California by City & Sea

Explore California by city and sea for your big day and experience these luxurious wedding venues.

A Star-Worthy Hollywood Wedding Venue

Imagine Hollywood: Granman’s Chinese Theater, generations of movie stars, bright lights, swaying palms and, of course, iconic Hollywood Boulevard. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, built in 1927, offers history, landmark attractions and stunning views. After a $25 million renovation, the 300 rooms offer several different star quality configurations. The Olympic-size pool is central to 64 of the rooms. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is the setting where movie icons like Clark Gable, Marilyn Monroe, Prince, Charlie Chaplin and Angelina Jolie have gone for some fun in the sun. 

When it comes to your wedding day, if you can dream it, they will produce it. The Roosevelt is considered to be a “one-stop-shop” for unique and distinctive weddings. Set your own stage with any number of unforgettable backdrops for your up close and personal photo op. They offer a private, scene-stealing rooftop deck where you can hold your reception under a canopy of stars and 360-degree city views. John Legend recently performed there and was literally singing from the rooftops! You can also select the 2,400 square foot Academy Room where voting was first held for the inaugural Academy Awards. There are floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook Hollywood Boulevard and a 16-foot vaulted ceiling under which you can create your own wedding “screenplay.” TV’s “American Idol” has also held auditions here with Katy Perry.

The Catering Sales & Banquet Operations Director Ernie Carrillo, Jr., who has been at The Hollywood Roosevelt for over 16 years, explained that their clients always say, “You guys just get it.” The Roosevelt may look like a hotel, but it is really an event-planning platform for any dream wedding. They are always thinking outside the box in addition to having everything needed for behind-the-scenes action. 

Looking for other gathering places? Head over to The Grove (about 30 minutes from the hotel) that offers a great mix of shopping, restaurants and entertainment. Or, stay close by and enjoy a meal at the hotel’s Public Kitchen & Bar, Library Bar or The Spare Room. You must have the Spiced Milkshake at 25 Degrees restaurant – it’s open 24-hours.

Any time of year is the right time at The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel for lights, camera, action!

A Serene Santa Monica Wedding Venue

If you’re thinking of a romantic wedding on the beach, but don’t want to forgo a ballroom bash, Hotel Casa Del Mar offers a blend of traditional wedding options with the relaxed ocean air to accommodate anyone looking for an uncompromising fairy tale event. 

The resort has been around since the 1920s and all its glitz and glamour offers up a true “L.A. experience.” The hotel provides 129 guest rooms, 16 suites and their sister property, Shutters on the Beach, is right next-door for a change of pace or additional guest accommodations.  

Hotel Casa Del Mar’s Mediterranean-inspired lobby is well balanced with an Art Deco flare. Romance here is a never-ending story and the beauty doesn’t stop in the lobby. When I opened the door to my guest room, the natural warm glow of sunlight filtered in and instantly relaxed me. The fragrant fresh flowers were a welcome touch, but the Italian marble bathroom with hydrothermal massage tub was astonishing. 

Hotel Casa del Mar is located on Santa Monica Beach and within walking distance to the iconic Santa Monica Pier. If you are looking to do some shopping, then stroll over to Third Street Promenade and Santa Monica Place. Feeling adventurous? Meander over to Muscle Beach or Venice Beach where people watching is all the entertainment you need.

The hotel offers an exclusive list of recommended vendors and resources that are eager to assist with any specific wedding needs you may have. You and your betrothed will be the true center of attention, because Hotel Casa Del Mar only caters to one wedding a day. 

Opt for a wedding on the beach for the adventurous, romantic couple or host your guests in the Colonnade Ballroom, located right on the beach overlooking the white sand and blue waters. You can’t go wrong with either choice.

These articles can be found on pages 26 & 27 of the Fall/Winter 2018 issue of Destination I Do magazine.

Photos courtesey of (in order of appearance): The Hollywood Roosevelt (1st, 3rd-5th) & Hotel Casa del Mar (2nd-6th-9th)