Stunning Outdoor Wedding Venues in Southern California: Serendipity (2024)

Are you dreaming of enchanting outdoor wedding venues in Southern California? Look no further than Serendipity Garden Weddings, a picturesque venue in the heart of Oak Glen. Surrounded by rolling hills and breathtaking views, this charming location offers an idyllic setting for your special day. With its beautifully landscaped gardens, elegant reception areas, and a team dedicated to making your wedding unforgettable, Serendipity Garden Weddings provides the perfect backdrop for a romantic and memorable celebration. In this blog, we’ll walk you through our venue spaces and showcase our luxury amenities.

Address: 12865 Oak Glen Rd, Oak Glen, CA 92399

Tying the Knot Under the California Sun

Southern California offers a tapestry of picturesque settings ideal for saying “I do.” The state is blessed with various landscapes, from coastal cliffs with the ocean’s melody to serene desert oases where love flourishes under the wide, starry skies. The natural scenery of this area provides a stunning backdrop and infuses your special day with effortless charm and the tranquility of the outdoors.

SoCal’s Iconic Outdoor Wedding Destination: Serendipity Garden Weddings

Serendipity Garden Weddings stands as a beacon of love’s celebration amidst Southern California’s most iconic outdoor venues. It’s more than just a location; it’s where dreams come to life against the dramatic backdrop of natural beauty and bespoke elegance. Tucked in the peaceful enclave of Oak Glen, this venue seems almost imagined for those of you who’ve dreamt of an all-inclusive, outdoor matrimonial experience.

The serene gardens and panoramic views, the meticulously arranged floral displays, and the whisper of the trees in the gentle mountain breeze—every detail at Serendipity Garden Weddings is curated to transform your special day into an enchanting storybook affair. Whether you envisage a grand, sunlit celebration or an intimate twilight gathering, this venue has a mystical ability to encapsulate the essence of your love story, making it an unforgettable chapter in your life.

Our Venue Spaces

At Serendipity Garden Weddings, the venue spaces are as versatile as they are stunning. With options to accommodate a range of guest counts and wedding styles, our spaces can be tailored to fit your unique vision. The property boasts expansive lawns for a grand affair or quaint garden spots for more intimate gatherings, each offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes. Indoor spaces are just as plentiful, from rustic barns that evoke a sense of homespun charm to elegant ballrooms that speak to timeless sophistication. What makes these spaces truly special is their ability to be transformed to reflect your personality, creating a setting that’s as unique as your love story.

Enchanting Mountain Property

Nestled in the mountains of Oak Glen, our five-acre haven features lush gardens and serene water elements, creating a magical setting for your special day.

Bridal Suite & Groom’s Quarters

Begin your special day at our beautiful venue with our cozy bridal suite and sophisticated groom’s quarters. These spaces are perfect for relaxation and fun before the ceremony, providing photographic-ready areas to capture those cherished moments as you prepare for the best day of your lives.

Various Ceremony Sites

Your vows are the heart of your wedding day—the moment you pledge forever to your best friend in front of loved ones. Whether beneath our garden pergola with scenic views or inside our intimate indoor barn, your ceremony will be a stunning highlight of your dream day.

co*cktail Hour Spaces

Join us on Serendipity’s scenic co*cktail terrace after the vows for drinks, appetizers, and stunning views. Wine barrels serve as tables for delicious bites, while lush gardens and a tranquil water feature create a serene atmosphere. Our attentive staff ensures everyone’s glass stays full as guests mingle and await the couple’s return for the reception.

Outdoor Reception Spaces

Dance together as the sun sets, painting the skyline in hues of pink, while you and your guests dine with a view of the valley. The warm glow of café lights and flickering candles creates a magical atmosphere in our canyon venue. Chandeliers above the bar and a cozy fireplace in the reception area add to the enchantment of your evening.

Party & Send Off Spaces

Celebrate as newlyweds, share special moments with family, and party the night away! Treat guests to a s’mores bar or late-night snacks, enjoy traditions like the bouquet toss, and capture memories with a photo booth. Watch the full moon rise over the mountains as the night unfolds, surrounded by loved ones. Your perfect night awaits!

The Barn

Serendipity’s barn, envisioned over 18 years ago, is no ordinary structure. With towering ceilings, massive sliding doors, and elegant chandeliers, it exudes sophistication and charm. Picture a bride adorned in lace against this stunning backdrop—a scene perfect for capturing special moments. Couples love our barn for its tranquil space, ideal for quiet moments together and beautifully captured by our photographers. Available for ceremonies, co*cktail hours, and receptions, it adds grandeur to any event. Guests often exclaim, “Wow!” upon entering.

Luxury Inclusions

Ceremony Setup

• Seating: White padded folding chairs arranged in the ceremony area.
• Decor: Wooden floral stands or wine barrels for decoration.
• Accessories: Shepherds hooks for floral arrangements or lanterns.
• Greeting: Ceremony greeter to welcome guests.
• Comfort: Parasols and hand fans are provided for guests.

Reception Setup

• Furniture: Tables and Chiavari chairs with ivory chair pads.
• Table Arrangements: Choice of round, square, or 12-foot-long wooden tables.
• Linens: Ivory linens for round and square tables.
• Table Runners: Available in ivory, black, or burlap.
• Decorative Plates: Choice of silver, gold, rose gold, black, or brown rattan charger plates.
• Head Table: Setup with two 6-foot rectangular tables and ivory linens (if desired).
• Special Tables: Sweetheart table for the couple, cake table/wine barrel, gift table with sign-in area.
• Parking: Attendant to assist with parking.

Decor

• Dessert Display: Trays, stands, and platters.
• Candy Station: Jars for candy.
• Easels: Large and table-top easels.
• Signage: Signs for sweets bar, s’mores bar, coffee bar, and Mr./Mrs. chair signs (wood or acrylic).
• Lanterns: Various styles available.
• Florals: Bouquets and boutonnieres for the bridal party.

Dining and Tableware

• Place Settings: China place settings.
• Flatware: Included.
• Glassware: Water and champagne glasses.

Additional Amenities

• Preparation Areas: Bridal suite and groom’s quarters available 2 hours before the wedding.
• Guest Transport: Golf cart operator and golf cart(s) for shuttling guests.

Catering

• Appetizers: Charcuterie and two seasonal tray-passed hors d’oeuvres.
• Meals: Full catering for the wedding and reception guests, including two vendor meals.
• Beverages: Water, tea, fresh squeezed lemonade, coffee, and hot tea bar.

Cake

• Custom Cake: Wedding cake designed for the number of guests.
• Service: Cake cutting and serving.

Entertainment

• Music: DJ/MC services for both ceremony and reception.
• Live Music: Pianist playing on a baby grand piano during co*cktail hour or dinner hour.

Assistance

• Support: Bridal assistant and groom’s assistant available for the event.
• Planning: Wedding questionnaire meeting with your Event Manager.
• Event Management: Event Manager to oversee your wedding day.
• Rehearsal: One-hour rehearsal session.
• Staff: Service staff team provided.

Our All-Inclusive Package

Welcome to Serendipity’s Full-Service Wedding Package, designed with the busy couple in mind. We know you want a personalized and unforgettable wedding experience, along with seamless coordination and easy access to everything you need. Our seasoned team and trusted vendors allow you to customize every detail of your special day while enjoying the convenience of a comprehensive package. From selecting your dream vendors and coordinating floral arrangements to designing your wedding cake and curating the perfect menu, we take care of it all. Relax and let us bring your vision to life, allowing you to enjoy every moment of your wedding journey with confidence and joy.

• Maximum guest capacity: 200 guests
• Please inquire about pricing
• Total event duration for ceremony and reception: 5 hours (with the option to add additional event time)
• Gratuity is not included; we leave it to your discretion

Personalizing Your Outdoor Venue

Decorating Ideas That Complement Nature

When we’re blessed with the vivid canvas of Southern California’s outdoors, the decorating ideas flow naturally. You can enhance the existing beauty while making it your own. At small outdoor venues like Serendipity Garden Weddings, we let nature do most of the talking. We opt for minimalist floral arrangements that highlight the inherent splendor—think scattered wildflowers that mimic the landscape or greenery that brings the garden vibes to your tables. For a truly organic feel, incorporating natural elements such as wooden signage, stone pathways, and even a touch of moss adds to the enchantment. It’s about subtlety and letting the surroundings shine. Finally, to truly make the space your own, you integrate personal touches like handpicked vintage vases or custom-made place cards that guests can treasure as a memento of your unforgettable day amidst nature’s masterpiece.

Lighting and Layout for Memorable Ambiance

Lighting and layout play pivotal roles in crafting the ambiance for an outdoor wedding. As the sun begins to dip, the right lighting can take our celebration from day to dusk seamlessly. At Serendipity Garden Weddings, twinkling fairy lights strung above or wrapped around trees create a canopy of stars, while lanterns and candles cast intimate pools of light, guiding guests through our enchanted setting. For the layout, we think about the flow of the evening. Intimate lounge areas with comfortable seating encourage conversation, while the dance floor placement invites guests to dance the night away under the night sky. The key is to create a harmonious balance where beauty meets functionality, ensuring every detail contributes to an atmosphere where memories are made and every moment feels intimate and special.

Combining Comfort with Splendor

Ensuring Guest Convenience at Remote Locations

Hosting an outdoor wedding in some of Southern California’s more secluded spots, like the charming settings of Serendipity Garden Weddings, means paying extra attention to guest convenience. We ensure there’s clear signage to guide guests to the venue, providing a sense of ease from the moment they arrive. Moreover, it’s important to inform your guests about the terrain they’ll encounter—advising on appropriate footwear for garden settings or providing parasols and fans for comfort during warmer months. For those additional touches of hospitality, consider a drink station greeting guests upon their arrival or a cozy blanket basket for cooler evenings. By anticipating your guests’ needs at our remote locale, we ensure their focus remains on celebrating your special day with joy and comfort.

Weather-Proofing Your Outdoor Wedding

Weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, which is why having a solid backup plan is essential for preserving peace of mind on your wedding day. Rental tents can also be a lifesaver, acting as shields and decorations alike. Clear-top tents allow you to dance beneath the clouds, while still protected from the elements. To truly weatherproof your outdoor wedding, we do offer our indoor barn space and ensure all vendors are briefed on the backup plan, ready to make a smooth and quick transition if called for. By being prepared, we guarantee that come rain or shine, your love takes center stage on this unforgettable day.

Testimonials

Reviewed by Zoey M.

I can’t request Serendipity enough! The staff at this venue is BEYOND amazing. I live in Idaho and 3 months before my wedding we had to fully cancel it and move it to Southern Californa. Every other venue I reached out to was not upfront about their price, they were rude, and it felt like I was a huge inconvenience for them as a business. BUT Serendipity Gardens was the complete opposite. They helped me answer each of my questions and were beyond kind and understanding of my situation. I didn’t get to tour the venue until 16 days before my wedding and they helped me through every step of the way. When the day came there were so many issues that came up but they communicated with one another and helped put out all of the little fires- and even some that I had no idea happened until after my event. The serving staff was amazing as well. The venue itself was so beautiful! I recommend using the barn, being able to use the whole venue was so great and all of my guests loved it! If you need a venue, COME HERE!

Reviewed by Lily B.

Amazing venue, we are so happy that we got married at Serendipity Gardens! We fell in love with the venue at first sight and were fortunate that we were able to book our date within the same year (they get booked out quickly). The venue is so magical and the staff were all delightful and courteous. All of our guests kept talking about how beautiful Serendipity was! Huge shout out to Laura and Lizzie for going above and beyond and taking great care of us! We also highly recommend having Dan & Tyler as your photographers as well for Serendipity Gardens since they really helped guide us through the day and know where all the best photo spots are at within the venue! All of Serendipity’s recommended vendors (Flowers Etc, Michelle’s Bakery) were a pleasure to work with as well and we were happy with how our florals and cake came out.

FAQs for Selecting Outdoor Wedding Venues in California

How do I choose the ideal outdoor venue for my wedding in California?

Choosing the ideal outdoor venue for your wedding in California involves several key considerations to ensure your special day is both beautiful and memorable. Here are some important factors to consider:

• Consider the convenience for your guests. Choose a location that is easily accessible and has ample parking.
• Ensure the venue is near accommodation options if many guests are traveling from out of town.
• Look for a venue with natural beauty that aligns with your wedding vision, whether it’s a beach, garden, vineyard, or mountain backdrop.
• Consider the time of year and how the venue will look during your wedding season.
• Research the typical weather for your chosen date. California’s climate varies significantly by region.
• Have a backup plan in case of unexpected weather changes, such as a tent or indoor space.
• Ensure the venue can comfortably accommodate your guest list.
• Consider the flow of the venue for the ceremony, co*cktail hour, and reception. Check if there are distinct spaces for each part of your event.
• Check if the venue provides essential amenities like restrooms, lighting, and sound systems.
• Consider venues that offer in-house services such as catering, event coordination, and decoration.
• Understand any restrictions the venue may have, such as noise ordinances, decoration limitations, or vendor requirements.
• Ask about the venue’s flexibility in terms of customizing the space to fit your vision.
• Determine your budget and what is included in the venue rental fee. Ask about any additional costs that may arise.
• Look for packages that include essential services to help streamline planning and potentially save money.
• Research reviews and testimonials from other couples who have used the venue.
• Visit the venue in person to get a feel for the space and meet the staff.
• Consider the logistics of getting to and from the venue, especially if it’s in a remote location.
• Think about transportation options for guests, including shuttles or rideshare services.
• Ensure all necessary permits for an outdoor event are secured, especially if it’s a public space.
• Understand the venue’s policies on insurance and liability coverage.

How do I plan my outdoor wedding?

Planning an outdoor wedding requires careful consideration of various factors to ensure your special day is seamless and memorable. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your perfect outdoor wedding:

1. Select the Venue

• Research Locations: Choose a venue that suits your vision, whether it’s a garden, beach, vineyard, or park.
• Visit Venues: Tour multiple venues to find one that meets your aesthetic, capacity, and logistical needs.
• Check Availability: Book your preferred venue well in advance, especially if your wedding is during peak season.

2. Consider the Weather

• Seasonal Planning: Choose a date when the weather is most favorable for an outdoor event. Spring and fall are often ideal.
• Weather Backup Plan: Have a contingency plan such as a tent, indoor space, or alternative date in case of inclement weather.

3. Permits and Regulations

• Check Requirements: Ensure you have all necessary permits for the location, especially for public spaces.
• Local Regulations: Be aware of noise ordinances, fire codes, and other local regulations that might affect your wedding.

4. Guest Comfort

• Provide Shade and Shelter: Use tents, umbrellas, or shade structures to protect guests from sun or rain.
• Amenities: Ensure there are adequate restrooms, seating, and refreshment stations.

5. Decor and Ambiance

• Natural Beauty: Enhance the natural setting with floral arrangements, lighting, and personalized decor.
• Lighting: Use string lights, lanterns, or candles to create a magical ambiance, especially for evening weddings.

6. Food and Beverage

• Catering Considerations: Choose a caterer experienced with outdoor events who can handle logistics such as temperature control and serving.
• Hydration: Provide plenty of water and non-alcoholic beverages, particularly in warm weather.

7. Entertainment and Sound

• Acoustic Planning: Ensure sound systems are adequate for outdoor spaces and that power sources are reliable.
• Music and Activities: Plan for music and activities that complement the outdoor environment, like lawn games or a live band.

8. Logistics and Transportation

• Accessibility: Ensure the venue is accessible for all guests, including those with mobility issues.
• Parking and Transport: Arrange for sufficient parking or transportation options for guests.

9. Hiring Professionals

• Experienced Vendors: Work with vendors who have experience with outdoor weddings to handle potential challenges.
• Coordination: Consider hiring a wedding planner to manage details and ensure everything runs smoothly.

10. Final Touches

• Rehearsal: Conduct a rehearsal to iron out any last-minute details and ensure everyone knows their roles.
• Emergency Kit: Have an emergency kit on hand with items like bug spray, sunscreen, first aid supplies, and weather-related necessities.

11. Communication

• Inform Guests: Communicate the outdoor nature of your wedding to guests so they can dress appropriately.
• Updates: Provide updates and information about the location, weather, and any special instructions on your wedding website or invitations.

What is the weather like seasonally in Southern California?

Are there any other outdoor wedding venues nearby?

Yes, venues like Oak Grove Ranch, and Fresco Deck are in Southern California.

What are some nearby cities and attractions?

• San Diego
• Santa Barbara
• Los Angeles
• Northern California
• Temecula
• Malibu

Start Planning

Are you ready to start planning your dreamwedding? Our expert team will guide you and ensure every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on enjoying your special day. Contactour team to ask questions, check date availability, and schedule a tour. Come see the magic for yourself. Let us help you create memories that will last a lifetime!