Top 5 SoCal Wedding Venues for a Historic, Romantic Celebration

Southern California may be known for its beaches and modern rooftop weddings. But for couples dreaming of timeless romance, historic charm and architecture that tells a story - there’s a different kind of magic waiting for you.

If your wedding vision includes vintage details, dramatic facades, and lush gardens that feel like they’ve been plucked from a storybook, this list is for you. As a Southern California wedding planner who specializes in bringing romantic and refined visions to life, I’ve worked at many beautiful venues. These are the top five that blend history, elegance, and charm in the most breathtaking way - a few of which we are preferred vendors at!

1. Castle Green – Pasadena, CA

Romantic, Victorian, and full of cinematic character

Once a luxury hotel in the late 1800s, Castle Green is now one of Pasadena’s most iconic wedding venues. With its Moorish-style architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and antique-filled interior, the venue sets a dreamlike backdrop for weddings that feel like a period film.

Couples love the mix of indoor and outdoor options, from the lush lawn for ceremonies to the grand ballroom and salon for receptions. The high ceilings, vintage man-operated elevator and grand staircase make for unforgettable photo moments.

Pro tip: If you already have a vision for a romantic, vintage-inspired wedding, Castle Green offers the perfect foundation to bring it all to life—with just the right amount of structure and flexibility for customization.

Images by Sam Turchin Photography



2. Villa del Sol D’Oro – Sierra Madre, CA

A Tuscan-style estate with European elegance

Tucked away in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, Villa del Sol d’Oro feels like a destination wedding—without leaving LA County. Inspired by a 16th-century Italian villa, this venue features a cypress-lined driveway, a sun-drenched courtyard, and architectural details that make you feel like you're in Tuscany.

Perfect for couples who want a European look with old-world sophistication, the Villa is especially stunning for golden hour ceremonies and intimate, al fresco receptions.

Planning tip: With its symmetrical beauty and architectural bones, this venue is ideal for refined tablescapes, classic florals, and romantic candlelight design.

Images by Bryte Moments



3. The Ebell of Los Angeles – Los Angeles, CA

Historic grandeur with timeless sophistication

The Ebell is a cultural landmark which opened in 1927 and remains one of LA’s most sophisticated venues. With soaring ceilings, intricate woodwork, grand staircases, and a stunning art salon, it brings a vintage yet formal elegance perfect for black-tie weddings or classic romantic affairs.

Its multiple indoor spaces offer both flexibility and flow, ideal for couples planning a multi-part celebration.

Design inspiration: Think ivory florals, black-tie elegance, jazz quartets, and champagne towers for that roaring-20s-meets-modern-luxury feel.


4. Greystone Mansion – Beverly Hills, CA

Old Hollywood glam meets European estate grandeur

Nestled in the hills of Beverly Hills, Greystone Mansion is an architectural masterpiece with sprawling gardens, dramatic stone staircases, and panoramic city views. Completed in1928, this historic estate is a favorite for film sets and luxurious weddings alike.

The property’s manicured grounds and stately exterior offer countless locations for both ceremony and reception, making it ideal for couples who want a larger-than-life, cinematic celebration.

Aesthetic tip: Greystone is stunning with classic black-and-white color palettes, garden florals, and formal attire—think timeless luxury meets fairytale elegance.

Images by Selcouth Creative



5. Sherwood Country Club – Thousand Oaks, CA

Classic luxury nestled in a private, picturesque enclave

Sherwood Country Club offers timeless elegance with a more polished country estate feel. With its stately Georgian-style architecture and tree-lined grounds it’s a dream setting for couples who want a romantic but elevated atmosphere.

The East Terrace, Lawn and Grand Ballroom all exude sophistication, while the exclusivity of the venue adds a luxurious touch to the overall experience.

Planning insight: Sherwood pairs beautifully with soft, neutral palettes, lush floral installations, and elegant black-tie styling for a wedding that feels intimate, yet regal.


Ready to Bring Your Vision to Life?

Choosing the perfect venue is only the beginning. But turning your ideas into a seamless and stunning celebration takes expert planning. If you’ve already found the venue of your dreams (or need help narrowing it down), I’d love to help bring your romantic wedding vision to life.

Let’s start with a planning consultation! Drop me a message at agnes@afabsoiree.com and let’s chat more about your big day.

Planning TipsAgnes Suparman