Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara 1535 Santa Barbara Street • Santa Barbara • CA 93101
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Why You'll Love This Place
A Here Comes The Guide Wedding Venue Review
Directly across from the blossom-filled Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, a historic, nondenominational church with a long tradition as a wonderful wedding location. Their beautiful Sanctuary evokes a peaceful sense of divine mystery, and the congregation’s inclusive philosophy makes this venue a congenial gathering place, perfectly suited for life’s celebrations. Unitarian Universalists support one another on their various spiritual paths, and are nonjudgmental, compassionate and socially conscious. As you and your soul mate begin your own lifelong journey together, consider letting the tranquil surroundings of the Unitarian Society provide you with a memorable send-off.
The Unitarian Society campus includes the Sanctuary, a Reception hall, a Terrace and two Gardened Courtyards. Designed and built in 1930 in the city’s signature Spanish-Revival style, the Sanctuary’s rustic glamour is enhanced by antique architectural elements: Vintage lantern-style light fixtures are suspended from the vaulted ceiling’s open beams. The original wooden pews are flanked by lofty, rectangular stained-glass panels in subdued shades of pale blue and honey, each inscribed with the name of a famous Unitarian freethinker like essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. At the front of the Sanctuary, the chancel is softly illuminated by a breathtaking stained-glass rose window in radiant jewel tones; a smaller rose window looks out over balcony seating at the rear. The Sanctuary conveys a momentous yet joyful ambiance, and its quality acoustics make music sound even more dramatic. Hire one of their recommended musicians, and walk down the aisle to the impressive sound of the Sanctuary’s genuine 1,500-pipe organ or Steinway concert piano. Couples of any faith or sexual orientation are invited to pledge their love in this glorious space, a welcome solution for interfaith marriages and same-sex unions.
Following the ceremony, guests often enjoy an open-air social hour in the pretty Jefferson Courtyard. A brick patio flanked by twin lawns crowned with olive saplings is a delightful spot to toast the newlyweds; then, while refreshments are served, bridal parties can sneak across the street for photos in the park. A second-story terrace lets guests survey the festivities below. Tucked in one corner of the courtyard, a semiprivate enclave with a labyrinth and small amphitheater invites cozy conversations.
Outdoor receptions are usually held in the Parish Courtyard at the front of the facility. Lovely and serene, this bricked garden plaza offers a spacious yet intimate environment for up to 200 guests. Well-placed foliage provides filtered shade, and at the right time of year a grand magnolia tree shows off delicately fragrant flowers. A triple-arched breezeway is a perfect place for the bar and, once the sun sets, ambient lighting lends a romantic luster to the idyllic setting.
Through the breezeway lies the newly refurbished Parish Hall, an attractive banquet room with a high ceiling. Earth-toned walls bring out the room’s Mission-style flavor and complement a large stained-glass window (similar to the Sanctuary panels). The hardwood floor is great for dancing, and a proscenium stage puts the entertainment on display. Recent upgrades include an audiovisual system, and behind the scenes your caterer cooks up a feast in a professional kitchen.
Flexible, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing, the Unitarian Society continues its legacy as host to unforgettable events.
Deals
Micro-Weddings for up to 30 guests range $1,000–1,500, and include 3-hour use of the Sanctuary or Courtyard, the Terrace, a changing area, audio equipment, and custodial services. Saturday microweddings are only available within 2 months of the event date.
PRICES: What's this going to cost?
Rental Fee
- $2,500–10,000/event
- Rental fee varies depending on:
- Day of week
- Type of event
Ceremony + Reception | $5,000–6,000
- 10-hour rental Saturday, 8-hour rental Friday or Sunday
- Use of Parish Hall, Parish Courtyard, Sanctuary, and dressing area
- Commercial kitchen and outdoor cooking area
- Venue staff, rehearsal, and custodial service
- Audio equipment and market lighting
Ceremony Only | $2,500–4,000
Includes use of the Sanctuary, Parish Courtyard, or Jefferson Courtyard.Reception-Only | $3,000–5,000
Includes use of Jefferson Hall & Jefferson Courtyard, or Parish Hall & Courtyard.Full Venue Rental | $10,000
Available Saturday only, and includes 14-hour use of all venues listed above: Parish Hall, Parish Courtyard, Sanctuary, Jefferson Hall & Courtyard, Outdoor Terrace & Labyrinth, commercial kitchen, and Blake Lounge & Kitchenette.
Equipment packages (to include tables, chairs, setup & teardown, etc.) range $400–1,800.
Additional Info
See link below for additional details.
Capacity
Indoors | Outdoors | ||
---|---|---|---|
Ceremony | Seated | 285 | 200 |
Cocktails, etc. | Standing | 220 | 220 |
Reception | Seated | 110 | 200 |
Meetings | Total meeting capacity for this venue is 150. |
Venue Details
Site Uses
- Ceremony
- Outdoor Ceremony
- Wedding Receptions
- Outdoor Reception
- Rehearsal Dinner
- Special Events / Parties
- Business Functions / Meetings
- LGBTQ+ Friendly
Essential Info
Price
$ • $$
Catering
Preferred list
BYO
Alcohol
BYO
All alcohol must be served by a licensed caterer or bartending service.
Amplified Music
Indoors
Outdoors
Some restrictions
Wheelchair Access
Wheelchair accessible
Availability
Year-round. Monday–Saturday 9am–10pm; Sunday 3pm–10pm.
Venue Type
Buildings & other settings available:
- Chapel / Church / Temple
- Garden
- Historic / Landmark Building
- Patio / Deck / Terrace
Venue Views
Peep the views you’ll enjoy from this venue!
- Fountain / Water Feature
- Garden
- Mountains
- Other View
- Park
Map
Send an email to Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara
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Alternate Info: USSB Unitarian Church of Santa Barbara Unitarian Society Santa Barbara