Couples looking for a wedding venue in the San Francisco area but also looking for less expensive options can head east across the historic Bay Bridge to the East Bay. This area includes the larger and better-known cities of Berkeley, Fremont and Oakland, but couples will also find breathtaking views in the smaller towns and farmlands slightly inland.
Sunny days and breezy evenings are abundant in the East Bay, especially during the spring, summer, and even fall months, making this an outstanding location for an outdoor wedding any time of year. Couples can take advantage of the natural beauty, as the majority of wedding venues either offer an outdoor location or are exclusively outdoor venues.
Enamored twosomes will find that some of the most favored outdoor venues include nearly a dozen wineries and vineyards. These venues offer casual yet stylish ceremonies with the invigorating scent of blooming vines encompassing the newlyweds. Getting married at a vineyard doesn't always mean exchanging your vows among the grapes, however. Many vineyards have impressive mansions and elegant ballrooms that couples can use for the ceremony, the reception or both.
Golf courses are another popular choice for wedding ceremonies in the East Bay. Couples can exchange vows on the rolling green hills of the front nine or host their reception in lavish country clubs or a Tuscan villa.
As in any seaside city, sunset ceremonies by the bay are a trendy choice that never goes out of style. Sweethearts won't be disappointed by the selection of waterfront venues, including a nautical themed hotel or a historical marina. Lovers can even hold their nuptials on an exquisite private island, one of the premiere choices for wedding receptions in the East Bay.
Other options include lush, green gardens or rose gardens, with magnificent fountains and charming gazebos. The bride will leave guests speechless as she wafts over a rose-adorned wooden bridge to say her vows!
Wedding venues in the East Bay average $15,000 to $20,000 for 100 guests. On the less expensive side, couples can find venues for wedding ceremonies that start at under $1600. Those looking for a waterfront wedding may want to choose a lake over the ocean if they need to rein in their budget. For some, the luxury of nuptials on a private island or the ease of having the venue cater a four-course meal for the reception does make the higher costs worth it.