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.
Design Inspiration: Happy Halloween
Photography by: Jessamyn Harris
Photography by: Keith Simonian Photography
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So many couples stay away from “Holiday Themed Weddings.” Although I do understand the idea that you want your wedding to be unique and a celebration of your union not necessarily the season, there are so many fun upsides to a holiday theme done well.
Above we have two perfect and completely different examples of seasonal celebrations that have panache and style. The amazing autumn wedding captured by one of our favorite photographers, Jessamyn Harris, is jaw-dropping gorgeous. Every element of the design flows effortlessly. The wedding is perfectly suited for 1 Fort Mason, which sits atop the bluff at the water’s edge. The lighting creates a perfect warm autumn sunset. When the guests enter they are immediately at ease in this comfortable and relaxing room. The design incorporates the feeling of the season without being too “thematic” – an autumn wedding does not have to be about Indian corn, gourds and pilgrims. I love the color palette. It incorporates bold and warm tones into the flowers, but the flowers have a wide array and texture to them. The amber lighting, patterned wall washes, hints of rosemary, and the subtle use of sage greens along with the burnt oranges, browns, and golds are perfect!! Check out the entire post by clicking here!
Keith Simonian captured our second fall theme and it is perfect for today’s Happy Halloween Message. Black, white, and red inspired this incredible celebration and a few touches captured from the amazing Tim Burton. If you are bold enough to have this much fun with your wedding, you must believe ‘go big and go bold’ and do not hold back. I love all the details. The bouquets of black feathers, blood red roses, and just enough bling sets the tone for a whimsical and magical celebration. The white dwarf pumpkins are cleverly painted to create a memorable centerpiece, and you must love the cake display! A collection of Red Velvet cupcakes on top of cake stands that have a gorgeous black damask and red print with the signature Tim Burton character as a topper – gorgeous, fun, and inspired. If you’d like to see the entire celebration, check out these posts.
Wedding Venues: Argonaut Hotel A Burst of Color
Photography by: enLuce Photography
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About the venue
The Argonaut Hotel near Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco is all about location, location, location. When a couple want to host a downtown party but does not want to have the typical downtown “Ballroom” reception, then they have to go check out the Argonaut Hotel. The nautical-themed hotel is a charming boutique property where service is the order of the day and trendsetting design is all around you.
The hotel redefines a classic Americana look – sort of Ralph Lauren meets Fisherman’s Wharf. I absolutely love the dazzling array of unique artifacts and historical architectural elements blended with a flare for the dramatic that welcome every visitor as they walk into the lobby. The Argonaut Hotel offers several options for a ceremony and reception. The brick “cannery” courtyard is a perfect place to exchange wedding vows, or I love using this space to enjoy sumptuous nibbles paired with wine or cocktails. With the Ghirardelli sign lit up in the background and ships in the harbor, you can’t get a more picture perfect San Francisco scene if you tried. History meets refined detail and casual elegance – we love it!
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This sweet and charming couple obviously abides by the idea of go bold and go bright, and why not?! The whimsical and fun celebration is perfect for a San Francisco Waterfront soiree. The vivid shade of winner’s circle blue is a perfect pairing with the bright and bold shades of meyer lemon and pumpkin.
A splendid ceremony has been detailed in the Maritime room. The white chair-covers are punctuated with a burst of the couple’s signature blue and the arched windows invite wonderful filtered light that softly fills the room. The massive weathered wood columns and brick masonry work of the interior merge the exterior and interior spaces perfectly. Many couples will adjourn from a ceremony in the Maritime room and then lead their guests outdoors to enjoy a pre-dinner snack under the shade trees in the courtyard.
The DIY elements incorporated by the couple keep the whole event grounded in the idea that is San Francisco. The table numbers, which are designed to reflect various points of interest in San Francisco (The Bay Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, etc.), are a wonderful way to ensure your guests know about all the highlights this amazing “in the heart of the city” location offers. I love the custom cookie – it is a perfect pairing for your guests as a late night snack with a glass of milk after a night of dancing and merriment.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – enLuce Photography; Floral – Party Petals; Cake – That Takes the Cake!; Catering – Blue Mermaid Chowder House & Bar.
Wedding Venue: Durham Ranch Sneak Preview
Photography by: Jamie Grenough Photography
For more photography from this fun event, click here!
About the venue
If you are a designer or artist, you know the name Ken Fulk. And if you are a foodie, you know the name Paula Le Duc. Paula leDuc Fine Catering is synonymous with both fine foods, entertaining in style, and simple and pure luxury. Combine these two names and you have Durham Ranch. Ken Fulk has been well regarded as the “darling” of San Francisco’s interior design world for several years now. As described by The Style Saloniste: “His style is witty and fresh, leaving a vivid impression. He enjoys bold colors and loves helping to express vibrant lives.” Durham Ranch in St. Helena is a place where style and serenity, good taste and comfort, come home to stay. Your guests will be overwhelmed by the simple elegance infused with the abundance of natural elements that surround you. 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 – Jamie Grenough Photography; Designer/Planner – Elissa Thorp of Delysium Events; Floral – Atelier Joya; Cake – Kiri Mah; Catering – Living Room Events; Lighting Rentals – Refraction; Invitations – Michelle Beilner for Jot Creates; Entertainment – Goh Nakamura, Thomas Golubic.
Wedding Venue: Garden Pavilion Sneak Preview
Photography by: borrowed blue old new
About the Venue
No one attending this exuberant celebration could possibly leave feeling blue. An impressive soiree, there was more than enough fun to go around. This elegant royal blue wedding celebration is a great example of traditional and elegant meets fun. The Garden Pavilion was the perfect location for this event.
The Garden Pavilion is a well-kept secret in the heart of Sonoma – the gorgeous Victorian style manor house is eclectically furnished and exudes a sublime contrast between Old World and New. The “Anthropology” of wedding venues is the perfect description used by this bride. Check back for more on this venue…
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – borrowed blue old new; Planner – A Savvy Event; Cake – Nash Baker; Catering – Alex’s Catering; Vintage Furniture Rentals – Milk Glass Vintage Rentals; Cinematography – Justin Fone Productions.
Wedding Venue: Beltane Ranch Cute Country Couture
Photography by: Jerry Yoon Photographers
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About the Venue
Do something creative and romantic for your wedding celebration: consider a Shabby Chic affair at Beltane Ranch. Beltane Ranch is a working ranch in the heart of Sonoma. The ranch was established in 1878 and is home to lush gardens and a charming bed and breakfast. The property overflows with natural elements – fruit orchards, grape vineyards, and an organic cattle ranch, making a wedding at Beltane Ranch a unique experience for your family and friends.
Offer ceremony seating with simple white, natural, or iron scroll folding chairs, which sets the perfect tone. A traditional aisle runner can be a challenge in a rustic setting. I would recommend using potted plants in brightly colored containers instead. Hydrangea or other large full blossoms look wonderful. A more traditional bride may want to consider using flower petals scattered down each side of the aisle – either option is a simple and charming way to add soft romance into your ceremony design.
Turn your outdoor garden wedding into something extraordinary by adding unique and surprising touches. A vintage typewriter is a great solution as a guest book. Serving root beer, cream soda, or Sarsaparilla is a refreshing way to set a casual mood. This wedding, as thoughtfully photographed by Jerry Yoon Photographers, shows off the versatility of the property perfectly.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Jerry Yoon Photographers; Designer/Planner – Denise Kramer Weddings; Floral – Huckleberry Karen Designs; Cake – Teeny Cake; Catering – Park Avenue Catering.
Wedding Venue: Pavilion By The Bay Enjoy The View
Photography by: Michele M Waite Photography
Click here to check out some more beautiful images from this event.
About the Venue
Every bride would like to make it to the altar with minimal stress. As a planner, I can assure you one of the best ways to accomplish this feat is to choose a wedding venue that offers you “one stop shopping.” Typically brides think about a Hotel or Resort when they are looking to simplify the planning process, and many brides shy away from this idea feeling that the party may end up being a bit “cookie cutter.” However, if you are a Bay Area bride looking for the simplicity of one stop shopping but are looking for a blank canvas that will give you an unlimited approach to your design and customization of your celebration, then you must check out The Pavilion by the Bay on Treasure Island.
This remarkable location sits on the water’s edge on Treasure Island. A grand white tented pavilion that is over 6,000 square feet of event space and has over 100 feet of window-line that gives all of your guest “the best view in the house.” Peter McCaffrey, owner and executive chef from Wine Valley Catering, is the inspiration behind the Grand Pavilion and he takes enormous pride in providing a unique location with endless possibilities.
Wine Valley Catering has been an established presence both in The Wine Country, as it’s name sake would suggest, and in San Francisco. This wonderful property allows them to come full circle with the services they can offer. The dedicated event planning staff at Wine Valley will help the bride plan the perfect celebration – from choosing the most delectable menu to creating an out-of-this-world lighting design – one stop shopping at it’s best.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Michele M Waite Photography; Designer/Planner – Sitting in a Tree Events; Floral – Birch SF; Catering – Wine Valley Catering; Entertainment – N Demand; Lighting Rentals – Hatfield and Walker; Videography – Shakewell Productions; Invitations – Ollie Ollie Press; All Other Paper Goods – Sitting in a Tree Events.
Wedding Venue: Chileno Valley Ranch Sneak Preview
Photography by: Michelle Walker Photography
About the venue
Petaluma is often considered as the gorgeous grasslands that welcome you to the Wine Country, or often referred to as the ‘tip’ of what we in the Bay Area call the North Bay. No matter how you classify it, most couples find an unmistakable charm in this quaint small town. Mike and Sally Gale were drawn to this small town in 1993, adopting a weather-worn Victorian home as a ‘restoration’ project against all common sense and the advice of local contractors, friends, and family.
Four years later the 1883 Romantic Italianate home, Chileno Valley Ranch, has been restored to it’s original grandeur. Sally’s family had owned the property since 1856 and the restoration allowed Sally and her family the opportunity to open a new chapter in the Ranch’s history.
Today, Chileno Valley Ranch sits on over 600 acres of beautiful rolling hills amidst coastal Marin grasslands. The family still resides in the home and sustainably raise cattle – each year the family opens it’s home to a select few brides and allow them the opportunity to share in their family history.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Michelle Walker Photography, Florist – Paul Robertson Floral Design, Catering – Pam Ferrari Custom Catering.
Wedding Venue: Harvest Inn Over the Top
Photography By: Wendy Maclaurin Richardson
About the Venue
Are you passionate about the idea of getting married in the wine country, but don’t want a winery wedding? Then consider an intimate celebration at a refined English country house. The Harvest Inn in St. Helena is an amazing location to explore, creating the perfect solution for an off-site wine country wedding.
The stone facade of the Inn is covered in ivy and floral vines, while the courtyards, fountains and vineyards adorn the outskirts of the property. If the words and emotions you want to invoke from your family and friends include soft, classic, romantic, and timeless, then this is a venue you’ll want to consider.
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Angela Nelson of Lulu Events has created one-of-a-kind celebrations for over ten years. Her tenure with The Ritz-Carlton and Accenture honed her skills and created her signature style: soft, elegant, and flawless. Angela knows the key to a great romantic look is a color palette filled with soft muted hues.
The brick courtyard that overlooks the neighboring vineyards at The Harvest Inn perfectly embraces this ultra feminine wedding design. A collection of roses as a tabletop design is always a classic; however, the harmonious blend of sun-bleached pink and ecru roses with hydrangea displayed in antiqued silver trumpet vases is just stunning. The rich mahogany ballroom style chairs create a feeling of timeless elegance, where your guests can sit back and watch the summer sun set over the fruitful Napa Valley.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photography – Wendy Maclaurin Richardson, Event Coordinator – Lulu Events, Flowers – Blumengarten.
Wedding Venue: Viansa Winery by Tinywater Photography
Photography by: Tinywater Photography
Check out some more fun images from this gorgeous venue!
About the venue
The versatility of Viansa Winery is remarkable. Consider having your wedding ceremony in the Italian-themed courtyard, the delicate scroll work of the Barrel Room gates creates the perfect frame for the bride and groom. The natural rugged stone facade creates hints of Tuscany as you admire the grand architecture and manicured terraced landscape. The strong masonry structures and rich textures create a strong connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces of this ever-so-enchanting Sonoma wedding venue.
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Every girl dreams of receiving a “little blue box,” and if she does I can’t think of better inspiration to create a one-of-a-kind wedding design. This Tiffany blue wedding is a great example of traditional and elegant meets bohemian fun. This wonderful design seamlessly combines the classic elegance – a vibrant modern flair with it’s eclectic mix of design elements.
Tiffany blue has become a popular hue for your wedding entourage. The playful color palette brings an energy and life to the ensemble. The matching “bling” donned by the bridesmaids look incredible, make a statement, and is a wonderful “bridesmaid” gift. What I love about this cool and tranquil shade of blue is that it works well with both light pastel accents, or when paired with deep chocolate brown or dark navy blue. Many of the outdoor garden reception areas are ideal for this color choice.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Tinywater Photography, Floral – Wine Country Flowers, Catering – Sage Catering, Entertainment – California DJ’s.
Design Inspiration: Napa Loves Lilac
Photograph by: Jennifer Baciocco Photography
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Did you know there are four distinct shades of Lilac? Floral Lilac, Lilac Grey, Lilac Blue, and Old (dark) Lilac. With the wide variety hues available, it seems natural that so many brides would choose this wonderfully sentimental and romantic color palette. Hints of Lilac are abundant in nature; you can create amazing designs with highlights of Lavender, Wisteria, Orchids, and Hydrangea. All of these gorgeous flowers pull from the same floral color palette.
Lilac is extraordinarily versatile – it is a subtle combination of blush and violet and can pair with light and dark browns, white, ecru’s, and a million shades of green. The wedding pictured above, brought to us by the extremely talented Jennifer Baciocco, incorporates several shades of lilac in soft subtle ways. The groomsmen’s ties present a soft color contrast; a bit of muse to the traditional dark suit. The soft and tranquil hue of the Peonies used in the chair decor blends perfectly into the color scheme, but has a more sophisticated feel.
I love the floral decor around the pool – the combination of the muted violet with the river rock ads texture and a sense of nature to things, and the table decor is out of this world – creating depth and dimension, pulling in so many textures from the urns to the apples and richly colored tulips. Gorgeous!
This spectacular wedding was held at a private estate in Napa. Sorry brides, strictly off limits unless you’re related; however, like so many incredible things about Napa, any outdoor garden setting will look fabulous with this color palette. The natural greens and browns found in the surrounding elements are a perfect compliment. If you are using this color palette at an indoor venue, then I’d recommend pairing the colors with either a chocolate brown, ecru, or possibly a soft sage green linen.
I Do Venues wants to recognize the talented team of wedding professionals who helped to make this bride’s dream a reality: Photographer – Jennifer Baciocco Photography; Designer/Planner – Pineapple Productions; Floral and Lighting Design – Kathleen Deery Design; Cake – Perfect Endings; Catering – Paula LeDuc Fine Catering; Entertainment – Martini Brothers; Cinematography – Thomas Hughes Films; Invitations and Calligraphy – Darleen Dominguez.
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