The Best Vineyard & Winery Wedding Venues in Santa Maria, CA

The Best Vineyard & Winery Wedding Venues in Santa Maria, CA

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19 Wedding Venues in Santa Maria, CA

Vineyards, wineries
Quick responder
Riverbench Vineyard and Winery 

5.0

Santa Maria, CA
  • Up to 125 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Nestled in the heart of the Foxen Canyon, Riverbench Vineyard and Winery offers a truly romantic setting for your wedding day. The beautifully restored estate Farmhouse, rich with heritage and charm, provides a timeless backdrop surrounded by acres of lush vineyards and rolling hills. Located in one of the most sought-after regions on California’s Central Coast, this historic property blends rustic elegance with modern comforts. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate celebration or a grand affair, Riverbench’s serene landscape and authentic vineyard ambiance create an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of wine country romance.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Dressing room available
  • Sophisticated wine experience
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No free parking
We had an incredible experience getting married at the Riverbench Farmhouse! The venue was the perfect, charming setting for our 100-person celebration. Both houses on the property provided gorgeous backdrops for photos, and we loved having distinct spaces for the ceremony, dinner, and dancing. The staff was so friendly and accommodating, making the entire day seamless. We highly recommend this venue to anyone planning a wedding in Santa Barbara County!
Michelle F., a month ago
Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery 
Santa Maria, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $5,497

Cottonwood has a diversity of sites to host wedding ceremonies & receptions to both our wine club members and to the public. By hosting your event here you get access to the whole property and count with a hospitality staff that will help you with everything you need! Over the years we’ve had the pleasure to host weddings of couples from around the central coast. We pride ourselves in quality, and attention to detail to accommodate intimate weddings of 50 guests and large celebrations for up to 300 guests. Each one of our packages has been determined according to your needs, so you can have your dream wedding in the picturesque Santa Maria Valley.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Dressing room available
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Surrounded by beautiful vineyards

Venue considerations

  • No free parking
  • Dance floor not included
  • Lighting and sound are not included
Quick responder
Zaca Mesa Winery and Vineyards 

5.0

Los Olivos, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $4,500

Zaca Mesa Winery is a large estate that can hold up to 200 guests. With several indoor and outdoor celebration areas, this California property offers endless possibilities. For vow exchanges beneath the California sunshine, you and your love can say "I do" at the Grenache Blanc Vineyard Lawn. This airy space is graced with a century-old oak tree and majestic vistas of the San Rafael mountains. For an indoor wedding extravaganza, you and your guests can retreat to the property's modern View Room. Here, everyone can enjoy a wonderful meal and clink wine glasses next to 9ft-tall glass sliding doors and windows, which offer panoramic views of the Zaca Mesa estate. Zaca Mesa Winery also offers a variety of idyllic backdrops for memorable wedding photos. The Barrel Room is perfect for striking, directed shots, while a romantic stroll through the vineyard makes for heartfelt, candid images.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Flexible event spaces
  • Pets can join the celebration

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
We fell in love with Zaca Mesa immediately and when our special day came, over exceeded our expectations! From start to finish, Tara was always available to help out and answer any questions along the way! We could not have asked for a better experience!
Lindsie & A., 9 months 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
A Dream Wedding Come True – Thanks to Diana & Steve! If you’re searching for a venue that combines breathtaking beauty with top-notch service and the most genuinely caring owners you could ever hope to meet, look no further. Diana and Steve, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for making our wedding unforgettable. You are truly the best of the best!
Katie B., 7 months ago
Quick responder
Higuera Ranch 

5.0

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

The story of Higuera Ranch begins in 1769 when Franciscan missionaries planted figs along the Pacific Coast Trail. These beautiful trees became a symbol of faith, hope, and strength. Almost 250 years later, our goal is to keep those traditions alive! Your guests will find rest under the strong branches of the Higuera Tree, and couples will share everlasting memories in the Olive Grove. Higuera Ranch is the perfect setting to begin your love story...

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Rustic yet refined style

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • Dance floor not included
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Higuera Ranch was the perfect venue for our wedding weekend. From the moment we first reached out, their communication was quick, helpful, and easy. Kristin was so supportive and went above and beyond to make sure our special day was everything we dreamed of. The property itself is absolutely beautiful and well-kept, providing the ideal backdrop for our celebration. Having all of our friends and family stay on-site with us made the entire weekend that much more memorable and special. We couldn't have asked for a better venue - it was truly perfect in every way.
Maya C., a year 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
GemHidden gem
1800 El Pomar 

5.0

Templeton, CA
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor
  • Starts at $15,000

Located in the heart of California’s beautiful Central Coast, our venue offers a classic style barn surrounded by thriving vineyards, setting the stage for an unforgettable wedding day. The rustic elegance of our newly renovated barn, combined with the scenic beauty of the rolling hills and an enchanting ceremony site under oak trees, creates a timeless and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for celebrating your love with family and friends in this captivating California setting.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Surrounded by beautiful vineyards
  • Allows pets
  • Surrounded by nature

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you don't want a rustic vibe
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • On-site parking not available
My husband and I had the best wedding weekend at 1800 El Pomar. The farmhouse is a great place to host and have family from out of town come visit. We had our rehearsal dinner at the farmhouse as well and it was so fun! The ceremony and reception spots are so gorgeous and have everything you need to make your special day exceptional. The family that runs this venue is so sweet and accommodating and they made the whole process stress free. Could not recommend this venue more!!
Josh & J., 2 years 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
Quick responder
Opolo Vineyards 

5.0

Paso Robles, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $30,000

Opolo Vineyards is located in Paso Robles wine country. Flourishing amount oak tree-line roads, acres of vines and walnut groves, Opolo Vineyrds is the ideal location for weddings. Share vows with loved ones atop a picturesque hilltop followed by cocktail hour celebrations. Ride a rustic shuttle to a romantically lit, barrel lined reception room or continue your celebration on our hilltop. Dance the night away under warm lighting and toast to a lifetime together. Opolo Vineyards is not only home to quintessential views, award winning wines and top-notch hospitality, we are also please to provide our premier wedding experience.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Bridal suite on site
  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • Additional event staff required
  • No free parking
  • Not for you if you're looking for a sleek and contemporary space
As a wedding planner, I’ve had the opportunity to work with a variety of venues, but Opolo Vineyards in Paso Robles stands out as one of the finest. The event space is nothing short of spectacular—an expansive mesa elevated above the vineyards, providing sweeping views that create a truly breathtaking backdrop for any celebration. The natural beauty of the location combined with its versatile layout makes it an ideal choice for couples looking for a memorable setting for their special day. The staff at Opolo Vineyards were equally impressive, with the manager, Gracie Rey, being particularly outstanding. Her professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine dedication to ensuring everything ran smoothly were invaluable. Throughout the entire planning process, the team was supportive, responsive, and committed to delivering a seamless event. I highly recommend Opolo Vineyards for anyone looking for a top-tier venue with exceptional service in Paso Robles.
Armando-Alegria by Design, a year ago
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
La Lomita Ranch 
San Luis Obispo, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $75,000

One of San Luis Obispo's newest luxury Weekend Wedding Venues. Begin your legacy at La Lomita Ranch. Step back in time at the exclusive entrance to California’s Edna Valley coastal wine region. Grand Oaks and green peaks circle the lush 160-acre estate, while light and shadow dance against the arched exterior of the luxurious private suites. Once home to famed Arabian horses, the storied Spanish property now welcomes guests from around the globe. La Lomita Ranch is the ideal wedding destination surrounded by rare beauty and a variety of versatile spaces. With a capacity up to 400, our vibrant spaces create a picturesque palette for your ceremony, reception, and more. From The Terrace, Oak Courtyard or The Plaza, to a reception in the covered Pavilion. A wedding retreat unlike any other, our eight luxury suites will inspire you with Spanish charm and soothing refuge, accommodating up to 24 guests.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Rustic charm with elegance
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • Does not provide event staff
  • Does not have a dance floor
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
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
Quick responder
Riata Ranch Santa Margarita 
Santa Margarita, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $13,003

A premier wedding venue on California’s central coast, Riata Ranch provides a luxurious and private setting that is a short 20 minute drive from the heart of San Luis Obispo’s thriving downtown. We offer multiple romantic and chic event spaces to choose from throughout our picturesque property. A variety of event packages are designed to cover all of your potential needs. Rustic weddings under one of our many large oak trees can provide you with a traditional backdrop. Our one-of-a-kind Michelangelo Greenhouse, inspired by conservatories in Europe, will give an atmosphere unrivaled on the central coast of California. The timeless and iconic Ranch House sits with a vantage point that allows you and all of your guests to take in the expansive beauty of Riata Ranch. Each package offers versatility to ensure that all of your wedding dreams come true. To fully appreciate the beauty of our property, please come visit us in person. Just call or email us to arrange a private tour.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Caters to out-of-town guests
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Does not have a dance floor
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
CASS Winery & Vineyard 
Paso Robles, CA
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Since 2002, we have helped create memorable celebrations amongst the vines! CASS Winery is a destination vineyard wedding venue that brings the best of a true Paso Robles experience intermingled with epic views and a clean modern aesthetic. Transform your traditional wedding celebration into a weekend getaway that allows for quality time with friends and family whilst enjoying a fine celebration. We offer an array of packages that cater to how you wish to celebrate your love.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Rustic yet refined style
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
Hammersky Vineyards 
Paso Robles, CA
  • Up to 70 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $2,400

Handcrafted, Bordeaux-centric estate wines HammerSky wines are distinct because of a perfect combination of matchless factors: vineyard location in the Templeton gap, uncompromising viticulture practices, purposeful low yields, and the experienced hands that touch each vine. We believe in quality over quantity and therefore produce wines that are rich and concentrated in both flavor and texture. The vineyards are farmed with purpose and passion and the results are palpable in each glass. n the heart of westside Paso Robles on Vineyard Drive, HammerSky Vineyards has it all. The ultra-modern tasting room offers award-winning Bordeaux centric wines, hospitality and comfort for all who visit. We welcome you to come enjoy our wines in the most picturesque vineyard setting.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Caters to out-of-town guests
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Sophisticated wine experience

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Lighting and sound are not included
  • Additional event staff required

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?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

What other wedding services are nearby?