Secret Garden and Hidden Gem

Thank you for your comments regarding my venue question. I'm helping a friend plan her wedding here and we have been able to check venues off our list. We did go with the Marston House which had always been our first choice but had been put on the back burner due to some confusion. According to the website, the Marston House is now being operated by Save Our Heritage Organization instead of the city and, according to that group, they were still in discussions with the city about being able to book private events and couldn't reserve a date for us. There must have been some lack of communication somewhere because when we called the city they told us that, of course, we could come in and see if the date was available. My friend did just this and got the date and the location she wanted.

For the reception, my friend decided on the Old Venice Restaurant. From looking at the website, I wasn't sure what to expect but this place is beautiful. I can't believe I don't see more weddings here. The events are usually held on the back patio which is like a little secret garden. Except for the palm trees peeking above the fence, you would never know you were in San Diego. It is super reasonable and the staff are all really nice and helpful. I can't wait for this wedding next year. I must have been inspired by the old European vibe from the restaurant when I went to the Farmer's Market on Sunday because I ended up making this flower arrangement.

{Marston House image via One Love Photography; Old Venice photo via Style Me Pretty}