The Langham Huntington, Pasadena 1401 South Oak Knoll Avenue • Pasadena • California 91208

How do you define elegance? One possible answer is The Langham Huntington, Pasadena. Since its unveiling in 1914, this legendary hotel has been a favorite for high-profile events, celebrity soirées and discerning world travelers. Lavishly renovated in the early '90s by Ritz-Carlton, the Huntington legacy continues to flourish under its new owner, Langham Hotels Group, one of the oldest and most prestigious hoteliers in the world.

Couples planning their once-in-a-lifetime event might begin in the Horseshoe Garden behind the hotel. Originally the main entrance, today it's the most striking vantage point from which to appreciate the Huntington's imposing architecture: The building's stone façade and balustrades strike a classical pose against the contour of the San Gabriel foothills, which echo the hotel's timeless grandeur. Center stage is a broad stone landing with twin staircases that sweep down toward a sprawling manicured lawn. This spectacular park-like enclave, dotted with colorful blooms, swaying palm trees and lush greenery, invites you to dream large for your wedding ceremony—make a fairytale entrance in a horse-drawn carriage, a classic Rolls Royce, or even atop a beribboned elephant!

In contrast, the sequestered Japanese Garden has a quiet, almost mystical beauty. A step-down waterfall pond is spanned by a curved footbridge, a charming spot for an intimate ceremony. Here, whispered endearments mingle with the sound of trickling water, evoking an aura of enchantment. Overlooking the garden's border, the weathered wooden trestle of the old Picture Bridge lends a turn-of-the-century nod to the serene setting.

Yet there's nothing understated about the hotel's posh interior. A stroll along marbled hallways takes you past priceless artwork and antiquities—Chinese porcelain, portraits from the era of Gainsborough, and hand-painted ceiling murals, for example. Several glass-walled corridors frame a view of the Courtyard, an outdoor haven where blossoming pear trees fringe a tranquil pond. Relaxed yet refined, the Courtyard is the just the place for a chic cocktail hour.

Next, host an impeccably serviced reception in one of the hotel's sumptuous ballrooms. The historic Georgian Ballroom feels palatial, with its soaring arched ceiling, stained-glass windows, and gorgeous pear-shaped chandeliers, each one fashioned of thousands of brilliant crystals and ringed with candelabra-style lights. Or consider the storied Viennese Ballroom, featuring a vaulted ceiling edged in gold and a glittering constellation of crystal chandeliers designed by the same atelier that crafted the chandeliers in the palace of King Ludwig II of Bavaria. If you prefer the natural glow of stars and moonlight, then stage your festivities on the Viennese Terrace, an open-air expanse that takes advantage of Pasadena's warm summer nights. The hotel's newest addition is the super-sized Huntington Ballroom that lets you fête 650 guests in swanky style. Many a high-society gala has graced these ballrooms over the decades, and it takes no imagination at all to envision the gleam of silver and fine china, the swirl of satin gowns and the lighthearted laughter that will accompany your own celebration at such an incomparable establishment.

Add to this cornucopia of luxury even more delights! The award-winning Chuan Spa pampers with signature treatments inspired by traditional Chinese medicine and cutting-edge skincare technology. Then there's the outstanding dining offered by the Royce Wood-fired Steakhouse and the Terrace, as well as afternoon tea in the Lobby Lounge. And, of course, the plush accommodations provide serene havens for your guests. Yes, The Langham Huntington, Pasadena does indeed seem like the quintessential definition of elegance.