Berkeley City Club Wedding | A Joyful, Intimate Lesbian Wedding in Berkeley, CA
A Berkeley City Club wedding feels like stepping into another world. One that is elegant, romantic, and rich with history. Tucked into the heart of Berkeley, California, this iconic venue is often called the little castle, and once you are inside, it is easy to see why.
Designed by legendary architect Julia Morgan, the Berkeley City Club is full of soft arches, carved stone details, and warm light that seems to glow from the walls themselves. It’s a place that invites you to slow down, take it all in, and let the day unfold naturally — which is exactly what Bri and Caitlyn did for their intimate and deeply joyful lesbian wedding here.
If you are considering a Berkeley City Club wedding, this post will walk you through the magic of the venue, offer a few planning tips, and then share the story of Bri and Caitlyn’s day — one of the most heartfelt Berkeley City Club weddings I’ve ever photographed in Berkeley, California.
Why the Berkeley City Club is One of the Most Iconic Wedding Venues in Berkeley, California
The Berkeley City Club was designed in the early 1920s by Julia Morgan, one of the most influential architects in California’s history and the first woman licensed as an architect in the state. She famously referred to the Berkeley City Club as the little castle, and the name could not be more fitting.
Inspired by Gothic and Mediterranean architecture, the building blends old world European romance with California warmth. With its arched windows, hand-carved stonework, tiled floors, and hidden courtyards, the entire space feels layered, textured, and alive. Unlike a blank wedding venue, this is a place with a soul.
That sense of story and character is exactly what makes Berkeley City Club weddings feel so meaningful. Rather than just choosing a beautiful backdrop, you’re choosing a space already filled with history, artistry, and intention.
You can explore more about hosting your wedding here on their official site.
Berkley City Club
Tips for Planning a Berkeley City Club Wedding
Because this Berkeley wedding venue is so unique, here are a few things I always recommend couples consider:
Let the architecture do the heavy lifting
You don’t need a lot of decor here. The arches, stone, and textures already create visual interest everywhere you look.
Build in time for portraits around the property
The courtyard, staircases, arched hallways, and pool are all perfect for portraits. Even better, they’re close enough that you can move easily between them.
Think about flow between spaces
One of the best things about the Berkeley City Club is how naturally the day can move from one space to another without feeling disjointed.
Prioritize how you want the day to feel, not just how it looks
This venue excels at creating an emotional atmosphere that is cozy, intimate, warm, and romantic.
If you want a reminder of what really matters when the day is happening, I love this piece on staying present and grounded.
5 Things to remember on your wedding day
Bri and Caitlyn’s Romantic Lesbian Wedding at the Berkeley City Club
To set the tone for their day, Bri and Caitlyn chose to have their ceremony on the terrace, surrounded by soft light, greenery, and the quiet presence of their closest people. It felt intimate and grounded — less like a performance and more like a gathering centered on love.
After the ceremony, we explored the courtyard for portraits, which is one of my favorite spaces in the entire building. The lush greenery, patterned stone, and arched windows create a secret garden feeling that made their portraits feel romantic, private, and almost cinematic.
Cocktail hour took place in the Members Lounge Library, a warm, cozy space filled with character and old-world charm. Leather chairs, soft lighting, and rich textures made it feel more like a beautiful living room than a formal venue.
As a result, every part of their day felt like an extension of who they are together — playful, loving, calm, and deeply connected. It was such an honor to document their story in a space that felt so aligned with their energy.
Is a Berkeley City Club Wedding in Berkeley, CA Right for You?
If you love historic spaces, layered architecture, intimate atmospheres, and venues that feel meaningful rather than trendy, a Berkeley City Club wedding might be exactly what you are looking for.
And if you’re planning a lesbian wedding at the Berkeley City Club (or anywhere in Berkeley, California), and want a photographer who makes you feel safe, seen, and celebrated, I’d be honored to tell your story.
FAQ: Berkeley City Club Weddings
Q: Can you have both ceremony and reception at the Berkeley City Club?
A: Yes! The venue has multiple beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for both ceremony and reception.
Q: Is the Berkeley City Club LGBTQ+ friendly?
A: Absolutely. This venue warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ weddings and provides a romantic, historic setting for all love stories.
Q: What’s the best time of year for a Berkeley City Club wedding?
A: Spring and fall are popular for their mild weather and golden light, but the venue’s indoor beauty makes it a great choice year-round.
Q: Does the Berkeley City Club have indoor options for rainy day weddings?
A: Yes! The Berkeley City Club offers several stunning indoor spaces that are perfect for ceremonies, portraits, and receptions. With its historic architecture, dramatic windows, and warm lighting, even a rainy day feels romantic and elegant here.
FAQ: Berkeley City Club Weddings
Q: Can you have both ceremony and reception at the Berkeley City Club?
A: Yes! The venue has multiple beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces perfect for both ceremony and reception.
Q: Is the Berkeley City Club LGBTQ+ friendly?
A: Absolutely. This venue warmly welcomes LGBTQ+ weddings and provides a romantic, historic setting for all love stories.
Q: What’s the best time of year for a Berkeley City Club wedding?
A: Spring and fall are popular for their mild weather and golden light, but the venue’s indoor beauty makes it a great choice year-round.
Q: Does the Berkeley City Club have indoor options for rainy day weddings?
A: Yes! The Berkeley City Club offers several stunning indoor spaces that are perfect for ceremonies, portraits, and receptions. With its historic architecture, dramatic windows, and warm lighting, even a rainy day feels romantic and elegant here
