Regal Wedding Locations in Northern California

Upscale Venues for Gorgeous Fall Weddings

Rachel Daven Skinner
If you have just begun the wedding-planning process, my guess is that you have quickly learned that your decisions are nearly endless. This is particularly true if your big day is Northern California where there are wedding vendors galore. One of the most important decisions that you will make, aside from saying yes to the groom of course, is what sort of venue is right for you to celebrate in. These five locations located in the San Francisco and surrounding areas feature upper class style that will captivate you.

Although completed in 1964, Grace Cathedral in San Francisco's Nob Hill is complimented with the beautiful architecture and romance of any old European cathedral. Complete with stained glass, a 7,300-pipe organ, and 90-foot ceilings, the immensity of this church is sure to impress. The nuptials of Courtney Cox and David Arquette took place here, as well as the filming of multiple movies. The beauty of your indoor ceremony surroundings will warm your guests as well as their hearts. For more information on saying your vows at Grace Cathedral, contact Mary Wood at 415-749-6327 and visit their website.

For a secluded affair, consider the breathtaking Nestledown in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Though the exact location is not disclosed to the public, it is located minutes from the heart of Silicon Valley and is 180 acres of redwoods, orchards, manicured gardens, ponds and all the peace that you could ever want. In addition to being a stunning wedding venue, the tranquility of this family-owned property is also available to non-profit organizations and individuals in crisis and transition. The evergreens will provide vibrancy along with the changing colors of the multitude of trees that provide the backdrop to your special day. To set up a time to tour this unforgettable location, call 408-353-5311 and visit Nestledown online to see the beauty for yourself.

The Marines' Memorial Club and Hotel provides a classic ballroom atmosphere for a San Francisco wedding. If chandeliers, vaulted ceilings and historic flair make your heart flutter, then this jewel is for you. The gold and ivory hues of the Commandant's room make it fit for royalty and provide the perfect canvas for your fall color scheme. This room also boasts a seating capacity of about 300 and views of downtown San Francisco. All of their packages include a full bar, champagne toast, wine with dinner, wedding coordinator, and many other perks as well. See their website or contact Mariell Rahmani at 415-673-6672 ext. 264.

If your heart is in the south but your wedding is in Northern California, the Tennessee style Hanoum Estate could be your fairy-tale come true. This 5-acre property is located in Oakley, with grounds that are lush year-round, have an enormous pond and a southern mansion that can accommodate more than 400 guests. Catch a glimpse online or call 925-625-3563.

You may not think of City Hall as someplace glamorous, but that of San Francisco is in a league of its own. Imagine making the bridal entrance down the Grand Staircase in the Rotunda of this national landmark with mood lighting playing off the marble surrounding you. Renovated in the 90s, this historic building will provide all the pomp and circumstance for a wedding never to be forgotten. Event rates at the Rotunda begin at $10,000 for up to 500 guests for 10 hours, though they are able to accommodate up to 3,000 guests. For simpler affairs, such as ceremony and cocktail reception only, they have a 2 hour wedding package for $4,000. See the website or call 415-554-6068.

With so many great settings to choose from, it's nearly impossible to go wrong. Fall in love with Northern California this autumn and your wedding will be picture perfect.

Published by Rachel Daven Skinner

Rachel is a fiction and freelance writer/editor and former Flight Attendant. She's currently living in the London area with her husband, who is in the US Air Force. She wants to explore the world and share t...  View profile

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.