Stunning Outdoor Wedding Venues for Romantic Celebrations
Outdoor wedding venues are some of the most sought-after locations for couples planning their big day. From romantic garden ceremonies and ocean-view lawns to vineyard estates and rooftop terraces, these open-air settings bring a sense of natural beauty and unforgettable charm.
When couples search for outdoor wedding venues, they’re often looking for spaces that not only provide stunning backdrops but also offer the flexibility to match their style—whether that means a rustic countryside vibe, a luxurious hotel garden, or a modern city rooftop. The right venue sets the tone for the entire celebration, making it a day that feels both personal and extraordinary.
To help inspire your planning journey, I’ve gathered some of my favorite outdoor wedding venues across California and Europe. Each one offers its own unique atmosphere, from iconic Beverly Hills gardens and Pacific clifftops to romantic Italian villas and French châteaux—destinations that transform a wedding into an extraordinary experience.
Santa Lucia Preserve: The Ultimate Outdoor Wedding Venue in Carmel, CA
Santa Lucia Preserve is a premier outdoor wedding venue in Carmel, California, nestled within 20,000 acres of secluded wilderness. Celebrate your love beneath ancient redwoods or within the historic Hacienda—built in the 1920s—where rustic elegance and timeless architecture converge. With versatile ceremony sites, intimate barn receptions, and on-site lodging, it's one of the best outdoor wedding venues for blending natural beauty and exclusivity with boutique luxury. From panoramic mountain vistas to curated amenities like glamping and equestrian trails, every detail is designed to create unforgettable outdoor weddings in the heart of California’s coastal range.
Versatile Outdoor Settings
Redwood Groves: Dine, dance, and promise forever surrounded by towering trees in a cathedral of nature.
Historic Barn & Pop‑Up Spaces: Rustic elegance merges with open-air comfort in barn receptions accented by string lights, greenery, and vineyard sunsets
Panoramic Landscapes: From rolling vineyard-adorned hills to hidden glades, the Preserve offers diverse scenic options that elevate the term outdoor wedding venues to a whole new level.
Amenities & Accommodation
The Hacienda with Guest Lodging: Along with curated event spaces, the Hacienda offers on-site lodging, a courtyard dotted with madrones, outdoor and indoor dining, a pool, and an organic garden—perfect for multi-day celebrations
Outdoor Recreation & Conversion: While primarily a private venue for members and sponsored guests, the Ranch Club amenities—like equestrian facilities, trail systems, and Moore’s Lake glamping—add layers of experiential luxury for wedding guest experiences
Intimate, Exclusive, Timeless
With a maximum capacity of around 200 seated or 350 standing guests, Santa Lucia Preserve ensures intimacy and exclusivity—making it a perfect outdoor wedding venues choice for an exclusive afffair. No matter the guest list size, every moment unfolds in privacy and serenity.
2. The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel: Premier Outdoor Wedding Venue Along the Pacific in Dana Point, CA
Perched dramatically atop a bluff in Dana Point, The Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel is one of the most breathtaking outdoor wedding venues in California. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Salt Creek Beach, the resort offers panoramic views that immediately set it apart from more traditional venues. Couples are drawn to its cinematic backdrops, mild coastal climate, and seamless blend of luxury and nature.
Spectacular Outdoor Wedding Venue Features
Indoor & Outdoor Versatility: Choose from oceanfront lawns, Spanish-tiled terraces, garden courtyards, and elegant ballrooms—the largest accommodating up to 900 guests
Outdoor Spaces: Over 55,000 square feet of outdoor event space, perfect for outdoor ceremonies, cocktail receptions, or alfresco dining with panoramic ocean views
Scenic Ocean Views: This outdoor wedding venue in Dana Point boasts lush palms, dramatic coastal backdrops, and a timeless SoCal ambiance—ideal for couples envisioning elegant, sun-kissed celebrations
Why It’s Ideal for Outdoor Weddings
Unparalleled Cliffside Location: Few outdoor wedding venues can rival the Ritz-Carlton’s setting. The sound of crashing waves, the salty ocean air, and sunsets over the horizon create a sensory-rich atmosphere. The venue’s architecture and outdoor lawns were designed to frame the coastline, ensuring every ceremony or reception feels infused with Southern California’s coastal beauty.
Expansive Event Spaces: The resort features over 55,000 square feet of outdoor event space, offering couples endless options. The Pacific Promenade Lawn is ideal for seaside ceremonies, the Monarch Courtyard provides a lush garden surrounded by bougainvillea, and the clifftop terraces allow for unforgettable receptions under the stars. Whether you’re planning an intimate elopement or a large-scale wedding, the venue adapts beautifully.
Perfect Weather Year-Round: Laguna Niguel’s Mediterranean-style climate makes it one of the most reliable outdoor wedding destinations in California. Couples can plan confidently knowing that sunshine and comfortable temperatures are the norm—making open-air ceremonies and sunset receptions a safe, stunning choice.
Luxury Meets Outdoor Living: What sets this venue apart from many other outdoor wedding venues is the Ritz-Carlton’s luxury service. Guests can enjoy world-class spa treatments, fine dining, and oceanfront rooms while never being far from the event spaces. The resort’s layout allows smooth transitions from lawns to terraces to ballrooms, giving couples the flexibility of an outdoor celebration with the comfort of indoor amenities.
Design Possibilities: Outdoor spaces at the Ritz-Carlton are a designer’s dream. At one of our recent weddings, we created a 14-foot floral installation as the ceremony backdrop—dramatic, colorful, and perfectly scaled to the vast Pacific vista. After a sunset cocktail hour, guests moved indoors where a softer, elegant palette contrasted beautifully with the bold outdoor florals. This ability to shift tones while highlighting the ocean views makes the Ritz-Carlton especially versatile for couples who want both impact and intimacy.
3. The Beverly Hilton: Iconic Outdoor Wedding Venue in Beverly Hills
The Beverly Hilton is one of the most versatile outdoor wedding venues in Los Angeles, combining Hollywood legacy with modern sophistication. Nestled on nearly nine acres in the heart of Beverly Hills, the property offers expansive gardens, courtyards, and terraces that can be transformed into breathtaking settings for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Why It’s Perfect for Outdoor Weddings
The Wilshire Garden is a lush, manicured lawn bordered by palms and greenery—an idyllic spot for vows beneath the California sun. The Oasis Courtyard offers a more intimate garden setting, while the Stardust Penthouse Terrace provides sweeping city views for couples who want a glamorous open-air backdrop. With flexible spaces and the ability to host up to 800 guests, The Beverly Hilton adapts to both intimate garden ceremonies and grand outdoor receptions.
Design Possibilities Brought to Life
The Beverly Hilton’s outdoor spaces are more than just blank canvases—they’re stages for artistry. In one unforgettable event, we reimagined the garden as an “outdoor room,” framing the space with chandeliers, cascading floral installations, and architectural décor elements. Romantic palettes of blush, peach, and cream florals paired with warm candlelight turned the garden into an ethereal, intimate environment that felt both luxurious and welcoming.
This approach demonstrates exactly what makes The Beverly Hilton so special as an outdoor wedding venue: the ability to customize every detail, blending its natural beauty with imaginative design to create a celebration that feels completely unique.
How Our Team Enhances the Experience
Planning an outdoor wedding at The Beverly Hilton requires expertise and creative vision, and that’s where our team excels:
Creative Styling: We build on the venue’s strengths, using design elements—like floral walls, hanging installations, and custom lighting—to transform gardens into magical, immersive environments.
Seamless Logistics: We coordinate with the hotel’s seasoned planning team, manage vendor flow, and ensure smooth transitions from outdoor ceremony to cocktail hour to reception.
Personalized Experience: From rustic and organic garden transformations to luxurious events, we tailor color palettes, textures, and layouts to reflect your personal style while enhancing the venue’s ambiance.
4. Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills: A Lush Outdoor Wedding Venue in the City’s Heart
The Four Seasons Los Angeles at Beverly Hills stands out among outdoor wedding venues in Los Angeles, blending serene gardens with urban elegance. Nestled in the heart of Beverly Hills, this luxury hotel offers diverse outdoor spaces—from garden sanctuaries to rooftop decks—perfect for both intimate celebrations and grand receptions.
One of favorite outdoor wedding venues in Beverly Hills, The Four Seasons Los Angeles offers lush garden ceremonies in Wetherly Gardens, elegant tented receptions in the Pavilion, and rooftop soirées on The Deck. With luxurious indoor and outdoor spaces, impeccable service, and flexibility for both intimate gatherings and grand celebrations, it's a canvas for unforgettable weddings.
Outdoor Spaces Designed for Romance and Flow
Wetherly Gardens: A picturesque garden setting complete with lush greenery, fountains, and elegant stone architecture—ideal for ceremonies of up to 180–200 guests
Wetherly Pavilion: A refined, seasonal marquee tucked within the gardens, accommodating up to 250 guests for cocktails or receptions in a charming tented space
The Deck (LA OLA Deck): A pool-adjacent terrace surrounded by citrus and verdant plantings that overlooks downtown Los Angeles—a refined rooftop venue for al fresco dinners or sunset cocktail hours
A Seamless Blend of Indoor & Outdoor Elegance
One of the reasons why The Four Seasons is a favorite choice for outdoor wedding venues is its ability to offer effortless transitions between your ceremony and celebration. Whether exchanging vows in the gardens or enjoying dinner in the chic ballroom, the layout of this venue is ideal for seamlessly moving from one celebratory moment to another during your wedding.
Design Inspiration from a White Garden Wedding
The Four Seasons Los Angeles provides stunning natural greenery and a chic, clean, look that’s ideal for incorporating design elements that feel both timeless and personal. This outdoor wedding venue is perfect for all-white wedding looks, using florals like white roses, hydrangeas, and flowering trees to define its altar and aisle for a stunning outdoor reception.
How Our Team Elevates the Venue
Artful Styling: We channel floral elegance by incorporating lush textures, flowering accents, and colorful undertones to complement the gardens’ natural beauty and architectural features.
Venue Storytelling: We shape celebrations that move fluidly from lush gardens to glamorous receptions, ensuring each moment feels intentional and beautifully staged.
Seamless Execution: From coordinating layout and logistics with Four Seasons’ team to curating menu, lighting, and guest transitions—we ensure your day unfolds effortlessly, under open skies and under the glow of candlelight.
5. Hotel Bel-Air: An Enchanting Outdoor Wedding Venue in Los Angeles
Hotel Bel-Air is a timeless, dream-worthy choice among outdoor wedding venues, tucked into a tranquil 12-acre canyon estate just minutes from Beverly Hills and Century City. Its manicured gardens, secret pathways, and romantic features create an atmosphere of refined Hollywood secluded elegance.
From its iconic Swan Lake ceremonies and blooming Front Lawn to its elegant Garden Ballroom, the venue offers unmatched versatility and privacy. With legendary old-Hollywood glamour and serene natural beauty, it's the perfect canvas for authentic, intimate, or grand romance.
Why Hotel Bel-Air Shines as an Outdoor Wedding Venue
Swan Lake Ceremonies: Walk across a fairytale bridge over Swan Lake, complete with resident swans, a gazebo, grotto, arches, and fountains—all bathed in shimmering light for magical ceremonies
Front Lawn Photos & Celebrations: The Front Lawn offers picture-perfect landscapes—fragrant gardens, lush greenery, and soft light—ideal for anything from intimate vows to grand receptions
Garden Ballroom Access: Just steps from the gardens lies the elegant Garden Ballroom—with mercury glass chandeliers, neutral tones, and high arches—that provides flexible indoor-outdoor flow for dances or dinner parties up to 250 guests
Privacy & Romance: With whispering gardens, secluded pools, and secret paths, the venue feels like a private retreat—fit for Hollywood’s most celebrated and discerning couples
Historical Glamour: A legacy of elegance and discretion defines Hotel Bel‑Air—frequented by icons like Marilyn Monroe and Grace Kelly, it’s imbued with old-Hollywood allure that elevates every moment
How Our Team Brings Your Dream Outdoor Wedding to Life
Seamless Indoor-Outdoor Storytelling: We design transitions from the lake, to the lawn, to the ballroom—as your celebration unfolds—culminating in festive receptions under starry tents with gourmet banquets, or lush cocktail hours in the Garden Ballroom.
Logistics & Guest Journey: We manage guest flow through the estate’s winding paths, arrange accommodations within Bel-Air’s suites and bungalows, and coordinate vendor access for effortless storytelling that feels organic and traffic-free.
Cinematic Moments, Stress-Free Planning: Whether it’s a swan-lit ceremony, an al fresco dinner by the grotto, or a ballroom dance under chandelier glow, we handle every detail—from lighting, seating, and floral installations to permitting and day-of coordination—so you enjoy your day as fully as your guests.
6. Villa Astor: A Legendary Outdoor Wedding Venue on the Amalfi Coast
Villa Astor is one of the most magical outdoor wedding venues in Italy, perched dramatically on the cliffs of Sorrento with sweeping views of the Bay of Naples and Mount Vesuvius. This private estate, with origins dating back to the 1st century A.D., is surrounded by lush Mediterranean gardens, rare botanicals, and ancient Greek and Roman statues—creating a breathtaking blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
It is an extraordinary private residence that makes for an unforgettable outdoor wedding venue with its lush gardens, historic sanctuary, and ancient Roman villa ruins.
Venue Highlights & Outdoor Elegance
Spectacular Gardens: Nearly two hectares of gardens showcase more than 1,000 plant species, ancient ruins, fountains, and hidden pathways.
Clifftop Terraces: Ideal for outdoor wedding ceremonies or alfresco receptions with uninterrupted views of the Mediterranean.
Historic Interiors: Neoclassical architecture, frescoed halls, and period antiques create timeless indoor spaces for seamless indoor-outdoor events.
Capacity & Accommodations: Outdoor ceremonies for up to 120 guests and receptions for up to 200; six suites provide luxury lodging for select guests on-site.
Planning Your International Outdoor Wedding at Villa Astor
Hosting a destination wedding abroad requires expertise and local knowledge. That’s where our team comes in:
Vendor Partnerships: We connect you with Italy’s top caterers, photographers, entertainment, and vendors who understand Villa Astor’s refined aesthetic.
Guest Logistics: From arranging luxury accommodations to coordinating boat transfers to and from Capri and Positano, we ensure a smooth guest journey.
Creative Vision: Having created stunning events and wedding editorial shoots at this location, we bring fresh, artistic ideas that elevate the natural beauty of Villa Astor while curating an atmosphere that feels uniquely yours.
On-the-Ground Support: We oversee your wedding day from start to finish, so you can be fully present and savor the experience.
7. Hummingbird Nest Ranch: Premier Outdoor Wedding Venue in Southern California
Hummingbird Nest Ranch, nestled in the scenic Santa Susana Mountains just a short drive from Los Angeles, offers an array of stunning outdoor settings that make it a top-tier choice for couples searching for outdoor wedding venues. The property features beautifully designed spaces—including:
Villa (300 guests)
Sitting Bull (300 guests) with a Tuscan-inspired garden, pool, and olive groves
Grand Prix (up to 999 guests)
Lake Lawn (700 guests), offering a waterfront setting
Q Vineyard (250 guests) with breathtaking mountain and vineyard views
Barn (800 guests) and the upcoming Paradise of Love venue for a fairytale atmosphere
Each site cultivates a unique ambiance—from rustic vineyard charm to classic Spanish-mission elegance—providing memorable backdrops for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Seamless Logistics & 24-Hour Site Access
Every rental includes a 24-hour site rental (typically 8 AM to 8 AM), giving couples the freedom to set up, celebrate, and enjoy the next morning without rushing. Additionally, packages include dressing suites, luxury restrooms with attendants, vendor parking, and trash disposal—all enhancing convenience and easing coordination on big days.
Alluring Natural Scenery & Architectural Grandeur
This expansive estate (over 120 – 126 acres) is crowned by a 17,000‑sq‑ft Spanish‑style villa and features shaded olive groves, sparkling fountains, and sweeping mountain views. These elegant natural and architectural elements create unmatched photo opportunities and a luxurious experience for outdoor events.
Accommodations That Keep It Close & Private
Hummingbird Nest offers 14 on‑property accommodations, including casitas and townhomes, allowing you and your guests to stay just steps from your event. This convenience enables early preparations and a seamless transition from celebration to rest and recovery.
Protected, Private Outdoor Experience
Even though this sprawling outdoor wedding venue hosts multiple events on the same day, its large grounds ensure privacy and serenity at any outdoor space to create an intimate and distraction free celebration for you and your guests.
8. The Beverly Hills Hotel: A Legendary Outdoor Wedding Venue
The Beverly Hills Hotel, is one of the most iconic outdoor wedding venues in Los Angeles. Known as “The Pink Palace,” it has hosted Hollywood royalty, dignitaries, and some of the world’s most glamorous celebrations for over a century, and a step onto its grounds quickly shows why! Nestled along Sunset Boulevard, the property’s expansive and filled gardens, palm trees, and legendary green, white, and soft pink color palette provide a setting that feels timeless, elegant, and unmistakably Californian.
Why It’s Ideal for Outdoor Weddings
In spring and summer—when the weather is at its most beautiful—the hotel’s gardens become the perfect canvas for outdoor weddings. The expansive lawns, tropical palms, and manicured hedges offer a vibrant green backdrop for ceremonies, creating natural contrast with décor, florals, and aisle styling.
Couples can exchange vows in the hotel’s garden before transitioning seamlessly into its elegant ballrooms for dinner and dancing. This flexibility makes The Beverly Hills Hotel especially well-suited for celebrations that combine indoor and outdoor elements.
Real Wedding Inspiration: Karla & Vince
For one unforgettable wedding at The Beverly Hills Hotel, we embraced the simplicity of an all-white color palette that played beautifully against the hotel’s signature green-and-white motif. The ceremony was set on the lush garden lawn, where the bright greenery, palm trees, and laurel hedges provided the perfect natural stage. A crisp white aisle and floral altar created striking contrast, while symmetrical rows of white chairs and flowering trees at the aisle entrance introduced structure and geometry to the organic setting. This design not only highlighted the venue’s natural beauty but also demonstrated how thoughtful styling can elevate its classic charm into something both modern and timeless.
Indoor-Outdoor Flow for Seamless Celebrations
One of the greatest strengths of The Beverly Hills Hotel is how effortlessly events can flow from garden to ballroom. Couples can host romantic outdoor ceremonies under the California sky, then move into the Crystal Ballroom or Sunset Ballroom, where sparkling chandeliers, mirrored accents, and refined interiors continue the celebration without interruption. This versatility makes the venue a perfect fit for couples who want a wedding that combines natural beauty with Hollywood glamour.
How Our Team Elevates the Experience
Design Aligned with the Venue: We draw inspiration from the hotel’s lush gardens and iconic branding to create floral and décor palettes that feel both authentic and unique.
Seamless Transitions: From open-air ceremonies to ballroom receptions, we design spaces that feel cohesive—so no moment feels disconnected.
Tailored Planning Support: We handle logistics, vendor coordination, and guest flow, ensuring that the timeless elegance of The Beverly Hills Hotel shines through every detail.
9. Château Vaux-le-Vicomte: A Royal Outdoor Wedding Venue Near Paris
Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is one of the most exclusive outdoor wedding venues in the world, located just outside Paris. This 17th-century Baroque château is surrounded by sweeping formal gardens, cascading fountains, and an expansive courtyard, creating a once-in-a-lifetime backdrop for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Couples can exchange vows in the famed Lenôtre gardens, host cocktails beneath the stars, and continue the celebration inside the château’s ornate ballrooms, blending indoor grandeur with open-air elegance.
Why It’s a Dream Setting:
Ceremonies amid the famed Lenôtre gardens—ideal for an al fresco exchange with the château as your romantic backdrop
Intimate cocktail receptions in the Kings Crown Garden, flowing seamlessly into lavish indoor gatherings in spaces like the Salle de Rotonde or Oval Ballroom
The experience begins in the grand courtyard and continues through a sequence of luxuriously illuminated rooms and stunning gardens—perfect for both ceremony and celebration
Indoor offerings include a majestic domed rotunda ballroom and richly historical ceremonial rooms for premium gala or wedding receptions
Our Team Helps You Navigate It All
Planning an international wedding, especially at a venue as luxurious and historically rich as Vaux‑le‑Vicomte, takes local insight and global coordination. That’s where we come in:
Expert Vendor Coordination: We handle partnerships with local high-end caterers, florists, entertainment, lighting, and fireworks providers, ensuring everything aligns with the château’s timeless elegance
Budget Management & Timeline Planning: From navigating the rental tiers to orchestrating installation day through fireworks finales, we keep every element on track and seamless
Vision to Reality: Whether you envision a garden ceremony or a dramatic courtyard entrance, we bring your creative vision to life—so all you do is enjoy your fairytale outdoor wedding venue.
10. Private Estate Weddings: Transforming Homes into Outdoor Wedding Venues
Not every couple dreams of saying “I do” at a hotel or resort. For many, the most meaningful celebrations happen at home or within the intimacy of a private estate. Our team specializes in transforming homes, gardens, and exclusive estates into extraordinary outdoor wedding venues—each one tailored to reflect the couple’s vision.
Whether you’re envisioning a modern, architectural-inspired celebration, a traditional ceremony with timeless details, a luxurious ballroom-to-garden affair, or a whimsical garden wedding under the stars, our team will create the design you envision.
Why Couples Love Private Estate Weddings
Personal Connection – Hosting your wedding at home or in a private estate allows for an intimacy that traditional outdoor wedding venues can’t always offer. Every detail feels personal, from walking down a familiar garden path to dining beneath the same trees you grew up around.
Complete Customization – Unlike hotels or public venues, private estates have no preset rules. You have the freedom to build your dream environment from the ground up. I’ve created countless custom floral installations, lighting designs, and event layouts that feel one-of-a-kind at private estates and homes across the globe.
Indoor-Outdoor Flow – Many estates and homes in Southern California feature expansive lawns, courtyards, or poolside terraces. I love creating designs that seamlessly transition between these spaces, ensuring that the celebration feels cohesive, whether you’re indoors or out.
Luxury of Privacy – Private estates offer something every couple craves—exclusive use of the space. From romantic garden ceremonies to candlelit dining beneath the stars, you can create the atmosphere of a true escape without ever leaving home.
Favorite Private Estate Venues in Southern California (and Beyond)
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of designing at some of the most spectacular estates across Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, Southern California, Europe, and beyond. These locations range from sprawling oceanfront villas to tucked-away ranches in the mountains.
Interested in learning more about our favorite private estates and homes you can book for your upcoming wedding? Contact our team to learn more today!
Photos by: Michelle Beller Photography, Kris Kan, Katie Beverley, Kristine Grinvalde Photography, Rich Chard Photography, Jana Williams Photography, Duke Images, Jessica Claire Photography, Lindsey Boice Photography, Amanda Watson Photography, Larissa Cleveland Photography
Why Outdoor Weddings Are So Magical
Outdoor weddings allow couples to celebrate surrounded by nature. From daytime ceremonies in lush gardens to candlelit terrace receptions, the possibilities are endless. With the right floral design, you can make the most of your surroundings—whether you want a subtle, refined look or a bold, overgrown garden style.
Of course, outdoor weddings also come with unique challenges, from unpredictable weather to lighting after sunset. But with thoughtful planning, they create unforgettable experiences that feel natural, romantic, and completely personal.
Looking to Book Outdoor Wedding Venues?
Contact our team of expert wedding planners and designers to learn more about our favorite outdoor wedding venues and how we can bring your dream wedding vision to life!
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