About Oakland
Oakland may not be the first place you think of when you hear the words “city by the bay”, but this vibrant city is quickly developing attractions and experiences to rival those of San Francisco.
Home to a population of more than 425,000, Oakland is a culturally diverse city with a whole lot going for it. We’re talking beautiful views, gorgeous outdoor spaces, a fascinating history, and a thriving arts scene. Throw in a popular food and wine scene and it’s easy to see why Oakland is on the up.
It’s also easy to see why Oakland is a wonderful place to tie the knot, so keep reading for tips and tricks for planning your perfect wedding in Oakland.
Wedding Options in Oakland
You want your big day to be memorable for all the right reasons. So if your wedding is going to be as special and romantic as you want it to be, you’ll need to find the best wedding and event companies in Oakland.
Decor is crucial to the atmosphere and ambiance of any wedding, and even a simple floral touch can make a huge difference. An experienced Oakland florist will help you create that gorgeous, romantic look you want for your big day.
While choosing the ideal Oakland wedding venue is crucial, ensuring that you serve up great food to your guests is just as important. Everyone remembers spectacular food, so compare a range of Oakland caterers to find one that can turn your wedding into a treat for the tastebuds.
What would a wedding reception be without the happy couple sharing their first dance as husband and wife, or without giving your guests the opportunity to bust a move on the dance floor? Whether you want a band playing party classics or a solo singer giving a more intimate and laid-back performance, wedding musicians play a big part in the success of your celebration.
Wedding Companies in Oakland
Planning your own wedding can be one of the most stressful things you ever do. If you’d like to save yourself the hard work and hassle, engaging the services of a professional Oakland wedding planner can ensure that you’re a whole lot happier when it’s time to walk down the aisle. There are many wedding planners that service the Oakland area — here are just a few you might like to consider.
Jenni Grubba Events can guide you through every step of the wedding planning process. Whether you’re having a big wedding with all the trimmings or something simple and intimate, Jenni can help you plan your perfect day from start to finish.
Specializing in custom wedding experiences, A Monique Affair aims to add glamour and imagination to your celebration. Founded in 1999, the business specializes in luxury and creativity, helping to create beautiful weddings that you (and your guests) will remember forever.
Elizabeth Mauricio is the wedding and events coordinator behind Coco Creations. From setting up your Oakland wedding venue to ensuring that you, your guests, and all vendors are happy, her focus is on letting you and your partner enjoy your big day however you want.
Pros and Cons of Weddings in Oakland
Advantages
With its mild and pleasant climate, Oakland avoids the extreme conditions you can sometimes get in other parts of the country.
Sitting directly across the bay from San Francisco, Oakland is in one truly enviable location.
If you like eating out, you’ll love Oakland’s burgeoning food scene. The nightlife here ain’t too bad either.
If you love enjoying parks and green spaces, you’ll find plenty worth experiencing in the Oakland area.
Oakland is also a highly diverse city, so you’ll be exposed to a wide range of different cultures and foods.
Disadvantages
The cost of living in Oakland is quite high.
Unfortunately, homelessness is an issue in the wider Oakland area.
There is also the risk of crime in some neighborhoods, so be sure to stay safe.
The roads in the area are famous for their potholes, which can make driving around the city a less than pleasant experience.
Oakland has a high city sales tax, so expect to pay more for retail goods you purchase here.
Famous Locations in Oakland
Located in Oakland’s Grass Valley neighborhood, the zoo is an essential experience for visitors to the area. It lets you get up close and personal with a diverse range of creatures from around the world, from tigers and emus to squirrel monkeys and flamingos.
One of Oakland’s most unique attractions, Lake Merritt is a pretty tidal lagoon that sits in the heart of the city. It boasts more than three miles of shoreline and is also home to a diverse population of birdlife. If you love Oakland’s parks and open space, why not book a beautiful outdoor event space in a historic Oakland park for your special day?
Encompassing more than 1,800 acres of beautiful green space, this popular park is perfect if you need a break from the frenetic pace of the city. Here you’ll find stately redwoods standing up to 150 feet tall, making this the ideal spot for a relaxing stroll, a romantic picnic, or just soaking up the sunshine.
