Diamond Bar Center 1600 Grand Avenue • Diamond Bar • California 91765

From the moment the Diamond Bar Center opened, it garnered raves and it's easy to see why. Designed to blend into its surroundings, this serenely modern venue is actually quite a standout. Taking a cue from iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work, this city-owned facility incorporates natural materials, clean lines and large expanses of glass to both take advantage of and become part of its hilltop setting in Summitridge Park. Atop its lovely perch within the 26-acre recreation area (which abuts 250 additional acres of wild preserve), the Center affords sweeping vistas of tranquil gardens, hiking trails and city lights down below, making it feel like a deluxe retreat that's remarkably close to three major counties.

If you have your ceremony here, your day will probably start at the aptly named Wedding Oval. You'll make your entrance down a long, covered walkway, bordered by white iceberg roses as well as iris. From this site, you and your guests will be able to see the San Gabriel Valley and, depending upon the time of year, you might even catch a glimpse of snow on the mountains.

Continue to drink in the panoramic views while enjoying cocktails and hors d'oeuvres on the center's wraparound patio, or head inside to mingle in the foyer. Either way, you can keep the ballroom doors closed until you're ready for dinner…and the big "reveal." The soaring, two-story-tall ballroom seems even more spacious, thanks to its coffered ceiling and expansive windows. Organic stonework in shades of sandstone and dusky adobe adds visual drama to some of the walls. The large room has a raised center stage with a dropdown screen and everything you need to present an audiovisual show. It also features customized zone and accent lighting, which allows you to control the level of light inside so that everyone can see the city sparkle in the distance.

For a more intimate gathering, use just a section of the ballroom, or consider the similarly styled Pine Room or Sycamore Room, which has its own patio for that indoor/outdoor flow. Whichever space you choose, the entire facility provides an elegant, minimalist backdrop for you to decorate. Flexibility is key here, so you have enormous freedom to bring in your choice of professional catering services, flowers, decorations, etc., that best match your vision and your budget. But remember, the Diamond Bar Center is very popular and books up fast, so reserve early!