Unique Spots in the Bay Area to Say “I Do”
Your wedding day is one of the most important in your life, so you can’t simply choose any old venue for the big event. You need something that really fits your style and budget, and you’ll probably want a venue that your guests will remember forever.
Finding something unique, trendy, fun, and romantic isn’t easy, but the San Francisco Bay Area does have a few tricks up her sleeve.
We tracked down 4 incredible venues that you may not have yet considered. Prepare to be amazed.
Bently Reserve
The Old Federal Reserve Bank building in the Financial District might seem like a strange place to hold your wedding ceremony and reception, but you should definitely take a closer look. The stately building has been fully restored and upgraded to provide an elegant, sumptuous affair. Marble floors, soaring ceilings, and formidable chandeliers are the backdrop for the most lavish nuptials the Bay Area can provide.
No other venue could possibly offer anything as grand as this, the Bently Reserve, which was designed by architect George W. Kelham in 1924. If you’re looking for something that captures the old-world style of the Roaring 20s without sacrificing any of today’s luxury, this is your chosen wedding venue.
San Francisco City Hall
The thought of getting married at City Hall probably doesn’t prompt visions of grandeur. In fact, you probably think the opposite…unless, of course, you’re thinking of San Francisco City Hall. While you can still enjoy the smaller, simply ceremony associated with weddings at City Hall, you’ll also enjoy a setting like you’ve never imagined. A sweeping staircase, marble floors, elegant lighting, and breathtaking architecture all join together to provide a gorgeous backdrop for your big day.
The rental includes two hours in the rotunda for up to 200 guests, which may not sound small at all. In fact, in addition to being a beautiful setting choice, City Hall might just be the most economical. Just be aware you’ll need to say “I do” before 3 pm on Saturdays, so you may want to plan your reception elsewhere.
California Academy of Sciences
Are you the quirky type who thinks getting married in the shadow of dinosaur bones is the way to go? If so, the California Academy of Sciences might just be your perfect venue. You can choose from several different locations within the grounds, including the rainforest, aquarium, swamp, piazza, African hall, and even the planetarium. You don’t even need to worry about how to decorate such unusual surroundings, either. The venue will take care of all the details, including decorations, equipment, and even security.
If you’re expecting an exceptionally large party, consider renting the entire museum for your big day. You’ll gain access to all the exhibits during the festivities. In fact, the docents may just give a behind the scenes look to any who are interested.
Bluxome Street Winery
One of the hottest wedding venues in San Francisco and the Bay Area is the Bluxome Street Winery. The space is decidedly utilitarian, lending a fresh, trendy appearance that won’t cramp your style. Image your reception among the wine barrels under soaring ceilings. The winery’s event space is in use for the creation of wine any time a wedding or event isn’t taking place, so you’ll probably even still be able to smell the fragrant wines as you celebrate.
No other wedding venue in San Francisco can be counted on for providing rustic, comfortable, trendy, and elegant all in one single space. That’s why this, the Bluxome Street Winery, is both the newest and most sought after venue on this list.
Your wedding day isn’t complete without stylish and trendy car service too. Be sure you reserve your limousine service in the Bay Area at least six weeks in advance so you can get the car you really want. If you’re planning to match your vehicle to your venue and wedding theme, you may want to book even sooner. You deserve all the best on your big day.
Photo Credit: Flickr - Marshall Astor
