How to Plan a Wedding in a Garden in Orange County, California

Planning

1). You can't make binding decisions about where you will hold your wedding until you know how much you have to spend. Set a realistic budget with your to-be-spouse, or sit down with both sets of parents and come up with a spending cap. Divvy this up for the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, transportation and the honeymoon.
2). Set a date for your big day. Since your wedding will be outdoors, consider the weather. While this area is known for its temperate climate, Orange County does have a rainy season. The temperature can vary 10 to 15 degrees between the coast and inland, so keep that in mind as well.
3). Choose a location that fits your budget and guest list. Many places that host garden weddings have facilities for the ceremony and reception. An inexpensive option is a municipal park: many cities offer reasonably priced use permits.
4). Allow plenty of time to book a city park, beach or clubhouse as many popular locations book up very early. The same logic applies to the pricier garden wedding options in Orange County. These include museums, wineries, restaurants, garden chapels, golf courses, hotels or resorts and historic mansions.

1). Consult the chosen site's wedding coordinator for guidelines when it comes to food, music, flowers, transportation, photography/videography and, if there is to be bar, whether it will be open or cash only. City-owned parks, beaches and clubhouses also have restrictions on music, hours, security and number of guests.
2). Among the most beautiful garden settings in Orange County is the Sherman Library & Gardens, where foliage of all kinds surrounds visitors. The Tea Garden Patio features a wisteria-covered arbor perfect for ceremonies. Receptions can be held indoors or outside. The limit is 250 guests.

Sherman Library & Gardens
614 Dahlia Ave.
Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
949-673-2261
slgardens.org
3). Ceremonies for up to 450 guests are held in a landscaped garden overlooking a reflecting pool at the historic Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum. Dining and dancing are enjoyed beneath crystal chandeliers, surrounded by golden silk draperies and marble fireplaces, in the replica of the White House's East Room.

Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum
18001 Yorba Linda Blvd.
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
714-364-1182
nixonlibraryfoundation.org