Best Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Guide – 2023!

Rancho Las Lomas is a luxurious and picturesque wedding venue located in Silverado, California. I'm a wedding photographer located in SoCal who is going to cover everything you need to know about planning a wedding at Ranch Las Lomas!

Best Timeline for Your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding

Below is my recommended wedding day timeline for a wedding specifically at Rancho Las Lomas. Let’s say your ceremony start time is at 5:00 pm. Here’s my recommended timeline for that.

9:00 – 12:30 – Hair/Makeup at Rancho Las Lomas (This start time will vary depending on how many people will be getting their hair/makeup done; typically, the bride is last)

12:00 – Photographer(s) Arrive at Rancho Las Lomas

12:00 – 12:40 – Details (Dress, shoes, rings, etc.)

12:45 – 1:45 – Getting Ready Photos (One photographer is with Partner A & second photographer is with Partner B)

*Note: If you don’t have a second photographer, more time is needed here as the solo photographer will have to take extra time to document Partner A & Partner B.

1:45 – 2:45 – First Look + Couple Portraits

2:45 – 3:15 – Wedding Party Portraits (More time is needed here is there is no second photographer)

3:15 – 3:45 – Family Portraits

3:45 – 4:40 – Buffer Time (Super important to always leave buffer time within the schedule should things run a bit behind schedule. It also allows the couple to just relax more…the day won’t feel rushed.) If the timeline goes exactly to plan, the couple can use this time to relax or take extra photos. ;)

4:40 – Couple Preps for Ceremony / Photographer Documents Ceremony Details

5:00 – 5:30 – Ceremony

5:30 – 6:30 – Cocktail Hour + Couple Portraits

*The cocktail hour typically takes place during the golden hour (best time for photos because of the light), so usually about 30 minutes of couple portraits are taken during this time.)

6:45 – Grand Entrance

6:45 – 10:00 – Reception (First Dance, Parent Dances, Speeches, Open Dancing, Etc.)

Rancho Las Lomas
Rancho Las Lomas Wedding
Flower Girl & Ring Bearer Walking | Captured on Polaroid

FAQs about Having a Wedding at Rancho Las Lomas

To help you make an informed decision about hosting your wedding at Rancho Las Lomas, I've compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions:

  • Is there on-site parking available for guests?
    • Yes, the venue offers ample on-site parking for your guests.
  • Can we bring in our own vendors?
    • While the venue has a list of preferred vendors, they also allow outside vendors, subject to approval by the venue's event coordinator.
  • Is there a bridal suite available for the wedding party to get ready?
    • Yes, the venue offers a spacious and elegant bridal suite for the wedding party's use on the big day.
  • Are there any restrictions on décor?
    • Rancho Las Lomas allows for a variety of décor options but does have some restrictions to protect the integrity of the property. It's important to discuss your décor plans with the event coordinator to ensure they align with the venue's guidelines.
  • Are pets allowed at the venue?
    • Yes, this is a pet-friendly venue and welcomes well-behaved pets at your wedding, with some restrictions. Be sure to discuss your plans with the event coordinator.
Rancho Las Lomas

Important Info About a Wedding at Rancho Las Lomas

As you plan your wedding at Rancho Las Lomas, you may have some questions about the logistics and details of your special day. Here are 10 common questions couples ask, along with their answers:

What is the best time of year to have a wedding at Rancho Las Lomas?

While the venue is beautiful year-round, the most popular months for weddings are April through October, when the weather is typically warm and sunny.

How far in advance should we book the venue?

It's recommended to book your wedding date at least 12-18 months in advance to ensure availability.

Can we have both our ceremony and reception at Rancho Las Lomas?

Yes, the venue offers multiple event spaces that can accommodate both your ceremony and reception.

Can we have a rehearsal dinner at the venue?

Yes, the venue can host your rehearsal dinner, subject to availability and additional fees.

Is the venue wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Rancho Las Lomas is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and accessible restrooms available.

Rancho Las Lomas Wedding

What is the backup plan in case of inclement weather?

In the event of rain or other inclement weather, your event coordinator will work with you to make necessary adjustments, including moving your ceremony and/or reception to one of the indoor or covered spaces on the property.

Can we customize the menu for our reception?

Yes, the venue offers a variety of catering options and works closely with couples to create a tailored menu that reflects your tastes and preferences.

Are there any noise restrictions at the venue?

While there are no specific noise restrictions, music and entertainment must be kept at a reasonable level out of respect for the surrounding wildlife and neighbors.

Is there a curfew for events at Rancho Las Lomas?

Yes, all events at Rancho Las Lomas must conclude by 11:00 PM, with the exception of New Year's Eve celebrations, which can extend until 1:00 AM.

Can we have a send-off with sparklers or fireworks?

The venue allows sparkler send-offs but prohibits the use of fireworks due to safety and environmental concerns.

Rancho Las Lomas
Rancho Las Lomas

Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Cost

A Rancho Las Lomas wedding will start with a rental fee of $3,000 - 12,000, which includes the use of the ceremony and reception areas, as well as various amenities like tables, chairs, and linens.

In addition to the rental fee, there are different package options starting at $175/per person. Overall, the entire Rancho Las Lomas wedding cost will run at about $40,000 for everything -- including use of the space, vendors, food, your wedding day outfits, etc.

The nonrefundable rental fee of $3,000 - $12,000 includes the following:

  • Exclusive use 5 indoor/outdoor areas for your event
  • Access to all of the grounds (including the zoo)
  • Getting ready bungalows for both the bride and groom
  • Bistro lighting
  • 200 chairs, banquet and cocktail tables
  • Setup and cleanup

You will have exclusive use of the venue from 11 A.M. until midnight.

Rancho Las Lomas Venue Capacity

Rancho Las Lomas can comfortably accommodate up to 400 guests for a wedding ceremony and reception. This capacity allows for a variety of seating arrangements, including theater-style, banquet-style, and cocktail-style setups. The spacious grounds and multiple event spaces make it an ideal location for both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.

Rancho Las Lomas
Rancho Las Lomas

Steps for Planning a Rancho Las Lomas Wedding

Here are my personal tips for planning a Rancho Las Lomas Wedding!

1. Select Your Wedding Day Space!

Rancho Las Lomas is quite spacious and offers a few different options when it comes to the different designated areas of one's wedding day, including the the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception.

While planning your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding, make sure that you have a clear vision of how you'd like your wedding day set up.

Some of the spaces Rancho Las Lomas offers are:

  • EL Teatro
  • LA Terraza
  • Grand Salon

EL Teatro | Outdoors Space | Seats up to 400 Guests

EL Teatro is my personal favorite space for Rancho Las Lomas photos. It's is surrounded by sycamore trees, and it is suitable for couples who want to have their wedding planned outdoors. This is an open-air venue, and the flooring is of marble which looks aesthetically pleasing.

One of my favorite aspects of El Teatro is that it includes blue and white hand painted tiles, a grand staircase, terracotta tiles, a beautiful stone stage, lush gardens and towering oak trees, romantic lighting, and murals from Portugal. This space has a Spanish Hacienda type of architecture and I would say it's the most popular option out of all the spaces.

*This space is great for couples going for a romantic, sophisticated, timeless vibe.

El Teatro

LA Terraza | Outdoor Space | Seats up to 375 Guests

La Terraza is a large open space that is encircled by huge California Oak trees, giving this space more of a foresty, "out in nature" vibe. This space has cobblestone pathways and a beautiful wooden staircase.

*This space is great for couples going for a free-spirited, natural, untraditional or bohemian vibe.

LA Terraza

Grand Salon | Indoor Space | Seats up to 224 Guests

This is an indoor space with a gorgeous fireplace, stained glass windows, French doors, and a beautiful fountain.

*This space is great for couples going for going for a cozy and elegant vibe. It's also a great option for couples having a wedding during colder months.

Grand Salon

Casa Bella and Barn | Indoor Space | Appropriate for Very Intimate Weddings

Casa Bella is perfect for intimate weddings, engagement parties or rehearsals. The barn has a bar that is used for small celebrations.


Rick's Cafe | Indoor Space | Appropriate for Very Intimate Weddings

Rick's Cafe can also be used for very intimate events. It's a Casablanca-style villa with a bar and fireplace. It also has four different stories.

The great thing about a Rancho Las Lomas wedding is that when you have an event there, you have exclusive use of the entire property, meaning that you can utilize all of the spaces for your Rancho Las Lomas photos.

2. Decide if You Prefer a Large or Intimate Wedding

Another tip that you should follow while planning your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding is that you should have a good idea of your guest count number pretty well in advance as this will likely impact which space you will choose. Also, keep in mind that guest count is the number one factor that will impact the cost of a wedding.

3. Book Vendors & Decide on Your Priorities

While planning your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding make sure that you book vendors you really trust and like, so that your Rancho Las Lomas Wedding is planned efficiently. It's also important to select your priorities when it comes to vendors, this will help you decide on how to allot your budget.

Rancho Las Lomas Photos
Flower Girls at the Ceremony, Captured on Polaroid
Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Day Couple Portraits

Rancho Las Lomas Photo Locations

The main benefit of having a wedding here is that it offers so much variety in terms of environment. There really are so many great places to take photos at this venue. For example, Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Photos can consist of backgrounds including:

  • Forest
  • Gardens
  • Hills
  • Mountains
  • Fountains
  • A Zoo
  • Painted Murals

Different spots of Ranch las Lomas have different views and the variety is spectacular and provides a unique experience for couples and their guests.

Bride with Her Parents

My Favorite Location for Rancho Las Lomas Photos

With its stunning architecture and lush gardens, Rancho Las Lomas offers a plethora of breathtaking photo opportunities for your wedding day. Some of the most popular locations include:

  • The wrought-iron gates at the entrance, which provide a dramatic backdrop for your arrival and departure photos.
  • The beautiful pathways and courtyards throughout the property, which are perfect for romantic strolls and candid moments.
  • The enchanting El Teatro, where you can capture stunning photos on the grand staircase or the stone stage, surrounded by nature.
  • The charming La Terraza, with its picturesque fountain and sweeping views of the gardens.
Rancho Las Lomas Wedding

Rancho Las Lomas Photo Tips

To make the most of your wedding photos at Rancho Las Lomas, consider the following tips:

Make Use of All the Spaces to Get Variety

A MAJOR benefit of having a wedding here is that Rancho Las Lomas only hosts up to one wedding per day, meaning the couple and their guests will have exclusive use of the property and all if it's different spaces. With that said, with all of the variety this venue offers, it would be a shame to only take photos in one location. I say have fun with it and feel free to explore the property and make use of all of the unique beauty it offers.

Take Your Time

Since you get to use this venue from 11 A.M. till midnight, don't feel like you need to rush things. My suggestion is to leave a lot of room for mini breaks throughout your timeline to just relax and enjoy yourselves. I'm suggesting this because this type of relaxed & joyful energy gets transmitted in the photos. When couples are stress free and having fun, they are more present on their wedding day. Not only does this mean they enjoy more of their day, but they also remember it a lot better.

Schedule a Walk-Through

Schedule a walk-through with your photographer prior to your wedding day to scout the best locations and plan your photo itinerary.

Use the Golden Hour

Take advantage of the golden hour (the hour before sunset) for the most flattering natural light and enchanting ambiance.

Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Day Couple Portraits

The History of this Venue

Rancho Las Lomas consists of 32 acres of beautiful property, including historical buildings, a zoo, a gorgeous garden, and more. It sits in the foothills of Mission Viejo in Orange County, California. In the 19th century, this estate belonged to Spanish nobility.

Around 1977, property was purchased by the Lawrence family, a family who had an interest in collecting beautiful things from their explorations and travels. Because of this, you'll see a lot of gorgeous antique items throughout the property. You'll also find countless hand painted murals that were commissioned in Portugal. This venue has so many beautiful details and it's clear that the owners really cherished and adored their home.

Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Day Couple Portraits

Perks of Having a Wedding at Rancho Las Lomas

Convenient Location for Guests

Rancho Las Lomas is located 25 minutes from an airport, making it a great venue when couples are having a lot of guests fly in from a different state or county.

The site also has space for 100+ cards, which is incredibly rare in California. This means you won't have to worry about hiring a transportation service to valet your guests cars to a different location, which is often the case at many venues in California.

You Get to Use the Venue All Day Long

When you rent out this venue, you get to use it from 11 A.M. until midnight. This is SO RARE! Most venues only let you use their venue for 6 hours, meaning you'll often have to get ready elsewhere. However, with Rancho Las Lomas, you get to really utilize the space and party all night long. :) This means you'll never feel rushed!

The Getting Ready Spaces are Amazing

Having documented over 200 weddings at this point, I will say most getting ready spaces in venues are on the smaller side. However, this is not the case with Rancho Las Lomas. This venue venue provides gorgeous getting ready cottages that are spacious, include cozy fireplace, have a private patio, are decorated with beautiful vintage furniture, and have wonderful light. These getting ready spaces provide a luxurious environment for you to have your Rancho Las Lomas photos taken.

Exclusive Use

A Rancho Las Lomas wedding offers exclusive use of the property for your ceremony and reception, ensuring a private and intimate experience for you and your guests. This really is amazing because it means you'll get to use any part of the property or spaces for your photos. Many venues host multiple weddings per day, but this isn't the case here.

Dedicated Event Coordinator

With a Rancho Las Lomas wedding, you'll get access to a dedicated event coordinator who will work with you to plan every detail of your special day.

Incredible Photography

Rancho Las Lomas provides a stunning backdrop for your wedding photos, with beautiful architecture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views.

Rancho Las Lomas Wedding

Hotels Near Rancho Las Lomas

  1. The Ranch at Laguna Beach - 10.7 miles away
    • Address: 31106 Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651 Phone: (949) 499-2271
  2. Ayres Hotel & Spa Mission Viejo - 11.6 miles away
    • Address: 28951 Los Alisos Blvd, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 Phone: (949) 455-2545
  3. Fairfield Inn by Marriott Mission Viejo Orange County - 11.7 miles away
    • Address: 26328 Oso Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92691 Phone: (949) 582-7100
  4. Hampton Inn & Suites Mission Viejo - 11.9 miles away
    • Address: 28682 Marguerite Pkwy, Mission Viejo, CA 92692 Phone: (949) 429-5222
  5. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Irvine Spectrum - 12.3 miles away
    • Address: 90 Pacifica, Irvine, CA 92618 Phone: (949) 471-8888
  6. Courtyard by Marriott Foothill Ranch Irvine East/Lake Forest - 12.4 miles away
    • Address: 27492 Portola Pkwy, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610 Phone: (949) 951-5700

Glowing Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Review

"Finding the right venue for our (basically) destination wedding was crucial. We toured every venue through the eyes of our guests and RLL blew us away. There was so much to see and take part in as a guest. The luscious grounds are breath-taking and there's so many areas for people to find a little paradise. It's impressive from the first steps through the wood gates. The staff was amazing and answered all of our questions thoroughly. They were able to assist us from far away so that we knew exactly what our day would be like. The opportunities are endless at this venue and I wish we still lived in California so we could enjoy everything they offer. You will not regret hosting any event here!"

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Rancho Las Lomas Wedding Day Couple Portraits

GET IN TOUCH!

I’m Elyana, a Los Angeles wedding photographer whose intention is to capture relationships in a manner that is artistic and heartfelt.

My goal on your wedding day is to make sure you feel beautiful, celebrated, and seen.

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