Planning an intimate wedding in Westwood, Los Angeles, offers couples a unique blend of elegance, charm, and cultural richness. This vibrant neighborhood is home to several venues that cater to smaller gatherings, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the top venues in Westwood ideal for intimate weddings, highlighting their features, amenities, and what makes them stand out.
1. UCLA Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center
Located in the heart of Westwood, the UCLA Meyer & Renee Luskin Conference Center offers a sophisticated setting for intimate weddings. The venue seamlessly blends modern design with warm hospitality, providing various spaces that can be tailored to your needs.
- Features: The center boasts versatile indoor and outdoor spaces, including a beautifully landscaped outdoor terrace perfect for ceremonies and receptions. The on-site Plateia restaurant offers Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, ensuring a delightful culinary experience for your guests.
- Capacity: Ideal for gatherings of up to 150 guests, making it perfect for those seeking a more intimate celebration.
- Amenities: Comprehensive wedding packages include event planning assistance, audiovisual equipment, and customizable menus. Additionally, the center offers comfortable accommodations for guests, providing convenience and luxury in one location.
2. Hotel Bel-Air
A short drive from Westwood, Hotel Bel-Air is a hidden gem that exudes timeless elegance. Nestled within 12 acres of lush gardens, this iconic hotel provides a serene backdrop for intimate weddings.
- Features: The hotel offers several enchanting venues, including the Swan Lake, a picturesque setting surrounded by swans and blooming flora, and the Garden Ballroom, which opens onto a private courtyard.
- Capacity: Suitable for small gatherings, with spaces accommodating between 10 to 120 guests.
- Amenities: Personalized wedding planning services, gourmet catering by Wolfgang Puck, luxurious accommodations, and spa services to pamper the bridal party.
3. Skirball Cultural Center
Situated near Westwood, the Skirball Cultural Center offers a unique blend of modern architecture and natural beauty. Known for its cultural significance, it provides a distinctive setting for weddings.
- Features: The Taper Courtyard, with its tranquil reflecting pool and lush greenery, is perfect for ceremonies, while the Ahmanson Hall offers an elegant indoor space for receptions.
- Capacity: While the center can accommodate larger events, it offers customizable spaces ideal for intimate weddings of 50 to 150 guests.
- Amenities: Event planning support, in-house catering with diverse menu options, and access to the center’s exhibits for a unique guest experience.
4. The W Los Angeles – West Beverly Hills
Located in the heart of Westwood, The W Los Angeles offers a chic and modern setting for couples seeking a contemporary wedding venue.
- Features: The hotel features stylish indoor spaces and a stunning outdoor terrace, providing flexibility for ceremonies and receptions. The lushly landscaped WET Deck is particularly popular for intimate gatherings.
- Capacity: Ideal for smaller weddings, accommodating up to 100 guests comfortably.
- Amenities: Customized wedding packages, innovative catering options, dedicated event planners, and luxurious guest rooms for overnight stays.
5. The Bel-Air Bay Club
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the Bel-Air Bay Club offers a breathtaking coastal setting just a short distance from Westwood. Its Mediterranean-style architecture and panoramic views make it a sought-after venue for intimate weddings.
- Features: The club offers both indoor and outdoor spaces, including a lush lawn with ocean views for ceremonies and an elegant dining room for receptions.
- Capacity: While capable of hosting larger events, the venue is well-suited for intimate weddings of 50 to 150 guests.
- Amenities: Full-service event planning, gourmet in-house catering, valet parking, and access to private beach areas for stunning photo opportunities.
6. The Beverly Hills Hotel
Known as the “Pink Palace,” The Beverly Hills Hotel offers a glamorous setting steeped in Hollywood history. Its lush gardens and iconic architecture provide a romantic backdrop for intimate weddings.
- Features: The hotel offers several venues, including the intimate Polo Private Room and the charming Crystal Garden, perfect for smaller gatherings.
- Capacity: Ideal for weddings with guest counts ranging from 20 to 100.
- Amenities: Personalized wedding planning services, exquisite catering options, luxurious accommodations, and spa treatments to ensure a memorable experience.
7. The Langham Huntington, Pasadena
A bit further from Westwood but worth considering, The Langham Huntington offers a historic and elegant setting for intimate weddings. Set on 23 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, it provides a serene and picturesque environment.
- Features: The Japanese Garden and the Horseshoe Garden are popular choices for ceremonies, while the Viennese Ballroom offers an opulent space for receptions.
- Capacity: Suitable for intimate weddings of 50 to 150 guests.
- Amenities: Comprehensive wedding packages, gourmet catering, luxurious accommodations, and a world-class spa for pre-wedding relaxation.
8. The Ebell of Los Angeles
A historic women’s club, The Ebell of Los Angeles offers a blend of architectural beauty and timeless elegance. Its variety of spaces makes it adaptable for intimate weddings.
- Features: The venue includes a charming courtyard garden, an art salon, and a grand ballroom, each with unique character and ambiance.
- Capacity: While it can host larger events, the venue’s versatile spaces are perfect for smaller gatherings of 50 to 150 guests. The venue’s timeless charm and architectural details add a sense of sophistication to any intimate celebration.
Amenities: The Ebell offers professional event coordination, customizable catering options, audiovisual equipment, and a rich history that provides a unique backdrop for your wedding photos.
Final Thoughts
Planning an intimate wedding in Westwood is a seamless process thanks to the variety of exquisite venues available in the area. From the modern elegance of the UCLA Luskin Conference Center to the historic allure of the Ebell of Los Angeles, couples have an array of choices tailored to creating an unforgettable celebration.
Westwood’s charm lies in its blend of accessibility, cultural richness, and sophisticated venues, making it the perfect setting for smaller, more personal weddings. With professional wedding services and unique locations that emphasize character and beauty, your intimate wedding in Westwood is bound to be a cherished memory.
Whether you prefer a serene garden, ocean views, or Hollywood glamour, the venues listed here ensure a romantic and bespoke experience that reflects your love story. Start planning your special day and explore all that Westwood has to offer for your dream wedding.
Need More Help Planning Your Wedding?
Here are some useful resources to kickstart your planning journey:
The Knot: Wedding Planning Guide
WeddingWire: Venues and Vendors
Martha Stewart Weddings: Inspiration and Ideas
Zola: Wedding Checklist and Tools
Brides: Expert Wedding Advice
With these resources and the perfect Westwood venue, your intimate wedding will be a celebration to remember!