Red Horse Barn at Huntington Central Park 18381 Goldenwest Street • Huntington Beach • California 92648

You don't need to be more comfortable in boots than high heels to fall head-over-heels for this very special wedding and event venue. Situated on a gentle rise at the Huntington Central Park Equestrian Center (HCPEC), The Red Horse Barn has a graceful, storybook charm that's as right for a rustic farmhouse gathering as it is for a chic Derby Day.

With its sense of seclusion and unhurried vibe, this site is definitely a breath of fresh air. The property's white paddock fences, expansive terrace, broad lawns, and meticulous landscaping lend an immediate air of sophistication to the scene. The showcase-quality, ultra-elegant 10-horse stable—complete with handsome thoroughbreds—celebrates the high-end equestrian lifestyle. It's perfect for all kinds of functions, from fancy fundraisers to company shindigs, but naturally our top choice for this location is weddings.

Both wedding parties will both be well cared for here. The first dressing space can also be used for meetings, wedding showers and private parties. It features a tastefully appointed great room and bath with polished wood floors, beamed ceilings, fireplace seating, and attractive wood, suede and natural hemp furnishings. The second spacious dressing suite has the same flexibility and appealing mix of restful areas and comfortable, yet stylish, design. It strikes a somewhat softer note with lovely cream-colored accents and a full modern kitchen with granite countertops and a long breakfast bar. Both also have exactly the kind of porches you'd wish for: sweet, shady places just right for guests to sit back and relax with a tumbler of ice-cold lemonade or a glass of bourbon and branch.

For the wedding ceremony, we suggest tying the knot under the garden- and fountain-framed gazebo, though the back lawn is another inviting option. The capacious gazebo terrace is ideal for games, activities, and cocktail receptions, too, not to mention dining and dancing under the sun or stars. Add your own fanciful touches to customize this artfully arranged blank canvas. We like the idea of rustic décor and accessories here, but The Red Horse Barn's bright breezy spirit can easily accommodate any vision, be it vintage or glam.

Horse fanciers will also be happy knowing that the HCPEC's 25 acres are home to nearly 400 horses, numerous stables, and miles of public trails. Photo ops abound in various scenic natural environments, as well as at the picturesque but more formal event complex. Equine aficionado or not, you couldn't find a more vibrant setting, The Pacific with its myriad coastal delights is just two miles away, but you won't miss it in this pleasing equestrian enclave. We think The Red Horse Barn might just be the best-kept secret in Huntington Beach.