or emotions in a set of posed wedding pictures.
These wedding photos are just jaw-dropping. The Headlands Center for the Arts is surrounded by amazing natural landscape. The foothills are carpeted with wildflowers and sea grass while the gorgeous ocean vistas feature large rock formations from centuries of waves crashing against them. Historic buildings and colorful birds are in abundance. All these picturesque elements lead to a one-of-a-kind photo gallery to share with your family and friends.
When you consider your wedding day photography, take an active role. We always suggest working with a photographer who knows your event venue. If it is a new venue for them, at minimum you will want to visit the venue with your photographer, discussing the different backdrops that you want to have represented. As with so many things in life, great wedding photographs depend on location, location, location. Work with your photographer to choose places that have meaning, but let them use their creative talents to optimize the locations.
I love how this couple and the photographer bring in the rustic elements. The sparse backdrop really makes the details stand out. The shoes against the natural wood floor… even the old radiators make for a great background. The Headlands is a great location for inventive photography. It is a place where you can think outside the box and have fun with it. Be fun and quirky – the venue screams for it.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Kate Harrison, Flowers – SF Flower Market.
Wedding Venue: The Fairmont Hotel A Penthouse Wedding
Photography By: Kate Harrison
Summary
Take your wedding celebration to new heights by inviting your friends to an intimate dinner party in the Penthouse Suite. You can’t get a better view than overlooking San Francisco. If you have ever dreamed of getting into the elevator and saying the words “Penthouse please,” then you have to check out the Penthouse Suite at the Fairmont Hotel in San Francisco’s Nob Hill district.
The elegance, refinement, and classic style of the Fairmont is uncompromising. Imagine getting married on the beautiful balcony overlooking The City, taking in the amazing fountain, the Italian tiled floor, and the gorgeous metal scroll detailing of the railing. Talk about WOW factor!
This unique intimate setting will make your guests feel as if they are sharing your moment, not attending your wedding. Make your guests feel like they are being welcomed into your home by bringing personal touches, such as family pictures, to scatter around. The design of the suite reminds you of classic Hollywood glamor – you only need to add a few floral touches and you are done.
Ask the expert
Many couples want to treat their guest to a unique experience for the rehearsal dinner. The Fairmont offers all this in one location. Consider hosting the rehearsal dinner at the Tonga Room. This well-known San Francisco destination will transport your guests to Polynesia and give them a sneak preview of the level of service and excellence that will encompass your wedding. More to come!
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Kate Harrison, Designer / Coordinator – Lauren Geissler from Downey Street Events, Flowers – Not Just Flowers, Catering – Adriana McKee-Abbe for Barbara Llewellyn Catering and Event Planning.
Wedding Venue: The Four Seasons Hotel Sneak Preview
Photography By: Todd Rafalovich Photography
Summary
For over fifty years, the Four Seasons Hotel has set the standard for refinement, elegance, and personal luxury. Have the wedding of your dreams and create a wonderful memory for your family and friends by booking the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco.
The Four Seasons is an experience rather than a location. You know there is something different upon entering – a feeling of confidence; a sense of quiet calm. The atmosphere is unique, but you can never quite pin-point the exact reason. It is apparent in every little detail – from the time you take your first tour to the time you check in and the valet knows your name. The level of service and excellence permeates every part of your experience.
There is an array of exceptional hotels available for weddings in downtown San Francisco. With impeccable service, select attention to details, and an award-winning culinary staff, the Four Seasons shines above the rest. The Four Seasons offers amazing all-inclusive packages to suit every level of celebration. The catering and banquet staff is there to guide you. Their knowledge of food and beverage pairing is unparalleled and you can rest assured, not a detail will be missed.
The ballrooms are magnificent, but don’t miss the terrace. This unique option can be used for an alfresco cocktail hour and is an unusual feature in a sea of high rise luxury hotels. If you want unparalleled service, quality, and an international brand that speaks volumes to your guests, the Four Seasons in San Francisco is the venue for you.
Wedding Venue: Cline Cellars Country and Chic
Photography By: Christine Taylor
Summary
Pictures like this make me want to get married again! Cline Cellars in Sonoma offers bridal couples a historic and scenic wedding venue. There are so many different settings within the vineyard’s rolling acres to choose from, it is hard to commit to a specific theme. The gardens and fountains are amazing, or you can choose the Barrel Room. Better yet, consider this couple’s take on the unique venue and go for an elegant country chic theme. Christine Taylor is amazingly talented, but the way she has captured the detail of this wedding is inspiring.
Photography By: Christine Taylor
Details
What isn’t there to love? It starts with the hip styling of the bride and groom. I love the groom’s ensemble; he is stylish without being stuffy, and casual without looking disheveled. The vest is perfect for this affair. It would also look great for the couple trying to create a “vintage” style. The boutonniere is wonderful. I love the small yellow craspedia buttons with the simple single leaf greenery – very masculine.
The vineyard setting is a perfect place to stage this casual and chic affair. It matches the couple’s attire perfectly and the outdoor “living room” makes an amazing place for photographs. The retro suitcases and typewriter are great props to bring in the vintage feel. We love these props for a travel-themed wedding as well.
The design really works well for the tables. The assortment of containers and vases is a great way to accentuate the long rectangular table. The long tables create more conversation, and they invite a more casual family style ambiance to your dinner party.
The chandelier is also a great touch – vintage elegance at its finest. The place cards on the trees are a clever way to showcase your stationary. Overall this is a perfectly styled event as well as perfectly photographed. If time permits, have your coordinator help set up your photo shoot so that you can capture the details in a fun and hip way!
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Christine Taylor, Designer / Coordinator – Erin Taylor from Bustle Events, Florist – Yasmin from Wild Flower Events
Wedding Venue: De Young Museum Express Your Style
Photography By: Lilia Photography
Summary
If you are challenged by finding a central idea for your wedding – don’t worry, you are not alone. Every bride and groom struggle to find a connection, an object, color, or idea that will become a central theme for their wedding.
A wedding should revolve around the bride and groom. They should be the focal point. When your guests arrive at your wedding, they should see you – the bride and groom. Don’t be intimidated. Your wedding style should reflect your love, relationship, and personalities. The two of you are the show!
We love the originality of the above event. The talented team of Simply Sparkling Events helped this couple find their inspiration. From the collateral to the cake toppers, each item is a reflection of the bride and groom; in this case, literally, as personalized cartoon caricatures. The way the design team has incorporated both real photographs and the cartoon element is so much fun. It is a brilliant way to let your guests know they’re in for a good time. This design makes us smile and I’m sure that is exactly what the bride and groom wanted!
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Lilia Photography, Designer / Coordinator – Simply Sparkling Events
Wedding Venue: Flood Mansion The Perfect Dinner Party
Photography By: Geoff White
Summary
The Flood Mansion is one of San Francisco’s most elegant and refined wedding venues – what a wonderful location to host the biggest dinner party you will ever throw. This wedding is a perfect example of the simple and elegant wedding so many brides long for. If you view your wedding celebration as one long dinner party, it is easy to plan a 
party that your guests will remember.
A late afternoon ceremony on the front steps is one of our favorite ways to begin the celebration. After you have “kissed the bride,” your guests can enjoy a sumptuous round of appetizers and cocktails in the courtyard, followed by dinner in the main hall. The Flood Mansion has a distinguished list of preferred catering companies – this couple chose Betty Zlatchin Catering and our hats off, what a beautiful display of great food and artistic expression.
A seated multi-course meal fits the setting, so have fun with your menu. Maybe consider an amuse to get the palette ready for what’s in store. Engaging your guests in a formal dinner service enables your guests to relish in their surroundings while marveling at the incredible views and the glamor of a San Francisco sunset. Choosing a menu that will impress your guests, but not intimidate them, is key to a successful celebration.
Betty’s presentation of roasted grilled New York with a Sea Salt and Herb’s de Provance Rub, served with a wild mushroom Risotto with garlic, thyme, and reggiano shards is the perfect way to impress but not intimidate – the perfect replacement for your standard Meat and Potatoes menu.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Geoff White, Catering – Betty Zlatchin Catering.
Wedding Venue: Holman Ranch Sneak Preview
Photography by: Tanja Lippert Photography
Summary
Begin your life together immersed in natural beauty, grand architecture, and a wisp of California history at Holman Ranch in the exclusive hills of the Caramel Valley. Take your vows under the boughs of an ancient oak tree and treat your guests to a glass of bubbly as they watch the fog creep over the Santa Lucia Mountains. End the magical day by watching the sun set over the acres of rolling grape vines. Regardless of the details, Holman Ranch provides 360 degree panoramic views for you to frame the perfect wedding celebration. More to come!
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Tanja Lippert Photography, Florist – Christine Cater Wedding and Event Floral Designs.
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