Searching for “The One”: Marin County Wedding Venues

Sometimes, searching for the right wedding venue is as difficult as finding your future Mr. or Mrs., especially in the Bay Area! San Francisco, the East Bay, and South Bay all have a ton of venues to look at, (and don’t get me started on Wine Country) but don’t forget the charming and lush county just north of the Golden Gate Bridge. Marin County wedding venues capture the essence of the great outdoors while maintaining charming, elegant, and romantic venues that really set the mood for your wedding day! I’ve picked a few of my favorite locations to share with you on this blog. It’s certainly not all of the Marin County wedding venues, but this is a great mini-list to start your search with.

Elks Lodge, San Rafael

San Rafael is home to moderate temperatures making it a great location for an outdoor ceremony and reception. It’s home to many historic wedding venues, like the Elks Lodge. Walking through this building that was constructed in 1908, you feel as though you traveled back in time.

The groom’s prep room has a pool table and the walls and ceiling are lined with deep dark wood, illuminated in a warm glow by antique Tiffany light fixtures. It’s picture-perfect for groomsmen to get ready and play a few rounds of pool.

The bridal suite is perfect with its spaciousness and soft lighting from high windows and white painted walls. It’s a stark but beautiful contrast with the groom’s room. The suite is spacious and allows the bride and her bridesmaids to get ready comfortably.

Outside the Lodge is a red brick patio, surrounded by beautifully manicured and maintained lawns, flowers, and bushes. It is ideal for a ceremony and a reception dance floor! I had a wonderful time shooting Craig and Elizabeth’s wedding at the Eks Lodge in San Rafael and if you’re interested in the venue, take a look at their blog here.

Rancho Nicasio, West Marin

Head west in Marin and you will find the historic and iconic venue of Rancho Nicasio. This venue is perfect if you are looking for a rustic yet chic countryside wedding location. Just ask Tara and Brendan! Rancho Nicasio features an outdoor lawn and BBQ, a ballroom, and a bar, all nestled away amongst the golden rolling hills of Marin. With so much space available, the versatility of the venue is immense and great for a large wedding!

Old St.Hilary’s Church and Corinthian Yacht Club, Tiburon

Tiburon is one of those locations for Marin County wedding venues that has incredible views of San Francisco while boasting nautical charm and elegance. Shooting Toni and Patrick’s wedding ceremony at Old St. Hilary’s Church was so cute and is one of the only Carpenter Gothic churches still around! The church also has a wildflower preserve adjacent to it, which makes for stunning couple portraits.

Toni and Patrick’s reception was held at the Corinthian Yacht Club. The Colonial Revival architectural structure with panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, Angels Island, Treasure Island, Alcatraz, and San Francisco makes this venue one of a kind. They also offer their own menu for in-house catering with award-winning dishes.

I hope this list was helpful in your search for the best Marin County wedding venue exploration. If you liked these photos, please feel free to contact me to capture your big day!