Santa Cruz, Northern California Wedding Venues

Where can I get married in Santa Cruz, California?

Santa Cruz offers a variety of beautiful and unique locations for weddings, and each area has its own charm and character. Here are some of the best areas to get married in Santa Cruz:

• Beaches: Santa Cruz is known for its stunning beaches, which offer a picturesque backdrop for weddings. Some popular beaches for weddings include Main Beach, Natural Bridges State Beach, and Seabright State Beach.
• Parks and Gardens: Santa Cruz has several parks and gardens that offer beautiful settings for outdoor weddings.
• Redwood Forests: Santa Cruz is also home to several redwood forests that offer a magical and romantic atmosphere for weddings.
• Wineries and Vineyards: Santa Cruz has a growing wine industry, and many wineries and vineyards offer scenic and rustic venues for weddings.
• Historic Sites: Santa Cruz has a rich history, and there are several historic sites that offer unique and charming venues for weddings.

Ultimately, the best area for your wedding will depend on your personal preferences and the style of wedding you're looking to have. These areas are a great place to start your search for the perfect wedding location.

How much do wedding venues cost in Santa Cruz, California?

The cost of wedding venues in Santa Cruz can vary widely depending on several factors, including the location, size, amenities, and time of year. Here are some general price ranges for wedding venues in Santa Cruz:

• Beaches and Parks: Many of the beaches and parks in Santa Cruz are public and do not require a rental fee, but you may need to obtain a permit or pay for parking. Private parks and gardens can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the size and amenities.
• Wineries and Vineyards: Wineries and vineyards can be a popular and scenic option for weddings in Santa Cruz, but they can also be more expensive than other venues.
• Historic Sites: Historic sites can offer a unique and charming venue for weddings, but they may also have more restrictions and requirements.
• Other Venues: Santa Cruz also offers a variety of other wedding venues, such as hotels, resorts, and event spaces.

In Santa Cruz County, there is a Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) that applies to lodging accommodations, including hotels, motels, vacation rentals, and other short-term rentals. The TOT rate in Santa Cruz County is 11%, which means that if you book a hotel room or vacation rental for your wedding guests, you can expect to pay an additional 11% in taxes on top of the rental fee.

If you hire vendors or service providers for your wedding, such as caterers, photographers, or DJs, they may also be required to collect and remit sales tax on their services. The sales tax rate in Santa Cruz County is currently 7.25%.

Many venues will have pricing information available on their website, but it's also a good idea to schedule a tour and speak with a representative to get a more accurate idea of what the total cost will be.

Where can my wedding guests stay in Santa Cruz, California?

Looking for a no-fuss experience for your guests? Santa Cruz offers a variety of lodging options for wedding guests, ranging from hotels and resorts to vacation rentals and bed and breakfasts. Here are some popular options for wedding guest accommodations in Santa Cruz:

• Hotels and Resorts: Santa Cruz has several hotels and resorts that offer comfortable and convenient accommodations for wedding guests. Some popular options include the Dream Inn Santa Cruz, the Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley, and the Chaminade Resort and Spa.
• Vacation Rentals: Santa Cruz is known for its beachfront vacation rentals, which can be a great option for families and groups.
• Bed and Breakfasts: Santa Cruz has several charming bed and breakfasts that offer a cozy and intimate atmosphere for wedding guests. Some popular options include the Babbling Brook Inn, the Darling House, and the West Cliff Inn.
• Campgrounds and RV Parks: For guests who prefer the great outdoors, Santa Cruz has several campgrounds and RV parks that offer affordable and scenic accommodations.

Wedding Spot can also help you find hotels and set up room blocks for you and your guests near your desired venue. When choosing accommodations for your guest, consider proximity to the wedding venues, amenities offered, price, and transportation options.

When is the best time of year to get married in Santa Cruz, California?

The best time of year to get married in Santa Cruz is during the summer and early fall months. Here are some things to consider when choosing a wedding date in Santa Cruz:

• Weather: Santa Cruz has a mild and temperate climate year-round, but the summer and early fall months (June to October) tend to be the warmest and sunniest, with average temperatures in the 70s and low 80s. This makes it a popular time for outdoor weddings and beach ceremonies.
• Crowds: Santa Cruz is a popular tourist destination, and the summer months can be crowded with tourists and visitors. However, this can also mean more availability and options for wedding venues and accommodations. If you prefer a quieter and less crowded atmosphere, consider getting married in the fall or winter months.
• Events and Festivals: Santa Cruz hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk concerts and the Santa Cruz County Fair. If you want to avoid scheduling your wedding during a busy event or festival, be sure to check the local calendar when choosing your wedding date.
• Availability and Pricing: Wedding venues and vendors in Santa Cruz can be in high demand during the summer and early fall months, which can also mean higher prices and limited availability. If you have a specific venue or vendor in mind, be sure to book well in advance to secure your date and avoid any conflicts.

What other information do I need to know about getting married in Santa Cruz, California?

Getting married in Santa Cruz can be a wonderful experience but to make sure everything goes smoothly, keep in mind the following:

• Marriage License: To get married in Santa Cruz, you will need to obtain a marriage license from the Santa Cruz County Clerk's Office. Both parties must appear in person to apply for the license, and you will need to provide identification and pay a fee. The marriage license is valid for 90 days.
• Officiant: You will need to have an officiant to perform your wedding ceremony in Santa Cruz. This can be a religious leader, a judge, or a civil officiant. Be sure to check the requirements and availability of your chosen officiant in advance.
• Permits and Restrictions: If you plan to have your wedding ceremony or reception in a public space, such as a park or beach, you may need to obtain a permit from the local authorities. Additionally, there may be restrictions on the number of guests, noise levels, and other factors. Be sure to check the rules and regulations in advance and obtain any necessary permits.
• Transportation: Santa Cruz is a popular tourist destination, and traffic and parking can be a challenge, especially during peak tourist season. Be sure to plan for transportation and parking for your wedding guests, and consider providing shuttles or other options to avoid any issues.
• Local Vendors: Santa Cruz has a thriving wedding industry, and there are many talented and experienced vendors and service providers in the area, such as caterers, photographers, and florists. Be sure to research and book your vendors well in advance to secure your date and avoid any conflicts.

Don't hesitate to reach out to local officials or wedding professionals if you have any questions or concerns along the way.