When you envision your ideal wedding weekend, what does it look like? What’s going on around you? Where are you? Indoors or outdoors? How is your ceremony decorated?
Chances are, everyone’s answers to these questions will be different. But I have a venue in mind that will tick just about anyone’s box. It allows you to use your imagination and plan a wedding weekend that really fits your personality.
In fact, it boasts “24 acres of endless possibilities,” and I couldn’t agree more!
Gardener Ranch, located in Carmel Valley, is an absolute dream space for couples, offering both indoor and outdoor areas that you can use however you see fit.
Today, I’m shining the spotlight on this gorgeous venue so you can see why it’s an incredible option for your wedding. Get ready to fall in love!
The Outdoor Spaces
Gardener Ranch is a beautiful retreat property made up of grounds that are impressive without being overly ornate. There’s a kind of understated elegance that’s welcoming.
There are four different lawns, my personal favorite being the Riverwalk Lawn for a ceremony. This lawn has a large leaning oak tree and an expansive grassy area ideal for walking down the aisle.
The Woodlawn Lawn is my recommended spot for a reception dinner. This area was originally a popular ceremony spot because of the natural tree arch that frames the lawn. But it’s become increasingly popular for dinners and picnics because of the shade trees and proximity to the Clubhouse. Of course, you can still use the living arch as a backdrop for lovely photos!
There’s also the versatile Oakland Lawn, which can support over 150 ceremony seats. And the picturesque Grassland Lawn is perfect for dinners and reception activities. The Clubhouse sits directly above the space with a pathway to a brick stairway – another gorgeous area for photos.
The Indoor Spaces
In addition to the outdoor spaces, there are several large indoor spaces at the Clubhouse, which also has a tranquil pool and great patio area.
Within the Clubhouse, you’ll find three large banquet rooms that can be used for a reception or dancing. The black and white checkered floor in the breakfast room is iconic and truly special for dancing the night away.
There’s also a massage room, fitness center, bridal suite, and groom’s room. The private getting-ready spaces have everything the wedding parties need to prepare for the big day. The ladies will love the walls of mirrors, makeup counters, and salon station. While the guys will appreciate a mixed drink from the portable bar and a game of poker before heading down the aisle.
The Accommodations
A benefit to having your wedding at Gardener Ranch is that your guests can also stay on the property. With five different houses on-site, you can invite your friends and family to stay in for the weekend (up to 40 guests).
Each house has all the comforts of home (plus some breathtaking views), and guests have access to communal lounge areas, the outdoor fire pit, massage room, fitness center, and swimming pools.
And if you’re making your wedding a weekend getaway, Gardener Ranch provides you with plenty of activities to keep you and your guests entertained. Maybe this means a taco truck welcome party, pool parties, movie nights, yoga days, group runs…the possibilities are endless! Just ask about enhancing your stay.
The best thing about Gardener Ranch is that it gives you the space and freedom to really customize your wedding weekend and allows you to optimize the time you spend with loved ones.
NOTE: At the time of posting this (March 2023) Gardener Ranch has decided to step back from booking new weddings. If you are looking for a retreat style wedding in Carmel Valley contact us to learn about other properties in Northern California for your wedding weekend.
I love planning weddings at Gardener Ranch (no surprise there!) and would be happy to help you plan yours. From the design to the details to the logistics. Sound like a plan? Let me know!
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