Los Laureles Lodge wedding photographer · Carmel Valley, California
Los Laureles Lodge
Old oaks, sunshine and a lodge with history.
- Location
- Carmel Valley, CA
- Capacity
- Up to 200 guests
- Reception
- Terrace Garden
- Lodging
- Lodge rooms and the Hill House
Los Laureles Lodge wedding photography · Carmel Valley, California
Big oaks and Carmel Valley sun.
Los Laureles Lodge is at 313 West Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley, about 20 minutes inland from Carmel-by-the-Sea. It is Carmel Valley's original hotel and hunting lodge, set on about ten acres of gardens, lawns and old oak trees. Being inland, it usually gets sun when the coast is sitting in fog.
I have photographed a wedding here. The oaks are the thing. Huge, twisting limbs over the ceremony, a white lodge with a gazebo and palm trees out front, and warm light that comes through the branches in pieces. It feels like old California in the best way.
If you are getting married at Los Laureles Lodge and want a photographer who knows the property, get in touch.
Los Laureles Lodge wedding venue · The details
What you need to know.
Historic lodge · Carmel Valley
Los Laureles Lodge
Carmel Valley, California
A historic lodge on about ten acres of gardens and oaks, with in-house food and rooms on site.
- Website
- loslaureles.com
- Location
- 313 W Carmel Valley Rd, Carmel Valley, CA 93924
- Ceremony
- On the lawns under the big oaks, or in the gardens by the lodge.
- Reception
- The Terrace Garden for outdoor weddings and receptions up to 200 guests. The Hill House works for small weddings up to 30.
- Catering
- In-house. Menus are created and prepared by the lodge's own staff.
- Music
- Ask the lodge about music and end times for outdoor receptions before you book a band or DJ.
- Lodging
- Guest rooms and suites on site, plus the Hill House, a two-bedroom suite with a full kitchen.
- Best light
- Late afternoon, when the sun drops behind the oaks and the lawns go golden.
Los Laureles Lodge wedding photographer · Why it works
Why the oaks work.
The oaks spread out over the lawn so far that the whole ceremony can sit in their shade. You get dappled light on everyone, big twisting branches overhead and a backdrop that does not need much decoration. Jenny and Damien said their vows right under them.
The lodge itself is white with a porch, a gazebo and palm trees on the lawn. It is a great spot for portraits and gives the day an old California feel. As the sun goes down the reception moves out onto the lawn and the terrace.
Know before you book: Carmel Valley summers are warm and bright. Plan shade for guests, water at the ceremony and a portrait window late in the day when the light softens.
Los Laureles Lodge wedding gallery
See it in real life.
Los Laureles Lodge wedding planning tips
Things nobody tells you.
01
Plan for the heat.
Carmel Valley is sunny and warm in summer. Shade, water and fans for guests go a long way.
02
Use the oaks.
Put the ceremony under the big oaks for soft, even light.
03
Save time for the lodge.
The porch, gazebo and palms are great portrait spots.
04
Stay on site.
Lodge rooms and the Hill House keep everyone close for getting ready.
05
Plan the menu early.
Food is in-house, so work out your menu with the lodge team well ahead of the day.
06
Book your photographer early.
Summer Saturdays around Carmel fill up fast.
Los Laureles Lodge wedding FAQ
Questions couples actually ask.
Where is Los Laureles Lodge?
313 West Carmel Valley Road in Carmel Valley, California, about 20 minutes inland from Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Monterey Peninsula.
How many guests does Los Laureles Lodge hold?
The Terrace Garden handles outdoor weddings and receptions up to 200 guests. The Hill House is set up for intimate weddings up to 30.
Does Los Laureles Lodge have in-house catering?
Yes. Menus are created and prepared by the lodge's own staff.
Is it foggy in Carmel Valley?
Usually not. Carmel Valley sits inland and tends to stay sunny when the coast is in fog, which makes it a good bet for an outdoor wedding.
Can the wedding party stay on site?
Yes. The lodge has guest rooms and suites, plus the Hill House, a two-bedroom suite with a living room and full kitchen.
What time of year is best?
Late spring through fall. Summer is warm and dependable, spring has green hills and fall brings softer light and cooler evenings.
How far in advance should I book a photographer?
For a summer Saturday, 12 to 18 months out is safe. Weekdays and off-season dates are easier to get on shorter notice.
Los Laureles Lodge · Keep exploring
More from here. And nearby.
Getting married at Los Laureles Lodge?
Let's talk.
I have photographed at Los Laureles Lodge and know where the light falls under the oaks. Tell me your date and I'll let you know if I'm available.
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