When planning your wedding in Orange County, there is no shortage of beautiful venues, but where do you start!? As an Orange County wedding photographer, I wanted to visit and photograph some must-see venues to share with couples who are planning their weddings! I hope this blog post can provide a sneak peek at what Casa Romantica, a spectacular wedding venue in the OC has to offer! Pour yourself a cup of coffee and grab your wedding planning notebook! We’re going on a virtual tour of this incredible wedding venue in Orange Country, California!
Casa Romantica has a fascinating history, unique property, and the most breathtaking views! This wedding venue can accommodate up to 150 guests. It’s perfect for a memorable wedding day experience. First, let’s talk a little about the history of Casa Romantica!
Casa Romantica, Orange County Wedding Venue: The History
Casa Romantica is Southern California’s most exquisite bluff-top estate. With its spectacular views of the beautiful Pacific and its stunning architecture, Casa Romantica provides the perfect venue for weddings and private gatherings. Casa Romantica’s highly experienced staff will ensure that your event runs smoothly, allowing you and your guests to enjoy every moment of your special occasion in the privacy and beauty of the enchanting Casa Romantica house and gardens.
San Clemente is one of the first master-planned cities in California. Co-founder Ole Hanson came to the site to create his ideal community, a “Spanish Village by the Sea.” Casa Romantica was built in 1927 as Hanson’s family home. […]
Over the years, the home passed through several owners, including the family of Hollywood entertainer and orchestra leader Fred Waring.
The San Clemente Redevelopment Agency purchased the property in 1989. In 1991, it was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. The City of San Clemente, its Redevelopment Agency, and the Casa Romantica Founding Board elected to completely renovate the Casa for use as a cultural center. Source: casaromantica.org
Bridal Suite at Casa Romantica
I love venues that are able to host the entire wedding day, from getting ready through reception, because it makes the wedding day go that much smoother! Casa Romantica’s on-site bridal suite is absolutely gorgeous with so many antique details, and an elegant vibe. The bridal suite, and groom’s suite are both fully air-conditioned, and available to the wedding party as early as 2PM! In addition to the indoor space, the outdoor area leading into the bridal suite is perfect for bridal portraits, and bridesmaids photos!
Groom’s Suite at Casa Romantica
I love it when the guys have a nice, photogenic area for getting ready, too! This space is awesome because it has plenty of window light and open space for hanging out. This area is adjacent to the Main Salon, and just down the hall from the bridal suite. The room also leads out to a small outdoor sitting area, which makes for some great outdoor photos too!
Main Salon | Indoor Wedding Reception Space at Casa Romantica
The Main Salon is the perfect indoor space for a reception! Because of the spacious floor plan, there is plenty of room for dining and dancing! In addition, there are many details, like the gorgeous chandelier, hand-painted tiles, and archways that make the salon unique! I also love the black-and-white images hanging on the walls because they showcase this history of Casa Romantica (even before it was a wedding venue), and the surrounding city of San Clemente.
Ocean Terrace | Outdoor Wedding Ceremony at Casa Romantica
Stepping out the back doors of the Main Salon will lead you to the most breathtaking view you’ve ever seen. The Ocean Terrace overlooks the San Clemente Pier, which juts out into the teal blue Pacific. This view is spectacular and when combined with the fresh ocean breeze, the Ocean Terrace is truly one of the most magical wedding ceremony backdrop. Casa Romantica is such a photogenic wedding venue!
Story Circle | Intimate Wedding Ceremony Space
The Story Circle area is the PERFECT spot for an intimate ceremony, minimony, or micro-wedding ceremony! Because it has it’s own built-in seating for up to 20 guests, it’s the perfect cozy setting for a ceremony overlooking the ocean. If you’re hosting a smaller event in Orange County, this ceremony spot is so dreamy – a must-see wedding venue!
The Courtyard | Open-Air Wedding Reception Space
The Courtyard at Casa Romantica is the perfect spot for open-air (or tented) dining! While dance music must be played inside (the Main Salon has the perfect dance floor) this outdoor space is amazing for dinner and hanging out under the stars! Another element of the courtyard is the outdoor fireplace, which serves as a cozy evening activity for your guests! I love the versatility that Casa Romantica offers as a wedding venue!
Additional Portrait Locations at Casa Romantica
In addition to all the areas outlined above, there are so many special nooks throughout the gardens and property that make for amazing portraits! In conclusion, Casa Romantica is a San Clemente gem, and would be absolutely perfect for your Orange County wedding! You can learn more about Casa Romantica here.
