VanZantes Photography
Selecting a wedding/reception facility.
There are many things to consider when selecting a site for your wedding and reception. At times all the information you gather will probably start to run together. This is why it's a good idea to have a list of questions with you each time you view a facility or interview a representative of the facility.
Make several copies of your questionnaire so that you can start fresh at each location. And make sure you get clear answers to all your questions. If the site representative doesn't have an answer to any one of your questions be sure they get back to you. Don't accept an "I think we can do that" instead of a clear yes or no. You don't want any unexpected complications on your wedding day.
Know what you want before you start looking. How many guests do you expect? Will the facility allow an outside caterer? Will you need a large or a small dance floor? Do you need a changing room for the bride and groom? The devil is in the details, so the more prepared you are the more likely you will be able to quickly narrow down your list of reception site options.
Featured Listings
Reception and Wedding Facilities
Cocoanut Grove, Santa Cruz. Overlooking the Beach and Monterey Bay.
Seascape Beach Resort, Aptos. One of the premiere settings on the Monterey Bay.
Nestldown Ranch, Santa Cruz Mountains. Gorgeous views and rustic elegance.
Best Western Seacliff Inn, Aptos. Indoor and outdoor accommodations for up to 150.
Shadowbrook Restaurant, Capitola. A favorite setting overlookin Soquel Creek in Capitola.
The Hollins House at Pasatiempo, Overlooking spectacular Monterey Bay.
Peachwoods at The Inn at Pasatiempo. Where dreams come true.
Kennolyn, Soquel. The Hacienda overlooking the bay or Stone Creek Village in the redwoods.
Bargetto Winery, Soquel. The oldest operating winery in the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Pajaro Dunes. Surround yourself with sand and the sounds of the ocean.
Roaring Camp Railroads, Felton. Serene and picturesque outdoor sites in the redwoods.
Chaminade Resort and Spa, Santa Cruz. Breathtaking views.
Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club. Breathtaking views of the redwoods.
Michael's on Main, Soquel. On the banks of Soquel Creek featuring cutting-edge cuisine.
Bay View Hotel, Aptos. Victorian splendor in the heart of Aptos, since 1878.
The Darling House, Santa Cruz. We overlook the ocean, and nothing else.
Seacliff Inn, Aptos. Exquisite gardens and beautiful Koi pond.
Café Mare, Santa Cruz. Old World charm in the heart of Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz Dream Inn, Santa Cruz. Panoramic views of the Monterey Bay.
Seascape Golf Club, Aptos. Garden wedding site. Indoor and outdoor reception areas.
The Sesnon House at Cabrillo College, Aptos. Elegant and affordable.
Santa Cruz State Parks. A great variety of beautiful California State Park special use areas.
Bittersweet Bistro, Aptos. Indoor and outdoor fireplaces, elegant landscaping.
Seymour Center at Long Marine Lab, Santa Cruz. Spectacular bluff-top views.
First Congregational Church, Santa Cruz. Weddings, commitment ceremonies, receptions.
Saratoga Springs, Saratoga. In the Santa Cruz Mountains, family owned since the late 1800's.
Sand Rock Farm, Aptos. A private historic estate, surrounded by trees, gardens and meadows.
County of Santa Cruz Department of Parks, Open Spaces and Cultural Services. Charming historical structures, natural park settings.
