The Best Wedding Vendors in El Portal, CA

The Best Wedding Vendors in El Portal, CA

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in El Portal, CA

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Desert Born Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
El Portal, CA
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $4,200

Desert Born Studios photographs elopements and intimate weddings for couples in Yosemite and Central California Couples who want something real, wild, and deeply meaningful. Based in the West and fueled by open landscapes, rock-and-roll energy, and honest connection, we document your day as it unfolds dust on your boots, wind in your hair, and all the emotion in between. If you’re ditching tradition and choosing an experience over a production, you’re in the right place.

“Sara photographed our wedding and absolutely nailed it. She was easy to work with, made everyone feel comfortable, and captured the day exactly how we'd hoped, moody and dreamy and perfect. The full gallery looked incredible and came back fast. If you're deciding on a wedding photographer, book her. You won't regret it. Highly recommend!”
John & K., 4 months ago
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Mark Addington Events 
Rating: 5.0 (100 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves El Portal, CA

I’m Mark Addington, owner, founder, emcee, DJ, public speaker, and most importantly…creative at heart. I started my DJ career over 20 years ago for fun and fell in love with it along the way. My goal is to make this choice a simple, informed and fun part of the wedding process. I’m here to communicate and plan pre-wedding so you and your guests can leave it all on the dancefloor the day of the wedding.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Wow, what can't I say about Mark and his incredible abilities! From the get go, Mark was so incredibly easy to work with and figure out every piece of logistics. We had spent many hours interviewing DJs and trying to find the match, and it was such an easy choice the moment we started talking with Mark. I did some live music during our reception our and Mark was so gracious enough to let me use some of his equipment and helped me making it all come together for a rocking, good time. Mark goes above and beyond his expected duties as a DJ. He pays attention to the crowd's energy, he is attentive throughout, he has intentionality that is felt in each interaction. We are so blessed to have worked with, Mark. If you are still reading this, then you need to just seal the deal with him because obviously he's the right one for the job.”
Tim Y., 4 months ago
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Hillarie Hughes Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (25 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,125
  • Serves El Portal, CA

HI, I’M HILLARIE HUGHES . I am a lifestyle/wedding photographer based out of Merced, CA. I’m 33 years old, a wife and a mother to four beautiful kids. It's safe to say that I'm a VERY busy mama! You can catch me with my kindle when I’m not editing, and being as active as I can be in my children's lives. Never in a million years did I think that people would love my photos as much as they do, but I am so grateful and so blessed! I am learning more and more every session that I have, and have been incredibly lucky to have such awesome clients (turned into forever friends!) that have been with me during this entire journey.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Hiring Hillarie was the best decision I could have made for my wedding. I had a wedding at a venue she had never been to, and was a little nervous about her not being familiar with the grounds. My nerves were silly because she absolutely killed it. She over delivers and is the sweetest calm in the chaos. I wish I could relive my wedding day over and over, including having her there. I am so happy I went with her.”
Catie L., 2 years ago
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DJ Sam Vada 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • DJ
  • Starts at $900
  • Serves El Portal, CA

DJ Sam Vada offers a dynamic and engaging experience for your event, ensuring that his DJ services not only meet but exceed expectations. He specializes in a variety of events, including birthdays, dances, parties, wedding receptions, graduation celebrations, and other noteworthy occasions. Furthermore, he emphasizes the importance of clear communication between himself and his clients. DJ Sam Vada utilizes high-quality equipment that is well-suited to fulfill the demands of any event.

“DJ Sam was a lifesaver! I found him online, by chance, and was charmed by his willingness to go above and beyond in less than a week from my event to create mp3 audio tracks for me to sing over, to research and create a Baroque playlist appropriate for the castle setting my event occurred in, to include a surprise recording of my brother playing sax that was inserted to see if my brother would recognize himself in the playlist mix, and to create a fun dance playlist that got my guests hopping and cutting the marble floor in their elegant ballroom attire!!!! What a magical, majestic, magnificent memory Sam helped me create. I will not be losing his contact and I highly recommend him for ANY event you need a PA/audio/DJ for!!! Thank you so much, Sam!”
Monica C., a year ago
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The Century 
Rating: 4.9 (18 reviews)
Modesto, CA
  • Venue
  • Up to 250 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $9,000

TWO VENUES ONE TEAM: THE CENTURY + NINE3ONE We offer two full service wedding venues located in Modesto, Ca. With decades of experience in venue, food, and beverage services combined, we are ready to guide you down your planning journey from day one all the way to “I DO!”. The Century is a chic, urban venue built in the early 1900s with exposed brick walls, beautiful crystal chandeliers and gorgeous acacia wood floors. The Century has room for up to 250 guests for reception only, and up to 175 for a ceremony and a reception. Nine3One is a coworking facility located next door to The Century that opened 2019. Nine3One features 3 unique event spaces. The Alcove is the main event space that leads out into The Botanical Breezeway, a completely covered outdoor space that runs the length of the entire building. The Bouquet Bar is a small event space perfect for smaller parties and also makes a great space for cocktail hour. Nine3One has room for up to 70 guests when using all three spaces.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Designed for grand celebrations
  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
Awarded Best of Zola
“The Century is an extremely beautiful venue that even pictures can't do justice! Erica Ford at The Century made everything SO easy!! Her organization and attention to detail on top of anticipating my needs because she's just THAT good, was beyond expectations! She kept me sane, helped me make my menu a complete dream (I am the only vegan amongst meat eaters), and accommodated every one of my (last minute) changes! She genuinely cared about us and our dream wedding and did everything she could to make our dreams come true! The chef, the banquet staff, the bar staff, security, everyone was so professional, on top of EVERYTHING, and made it so we had zero worries on our day. Our wedding day was a complete dream, and that's because of The Century and their amazing team of dedicated, professional, caring employees! Speaking of which, Leticia from Hand Creations Floral, their in house florist, brought my visions to life and moved me to tears with her execution! She was so easy to work with, understood our needs and vision with very minimal direction (I knew what I wanted but didn't always know how to vocalize it), and executed beyond my wildest dreams! My bouquet, which were the only flowers I had other than boutonnieres and corsages, exceeded my wildest dreams! The attention to detail, her ability to capture everything I wanted represented, and the sheer beauty could not have been accomplished with anyone else. I will sing the praises of The Century and their team from the rooftops! One of the best decisions we made for our wedding!”
Shannon G., 2 years ago
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The Wedding Plan Co 
Rating: 5.0 (18 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

At the heart of The Wedding Plan Co is a deep dedication to people, their stories, and the unforgettable moments that extend far past the wedding day. We approach every celebration with intention, presence, and thoughtful design, ensuring each event feels genuinely meaningful, deeply personal, and meticulously cared for. Whether guiding full-scale planning or seamless day-of coordination, we curate experiences that allow couples to remain fully present while we bring their vision to life.

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K.Y.G Luxery Beauty Agency 
Rating: 5.0 (18 reviews)
  • Beauty professional
  • Starts at $250
  • Serves El Portal, CA

K.Y.G Luxury Beauty offers professional on location hair and makeup. Our vision is to take the luxury experience of getting pampered at a salon, combined with the relationships and trust that celebrities have with their go-to glam squad, and create an unforgettable experience that is accessible to the everyday woman. We strive in bringing your vision to life because we understand how important your event is! We specialize in weddings, photoshoots, life events and special occasions.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Karen and her artists were amazing to work with. I knew I wanted Hollywood waves for my special day. I saw Karen’s work and knew she was who I wanted to work with. She did not disappoint. I absolutely loved my hair and make up both on my trial and wedding day. My bridesmaids and mothers also looked amazing and she was able to create the looks they wanted. I can’t say enough how AMAZING Karen was to work with. Her communication was excellent and she will go above be any beyond to make sure you are 100% satisfied with how you look. I will for sure hire Karen again for future special events.”
Brittany, 2 years ago
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The Tipsy Hellcat LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Bar services & beverages
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

The Tipsy Hellcat was born from my love of creating experiences that feel fun, personal, and totally on-vibe. I’m a mobile dry-hire bartender who specializes in crafting custom menus, thoughtful details, and bar setups that match your wedding’s unique style — whether you’re planning something elegant, alternative, whimsical, or bold. I’m passionate about making the process easy, stress-free, and exciting for couples. Your bar should feel like you, and I love helping bring that vision to life with creativity, warmth, and a little bit of Hellcat magic.

“I highly recommend Danie for Yosemite elopements/weddings. She was truly one of the best decisions we made for our day. From the very beginning she was attentive, communicative, and always kept me updated on everything. She really listened to what I wanted and somehow brought my vision to life exactly the way I imagined it. What honestly impressed me the most is that she managed to make everything look absolutely perfect despite all the weather chaos we had — rain, freezing cold, and even snow. Somehow she handled every single unexpected situation so calmly and professionally and made our day feel effortless and magical. She was genuinely my saving grace during our dream elopement, and I cannot recommend her enough”
Jenly, 5 months ago
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Florals For You (Sarah) 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Florals For You was created by a husband and wife duo who are wedding and event floral designers based in the central valley of California. We love telling modern-romantic love stories through florals and believe that planning your wedding florals should be lighthearted and fun!

Awarded Best of Zola
“I am so glad that I found Sarah and Florals For You. From the very beginning Sarah was communicative and friendly, and I only had to send her inspo from my Pinterest board to make the vision come to life. The florals were everything I could have dreamed of - and everything was at a reasonable price and I didn't feel like things were marked up just for my wedding. I highly recommend using her!”
Melissa M., 2 months ago
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Alegria Ranch Turlock 
Rating: 4.5 (16 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Turlock, CA
  • Venue
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Nestled in the heart of Turlock’s picturesque dairy country, Alegria Ranch is a private, family-owned ranchette designed for celebrating life’s greatest milestones. Embodying its name—the Spanish word for joy—this charming destination brings warm hospitality and big country charm to every wedding, rehearsal dinner, shower, and special event. Couples enjoy total flexibility with options ranging from complete DIY setups to full-service event support with decor, catering, and on-site owner coordination. Alegria Ranch offers a magical, welcoming environment to create a truly personalized milestone celebration.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Full catering menu to choose from

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No free parking
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
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5 Daughters Design 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Florist
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

5 Daughters Design says it all. We’re a family—a mom and dad and our five adult daughters—creating thoughtful, garden-inspired wedding flowers throughout Northern California and the Phoenix, Arizona area. We believe flowers are only part of the story. The most meaningful celebrations leave people feeling welcomed, connected, and cared for. Through trusted guidance and thoughtful collaboration, we make the floral planning process feel relaxed, joyful, and beautifully personal

“Lynda was an absolute dream to work with, and I truly cannot recommend 5 Daughters Design enough. From our very first conversation, Lynda was incredibly thoughtful, creative, and genuinely invested in bringing my wedding vision to life. Lynda designed all of our wedding florals and signage, and she was exceptionally hands-on throughout the entire planning process. We met several times over video call, where she took the time to walk through every detail imaginable, and even created mock-ups to help me visualize the overall look. She listened carefully to my design ideas, offered thoughtful recommendations, and made me feel completely confident that every element would come together beautifully for our wedding. One of the things that meant the most to me was Lynda’s willingness to incorporate sentimental flowers that was special to me and my family. That personal touch made the experience feel so much more meaningful. When I saw everything come together on our wedding day, I was absolutely blown away. The floral arrangements were stunning, the signage was beautifully designed, and every detail exceeded my expectations. Everything felt cohesive, elegant, and perfectly reflected the romantic, whimsical atmosphere we had envisioned. The flowers truly transformed our venue and played such a significant role in making our wedding day feel magical. Beyond her incredible talent, Lynda is kind, patient, responsive, and truly passionate about what she does. If you're looking for someone who will treat your wedding with the same care and attention as if it were her own, I wholeheartedly recommend 5 Daughters Design. I will forever be grateful for the beauty Lynda created and the unforgettable memories she helped make possible on our special day. Thank you, 5 Daughters Design!”
Celine M., 4 months ago
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Tooney White Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (15 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $3,490
  • Serves El Portal, CA

I'm Tooney! I was born and raised in the Philippines and now call Northern California home. I've been a photographer for over a decade, and one of my favorite parts of this work is making people feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera. I know being photographed doesn't come naturally to everyone, and I don't expect it to. I'll give you direction, fix the stray hair, straighten the outfit, and help you feel like yourself — so you can stop thinking about the camera and enjoy your wedding day.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Run, don’t walk! My husband and I had the most amazing experience working with Tooney. She is incredibly talented, and kind, her warmth radiates into her photography. My husband and I decided to elope with very short notice and she was able to accommodate us even when leaving town for a big gig on the weekend. We also don’t have experience posing much and she was so skilled at giving us direction. But most importantly it just felt like fun! My husband (who hates taking pictures) said “We got the best photographer possible, she made this so fun”. We got our sneak peeks in just 2 days and we are so ecstatic about the gallery we got. We plan to do a bigger celebration with extended family and friends and will absolutely reach out to Tooney again. You’re in great hands with her!”
Taylor, 2 years ago
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Imagery by Carissa Dugoni 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

I’m Carissa, a California-based wedding photographer specializing in true-to-color editing, candid documentary coverage, and natural, editorial-style portraits. My work focuses on real connection, emotional storytelling, and the in-between moments that define a wedding day. With more than a decade of experience, I photograph weddings with an intentional, relaxed approach that helps couples feel comfortable, authentic, and fully present. My husband, Tyler, joins me as our videographer, bringing the same warm, storytelling-driven style to every celebration.

“We had so much fun on our wedding day with Carissa, Tyler, and team. Beyond having a blast taking photos, we felt comfortable and the direction given was so easy to follow. They really make you feel like a model! The photos Carissa gave us hang proudly on many different walls in our home, and the video Tyler made is always something we watch each year on our anniversary. Very special team, highly recommend!”
Katie, a year ago
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Averi Ramos Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Growing up on our ranch I was surrounded by beautiful sights and sounds, hearing horses knickering as they unloaded out of the trailer as if saying “good morning, lets get to work.” Huge oak trees creaking in the wind. Thunder storms cracking over head while driving 200 head of wild steers to winter pasture. Sunrises filtered with dust, as convoys of horse trailers bumped along dirt roads. I wanted to document and share these experiences and thats what lead me to photography. For the past 15 years I have documented 100's of weddings. It truly is the only thing you have left after the wedding and I take that so seriously.

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Azeem Ward Saxophonist | Flutist 
Rating: 5.0 (8 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Solo performer
  • Starts at $600
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Northern California-based flutist and saxophonist Azeem Ward specializes in creating elegant, memorable musical experiences for weddings and private events. His versatile repertoire spans contemporary favorites, jazz standards, timeless classics, and modern love songs, allowing him to create a personalized soundtrack for every celebration. A lifelong musician who began playing at age ten, Azeem has performed throughout the United States and internationally in the United Kingdom, Italy, Hungary, South Korea, and the Philippines. Known for his professionalism, adaptability, and warm presence, he works closely with couples to create an elevated atmosphere that feels personal and unforgettable for them and their guests.

“We found Azeem one night while scrolling Tiktok and knew we just had to book him for our wedding this past week! After the initial call and booking, we knew that Azeem would be able to create a fun and memorable atmosphere for us and our guests! Although he has an expansive repertoire of music that he has played at past events, Azeem is able to learn any song. We got to hear all of our favorite songs during our cocktail hour. We even requested for certain songs to be played while we were both present and Azeem made sure of it! I couldn't be happier with Azeem's communication and professionalism throughout the planning process. We would recommend him to anyone looking to add a classy but energetic and engaging experience to their event!”
Khiethy, 14 days ago
Queen Judy weddings 
Rating: 5.0 (7 reviews)
  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Serves El Portal, CA
  • Offer

With over 20 years of experience in the wedding industry, we are passionate about creating unforgettable wedding experiences for our brides. Our goal is to make your special day even more beautiful and seamless than you ever imagined. From the smallest details to the biggest moments, our team is dedicated to helping with all of your wedding day needs and ensuring everything runs perfectly from start to finish.

“Judy checked in with me the day before the wedding to see if I needed anything, which I appreciated. On the wedding day, she made sure I had water since it was very hot, and she checked in a few times to see if I needed anything. I also noticed how she interacted with the couple, and it was clear they really liked her. It’s always nice working with someone who helps keep the day moving and supports the couple throughout.”
Heather, a year ago
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Party Kings Mobile Music & Entertainment 
Rating: 5.0 (7 reviews)
  • DJ
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Your wedding deserves more than someone who just plays music. At Party Kings Mobile Music & Entertainment, we combine experienced DJ & MC services with personalized planning to create a fun, seamless, and stress-free celebration. From your ceremony to the last dance, we’ll guide every announcement, transition, and special moment while keeping your guests entertained. With over a decade of experience, an exclusive online planning portal, and a commitment to one wedding per day, we’re dedicated to making your wedding unforgettable.

“Party Kings Mobile Music & Entertainment was the perfect choice for our wedding! Their communication throughout the planning process was quick, accommodating, and they really listened to our requests. The quality of their work was top-tier - the music they provided for our first dance and throughout the reception was amazing, keeping all of our guests dancing and having a great time all night long. We couldn't have asked for a better DJ service to make our special day truly perfect.”
Vanessa and N., 7 months ago
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B&C Music 
Rating: 5.0 (6 reviews)
  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $1,700
  • Serves El Portal, CA

B&C Music is a Stockton, California-based duo that delights in complementing weddings with memorable musical experiences. Specializing in acoustic and electric covers, Brooke and Chase Estes are known for their personable nature, skilled musicianship, and their passion for their craft.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Our experience with B&C Music for our wedding was overall perfect. They were easy to communicate with and they did an incredible job, setting the perfect vibe for our wedding. After asking us our song choices for the processional and if there were any other special songs they could learn for us, B&C were completely self-sufficient, which was a huge help for us during the planning process. They arrived early to set up, started playing as guests arrived, and provided beautiful music for our ceremony and cocktail hour. We booked them based on their Soundcloud samples, and they exceeded our expectations on the day. Our guests had so many nice things to say about their performance. My husband and I are so glad we found them, as B&C truly contributed to making our special day so memorable.”
Scarlett & J., 2 years ago
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Queen Beauty Judy 
Rating: 5.0 (6 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 6
  • Starts at $150
  • Serves El Portal, CA
  • Offer

Judy founder Out of gallery Queen beauty has been helping women bring their inner beauty out for many years. It has been her life's passion working with brides and their party making that special day fabulous. She is talented in all fields when it comes to beauty. Glance at all the services she offers as your one stop shop at looking gorgeous.

“I had the pleasure of working with Judy as the makeup artist for a bride at a wedding I photographed. Judy's skill and professionalism were truly remarkable. She created a stunning look that perfectly complemented the bride’s style and the overall theme of the wedding. Her attention to detail and ability to enhance natural beauty made a significant impact on the photos. I highly recommend Judy for her exceptional work and artistry.”
Anita McLeod , 2 years ago
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JessShootMe 
Rating: 5.0 (6 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

I am a Central Valley-based photographer, but I am always available for travel outside the Central Valley. I focus on portraiture, wedding, and event photography. My mission is to work hard to deliver quality images and give my clients a comfortable, enjoyable experience full of smiles and laughter from the initial contact through the session and even after the final product is delivered.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Jess was so reliable and communicative throughout the entire process from beginning to end. She went above and beyond with the quality (and quantity) of gorgeous photos! Jess and her team made us feel comfortable and were efficient at taking photos during our wedding day. I didn’t want to feel take away from the moment to “pose” and I never was- but I got all the photos I could ever ask for! She captured all the special moments beautifully. I would recommend her work to anyone who wants an easy going photographer and dreamy wedding photos to look back on! We can’t thank you enough Jess!”
Emma K., 9 months ago
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An Occasion 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves El Portal, CA

With over 38 years in the event industry, Jennifer Valdez brings a lifetime of creativity, expertise, and heartfelt dedication to every celebration she designs. As the owner of An Occasion Events, Jennifer is a seasoned wedding planner, florist, and flower farmer who combines artistry with authenticity. Her floral designs are known for their natural, organic style, using locally grown blooms from her own flower farm and other local growers. At the heart of it all, Jennifer finds joy in transforming visions into lasting memories, crafting celebrations that are as meaningful as they are beautiful.

“Jennifer is the best!! My day would not have happened without her. Her communication leading up to our wedding day was always great. Within the weeks and days leading up to our day, I would text her anything and she would always reply within minutes and help me to relax! On the day of our wedding, I’m not sure if ANYTHING went wrong!! She handled everything for us and was absolutely amazing. Her flowers are also stunning. I got so many compliments on my bouquet. She really made sure my day went seamlessly and even put my veil on for me before I walked down the aisle. You really will not find anyone better than her!!”
Madison M., a year ago
University Plaza Waterfront Hotel 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
Stockton, CA
  • Venue
  • Up to 350 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $4,000

Thank you for considering the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel for your special day! We’re thrilled you're exploring our stunning venue. Imagine exchanging vows in our elegant ballroom, overlooking the sparkling waterfront. Our prime location, steps away from Stockton Arena, Banner Island Ballpark, and the Civic Auditorium, offers endless possibilities for pre- and post-wedding festivities. Let us help you create a wedding that reflects your unique style.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Caters to out-of-town guests
  • Pets can join the celebration
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
“We only had 7 months to plan and wanted to stick within a budget. but have something beautiful. University Plaza Waterfront Hotel offered just the right pricing with a stunning courtyard, dining area, and spacious ballroom. There were a few mishaps but Renee and her staff took care of us and ensured that our needs were met. We set several appointments throughout this time frame and Renee worked with us to keep these appointments running smoothly, worked well with staff and other vendors to make sure our day was special as could be. Renee responded to my emails promptly and helped me plan the reception program, floor plan of the ballroom, answered my 101 questions and so much more. Renee and the University Plaza Waterfront Hotel staff had our best interest in consideration from pricing, to decorating, to our guests, and all the things in between. I truly enjoyed that there were plenty of rooms for my big guest list from so many different countries and states. Everybody had enough space to enjoy themselves, the kids played all around in the courtyard, safety was good, and the sunset was just great. The Univeristy Plaza Waterfront felt like our home. We are so thrilled and pleased that we chose to have our wedding at this venue, because although it was hectic(as any wedding would be) at times it was an absolute blast!”
Victoria, 2 years ago
Natalie Renee Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Northern California wedding photographer inspired by real moments between people who love each other and dreamy lighting. There is nothing I love more than capturing emotion and details in all the magical moments. I want to deliver photos filled with emotion, fun, and laughter. I bring lots of love and energy with me to make you feel comfortable so you can have fun in front of the camera. I work to build a true friendship with you to create trust which aids in gorgeous photos.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Natalie understood my vision and ran with it. From the beginning I could tell she was professional, fun, and great at her job. We had a super colorful wedding (groom wore a floral blue suit) and she was just as excited about our plans as we were. She was also open to feedback on editing style (I really wanted high contrast), but honestly both our engagement photos and wedding photos were/ are everything. She worked great with our dog, captured our individual personalitlies and worked great with the group. I wish I could get married again just so we could see what kind of photos she gets from that wedding as well. 10/10 do recommend.”
Sareesha, 3 months ago
Payton Ophelia Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (5 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $700
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Photography has always been more than just photos to me. It’s freezing the little moments that end up meaning the most years later getting to tell people stories is something I’ll never take for granted. Behind every session is a girl who still gets excited every single time someone trusts her to capture their memories and honestly that feeling never gets old.

“When our day-of coordinator got sick just before the wedding, Payton stepped in without hesitation and ran the entire event while still capturing every single shot we wanted. Her communication leading up to the big day was clear and precise, which gave us total peace of mind during the planning process. Payton's experience and skill really showed through in how she handled everything, and her work is truly exceptional. Beyond her talent behind the camera, she was such a wonderful person to have around—so bubbly and fun that she made everyone feel at ease. We cannot recommend Payton Ophelia Photography highly enough to any couple looking for a photographer who genuinely cares about making your day special.”
Brentley P., 6 months ago
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Kevin Layton Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $2,125
  • Serves El Portal, CA

I thoroughly enjoy working with passionate, easy going, and family oriented clients. My clients are more than just clients to me. I truly care about them more then just clients. I consider them o be friends who I am emotionally connected with. I want them to be happy with their product just as much as my customer service. I aim to treat them the way I would want to be treated and going above and beyond to make that happen is what I do. Please don't hire me because I may be less expensive than someone else. Hire me because you like my style and because you know I care about you, We all have to make a living, but money isn't everything.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Kevin did a wonderful job with our wedding photos! The pictures turned out great and helped to capture our special day.”
Brooke S., 7 months ago
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Shannon Bryn Photo LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

My name is Shannon Van Groningen, as a California and destination wedding photographer, I specialize in bright, timeless, and true-to-color wedding photography that ensures every detail and emotion is beautifully preserved. From the iconic landscapes of California's Bay Area, South Lake Tahoe, and Southern California to luxurious destinations across the U.S., I’m here to document your love story in a way that feels natural and timeless.

“Shannon took our engagement and wedding photos, and we are absolutely in love with them!! Her ability to capture candid emotions while also giving direction to us while taking photos was awesome. My husband and I always worry about being stiff or awkward in photos, and Shannon did an excellent job at making us comfortable in front of the camera- dare I say it was even fun!! Our pictures turned out gorgeous and I get messages from family members every day telling me how beautiful they are. Thank you SO much Shannon :)”
Emily, a year ago
Cakewalk Heirloom Baking Co 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Cakes & desserts
  • Starts at $16
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Cakewalk Heirloom Baking Company is a cake, pastry, and culinary maison devoted to the art of intentionally crafted experience. We bring together sculptural cakes, curated culinary expressions of season, and a café inspired by interwoven global experiences and culinary exploration across rich and varied cultures—each shaped through ingredient integrity, precision, and a quiet attention to flavor, balance, and sensory detail. Our work is guided by organically grown ingredients, seasonality, and intentional flavor composition, where culinary craftsmanship becomes a language of experience, form, and expression—beautifully composed and thoughtfully presented.

“We began our wedding planning journey in February and reached out to Cakewalk. Little did we know, they are the whole package. We initially wanted to discuss breakfast catering options, but once we received highly detailed emails from Jennifer about her services we then decided to move forward with planning/catering/floral/furniture/signage/wedding cake/tastings/wine pairings and so much more. Cakewalk provided the perfect nature design/coordination, organic farm to table catering and custom cake design with dessert services for our special day. Jennifer is an absolute gem. She connected with us via phone and email multiple times leading up to the big day to plan a truly amazing wedding day. She asked us for our pinterest board, and she really listened to our ideas and concerns. Her emails were very detailed and consisted of multiple design boards. She was very organized and provided us with a comprehensive planning timeline. Jennifer incorporated two new entrees for our dinner service that were not in their original menu selection. During the tasting, she offered the highest degree of service. She also provided the wine pairings for each dish! Jennifer coordinated with all our vendors. She planned a day of coronation timeline that was perfectly executed and was flexible with any changes. She really has a caring eye for detail and made our dream wedding a reality! Our wedding party was intimate with 20 guests and Jennifer and her team really made everyone feel like royalty. We really don't know how we could have done any of this without her. 100/100 the best day of our lives.”
Kim & F., 2 years ago
GemHidden gem
Bowen Weddings 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
  • Planner
  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Hi! I’m Breahna, owner of Bowen Weddings. 🤍I specialize in day-of coordination so you can enjoy your wedding while I handle the details. From managing your timeline and vendors to solving last-minute issues, I’m there to keep everything running smoothly. I believe every couple deserves to be fully present on their wedding day, and my goal is to make that happen. Organized, reliable, and supportive, I’m here to help bring your vision to life with confidence and care.

“I cannot recommend Bowen Weddings enough! Breahna and her team were absolutely amazing on our wedding day. From the moment they stepped in, everything felt organized and completely under control. Breahna was professional, responsive, and incredibly detail-oriented throughout the entire process. On the wedding day, she and her team handled all of the logistics seamlessly, kept everything on schedule, and made sure every detail was executed exactly as we envisioned. They coordinated with our vendors, kept everyone where they needed to be, and managed the timeline perfectly! The greatest gift they gave us was the ability to truly enjoy our wedding day without worrying about timelines, vendors, or last-minute details. We were able to be fully present with our family and friends because we knew we were in great hands. If you’re considering a day-of coordinator, choose Bowen Weddings! Breahna and her team went above and beyond, and we are so grateful for everything they did to make our wedding day perfect!”
Megan H., 4 months ago
Quick responder
The Fool's Path Tarot 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
  • Event extras
  • Fortune teller/tarot
  • Starts at $45
  • Serves El Portal, CA
  • Offer

With over 13 years of tarot-reading experience, I bring a little magic, a sprinkle of whimsy, and plenty of fun to every wedding celebration! I’m a practicing witch, tarot enthusiast, and lover of all things mystical, passionate about creating memorable experiences that leave guests smiling, curious, and maybe just a little enchanted. My readings are all about embracing the magic of the moment. Whether your guests are curious believers, playful skeptics, or simply looking for something unique to enjoy between dances, I create a welcoming, lighthearted space where everyone can have a little fun with the cards.

“The Fool's Path Tarot was such a standout addition to our September wedding, and honestly they're super underrated. From the moment we booked them, the owner was sweet and patient with all our questions, even though they'd just started their business. Their readings for our guests were spookily accurate—people kept coming up to us afterward saying they couldn't believe how spot-on the cards were. Beyond the accuracy, what really impressed us was how understanding and open-minded they were about everything. They nailed the fall aesthetic we were going for, and every single guest walked away talking about their experience. We felt so lucky to have them there, and we'd absolutely recommend them to any couple looking for something a little different and genuinely mindblowing.”
Cass O., 5 days ago
Quick responder
Sugar Bakes & Cakes 
Rating: 5.0 (4 reviews)
  • Cakes & desserts
  • Serves El Portal, CA

Specializing in artisanal cakes and decanted desserts, creating memorable wedding cakes and beautiful custom cakes for all celebrations, alongside a collection of American and European inspired desserts. Each order is thoughtfully created with flavors, aesthetic, and finer details to bring your vision to life.

“Working with Maykayla is always amazing. I used Maykayla for our wedding. She made a stunning cake plus a few dozen cupcakes, and even made us a special anniversary cake to freeze and enjoy a year later (family tradition). She took my loose vision and ran with it, surprising us with something that turned out even better than we imagined. Her flavors are delicious and her prices are fair for the level of talent she brings! As The Wedding Nest coordinator, I refer Maykayla to every couple I work with, and over the years she's become a genuine friend. She's handling my baby shower cake in December, and I couldn't be more confident in her work. Highly recommend her to anyone looking for a dessert artist who truly cares.”
Nicole J., 13 days ago

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