California is known for many things, including stunning mountains and lush landscapes. When it comes to planning a destination wedding, the Sunshine State doesn’t disappoint in its variety of venues. Recently, I was invited by the SMCCVB, had a flawless jetBlue flight, and went on to visit a few one-of-a-kind venues in San Mateo County. The three I am featuring are all unique and memorable, and I can’t wait to share!
The first of our venues in San Mateo County is along the coast in Pescadero, California.
Nestled among stately trees and a beautiful landscape is Costanoa Lodge, which is a perfect location if you are looking to turn your wedding into a multi-day event. Costanoa provides accommodations in many forms including rooms in the lodge, cabins, tented bungalows (my favorite!) and places for out of towners to park their RVs. Their on-site restaurant, Cascade Bar & Grill, offers a menu curated by Chef Serge Marchale, which guests are sure to enjoy!
Costanoa also has several places to host your wedding and reception, including a site on the beach (it’s a little bit of a hike but oh so worth it!). I can picture a wedding here having more of a fun, family reunion type of feel as your guests reconnect with each other and enjoy the lovely backdrop that is unique to Costanoa. Enjoy the real wedding below with photos by Jerry Yoon Photographers.
(Note: Ever since I’ve been to Costanoa, I’ve been mentally planning a trip there – I know my entire family would love it!)
Filoli truly is one of the venues in San Mateo County that stole my heart.
I adore art, and when I walked into Filoli and saw that they showcase and teach about botanical art, I knew I was in love! This 654-acre estate in Woodside, California was built in 1917 and offers beautifully curated gardens and buildings. The options are endless for both the size of your event and the locations available at this gorgeous property as you will see in the images below by Michelle Walker Photography.
I can’t think of another location that is as stately and beautiful as Filoli. Just imagine yourself in the setting and how gorgeous your wedding day (and images!) will be if you make the venue yours during your event. With working gardens – both for flowers and food – strolling through Filoli was an unforgettable experience for me. It’s stunning in so many ways. Find out more about this historic property here.
If the goal for your wedding is to have fun and surprise your guests with something completely out-of-the-ordinary, then the next of our venues in San Mateo County is definitely one to consider.
Imagine stepping back in time to the Wild West, complete with horses and abandoned buildings. You may not find real tumbleweeds at Long Branch Saloon & Farms, but what you will find is a casual atmosphere of fun and community. This family-owned venue offers a quaint chapel for your wedding along with an open space that you can make your own for your reception.
Imagine guests playing games – their list of activities is vast, so be sure to check it out here – as they celebrate you while creating unique memories. Another plus about this venue in Half Moon Bay is that they can host a small, intimate event or a large gathering for up to 500. I dare say that there isn’t a place like this anywhere else around – at least not in this century. Enjoy a peek into a Long Branch wedding with photos by Simone Anne Photography.
Looking for more California wedding inspiration? Check out more here. Thanks goes out to the San Mateo County/Silicon Valley Convention and Visitor’s Bureau for their hospitality in hosting me.
