Best Places to Say 'I Do' in CDM

It's a week of celebration in my family: My sister Amanda announced her engagement to her longtime beau.

I was at the Sidedoor in CDM having a glass of wine and dessert with my friend when the phone call came in. I knew exactly why she was calling. The two of them were traveling up the coast of California on vacation, but he had given us a heads-up that he was going to propose. They couldn't be a more perfect pair, and the ring is gorgeous. 

There's much planning to do—finding the , the right  and, of course, the perfect venue. Fortunately, in Corona del Mar, brides don't have to look too far. 

Here is a list of some of the best places to tie the knot in CDM.

Five Crowns Restaurant 

It looks like an Old English Tudor style inn from the outside, on the inside it looks like a restaurant, but go forth to the outdoor garden area (modeled on an English garden) and you will find a perfect location to hold your wedding. The flowers in the garden remind me of a scene from Alice in Wonderland, with billowing purple hydrangeas, golden trumpets and, of course, the roses! The Five Crowns does not lack character or photo opportunities—the staircase from which to through your bouquet, the sunlit greenhouse and the iconic London red telephone booth out front are just a few of the great picture spots.  If you don't believe me, just ask WeddingWire, whose readers voted it Bride's Choice 2011. Five Crowns can also host your reception and rehearsal dinner. If you're interested in a garden ceremony, Five Crowns can accommodate a maximum of 100 guests, and 120 guests for an indoor ceremony.

The venue is available daily and year round. Currently finishing a remodel, the restaurant will be available for weddings beginning July. Please call for current pricing and restrictions. All alcohol, food, tables, chairs and linens are included in the package. There are no additional costs for cake cutting services or table decorating. In addition, the catering staff has recommendations for musicians, hotels, florists, limousines and other services you may need to complete your special day. 

Sherman Gardens

The is a storybook setting. Let's just list some of the romantic features: fern-covered waterfall, tiled patio, courtyards, arbor-shaded walks, exotic flowers, fountains ... no need to continue. I think you are ready to call to reserve. 

The wedding ceremonies are held in the Tea Garden Patio, which is full of  flower baskets in beautiful shades of fuchsia and pastel pinks. The Pepper Tree Patio is just next door and can be used for a pre-reception gathering with hor d'oeuvres and drinks. The indoor reception is held in the Central Patio Room, which has several romantic features, including cathedral ceilings and a beautiful white-brick fireplace. 

The ceremony space can hold up to 250 guests, and the Central Patio Room holds up to 125. The gardens are available for weddings all year round from 4-10 p.m. Catering is provided by Pascal, one of the top restauranteurs in Orange County. Please contact the garden secretary for current pricing and reservations. 

Additional sites to hold your Ceremony

Corona del Mar wedding photographers and recommended the following locations for your big day.

Crystal Cove State Park and Beach, Pirate's Cove, the Bluffs in Corona del Mar, Big Corona Beach and the Newport Peninsula. Remember, if you are planning to hold a wedding ceremony on a public beach or park, make sure you contact the city to apply for and obtain a location permit.