Culture Rich, Elegant & Traditional Wedding Style - Top 10 Best Bay Area Wedding Venues

Finding a wedding venue that is right for you is arguably the most difficult part of planning your wedding (right behind deciding who is going to sit next to your overwhelming and loud Aunt Denise). And an added layer of complexity when venue hunting is just how many options there are for you to look at –especially in the California Bay Area. 

When looking for your wedding venue, you have to consider these 3 main things: 

  1. Cost

  2. Availability

  3. Style

It can be difficult to determine any of those aspects in a wedding venue from online resources – but that’s why we’re here; to help you navigate finding the perfect wedding venue.

So, cost and availability are somewhat straight-forward concepts and can be checked off your list after some research and a phone call. But style goes deep. If you haven’t taken our style matching quiz yet, take it here. Our unique Stylegram is also a great introduction to the twelve styles and to understand how they relate to one another.

If your quiz resulted in Culture Rich, Elegant & Traditional style (or either of its influences: Vibrant with Cultural Influence or Timeless with Traditional Influence), then we think you’ll like these 10 Bay Area wedding venues that truly embody elegance, and look great glammed up or toned down.

For daily style inspiration on the Culture Rich, Elegant and Traditional wedding style, follow the style on Instagram —> @eleganthollow

1.

JULIA MORGAN BALLROOM - San Francisco, California

Photography by: Apollo Fotografie

The Julia Morgan Ballroom is the epitome of elegance and luxury. Walking into that room gives you the feeling like you just stepped into wealth. The crystal chandeliers, the ornate ceiling tiles, a fireplace big enough to fit your entire family in, and the incredible views of San Francisco makes this venue an incredible destination option. Your guests truly feel like they are getting a memorable experience.


2.

LEGION OF HONOR - San Francisco, California

Photography by: Elena Graham Photography

It doesn’t get more grand than the Legion of Honor. This incredible museum has some of the world’s most famous art, and is so rich in history. The courtyard is the most popular location for ceremonies, and dinner often takes place in the overwhelming Rodin Gallery. With several other stunning galleries, and endless opportunities for dressing up an already breathtaking monument, The Legion of Honor makes the perfect setting for elegant, traditional and cultural weddings.



3.

GRAND ISLAND MANSION - Walnut Grove, California

Photography By: JBJ Pictures

Grand Island Mansion remains one of the most popular venues in the greater Bay Area. This is the private estate of all private estates. Another historical venue, with impeccably groomed gardens and grounds, an open ballroom, and professional staff make all weddings here an elegant experience.


4.

MOUNTAIN WINERY - Saratoga, California

Photography by: Austyn Elizabeth Photography

Mountain Winery has a massive outdoor amphitheater with stone and brick giving it a romantic feel. The view from the terrace and vineyards are overwhelmingly stunning. This place is like a chameleon when it comes to accommodating different styles. Your purse has to be big enough though ;) The drive up the mountain is an experience all in itself. Mountain Winery checks all the boxes and makes all the lists for California’s favorite venues.


5.

CLAREMONT HOTEL & SPA - Berkeley, California

Photography by: Anna Marks

The Claremont Hotel and Spa is one of the most iconic venues in the Bay Area. This venue is nestled in the Berkeley Hills, overseeing the breathtaking views of the San Francisco Bay. The Claremont was recently renovated, giving you a new modern feel, throughout the whole resort.


6.

ASIAN ART MUSEUM - San Francisco, California

Photography by: OneLove Photography

San Francisco’s Asian Art Museum is home to one of the most complete collections of Asian art in the world. The museum’s creative spaces provide the ideal setting for an unforgettable wedding. The Asian Art Museum provides several spaces, depending on the amount of guests.


7.

UNIVERSITY CLUB - San Francisco, California

Photography: Alison Yin Weddings

The University Club San Francisco provides your guests with historic charm, as well as elegance from the different venue spaces. The breathtaking views of the city skyline will give guests an experience they will never forget.


8.

THE WESTIN ST. FRANCIS - San Francisco, California

Photography by: Duy Ho Photography

The Westin St. Francis is an iconic hotel located in San Francisco's Union Square. The Westin has been hosting weddings for over 100 years with amazing service as well as beautiful spaces. There are 33 distinct room options to select from, depending on the size and type of wedding you are wanting to have.


9.

THE FAIRMONT - San Francisco, California

Photography by: BOGDON CONDOR

The Fairmont in San Francisco has been hosting events since 1907, this historical building will create a timeless experience for your guests. Each room has its own charm and elevated detail from the high ceiling and light fixtures to the beautiful carpets and furniture.


10.

THE REGENCY CENTER - San Francisco California

Photography by: Finch Photo

The Regency Center is a beautiful city landmark that holds three venue spaces. This unique space  has a ballroom and social hall that are equipped with sound and lighting equipment, as well as staging which are perfect for displaying live music/bands. The Lodge also can be a perfect place for your ceremony and cocktail hour space.