The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Santa Maria, CA

The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Santa Maria, CA

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13 Wedding Venues in Santa Maria, CA

Raw space
Quick responder
Live Oak Unitarian Universalist Congregation 

5.0

Goleta, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,000

If you're looking for... ~ a rustic, farmhouse environment with quiet elegance ~ an open and inviting atmosphere ~ flexibility to stage both ceremony and reception in multiple spaces with ease of movement ~ an ADA-accessible venue with plentiful parking ~ a full kitchen and a bridal changing room ~ onsite tables and chairs for more than 100 dining guests... ... you'll love Live Oak for your wedding venue! At Live Oak, we put love at the center of all we do and welcome all committed couples to marry here. Built in 1916, Live Oak has beautifully maintained the original Farmhouse, Cottage, and Water Tower. Keeping with the early 20th-century farmhouse style, we've added two spacious buildings - Fellowship Hall and Sanctuary with 21st-century interiors, boasting shining hardwood floors for dancing. In addition, we have a beautiful Outdoor Sanctuary near the Water Tower with amphitheater seating, a 7-labyrinth, and a wooded picnic area - ideal for micro-weddings.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Additional event staff required
Everyone at Live Oak made it easy for us to achieve the wedding setup we envisioned. From showing us photos of the space with others' decor, to sending us links with suggestions, coming to the venue to help us plan at times that worked for us, working with us to create a checklist and timeline, and showing up early/ staying late to clean up, we felt that the people at Live Oak really wanted to help us achieve the wedding that worked for us. On the day of the wedding, it was nice to have the Cottage as a room to prep and primp, and I was able to see the arriving guests while staying unseen. We also stored flowers in the kitchen fridge, which helped keep them fresh. Overall, we were consulted as to our wishes prior to the event, then during the actual wedding, things that needed to be done "behind the scenes" were taken care of, which left us able to focus on our guests and each other.
Alexandra W., 22 days ago
Quick responder
Foxen Canyon Ranch 

5.0

Los Olivos, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $14,000

Foxen Canyon Ranch is a working cattle ranch tucked away on over 200 acres. We are located on the Santa Ynez Valley wine trail, just 30 minutes north of Santa Barbara. A striking white barn welcomes you and your guests as you arrive. Open gardens, expansive lawns and century old oaks, provide the perfect atmosphere for any event. There are infinite possibilities for events of different sizes, levels of grandeur or intimacy with plenty of interior and outdoor spaces. The ranch is designed to be the canvas for your unique creation and ideas.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Romantic vineyard setting

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not provide event staff
Awarded Best of Zola
Foxen Canyon Ranch was the perfect choice for our wedding venue. Their communication style was warm, friendly and accommodating from the very first interaction. The quality of their work and the value they provided was uniquely incredible, stunning and special in every way. They responded immediately to all of our questions and communication, and were extremely helpful with advice, recommendations and logistics that enabled a seamless experience before, during and after the event. I cannot say enough about the energy, quality and effort that were so evident in the wedding day that we were given. These owners clearly love to create magical and incredible experiences for their clients and guests. The details of the venue they have created have to be seen to be explained - words are not enough. The result was the perfect dream wedding for my daughter and her fiancé, who could not be happier.
Patricia B., 6 months ago
Quick responder
The River Edge Farm 

5.0

Solvang, CA
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $4,000

River Edge Farm, with its dramatic tree-lined corridor and iconic entrance, sits between the Danish village of Solvang and the historic town of Buellton, just minutes from Highway 101. Spanning 233 acres, our historic ranch includes a leading thoroughbred farm and breathtaking vistas from a 25-acre mesa. River Edge Farm, located in the heart of this vibrant wine-growing region, offers a gateway to tranquility and natural beauty. Our unique venue, set amidst lush vineyards and a renowned equestrian training center offers the ideal fusion of rustic allure and sophisticated grace for your special event. In the heart of Santa Ynez Valley, discover a landscape where nature’s artistry meets viticultural excellence.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Surrounded by nature
  • Offers full flexibility in setup and decor
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Does not allow pets
  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
The River Edge Farm was an incredible venue to work with. Their communication throughout the planning process was timely, well-mannered, and highly effective. The venue itself is a spacious, beautiful, secret gem that offered amazing value. They were incredibly accommodating and went above and beyond to provide us with everything we needed as a vendor. The River Edge Farm was very easy to work with and is a truly one-of-a-kind venue. I would love the opportunity to work with them again.
Sophia S., 6 months ago
Eagle Oak Ranch 

5.0

Paso Robles, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Eagle Oak Ranch in Paso Robles offers a stunning, private setting for weddings. Surrounded by rolling hills, majestic oak trees, and serene landscapes, this picturesque venue blends rustic charm with modern elegance. Perfect for unforgettable celebrations, it provides an idyllic backdrop for your special day.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Space for a large guest list
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Sophisticated wine experience

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • No on-site guest accommodations
My husband and I renewed our wedding vows at this elegant venue. The staff was responsive and diligent to our needs and worked well with the vendors we enlisted making the event simple to execute. The grounds are exceptional with breathtaking views from the rear of the house across the Paso wine country. There was a lovely morning fog that burned off by 10AM and then crystal clear sunlight. Eagle Oak Ranch made our day perfect for the rest of our lives together.
Jennifer E., a year ago
Las Cumbres Ranch 
Los Alamos, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $14,000

Las Cumbres Ranch is a holistically-operated, family-owned ranch located in the Purisima Hills on California’s Central Coast. We breed pedigree Bonsmara cattle. We follow regenerative practices, thus increasing biodiversity. Holistically planned regenerative grazing considers not only the condition of the cattle but also the condition of the soil, the plants, and the wildlife. Regenerative planned grazing imitates the grazing patterns of ancient migrating herds. We produce Beef, Eggs, and Honey that we sell to local Restaurants and Farmers Markets. We have many different spaces that can be used for events, depending on the aesthetic desired.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Natural elegance with open spaces

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
  • Dance floor not included
Dovecote Retreat 
Los Alamos, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $7,500

Dovecote Ranch is tucked away on 250 acres of pasture, vineyard, lake, and rolling hills in the heart of wine country, just 40 minutes north of Santa Barbara. Around every turn awaits another breathtaking location for guests to create lasting memories and unforgettable images. Choose your site for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception. Then capture your event with your choice of picturesque locations for wedding party, first look, and newlywed photographs. Here you'll find vineyard, pond, lake, pasture, meadow and other rustic landscapes.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Classic, vintage atmosphere
  • Lush gardens
  • Feels like a getaway

Venue considerations

  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Requires outside catering services
  • Does not allow pets
Quick responder
Spreafico Farms 
San Luis Obispo, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Originally a part of the Ran­cho Cor­ral de Piedra and one of the oldest existing milking barns in the county. Rancho Corral de piedra was a 30,911-acre (125.09 km2) Mex­i­can land grant in present day San Luis Obispo County, Cal­i­for­nia con­sist­ing of two square leagues given in 1841 by Gov­er­nor Juan B. Alvarado to José María Villav­i­cen­cio, with an exten­sion of five square leagues given in 1846, by Gov­er­nor Pio Pico. The grant was located between present day San Luis Obispo and Arroyo Grande, and bounded on the south by Arroyo Grande Creek

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Sophisticated wine experience

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No in-house lighting and sound packages available
Sweet Valley Farm 
San Luis Obispo, CA
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Sweet Valley was a former Christmas tree farm turned sanctuary to the happiest animals, so every inch of the land is imbued with love, joy, and memories to last a lifetime. Our beautiful farm begins at the private gates. You follow a long, curved driveway up a hill that leads you up to our magnificent magnolia tree—the perfect place for a proposal or exchanging vows. With breathtaking wrap-a-round views of Edna Valley’s lovely hill, beautiful wineries, and the prettiest sunsets in the county, Sweet Valley Farm is an enchanted estate featuring manicured lawns, a large finished horse barn, and the stars of the show: our animals! Sharing your event will be camera-ready cattle (and calves!), bouncy miniature goats, grazing sheep and lambs, one miniature donkey, and the Queen of the Valley, Elsa the Great Pyrenees.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Unique barn setting
  • Scenic vineyard views
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Does not allow pets
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
Point San Luis Lighthouse 
San Luis Obispo, CA
  • Up to 100 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor

Point San Luis Historic 1800's Lighthouse is surrounded by thousands of acres of protected coastal land. It provides the perfect Central California coastline backdrop for relaxed elegant beach wedding ceremony. Your event starts with guest taking a classic trolley ride along the coast to our estate. Your ceremony takes place on a private beach bluff for a memorable moment framed by the Pacific Ocean. The outdoor reception area is available for cocktails, dinner, dancing, and a perfect place to watch the sunset over the water.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Bridal suite on site
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Offers full flexibility in setup and decor

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
  • No venue-provided food services
Gainey Vineyard 
Santa Ynez, CA
  • Up to 350 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Today, our vineyards and winery comprise an important part of my family’s agricultural operations, and we’re fortunate to have vineyards that yield enough high-quality fruit to estate bottle all our wines. My wife, Diane, and I are proud that our son and daughters, the fourth generation of Gaineys in the Santa Ynez Valley, are continuing our family’s tradition of farming and winemaking in this most beautiful region of California. We invite you to come to visit us the next time you’re in Santa Barbara wine country.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
Fableist Wine Co. 
Templeton, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $15,700

Rustic elegance and breathtaking views await you at The Fableist Wine Co., a unique and stunning vineyard venue for your wedding or special event. This 120-acre property nestled into the rolling hills of Templeton, California, offers several settings for your special day — beautiful oak trees overlooking miles of vines, a modern farmhouse, and a lush garden. Vintage touches accentuate the sunny outdoor setting, even including an antique train on-site. Our winery is built on stories, and we would love to be part of yours. The vineyard and tasting room is located at the junction of El Pomar and South El Pomar drives within the Paso Robles viticultural appellation.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Natural elegance with open spaces
  • Sophisticated wine experience
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Requires outside catering services
Swallow Creek Ranch, Inc. 
Cayucos, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $30,000

Swallow Creek Ranch, a 600 acre cattle ranch is located in the quaint beach town of Cayucos and is the only wedding venue on the central coast of California that offers ocean view ceremony sites and a historic reception barn. At Swallow Creek Ranch we provide the blank canvas for the day of your dreams and allow you to shape your celebration as you see fit. You’ll have access to our venue for the entire weekend which makes for a relaxed affair. You will also have your choice of two ceremony sites; the Hilltop Amphitheatre and the Seaview Meadow, each with their own unique atmosphere. The party continues with cocktail hour in the barnyard beneath our bistro lights followed by a reception for up to 200 guests in our historic blue barn. Elegant or organic, rustic or modern… the scene is set, the ranch is your backdrop. Make your vision come true!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • On-site parking not available
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic

Location flexible? Discover venues near Santa Maria, CA

About wedding venues in Santa Maria, CA

What Makes Santa Maria an Exceptional Wedding Destination?

Santa Maria's wedding venues capture the essence of Central California with their sprawling vineyard estates, Spanish-style haciendas, and historic properties from the 1920s. You'll find exceptional microclimates here creating picture-perfect backdrops throughout the year, with summer temperatures hovering around a comfortable 73°F. The best part? These venues typically cost 30-40% less than similar properties just down the road in Santa Barbara County while giving you the same renowned Central Coast wine country feel that couples love.

How Much Will Your Santa Maria Wedding Cost?

Wedding budgets in Santa Maria change dramatically depending on how many guests you invite and which venue you choose. A small wedding with 50 guests averages about $29,606 while medium-sized celebrations with 150 guests typically run around $67,957. Larger affairs escalate accordingly with 300-guest weddings reaching approximately $117,736.

Guest CountAverage Total Budget
50 guests (small wedding)$29,606
100 guests$49,377
150 guests$67,957
200 guests$84,550
250 guests$101,143
300 guests (large wedding)$117,736
Nationally venues typically cost between $6,500 and $12,000 representing about a quarter of total wedding expenses. In Santa Maria you'll find venues taking up just 18% of your budget at around $12,072 which gives you more flexibility with other aspects of your celebration.

What Types of Wedding Venues Can You Find in Santa Maria?

Santa Maria offers a rich variety of venue options to match your wedding vision. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery features stunning ceremony spaces that overlook lush Pinot Noir vineyards where you can exchange vows against a backdrop of rolling hills. The Historic Santa Maria Inn established in 1917 houses the Spanish-inspired Santa Maria Room that accommodates 80 guests and the more intimate Kent Room perfect for gatherings of 40. If you're dreaming of panoramic views Las Cumbres Ranch delivers with its hilltop location and multiple ceremony spaces that showcase the breathtaking Santa Maria landscape.

Which Santa Maria Venues Are Budget-Friendly?

Municipal venues like Waller Park offer beautiful ceremony sites for under $2,500 making them perfect for couples watching their budget. You can also score significant savings by considering an off-season wedding between November and March when vineyard venues often reduce their prices by approximately 30%. This makes luxury settings much more accessible and gives you the high-end experience without the premium price tag.

What Wedding Costs Should You Expect in Santa Maria?

Florists in the area average $8,853 representing about 13% of your total wedding cost while caterers typically run around $9,658 or 14% of your budget. For capturing your special day photographers cost approximately $5,392 (8%) and videographers average $4,877 (7%). Wedding planners who'll help coordinate everything typically charge around $5,473 which accounts for roughly 8% of your overall expenses.

When Should You Book Your Santa Maria Wedding Venue?

November marks the busiest inquiry month for Santa Maria venues with most couples securing their location approximately 14 months before their wedding day. The peak season runs from May through October with September being especially popular due to the magical harvest season ambiance at vineyard settings. If you have your heart set on a specific venue you'll want to reach out early as the best locations book up quickly especially for weekend dates.

Which Santa Maria Venues Offer Accessibility Features?

The Griffith House features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its Spanish-style grounds including the private ceremony lawn and preparation areas so all your guests can move comfortably around the property. The Historic Santa Maria Inn offers accessible banquet rooms and gardens suitable for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies with handicap accessibility throughout the venue. These thoughtful features ensure everyone in your celebration can fully participate in your special day without barriers.

Where Can You Find Outstanding Culinary Experiences in Santa Maria?

The White Barn in nearby Edna Valley stands out for its distinctive character and exceptional food options that will impress even your most culinary-minded guests. The Santa Maria Inn blends historic charm with highly regarded catering services giving you both atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Greengate Ranch & Vineyard offers fresh locally-sourced menus that attract food-conscious couples looking to give their guests an authentic taste of Central California's bounty.

How Can You Incorporate Local Culture Into Your Santa Maria Wedding?

You can bring authentic Santa Maria heritage to your celebration through traditional barbecue pits using California red oak for a distinctive smoky flavor your guests will remember. In your décor consider incorporating locally grown succulents ranunculus and Vandenberg wildflowers for a truly regional aesthetic. Local caterers excel at Santa Maria-style BBQ tri-tip and pinquito beans offering you and your guests authentic flavors that showcase the region's culinary traditions and give your wedding a genuine sense of place.

What Makes Santa Maria an Exceptional Wedding Destination?

Santa Maria's wedding venues capture the essence of Central California with their sprawling vineyard estates, Spanish-style haciendas, and historic properties from the 1920s. You'll find exceptional microclimates here creating picture-perfect backdrops throughout the year, with summer temperatures hovering around a comfortable 73°F. The best part? These venues typically cost 30-40% less than similar properties just down the road in Santa Barbara County while giving you the same renowned Central Coast wine country feel that couples love.

How Much Will Your Santa Maria Wedding Cost?

Wedding budgets in Santa Maria change dramatically depending on how many guests you invite and which venue you choose. A small wedding with 50 guests averages about $29,606 while medium-sized celebrations with 150 guests typically run around $67,957. Larger affairs escalate accordingly with 300-guest weddings reaching approximately $117,736.

Guest CountAverage Total Budget
50 guests (small wedding)$29,606
100 guests$49,377
150 guests$67,957
200 guests$84,550
250 guests$101,143
300 guests (large wedding)$117,736
Nationally venues typically cost between $6,500 and $12,000 representing about a quarter of total wedding expenses. In Santa Maria you'll find venues taking up just 18% of your budget at around $12,072 which gives you more flexibility with other aspects of your celebration.

What Types of Wedding Venues Can You Find in Santa Maria?

Santa Maria offers a rich variety of venue options to match your wedding vision. Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery features stunning ceremony spaces that overlook lush Pinot Noir vineyards where you can exchange vows against a backdrop of rolling hills. The Historic Santa Maria Inn established in 1917 houses the Spanish-inspired Santa Maria Room that accommodates 80 guests and the more intimate Kent Room perfect for gatherings of 40. If you're dreaming of panoramic views Las Cumbres Ranch delivers with its hilltop location and multiple ceremony spaces that showcase the breathtaking Santa Maria landscape.

Which Santa Maria Venues Are Budget-Friendly?

Municipal venues like Waller Park offer beautiful ceremony sites for under $2,500 making them perfect for couples watching their budget. You can also score significant savings by considering an off-season wedding between November and March when vineyard venues often reduce their prices by approximately 30%. This makes luxury settings much more accessible and gives you the high-end experience without the premium price tag.

What Wedding Costs Should You Expect in Santa Maria?

Florists in the area average $8,853 representing about 13% of your total wedding cost while caterers typically run around $9,658 or 14% of your budget. For capturing your special day photographers cost approximately $5,392 (8%) and videographers average $4,877 (7%). Wedding planners who'll help coordinate everything typically charge around $5,473 which accounts for roughly 8% of your overall expenses.

When Should You Book Your Santa Maria Wedding Venue?

November marks the busiest inquiry month for Santa Maria venues with most couples securing their location approximately 14 months before their wedding day. The peak season runs from May through October with September being especially popular due to the magical harvest season ambiance at vineyard settings. If you have your heart set on a specific venue you'll want to reach out early as the best locations book up quickly especially for weekend dates.

Which Santa Maria Venues Offer Accessibility Features?

The Griffith House features wheelchair-accessible pathways throughout its Spanish-style grounds including the private ceremony lawn and preparation areas so all your guests can move comfortably around the property. The Historic Santa Maria Inn offers accessible banquet rooms and gardens suitable for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies with handicap accessibility throughout the venue. These thoughtful features ensure everyone in your celebration can fully participate in your special day without barriers.

Where Can You Find Outstanding Culinary Experiences in Santa Maria?

The White Barn in nearby Edna Valley stands out for its distinctive character and exceptional food options that will impress even your most culinary-minded guests. The Santa Maria Inn blends historic charm with highly regarded catering services giving you both atmosphere and delicious cuisine. Greengate Ranch & Vineyard offers fresh locally-sourced menus that attract food-conscious couples looking to give their guests an authentic taste of Central California's bounty.

How Can You Incorporate Local Culture Into Your Santa Maria Wedding?

You can bring authentic Santa Maria heritage to your celebration through traditional barbecue pits using California red oak for a distinctive smoky flavor your guests will remember. In your décor consider incorporating locally grown succulents ranunculus and Vandenberg wildflowers for a truly regional aesthetic. Local caterers excel at Santa Maria-style BBQ tri-tip and pinquito beans offering you and your guests authentic flavors that showcase the region's culinary traditions and give your wedding a genuine sense of place.

What types of wedding venues are in Santa Maria, CA?

What other Santa Maria vendors will I need?

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