The Faculty Club University of California at Berkeley • Berkeley • California 94720

UC Berkeley has many picturesque settings, but the loveliest one may well be that of the Faculty Club. Located in the heart of campus, it's quietly ensconced in a grove of redwoods, oaks and maples next to meandering Strawberry Creek. Built in 1902 by the renowned architect Bernard Maybeck in traditional Arts and Crafts style, it's designed to create a cozy, intimate feeling.

The crowning glory of the club is the three-story Great Hall. With its vaulted ceiling, massive stone fireplace, and stained-glass windows featuring heraldic crests of the great universities of the world, it's reminiscent of many a European cathedral. Light from the floor-to-ceiling windows warms the redwood paneling and suffuses the Hall in a golden glow.

Two charming smaller spaces are also available for functions. The Heyns and Seaborg rooms (named respectively after a chancellor and a distinguished University Nobel Laureate) both have French doors leading to a private outdoor area with a garden view. The Seaborg Room is especially striking, with its open-beamed A-frame ceiling and wisteria-framed windows overlooking the peaceful Faculty Glade Lawn.

The Faculty Club has long been a favorite site for meetings, bar and bat mitzvahs, anniversary parties, class reunions, retreats and retirement dinners. But it really comes into its own during weddings. Many couples like to have the ceremony right outside on the Faculty Glade Lawn, then move into the Great Hall for the wedding feast. (The Heyns and Seaborg Rooms also have private terraces for al fresco ceremonies.) Aside from the building itself, the staff is the Faculty Club's greatest asset. They've been producing events since 1902, and they're experienced at accommodating a wide range of special requests. Do any of your guests have particular dietary needs? The Faculty Club can provide gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan dishes. For the ultimate in convenience, your family and friends are welcome to stay overnight in the club's hotel bedrooms (which are often reserved for visiting scholars). From these comfortable lodgings, it's just a quick walk down the stairs to the ceremony. Also, if the bride needs a room for changing, or for storing flowers or gifts, the club will provide one.

The Faculty Club's full catering service handles all the food & beverages—including the bar—and they offer menus for every type of event, from a brunch buffet to a formal sit-down dinner. Their catering staff hails from all over the world, and can create authentic cuisine from many countries including India, Mexico, Peru, Greece and Spain. The Faculty Club has been serving its members and guests for over 100 years, and will do everything possible to make your event successful and enjoyable.