I know this is right off the wall .. but my dear son Andy is engaged to a lovely girl from San Diego. She lives here in Australia but they will have a wedding in 18 months or so in S Cal as she has lots of family all over California.
Ideally they are looking for rustic elegance... possibly an indoor outdoor setting. The wedding and reception will be the same place.
Anywhere south of LA is in the running. My nephew had his reception at the Newport Beach Yacht Club which had a nice casual vibe...I think there is another one..Balboa ? YC ... but don't know anything about it. We had another family thing at Shutters up in Santa Monica and that was great. ..tho not sure if it's too out of the way..though there isn't a shortage of places to stay.
If any of you have been to a wedding where you thought the venue was great ... or if you've just heard about a spot... let me know. The search is on !
Thanks very much K