Your venue is a big deal
Choosing your wedding venue is a big deal—maybe the biggest decision after “Will you marry me?” Your venue sets the tone for your day, shows off your style, and, let’s be honest, makes or breaks the backdrop for your wedding film.
After filming hundreds of weddings across California and Idaho, I’ve seen it all: mountaintop vows, beachside sunsets, historic mansions, and rustic barns. Here are some of my favorite venues—places that look amazing on camera, have great energy, and help your day flow smoothly.
Orange County Favorites
1. The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Why I love it: Classic California vibes—rolling hills, ocean breezes, and sunsets that look straight out of a movie. The outdoor ceremony spaces are gorgeous, and the indoor ballroom has huge windows for natural light (a videographer’s dream).
Pro tip: The golden hour here is chef’s kiss. If you can, schedule 15 minutes for sunset shots—you won’t regret it.
2. Franciscan Gardens (San Juan Capistrano)
Why I love it: Tucked away in the heart of town, this spot feels like a secret garden. Lush greenery, twinkle lights, and a cozy courtyard vibe make it perfect for intimate celebrations.
Videographer bonus: The layout is super guest-friendly, with plenty of space for candid moments and group shots. Plus, the string lights look magical in evening footage.
3. The Villa San Juan Capistrano
Why I love it: Historic charm meets relaxed elegance. The old-world architecture, climbing vines, and hidden nooks make every wedding here feel unique.
On camera: The stone walls and gardens add texture and depth to your film. It’s a great spot for couples who want that “timeless romance” look.
4. Seven-Degrees (Laguna Beach)
Why I love it: Ultra-modern and creative, Seven-Degrees is for couples who want something truly different. Sleek architecture, customizable lighting, and flexible indoor/outdoor spaces make it a standout.
Videographer’s note: The contemporary design gives your film a fresh, artistic feel. There’s a ton of room to get creative with shots, and the staff here is always on top of things.
Idaho Gems
1. Chateau des Fleurs (Eagle)
Why I love it: This place is pure elegance—think European chateau vibes without leaving Idaho. The ballrooms are stunning, and the gardens are perfect for outdoor ceremonies.
On film: The symmetry and architecture here make for cinematic wide shots, and the gardens are beautiful in every season.
2. Still Water Hollow (Nampa)
Why I love it: Rustic, peaceful, and surrounded by water and trees. There’s a little chapel, a barn, and plenty of open space for guests to mingle and kids to run around.
Videographer insight: The natural light here is fantastic, and the property offers lots of variety for different backdrops—everything from classic to country-chic.
3. Stone Crossing (Boise)
Why I love it: A hidden gem with a blend of historic charm and modern updates. The stone building, lush gardens, and cozy courtyard create a unique, intimate setting.
On camera: The textures (stone walls, greenery, wood accents) add richness to your footage. It’s especially great for capturing those candid, in-between moments.
4. Idaho Botanical Garden (Boise)
Why I love it: Lush gardens, winding paths, and a relaxed, outdoorsy vibe. Perfect for couples who love nature and want a laid-back celebration.
Videographer’s note: The changing seasons mean every wedding here looks a little different—spring blooms, summer greens, or fall colors all look stunning on film.
What Makes a Venue “Great” for Video?
From my perspective, the best venues have:
Natural light: Big windows, open spaces, or outdoor settings always look better on camera.
Room to move: Plenty of space for guests to mingle and for me to get candid shots without being in the way.
Flexible timelines: Venues that allow you to sneak away for sunset footage or give you extra time for setup make a big difference.
Good sound: Quiet ceremony spots and manageable background noise help capture those real, emotional moments.
Friendly staff: Trust me, a supportive venue team makes everyone’s job easier and keeps the day stress-free.
Final Thoughts
No matter where you choose, pick a venue that feels like “you.” The backdrop matters, but the real story is about the people, the laughter, and the moments you’ll want to relive.
