Venue Profile: Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa in Rancho Santa Fe, CA

It’s a fairly safe bet that most couples would love to make their wedding last a long as possible. The day itself goes by far too quickly and that’s why I’m a big fan planning a full weekend of activities so that couples can savor that much more time with their friends and family. Hotel weddings are the very best way to do that since events for all three days can take place in one central location and guests can interact with one another even during the in-between times. 

In truth, there are a lot of really gorgeous places to host a wedding in Southern California. There are few as incredible as the Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa. It’s consistently rated one of the best resorts in the world, recognized by Conde Nast Traveler, Travel + Leisure and Forbes. 

Located north of San Diego in Rancho Santa Fe, the Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa has been open since 1989 and is Southern California’s only Relais & Châteaux property (an honor bestowed on only the very best boutique hotels and restaurants around the world). The Mediterranean-inspired, all-suite property provides plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation with it’s wellness-centered Spa and award-winning restaurant. For guests that decide to stay at the resort, there are a number of meticulously appointed Mediterranean casitas, many of which include fireplaces and private gardens that, in some cases, also include a outdoor whirlpool spa.

The 45-acre resort is tucked into the hills just north of San Diego and has lush grounds that can accommodate both intimate and large weddings in incredible style. On-site ceremonies can be held in one of the resort’s romantic gardens or courtyards, which can then easily flow into a terrace cocktail hour. There are two lawn areas that can be used for open air or tented receptions. The resort also has an elegant ballroom which includes an expansive terrace and patio and can hold up to 200 guests. 

So, if you are one of the many newly-engaged couples there are this time of year, we highly recommend a visit to Rancho Valencia Resort and Spa to see if it just may be the perfect place for you to plan a wedding (and weekend) that you and your guests won’t so forget.