Piedmont Community Hall 711 Highland Avenue • Oakland • CA 94611

This facility is one of the most popular event venues in Northern California—and for good reason. The building is not only very attractive inside and out, but it has the added benefit of being situated in a lovely park setting.

Azaleas and camellias provide splashes of color near the circular landscaped plaza in front of the hall. Redwoods and flowering cherry trees shade portions of the plaza, and behind the building a stream and more trees complete the circle of greenery.

The garden is home to another structure, a Japanese Tea House that was relocated here after it was donated to the City of Piedmont. Couples can have a small ceremony in the Tea House, or brides can spend some quiet time here before the wedding or use it as a private place to dress and get ready for the big event. Two side walls of the Tea House are removable, so when the weather is mild, it's a terrific spot for an extra bar or hors d'oeuvres station. In the heart of the park is the most sought-after ceremony site—a picturesque amphitheater tucked away in a redwood grove, where couples can exchange vows in front of the soaring trees.

Receptions may take place in the Piedmont Community Hall, a splendid structure, Mediterranean in style with light taupe walls and terracotta tile roof. The hall's interior looks so sophisticated you'd never believe this is a city-owned facility. The main event space is a great party room, with a high, beamed ceiling, floor-to-ceiling windows, shining hardwood floors, and chandeliers. Alternately, couples may choose an al fresco reception on the Community Hall Patio, where guests can enjoy dinner under the dazzling Bay Area stars. This is a refined, nicely designed space, suitable for an elegant wedding, company party, or corporate retreat. It's a popular spot, so remember to reserve early.