There is something incredibly special about a wedding in Pasadena. The city itself, a harmonious blend of history and modernity, sets the stage for love stories that are as unique as they are timeless. Today, I'm sharing with you the top 5 wedding venues in Pasadena that, in my humble opinion, are the pièce de résistance of wedding venues. Each one will offer an experience that's unique to the couple, their guests, and, in a way, to me as well.

1. The Pasadena Museum of History: Steeped in history, this venue brings an old-world charm that's hard to find elsewhere. The Fenyes Mansion, with its grand Beaux-Arts architecture, offers the perfect backdrop for those timeless wedding photos. The best time to get married here is in the spring when the lush gardens are in full bloom, offering a vibrant setting for both large weddings and more intimate celebrations. It's a venue that cries out for elegant, traditional weddings, where every moment feels like a step back in time.

2. The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens: This iconic venue is perfect for couples seeking a combination of culture, nature, and elegance. With its expansive botanical gardens, serene koi ponds, and classic architecture, it provides a variety of stunning backdrops for both ceremony and reception. Spring and fall are the most magical times here when the gardens are at their peak, creating an enchanting environment for a wedding. Whether you choose a more formal affair or a laid-back celebration surrounded by the beauty of nature, The Huntington offers an unforgettable experience.

3. The Maxwell House: A historic landmark, this art deco venue exudes an aura of timeless sophistication. The grand ballroom with its intricate moldings and stunning chandeliers is perfect for a classic, formal wedding. The best time to get married here would be in the winter when the venue is all decked up for the holidays, adding to its charm. It’s a venue that’s perfect for grand, opulent weddings, where every moment feels like a scene from a classic Hollywood romance.

4. The Brookside Golf & Country Club: Nestled at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains, this venue offers breathtaking views, making it perfect for a scenic outdoor wedding. The sprawling lawns and the serene lake create a serene setting for both the ceremony and the reception. Summers are ideal for a wedding here when the venue is bathed in a warm, golden glow. It’s a venue that’s perfect for lavish, large-scale weddings, where every moment feels like a grand celebration amidst nature.

5. The Pasadena Playhouse: For the couple that loves the theatre, there's no better venue than the Pasadena Playhouse. This Spanish Colonial Revival style theatre, with its red velvet seats and dramatic stage, offers a unique and vibrant setting for a wedding. Autumn is the perfect time to get married here, when the seasonal productions add an extra dash of excitement to the venue. It’s a venue that’s perfect for eclectic, theme-based weddings, where every moment feels like a performance that celebrates love.

As I write this, I can't help but feel a twinge of excitement, imagining the beautiful moments that will be created in these venues in the years to come. I am grateful to the couples who have trusted me to capture their special day, and I look forward to the stories that are yet to unfold. Here's to the weddings of 2024 - may they be filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments. And remember, wherever your wedding may be, it's the genuine moments, the authentic emotions, the real connections that make it special. That's what I'm here for - to capture your love story, in all its raw, beautiful glory. I can't wait to see where our journey takes us.