some of the best
SANTA BARBARA WEDDING VENUES
to get married at
Santa Barbara wedding venues are gorgeous, and not only is it a dream destination for weddings, but a dream of many wedding photographers. Did you know that it is considered the American Riviera? It’s a perfect blend of coastal charm, historic elegance, and breathtaking scenery- from the cliffs, to state street, to the mountains. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate elopement or a grand wedding celebration, these Santa Barbara venues provide the perfect backdrop for your special day, and definitely for your wedding photography.
SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE WEDDINGS
gorgeous and classic scenery perfect for any architecture buff getting married
One of the most popular and iconic spots in the city, the Santa Barbara Courthouse is renowned for its stunning Spanish-Colonial Revival architecture, lush sunken gardens, and panoramic tower views. There are ALWAYS couples here doing their wedding photography, engagement photos (who doesn’t want to do their engagement photos in Santa Barbara?) and even locals enjoying the public space. Couples can exchange vows in one of the charming outdoor spaces or inside the historic Mural Room, surrounded by hand-painted frescoes. You can either rent certain areas for your sit down ceremony, or have a small civil ceremony on the grounds.
view a full gallery here: Santa Barbara Courthouse Wedding Photography
the full day in
CHRONOLOGICAL ORDER
F + V hosted their wedding in their home city of Santa Barbara, inviting their guests from near and far to attend the occasion. They wanted to immerse their family and friends in the natural beauty that is Santa Barbara, enhancing it with their vibrant color palette. After all the formalities, the couple danced the night away.
CABRILLO PAVILION
an oceanfront venue with beach access and a spacious indoor reception area
For those dreaming of a beachfront wedding, or even just your wedding reception, Cabrillo Pavilion offers a spectacular oceanfront setting. Situated right on the beach with ample parking for your guests, elegant indoor spaces, and a spacious outdoor terrace, this venue is ideal for couples who want a relaxed yet sophisticated celebration with the Pacific Ocean as their backdrop. It is perfect for couples wanting to get married in a place that feels very classic California, and you can never go wrong with wedding photography in Santa Barbara on the beach.
view a full gallery here: Cabrillo Pavilion Wedding Photography
VILLA & VINE
mediterranean-style courtyard with lush greenery and a european ambiance
Tucked in the heart of downtown, Villa & Vine is a romantic, Mediterranean-style courtyard venue with ivy-covered walls, twinkling bistro lights, and a warm, intimate ambiance. AND it is walking distance from the Santa Barbara Courthouse, so I have seen many a couple do a wedding ceremony at the courthouse and then their wedding reception at Villa & Vine. It is perfect for smaller, intimate weddings, this venue provides an effortlessly chic setting with a touch of European charm. There is a really cute fountain in the center of the courtyard, and then an indoor option for dancing. Also- the food is great!
view a full gallery here: Villa & Vine Wedding Photography
SANTA BARBARA ZOO
beautiful ocean and mountain views + animal feedings
For a unique wedding in a fun location (not to mention beautiful), the Santa Barbara Zoo offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Exchange vows with giraffes in the background, enjoy a sunset cocktail hour overlooking the ocean, and celebrate under the stars in one of the zoo’s scenic event spaces. You and your guests can even feed the giraffes during cocktail hour! This is a great venue to get married at for animal lovers, and a very fun spot for wedding photography in Santa Barbara.
view a full gallery here: Santa Barbara Zoo Wedding Photography
EL PASEO RESTAURANT
intimate historic spanish courtyard with tiled fountains and cozy booths
Rich in history and character, El Paseo Restaurant is a charming venue in Santa Barbara’s Presidio District. With its Spanish-style courtyard, string lights, and rustic beauty, it’s an excellent choice for couples looking for a warm, intimate, and inviting atmosphere. There are beautiful booths as well as wrought iron, creating a fantastic ambiance. Not to mention- the food is FANTASTIC and cannot be beat. Also located walking distance from the Santa Barbara courthouse, I have seen couples do their ceremony at the courthouse and then walk to the reception at the restaurant.
website: https://www.elpaseosb.com/
view a full gallery here: El Paseo Restaurant Wedding Photography
SANTA BARBARA MISSION
18th century franciscan architecture and a historic chapel with intricate detailing
This is a wedding ceremony location exclusively. It is perfect for couples who want a wedding steeped in history and tradition. This 18th-century landmark offers a stunning chapel with intricate details and a serene outdoor setting perfect for your wedding photography portraits. The mission’s gardens and historic architecture create an unforgettable, timeless setting for a wedding. Then after your ceremony, check out the rest of this list for perfect reception venues! Villa & Vine, Cabrillo Pavilion, and El Paseo Restaurant are great options.
website: https://www.santabarbaramission.org/
view a full gallery here: Santa Barbara Mission Wedding Photography
Overall, Santa Barbara wedding photography is made easy. There are tons of gorgeous venues! From the romantic gardens of the courthouse to the ocean views of Cabrillo Pavilion, Santa Barbara’s wedding venues offer something for every couple’s vision, and it can be a great place to have a destination wedding, leaving your guests thrilled. No matter which venue you choose, you’re sure to have a wedding day filled with beauty, charm, and unforgettable moments.
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