One of my favorite things about photographing weddings in Los Angeles is the abundance of unique, lesser-known venues. As a Los Angeles wedding photographer, I’ve captured love stories at all kinds of places—from historic missions and ranches to intimate backyard celebrations and beachfront ceremonies. Some of the most incredible weddings I’ve captured happened at places you’d never think of at first: a library with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a charming city park, and a vacation home overlooking the ocean. Rancho Los Cerritos is the perfect example of a unique Los Angeles wedding venue that makes a big impression.
Choosing a wedding venue is one of the most exciting—and sometimes daunting—decisions you’ll make during your wedding planning journey. It’s the foundation of your day, the backdrop for your memories, and, most importantly, it should feel like you. While traditional venues like hotel ballrooms or banquet halls are ideal for some couples, they’re not everyone’s style. And that’s okay!
If you stay flexible and open to new ideas, you might stumble upon a hidden treasure that feels just right. This wedding at Rancho Los Cerritos, a nonprofit historic site in Long Beach, has been one of my favorite weddings to date. It’s a location that might not initially come to mind when you think of a wedding venue, but it was perfect for Cindy and Alex’s intimate, heartfelt celebration.
How to Find the Perfect LA Wedding Venue for Your Big Day
Thinking Outside the Box
The key to finding the right wedding venue is to think beyond the obvious choices. Sure, there’s nothing wrong with the classics, but there’s something magical about infusing your personal story into your venue choice. Ask yourself:
- What places feel meaningful to us as a couple?
- What kind of atmosphere do we want to create for our guests?
- What setting makes us feel at home, at peace, or completely ourselves?
For Cindy and Alex, Rancho Los Cerritos checked all those boxes. This historic site, located on the ancestral and current homelands of the Tongva and Gabrielino people, is steeped in cultural heritage and care for the surrounding community. As a nonprofit, the Rancho Los Cerritos Foundation is dedicated to preserving its history while creating opportunities for connection and access—a mission resonating deeply with the couple.
The ranch house is something out of a storybook, with its enchanting library, sunlit courtyard, overflowing gardens (complete with a pretty green door), and an al fresco dance floor strung with twinkling lights. Add in the festive mariachi band and the entire day felt intimate, joyful, and timeless—like a family reunion where everyone was welcome.
If you’re searching for a venue, let Cindy and Alex’s story inspire you to explore unconventional options that align with your values and vision!
Where to Look for Unique Los Angeles Wedding Venues
If you’re ready to break free from the ballroom, start by considering these types of locations:
Historic Estates and Nonprofit Venues
Venues like Rancho Los Cerritos are stunning and often have a mission that supports the community or preserves a piece of history. In Los Angeles alone, you’ll find countless nonprofit venues, historic ranches, and estates with beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and a sense of timelessness that adds so much character to a wedding.
Los Angeles Beaches & Parks
LA is home to some of the most breathtaking natural settings in the world. It’s not hard to imagine saying “I do” with the ocean as your backdrop or hosting a picnic-style reception in a tranquil, tree-filled park. Public spaces are often budget-friendly and provide a blank slate for your creativity.
Ranches and Rugged State Parks
For those who love rugged SoCal vibes, a local ranch, mission, or state park can create the perfect mix of charm and laid-back elegance. Think twinkling lights, open skies, and plenty of room for dancing. Try starting your search on the Los Angeles Historic Parks & Sites website. (I bet there are some you haven’t yet experienced, even if you’re a local!)
Los Angeles Vacation Rentals
Did you know that vacation rentals can double as incredible wedding venues? Whether you’re dreaming of a modern home with panoramic city views or a rustic cabin in the high desert mountains, platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo can help you find a space that feels intimate and unique.
LA Art Galleries & Museums
If you want a modern or eclectic vibe, consider hosting your wedding at an art gallery or museum. These spaces often have interesting architecture and curated exhibits that can elevate your aesthetic and décor with minimal effort (and expense).
Your Own Backyard
Don’t underestimate the power of a backyard wedding! Whether your own or a family member’s, you can transform a backyard into a magical space with personal touches (and maybe a little help from a wedding planner).
Tips for Picking a Wedding Venue
Once you’ve brainstormed some options, keep these practical tips in mind as you narrow down your choices:
- Budget Considerations: Think about not just the rental fee but also any additional costs like catering, rentals, permits, and decor.
- Guest Count: Make sure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
- Amenities & Logistics: Does it have the amenities you’ll need, like bathrooms, power sources, or a kitchen for catering? These practical considerations can make or break your event, so ensuring the venue is equipped to meet your needs is essential.
Additionally, think about the layout and accessibility of the space—can it comfortably accommodate your guests, and is it easy for everyone to navigate, including those with mobility challenges?
The little details, like parking availability, A/V capabilities, Wi-Fi connectivity, and even nearby accommodations, can significantly impact the overall experience.
If you’re looking for your dream wedding venue, don’t be afraid to get creative! Sometimes, the most unexpected places make for the most unforgettable memories. And I’m always a DM away for help!
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