Last, but not least....Ventana

This is the reception site at the "Upper Terrace" - again, beautiful views of the ocean. Space for dancing, a huge outdoor fireplace and a pretty veranda. We both really liked this space.





So this is the ceremony site with a beautiful view of the ocean and hillsides. Scott loved this location - the acoustics are really nice and it is an intimate area that would seat 50 people very comfortably.

Beautiful Nepenthe.

Ah, Nepenthe. I was telling Scott while sitting on the patio of Nepenthe, in the 80 degree sun, looking over the edge of the cliff onto blue ocean waters, that this 'feels like home'. It just does. Something about Big Sur is just so comforting and exhilerating at the same time. I can see myself living there. And of course, Nepenthe is awesome!! They do weddings too, but only up to 80ppl with a site fee of $4000. Then, on top of that you have to rent all the linens, flatware, stemware, etc. Would add up quick - but you just can't beat that view!!! I'm in love.

Top Sites. 2. Tehama, Carmel

Tehama. Beautiful exclusive golf course up on the hills overlooking Monterey Bay. You will most likely run into some deer on your drive up to the property. The banquet space can most definitely accomodate our guest list - and there are indoor and outdoor options. It is so nice and quite up there too - always so peaceful! Another gorgeous option.

Top Sites. 1. Holman Ranch, Carmel Valley

So this is Holman Ranch. Located at the end of a private road in Carmel Valley. You pass horse stables to get up to the property. The ceremony site has a view of the Carmel Valley mountains and the property is absolutely stunning. It is a restored hacienda - original stone and tile with beautiful landscaping. There is a barn for dancing, a huge courtyard for dinner, a 'game room' for the boys (darts, pool, card table and private bar), sprawling lawn, horseshoe pits, grape vines and beautiful gardens. Pretty perfect. Except the party has to end at nine....

One More 'Ah-Ha' Moment - Rancho Grande

So, remember my earlier post from that wonderful wedding at some mysterious location in Big Sur? The one with the bride in the cute dress with all the views, the outdoor reception...well, by the wonders of the world wide web, and my stellar seaching skills I found where the property is and who owns it!!! So it is toward the south side of Big Sur and it is owned by the late David Packard, of you guessed it, Hewlett - Packard!!! Crazy. The property is called Rancho Grande, and I spotted it when I was checking out satellite arial photos of the Big Sur coast line. And that's it in the picture!! The bride had her ceremony towards the left...


then walked the guests back down the trail to the home where the reception was!!


Anyhow, turns out that Julie Packard, one of David Packard's daughters is one of the executive directors and founders of the Monterey Bay Aquarium. There are quite a few articles on the work they've done and the money they've donated to the Monterey and Big Sur regions.

I was SOOO excitd to discover this! Though, undoubtedly this locations is out of our price range I need to make some more phone calls just to see what more information I can get!

The Monterey Bay Aquarium

Isn't this stunning. I can't really imaging having our wedding here, but a rehersal dinner, or some sort of pre-wedding festivities would be so fun. The Aquarium is one of Scott's favorite places - plus we had one of our first dates here six years ago.

Rustic Farm

I love how the silverware is tied together with a bow.

Swallow Creek Ranch, Cayucos

Long Flowing Curtains

I absolutely love the flowing curtains that were added to this barn/stable. It makes the space feel a bit more elegant. I wonder where you get fabric that size? Plus the straw wreath also ads a fabulous touch.