Temecula Wedding Photographer – Best In Wine Country

As a destination wedding photographer who has captured wedding ceremonies everywhere from San Francisco to Nashville, I am proud to say I was born and raised in Temecula. In fact, I have over 10+ years of experience photographing weddings in Temecula wine country. And what does that mean? Well, it means this Temecula wedding photographer has captured over 300 elopements, engagements and weddings in a colorful, candid, and artistic fashion. Listen, my photography style is to focus on natural, authentic, genuine moments that mix photojournalism and natural emotion like a cocktail of awesomeness. So, if you are planning a wedding in Temecula, in this article I am going to hook you up. That means, telling you everything you need to know about getting married in Temecula, answer some FAQs, and even share some awesome wedding photos. Let’s get at it!

Want to learn more about my wedding packages? Send me a text message at 951-704-9503 or say hello through my contact form to learn more. Also, don’t trust some random weirdo you met online – check out my Yelp reviews!

How To Get Married In Temecula, California – 6 Easy Steps

Are you dreaming of a romantic wedding in the heart of Temecula, California? Good! This place is pretty rad, and yes you should consider getting married here. But how exactly should you start wedding planning for a destination wedding in Temecula? Well, here are the 6 steps I always tell anyone who asks me:

1. Find A Wedding Planner. Yes, a wedding planner who knows Temecula can help you with every aspect of your wedding. A local expert can guide you through the process, linking you with the best vendors and crafting a day that captures the romance of the vineyards.
2. Choose the Perfect Venue. Next, explore Temecula’s beautiful winery weddings and other captivating venues. Your choice sets the scene, whether it’s a sunset ceremony overlooking rolling hills or a grand celebration under the stars.
3. Hire a Photographer. Hi, that’s me!
4. Consider Videography and Photo Booths. Adding a videographer can help provide more detailed coverage of your wedding day. Photo booths, on the other hand, offer a playful way to keep your guests entertained.
5. Invitations and Rehearsal Dinners. Now, it’s time to send out those wedding invitations that echo the rustic elegance of Temecula. And let’s not forget a rehearsal dinner that sets the tone. 1909, BlueWater Grill, Rustico, and South Coast Winery all all great options!
6. Get A Marriage License. Apply in person at the Riverside County Clerk’s office with valid photo IDs. The license fee varies between $90 and $105. Make an appointment, or walk in during business hours. Your marriage license will be valid for 90 days, giving you ample time to celebrate.

Follow these steps, and you’ll be dancing under the market lights and twinkling stars in no time. And then of course, you will be hungover from all that wine and champagne!

Best Temecula Wedding Venues – 10 Dreamy Spots For Your Southern California Destination Wedding

With well over 100 wineries in Temecula, there are a number of affordable and all-inclusive Temecula wedding options for you to get married. Whether you want an upscale, modern wedding at South Coast Winery or a more intimate, rustic wedding at Temecula Creek Inn, this place has a spot for you. Whatever wedding venue you select, all that matters is that the good vibes and good times pump all night long. But what are the best wedding venues in Temecula? Well, here is a list, in no particular order, of the best wedding venues in Temecula according to online reviews!

1. Europa Village

Europa Village, set in Temecula, California, is a stunning wedding venue that offers a truly romantic canvas for your love story. With inspirations drawn from the landscapes and architecture of Spain, Italy, and France, the venue provides an array of picturesque locations, giving couples the freedom to create a fairy-tale celebration. Known for their personalized service, the Europa Village team assists you throughout the planning process, ensuring your day is precisely as you’ve dreamed. Your wedding at Europa Village will not just fulfill your visions but provide memories that you’ll cherish forever.

• Three Event Spaces: Choices inspired by European landscapes, accommodating up to 250 guests.
• Ceremonies and Receptions: Multiple options for both indoor and outdoor celebrations.
• Photography Opportunities: Use of the beautiful vineyards, and gorgeous grand staircase for wedding photos
• Full-Service Catering and Bar: Including pre-wedding menu tastings, hosted or cash bar, tables, chairs, linens, china, glassware, and flatware.
• Comprehensive Event Hosting: Engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, post-wedding brunches, and more.

Address: 33475 La Serena Way, Temecula, CA 92591

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2. Lake Oak Meadows

Lake Oak Meadows, situated in the heart of Temecula’s renowned wine country, is a vineyard-style wedding venue that radiates an aura of exclusive serenity. A quick journey from San Diego, Orange, and Los Angeles counties, this enchanting lakeside retreat provides a picturesque setting with lush trees, vibrant gardens, and a captivating lake adorned with bubbling fountains and grapevines. Meticulously maintained throughout the year, Lake Oak Meadows offers an awe-inspiring backdrop for your extraordinary celebration, poised to leave an indelible mark on you and your guests. With comprehensive wedding packages and customizable sites for ceremonies and receptions, Lake Oak Meadows ensures a seamless and memorable experience.

• Versatile Event Spaces: Ceremony area, indoor and outdoor event spaces, and a covered outdoors space, accommodating up to 300 guests.
• Customizable Experience: Exclusive vendor lists for Catering, Bar, and DJ Services tailored to your style.
• Convenient Facilities: Dressing rooms and private suites for your wedding parties
• Built-In Amenities: In-house culinary team, bar services, and wireless internet for a well-rounded celebration.

Address: 36101 Glenoaks Rd, Temecula, CA 92592

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3. South Coast Winery

South Coast Winery is where vineyards meet luxury. Oh, and this is the only Temecula wedding venue that has a full day spa. So yeah, you and your partner can get a pre-wedding (or post-wedding) massage as you relax and enjoy one of  Southern California’s best wedding venues. From start to finish, this venue offers a seamless wedding experience.

• Award-winning wines
• Vineyard ceremony locations
• Full-service wedding planning
• Elegant ballrooms

Address: 34843 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

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4. Ponte Winery

Nestled between Los Angeles and San Diego, Ponte Winery & Vineyard Inn in Temecula, CA, offers rustic charm and romantic ambiance. This 300-acre property, with a history dating back to 1984, combines vineyard beauty with West-Coast elegance. Whether it’s an idyllic countryside ceremony or a luxurious reception in the Vineyard Pavilion, your winery wedding dreams come to life here. Experience the tranquil vistas and stay in their award-winning Spanish-style inn, all while enjoying fine wines.

• Rustic and elegant settings
• Indoor and outdoor venues
• Award-winning inn and premier restaurant
• Personalized wedding packages
• On-site catering with locally sourced produce
• Accommodations for up to 280 guests

Address: 35053 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

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5. Galway Downs

Galway Downs sits on a luxurious 242-acre estate, inviting couples to experience a dream wedding venue surrounded by nature’s splendor. Breathtaking views await in every direction, with oak, eucalyptus, and olive trees casting shade over green fields, rocky creeks, and charming footbridges over lily-filled ponds. This famed equestrian event center now welcomes lovers seeking a unique wedding space, offering two remarkable ceremony sites: Oak Falls, set against oaks and a cascading waterfall, and The Meadows, a peaceful spot by a gentle stream. The historic Carriage House, recently remodeled, hosts receptions, infusing Old West romance with a trendy, modern touch. Your “happily ever after” is made seamless with all-inclusive packages, customizable to every desire, at this fairy-tale location.

• Breathtaking 242-acre estate in Temecula Valley Wine Country
• Ceremony locations include Oak Falls and The Meadows
• Historic Carriage House for chic and romantic receptions
• All-inclusive wedding packages, fully customizable
• Two-bedroom Carriage Suite available for bridal party
• Stunning natural surroundings with footbridges, waterfalls, and lush greenery
• 50-year history as a legendary equestrian event center

Address: 38801 Los Corralitos Rd, Temecula, CA 92592

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6. Temecula Creek Inn

Tucked away in Temecula, California, Temecula Creek Inn invites you to celebrate your love in a charming hotel wedding venue. Choose from two distinct venues, each providing a blend of natural beauty and rustic elegance. The Meadows offers an intimate setting for up to 150 guests, complete with a green lawn, ancient trees, and twinkling bistro lights. For larger parties, the historic Stone House accommodates up to 270 guests, surrounded by century-old oak trees and without noise ordinance restrictions. With on-site accommodations and professional culinary customization, your dream wedding unfolds seamlessly.

• Two unique venues: The Meadows and the Stone House
• Indoor and outdoor event spaces
• Full customization of wedding menu and beverage service
• No noise ordinance restrictions at the Stone House
• 120+ hotel rooms and suites, with amenities like golf course, pool, and spa
• Proximity to award-winning wineries of Temecula Valley

Address: 44501 Rainbow Canyon Rd, Temecula, CA 92592

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7. Callaway Vineyard & Winery

Callaway Vineyard & Winery in Temecula, California is a picture-perfect venue for couples seeking an elegant vineyard setting. Perched on 20 acres with breathtaking views of wine country, this venue offers indoor and outdoor spaces that suit any style. From the picturesque West and South Lawns to the charming Barrel Room, your guests will be immersed in the romance of the vineyards. The in-house culinary team, offering dishes made with local produce, complements the overall experience, making your special day truly unforgettable.

• Outdoor Options: Choose between the West Lawn with vineyard views or the South Lawn facing the Temecula Valley.
• Indoor Spaces: The Reserve Room’s windows or the Barrel Room’s authentic wine barrel decor provide elegant indoor options.
• Catering: An in-house culinary team utilizing fresh local produce, with flexibility to bring your preferred wedding cake.
• Service: Planning, setup, and cleanup are made easy with dedicated staff, and additional items like tables, chairs, and a dance floor are available.
• Guest Capacity: Accommodations for various guest sizes across different event spaces.

Address: Callaway Vineyard & Winery, 32720 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

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8. Falkner Winery

Falkner Winery is a breathtaking wedding venue situated in the rolling hills of Temecula, California. Reminiscent of an authentic Italian vineyard, the venue offers a touch of Mediterranean charm alongside endless photo opportunities. Whether it’s a ceremony nestled within the vineyard or a reception overlooking acres of grape vines, Falkner Winery provides a unique and memorable setting. Olive trees and fragrant roses set a romantic scene, while the winery’s expert team helps craft the perfect day.

• Outdoor Ceremony Site: Encircled by grape vines, adorned with jasmine and roses, creating a perfect mood for romance.
• Garden Reception: Featuring a stone fountain, string lights, and a dance floor, seamlessly transitioning from ceremony to reception.
• Pinnacle Room Reception: Floor-to-ceiling windows offer a 180-degree vineyard view for an elegant indoor celebration.
• Exclusive Attention: Falkner Winery’s one-event-per-day policy ensures a truly personalized experience.
• Catering and Beverage Service: Italian-inspired cuisine, Falkner wines, and options to upgrade to full bar service.

Address: Falkner Winery, 40620 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591

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9. Mount Palomar Winery

Situated atop a scenic hill in Temecula’s renowned wine country, Mount Palomar Winery stands out as an extraordinary wedding venue. Established in 1969, this founding winery offers unparalleled views, award-winning wines, and a prime location within reach of San Diego, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs. Known for its exclusivity and flexibility, Mount Palomar accommodates intimate gatherings of 75 to grand celebrations of 600+, allowing couples to personalize their wedding day to the finest detail. With its full liquor license, spatial versatility, and commitment to hosting only one wedding per day, Mount Palomar is an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable wedding experience.

• One of Temecula’s founding wineries, established in 1969
• Unique hilltop venue with unequaled views
• Award-winning wines with a full bar and liquor license
• Capacity for 75 to 600+ guests
• Exclusive one-wedding-per-day policy
• Flexibility for outside catering, including cultural celebrations
• Pet and animal-friendly, from fur babies to elephants
• Options for classic cars, vintage furniture, live food stations, and varied musical entertainment
• Easily accessible from San Diego, Los Angeles, and Palm Springs

Address: 33820 Rancho California Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

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10. Lorimar Winery

Lorimar Vineyards and Winery, situated in Temecula, CA, offers a captivating blend of rustic charm and classic elegance as a winery wedding venue. Nestled amidst the alluring vistas of Temecula Wine Country, the vineyard is adorned with grapevines, citrus groves, and breathtaking views of Mount Palomar. Whether bathed in the soft glow of a setting sun or under a starlit sky, this estate paints a picture reminiscent of a Tuscan tale. With flexible event spaces such as the Vineyard Lawn, Barrel Room, and Ceremony Lawn, Lorimar caters to a wide range of tastes and can accommodate intimate gatherings or grand celebrations.

• Scenic Event Spaces: Multiple areas including the Vineyard Lawn, Barrel Room, and Ceremony Lawn to suit guest counts from 50 to 300. Each space boasts its own unique charm, from cozy bistro lights and a fireplace to lush landscapes and a wedding gazebo.
• Natural Beauty: Spectacular vineyard views, sunsets over the mountains, and an atmosphere enriched with nature’s grace.
• Outdoor Photoshoot Locations: Not only does Lorimar offer vineyards, but also stunning orange groves for your engagement photos or wedding photos!

Address: Lorimar Vineyards and Winery, 39990 Anza Rd, Temecula, CA 92591

Temecula Elopement Packages

So, you decided a big wedding is not your style, and instead, you want to elope in Temecula. Well, I bring good news! There are a ton of options when it comes to Temecula winery elopement packages. And the truth is, sometimes simple is the best answer when it comes to getting married. However, it is still important to document your life-defining moments in an authentic fashion. That means investing in a Temecula wedding photographer, even if it is only for an hour session in a vineyard during golden hour for your elopement. Here are the two elopement packages I offer to enhance  your wedding experience:

• Temecula Elopement Package #1: One hour of coverage, 60-80 edited images, full online gallery for a year, and help planning your special day – $800
• Temecula Elopement Package #2: Two hours of coverage, 150-200 edited images, full online gallery for a year, and help planning your special day – $1,500

Still have questions? Just text me at 951-704-9503.

Want to see more Temecula engagement photos, elopements, and weddings? Then please visit my blog at RyanHorban.com!

Temecula Wedding Vendors – Couple’s Choice Awards Winners 2023

Listen, I want you to have an amazing wedding in Temecula, California. That means I want you to work with the absolute best photography team, planner, and wedding vendors possible. Therefore, if I am booked or my style does not fit your vision, I would be more than happy to provide referrals.  Yes, I am talking about everything from wedding invitations to other photographers in Temecula, CA. In fact, here are some amazing wedding photographers who serve all of Southern California and who would be perfect for capturing your wedding. But you should totally book me 🙂

• Sage Justice Photography
• Elle Lily Photography
• Leah Marie Photography (Affordable Photos and Films)
• Ashley Bee Photography and Videography
• Kate Garcia Weddings
• Courtney McManaway Photography
• Nicholas Gonzalez Photography
• Alan Sponholz Photography
• Alex and Jana Professional Photographers

Related Article: Joshua Tree Wedding Photographer Guide

Temecula Wedding Photographer Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best wedding venue in Temecula?

According to online reviews, Ponte Winery, South Coast Winery, Temecula Creek Inn, Galway Downs, Europa Village Winery, and Lake Oak Meadows are the best places to get married in Temecula, California. From my perspective, the venue, decor, and wedding guests are all just part of the setting of the story. They are not the actual story, you are. Therefore, choose a location and wedding vendors that make you feel comfortable. Basically, a venue where you want to relax and party with your loved ones.

How Much Does A Wedding Photographer Cost In Temecula?

Expect to pay between $700-$900 per hour, if you want the best Temecula wedding photographer studios and elopement photographers in Temecula. Like most things in life, you always get what you pay for! That is why it is important to invest in a Temecula wedding photographer that has the experience and a detailed portfolio of real weddings, not stylized shoots. Your investment should include an online gallery, professionally edited photos in both Lightroom and Photoshop and a shared copyright release. If you want a second shooter, raw (un-edited) Temecula wedding photos, professional prints, or wedding albums, anticipate paying a little more. Why? These are typically additional costs, not standard in most wedding packages.

Should I be concerned about the weather for my Temecula wedding?

Yes! And why should you be mindful of Temecula’s weather? Because it can be a little unpredictable. For example, October oftentimes can reach the high 90s or even triple digits! That can be unpleasant if you were planning a cool Autumn wedding. And yes, a summer wedding in Temecula can be scorching, so it’s vital to dress accordingly. Lastly, if you are planning a Spring or late Fall wedding, be aware the nights can get chilly. Therefore, we recommend you talk to your wedding planner about tents or heat lamps during your wedding reception.

Should I consider local events when planning my wedding day?

Absolutely! And the reason is events like the Temecula Balloon and Wine Festival can lead to serious traffic congestion going into wine country. Are you planning shuttles or transportation for your wedding day? If so, then avoid these popular event dates to ensure smooth travel, or when wedding planning, factor these delays into your timeline.

How would you describe your style and approach to Temecula wedding photography?

Describing the style of my Temecula wedding photography is always a little strange because I feel like the images I capture really speak for themselves. However, if you are putting me on the spot I would say my style is like two friends who ride majestic, translucent steeds, shooting flaming arrows across the bridge of Hemdale. For those confused by the Step Brothers reference let me clarify: my photography is a collection of in-the-moment, candid, authentic, and colorful photojournalism that mixes in traditional wedding portraiture of wedding details, family, and venue decor. My approach to every Temecula wedding is to focus on the emotional elements, human interactions, and most importantly good vibes. As your Temecula wedding photographer, I want to document your wedding day in a fashion that will have you smiling for decades. I believe you are awesome and your wedding photos should be as well!