Westlake Village Inn Weddings: The Ultimate Guide for Couples

If you’re searching for a romantic, elegant venue with a relaxed California feel, a Westlake Village Inn wedding might be exactly what you’re looking for.

This venue is one of my personal favorites. Not just because it’s beautiful, but because it offers such a versatile experience. From lush gardens and peaceful lakes to charming vineyards and elegant reception spaces, it’s the kind of place where every wedding feels unique.

If you’re planning your big day and looking for Westlake Village Inn wedding photos, inspiration, or tips, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why I Love Photographing Westlake Village Inn Weddings

As a wedding photographer, this venue is a dream to work at. It has everything you need for stunning, timeless images:

• Beautiful gardens and European-inspired architecture
• A peaceful lake and vineyard views
• Soft, natural lighting… especially at sunset

One wedding I photographed here took place at the Lakeside Arbor just as the sun was setting. The golden light reflected off the water behind the couple, creating one of those moments that feels straight out of a movie.

Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a large celebration, the variety of backdrops makes every wedding feel personalized and visually stunning.

About Westlake Village Inn

Located in Westlake Village, California, the Westlake Village Inn offers a countryside escape with refined elegance. Making it one of the best outdoor wedding venues in California. If you’re planning your wedding closer to Santa Barbara, check out these outdoor venues.

What makes this venue stand out:

• Five outdoor ceremony locations
• Multiple reception spaces (from ballrooms to wine cellars)
• On-site accommodations for couples and guests

It’s a perfect blend of convenience and beauty, giving you everything you need in one location for a seamless wedding day experience.

Getting Ready at Westlake Village Inn

The getting-ready experience here is calm, spacious, and ideal for capturing meaningful moments.

Bridal suites like the Villa, Villa Azul, and Deluxe Suites offer:

• Plenty of natural light for photos
• Comfortable space for your bridal party
• A relaxed environment to start your day

For grooms, the spaces are just as laid-back. Perfect for those candid, behind-the-scenes moments like adjusting ties, sharing laughs, or raising a quick toast.

These moments are some of the most emotional and authentic parts of the day, and they always translate beautifully into photos.

Wedding Design & Details

One of the best parts about a Westlake Village Inn wedding is how effortlessly the space transforms to reflect your style. The venue already offers a stunning foundation with its elegant architecture, lush gardens, and natural backdrops, so you’re never starting from scratch.

Couples can enhance the space with intentional details that make the day feel personal and meaningful. From carefully curated florals to custom décor elements, every design choice adds to the overall experience and story of your wedding day.

You’ll often see couples incorporate:

• Custom floral installations that highlight ceremony spaces
• Unique centerpieces that reflect their personality
• Personal touches like heirlooms, handwritten signage, or meaningful textures

These small details may seem subtle, but they’re what bring everything together, and they’re some of the most meaningful elements to capture through photography.

Best Photo Locations at Westlake Village Inn

If stunning, timeless imagery is a priority for you, this venue truly delivers. There’s no shortage of beautiful backdrops, and each area offers a slightly different feel depending on the lighting and time of day.

Some of the most popular photo locations include:

• The vineyards for romantic, European-inspired portraits
• The lake for soft, reflective, and peaceful moments
• Stone pathways and garden areas for natural, candid interactions

While the scenery is incredible, what makes these photos stand out most is the real moments that happen within them. I always guide couples in a way that feels natural, allowing space for genuine connection. Those quiet laughs, soft glances, and in-between moments that you’ll cherish most.

Bridal Party Photos

Bridal party photos at Westlake Village Inn are always full of energy, personality, and excitement. The venue offers a variety of settings that make it easy to capture both traditional and candid moments without feeling repetitive.

For more structured, classic photos, the grand entrance and architectural elements provide a clean, elegant backdrop. If you’re looking for something more relaxed, the gardens and lakeside areas allow for movement, laughter, and those spontaneous interactions that feel the most real.

Many couples choose to mix both styles:

• Classic, posed group shots for timeless keepsakes
• Fun, candid moments that reflect your relationships and personalities

One bridal party I photographed surprised the couple with a flower petal toss by the lake. It was completely unplanned, full of laughter, and ended up being one of the most memorable parts of the day.

Wedding Ceremonies at Westlake Village Inn

One of the standout features of a Westlake Village Inn wedding is the variety of ceremony locations available. Each space offers a unique atmosphere, allowing you to choose a setting that truly matches your vision.

The Tuscan Garden is perfect for couples drawn to a romantic, European-inspired aesthetic. With its brick pathways, central fountain, and surrounding greenery, it creates an intimate and timeless setting for exchanging vows.

For those who prefer a water backdrop, the Lakeside Arbor offers a peaceful and scenic environment. The calm lake, combined with natural landscaping, creates a soft and serene atmosphere that feels both elegant and relaxed.

The Waterfall Ceremony Site provides a slightly more unique experience. The gentle sound of cascading water, paired with palm trees and natural sunlight, creates a bright and airy space that feels refreshing and tranquil.

No matter which location you choose, each ceremony site offers a beautiful, memorable setting for one of the most important moments of your day.

Wedding Receptions at Westlake Village Inn

When it comes to your reception, Westlake Village Inn offers a variety of spaces that can be tailored to your style, guest count, and overall vision. Whether you’re planning something intimate or more elaborate, there’s a space that fits seamlessly.

Some of the most popular reception options include:

• Fairway Room for a refined yet relaxed atmosphere with golf course views
• Lakeside Room for a cozy setting with water views and a private patio
• Provence Room for a grand ballroom experience with chandeliers and terrace access
• Tasting Room for a more intimate, vineyard-inspired feel

For couples who want something unique, the Wine Cellar Room and Vintage Room & Terrace offer distinctive indoor-outdoor experiences that blend elegance with character.

Each reception space allows you to create a celebration that feels natural, elevated, and true to your vision. Whether that’s a formal dinner, a lively dance floor, or a relaxed evening with loved ones.

FAQs About Westlake Village Inn Weddings

Planning a wedding comes with a lot of questions, and this venue offers flexibility to accommodate a range of needs.

When it comes to guest capacity, Westlake Village Inn is best suited for small to mid-sized weddings, with options for both indoor and outdoor setups depending on your preferences.

Here are a few key details to keep in mind:

• Capacity: Up to 150 guests for ceremonies and receptions
• Catering: In-house catering available, with outside options for an additional fee
• Alcohol: Must be provided in-house
• Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible

It’s always a good idea to confirm details directly with the venue as you plan, but overall, it’s a space designed to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Planning Your Dream Wedding at Westlake Village Inn

Planning your wedding here is a seamless experience, especially when you take advantage of everything the venue has to offer. With so many beautiful locations on-site, you can create a full wedding day flow without needing to travel.

A few helpful tips as you plan:

• Schedule your ceremony close to sunset for the most flattering light
• Use multiple areas of the venue to create variety in your photos
• Build in time for quiet moments together—they often become your favorite memories

With the right planning and vendor team, this venue allows your day to feel effortless while still being incredibly memorable.

Let’s Capture Your Westlake Village Inn Wedding

Your wedding day is filled with moments you’ll never want to forget—and the right photography ensures you don’t have to.

Whether you’re planning an intimate garden ceremony or a full-scale celebration, I’ll be there to capture every detail in a way that feels natural, emotional, and true to you.

Ready to bring your wedding vision to life?
Contact me at [email protected] to book your wedding photography experience.