Cielo Farms Weddings | The Complete Epic Guide!

7 May, 2023

Cielo Farms Wedding – Your Epic Guide!

Are you planning your Cielo Farms wedding? I'm a Los Angeles wedding photographer who has documented 200+ weddings. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the rich history, unique features, and breathtaking event spaces of Cielo Farms, ensuring that your big day is nothing short of magical.

Three Fascinating Facts About Cielo Farms

Cielo Farms is a sprawling 30-acre property, providing ample space for unforgettable wedding celebrations.
The estate boasts its very own vineyard, producing exceptional wines exclusively for Cielo Farms Malibu weddings.
A popular location for film and television productions, Cielo Farms has been featured in numerous popular shows and movies.

Who Is a Cielo Farms Wedding Perfect For?

Cielo Farms is perfect if you're looking for a gorgeous Tuscan-inspired estate. The estate is located on thirty acres of land and is surrounded by expansive views of the majestic Santa Monica Mountains. It's a serene getaway that is perfect for any wedding day celebration in Malibu.

This is the perfect wedding venue for you if you're looking for good wine, scenery, and landscaping. Located at the venue is The Barn Tasting Room where you can enjoy a glass of the finest crafted wine with panoramic mountain views.

Important Info When It Comes to a Cielo Farms Wedding

One of the most important tips that I can give you about having a Cielo Farms Wedding is all about lighting. Cielo Farms has absolutely no shade whatsoever and is located at the top of a hill in Malibu. Long story short, it gets *very* bright here. With that being said, I recommend being cautious about what season you choose to have your wedding here. Especially if you're planning on having a summer wedding, it can get insanely hot since the sun hits the hill directly. I encourage bringing along umbrellas and fans to your wedding at Cielo Farms wedding. Especially during the summer months to avoid overheating.

Keeping this in mind, it's also to make a mental note about how this lighting will affect your wedding portraits. Mid-day portraits paired with the beaming harshness of our California sun can make for overly bright wedding portraits. If you choose to tie the knot at Cielo Farms Malibu during the summer months, I recommend shooting portraits more toward the golden hour. You are able to get a beautiful golden glow and not have to feel like you are completely melting away!

Best Locations for Cielo Farms Photos

If you're planning on having a Cielo Farms wedding, you, of course, have to know the best photo locations!

Head To The Open Fields

Surrounding you are open acres of land for you and your partner to explore for portraits. With views of the valley and vineyards going on for what feels like miles, utilizing Cielo Farms' open land is enough to really get those "wow" factor images.

In The Vineyards

Since Cielo Farms prides itself on its homemade wine, it only seems fitting to use the vineyards as a perfect photo location on your wedding day. Bring along your SO and even your wedding party and run through the fields of grapes! It's a beautiful view that you will never forget.

The Outlook

The Outlook is where most couples have their gorgeous outdoor wedding ceremony at Cielo Farms. In this case, the Outlook serves as a perfect photo location for you and your boo. Enjoy the views of the Santa Monica Mountains and the valley behind you and your breath will quite literally be taken away.

The Stone Arch

This stone arch offers an enchanting setting for your wedding photos, with ivy-covered walls and magical lighting.

The Pond

Capture the serene beauty of the pond and its surrounding gardens, creating a peaceful and intimate atmosphere for your wedding photos.

Tips for Having an Epic Cielo Farms Wedding

There are plenty of ways to have an absolutely epic Cielo Farms Wedding. Here are just a few of my recommendations:

Coordinate Transportation

Because of Cielo Farm's remote location, it's a trickier venue to get to. Coordinate transportation for your guests to and from the venue, such as shuttles or carpooling options, as parking may be limited.

Offer Shade for Guests

Since this venue is at the top of a mountain, it can get really hot. Consider providing sunscreen, umbrellas, or parasols for your guests, as outdoor events at Cielo Farms can be sunny and warm.

Be Prepared for Changing Weather

Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Malibu can experience cool evenings and occasional fog. Providing blankets or heaters for your guests can ensure their comfort throughout the event.

Invest in a wedding planner/coordinator

While to some of you, this may seem like an extra expense, a wedding planner/coordinator can save you a ton of time, worry & stress. They help you organize your thoughts, keep in mind your wedding budget and ensure that on the day of your wedding, everything is running according to plan.

Hire a live band specializing in your preferred music style

Hire live music - such as jazz, swing, or classic rock, to create a lively atmosphere during your reception. Consider a string quartet or harpist for your ceremony or cocktail hour.

Set up a dance floor beneath the stars on the cocktail terrace

Complete the look with string lights and a DJ to keep the party going all night long.

Wedding Themes that Complement a Cielo Farms Wedding

Rustic Elegance

Combine the natural beauty of Cielo Farms with refined, rustic elements such as wooden farm tables and soft pastel floral arrangements.

Wine Country Romance

Embrace the vineyard setting with a wine country-inspired theme featuring wine barrel accents, deep red and burgundy florals, and a farm-to-table menu. Opt for a timeless wedding dress with a structured, A-line silhouette, sweetheart neckline, and delicate lace accents that complement the romantic setting of

Modern Minimalism

Infuse your Cielo Farms wedding with neutrals and minimalistic/sleek decor.

Cielo Farms Wedding Menu Ideas

Farm-to-Table Feast: Showcase the bounty of California with a locally-sourced menu featuring seasonal ingredients, artisanal cheeses, and fresh produce from nearby farms.
Wine Pairing Dinner: Elevate your dining experience with a carefully curated menu designed to complement the exceptional wines produced by Cielo Farms' vineyard.
Coastal California Cuisine: Embrace the seaside setting with a menu featuring fresh seafood, such as a raw bar, grilled fish, and a selection of California-inspired dishes.
Family-Style Italian Feast: Bring warmth and conviviality to your wedding reception with a menu featuring homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and rustic Italian desserts. This cuisine complements the tuscan architecture of the venue.

Wedding Favors Inspired by Cielo Farms

Custom Wine Bottles

Gift your guests a taste of Cielo Farms' vineyard with custom-labeled bottles of the estate's wine, complete with a personalized note of gratitude.

Olive Oil

Present your guests with bottles of locally-sourced olive oil, reflecting the region's agricultural richness and the Mediterranean-like climate of Malibu.

Succulents

Offer your guests a sustainable and eco-friendly wedding favor with potted succulents, which will serve as a long-lasting reminder of your special day.

Personalized Wine Corks

Celebrate your love for wine and Cielo Farms' vineyard by gifting your guests personalized wine corks, customized with your names and wedding date.

Cielo Farms Faqs

What is the capacity of a Cielo Farms wedding in Malibu?

Cielo Farms is an idyllic wedding venue in Malibu that can comfortably accommodate up to 200 guests.

Can couples hold both their ceremony and reception at Cielo Farms?

Yes, Cielo Farms provides stunning locations for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. Couples can exchange vows in the vineyard or at the Stonehaus, an elegant space featuring a stone fireplace and floor-to-ceiling windows, before moving on to the reception at the majestic Tuscan Villa or open-air patio.

How long is the rental period for a Cielo Farms wedding?

Cielo Farms offers a 12-hour rental period for weddings, which typically includes setup and breakdown time. Couples have the flexibility to customize the event timeline according to their preferences, ensuring they have ample time to enjoy their special day.

Is there on-site parking available at Cielo Farms for wedding guests?

Yes, Cielo Farms provides on-site parking for wedding guests, ensuring a convenient and stress-free experience for everyone attending. The venue can accommodate up to 100 cars, with additional street parking available nearby.

Are there accommodations for guests near Cielo Farms in Malibu?

While there are no accommodations directly on the property, there are plenty of nearby options for guests to choose from. Cielo Farms is located near a variety of hotels, inns, and vacation rentals, ensuring your guests have comfortable lodging options close to the venue.

Can couples bring their own vendors for a Cielo Farms wedding?

Cielo Farms allows couples to bring their own vendors, such as photographers, videographers, and florists. However, for catering and bar services, the venue requires that couples choose from their list of preferred vendors to ensure a high-quality and consistent experience.

Are there any restrictions on decorations at Cielo Farms?

Cielo Farms allows couples to personalize their wedding with decorations that align with their vision, with a few exceptions. Open flames are not permitted, and couples must adhere to the venue's guidelines regarding setup and breakdown times. Additionally, all decorations must be approved in advance by the venue.

How can couples book a Cielo Farms wedding in Malibu?

Couples interested in hosting their wedding at Cielo Farms can contact the venue directly by phone or email to check availability and schedule a tour. Once they have decided on a date, a signed contract and deposit are required to secure the booking.

Cielo Farms Wedding Cost

The wedding cost of a Cielo Farms wedding can be influenced by what season you choose to get married. Believe it or not, many wedding venues will offer different rates depending on the season. Typically, the rule of thumb is peak season (April - October) will typically be more expensive than a non-peak season (November - March).

In the case of Cielo Farms, here is a breakdown of their wedding costs:

Peak Season: Friday & Sunday is around $13,500 while Saturday is around $16,500

Non-Peak Season: Friday & Sunday is around $12,500 while Saturday is around $14,500

Featured Offers at Cielo Farms

At Cielo Farms, they offer a wide variety of amenities which makes it such a premier Malibu wedding venue. Some of the featured offers at the venue include accommodations for:

Menu Design
Rental Needs
Tables, chairs, and linens
On Site Parking
Valet Services
Lighting
Event Design
Bridal Loft

There are plenty of customizable features for your wedding package at Cielo Farms. This is all determined by what exactly you're looking for on your wedding day!

Cielo Farms Weddings Guest Capacity

Knowing how many guests will be attending your wedding will help in projecting the overall cost of your wedding day. Luckily though, a good indicator of how much you are willing/can spend is all by how many guests are attending your wedding venue! In the case of Cielo Farms, they have a 200 max guest capacity.

Wedding Event Spaces at Cielo Farms

The Bridal Suite

Prepare for your big day in the elegant and spacious bridal suite, featuring ample natural light and luxurious amenities.

The Groom's Quarters

Relax and get ready with your groomsmen in the well-appointed groom's quarters, complete with comfortable seating and a private outdoor area.

The Ceremony Lawn

Exchange your vows on the lush, manicured ceremony lawn, framed by stunning views of the vineyard and surrounding hills.

The Cocktail Terrace

Treat your guests to a memorable cocktail hour on the charming terrace, with breathtaking views and ample space for mingling.

The Reception Barn

Dance the night away in the rustic yet refined reception barn, featuring high ceilings, exposed beams, and romantic lighting.

Pros of Having a Wedding at Cielo Farms

Breathtaking views of Malibu's rolling hills and vineyards
Multiple picturesque event spaces for a seamless wedding experience
On-site accommodations for the wedding party
Exclusive use of the estate for your wedding day
A stunning backdrop for unforgettable wedding photos
Access to a curated list of preferred vendors
Exceptional wine offerings from the on-site vineyard

Cons of Having a Wedding at Cielo Farms

A higher price point compared to some other local venues
Limited guest capacity (maximum of 200 guests)
Pets are generally not allowed, except for service animals or with prior approval
May require additional planning for transportation and accommodations due to its remote location

Cielo Farms Wedding Send-Off Ideas

Sparkler Send-Off: Light up the night with a magical sparkler send-off, as you and your partner make your grand exit from your Cielo Farms wedding.
Eco-Friendly Confetti: Celebrate your new beginning with a shower of eco-friendly confetti or biodegradable petals, ensuring a memorable and environmentally-conscious send-off.
Wine Cork Toss: Pay tribute to the venue's vineyard setting with a unique wine cork toss, as guests shower you with personalized wine corks as a keepsake from your special day.
Vintage Car Getaway: Bid farewell to your guests as you drive off into the sunset in a classic vintage car, marking the perfect end to your Cielo Farms wedding celebration.

10 Fun Activities Near Cielo Farms for Wedding Guests

If you're having guests attend your wedding from out of town, here are 10 local activities they can enjoy over the weekend!

Wine tasting at local Malibu wineries
Hiking in the nearby Santa Monica Mountains
Beach excursions at nearby Malibu beaches
Exploring the Malibu Pier
Visiting the historic Adamson House
Shopping at Malibu Country Mart
Surfing lessons at world-famous Malibu Surfrider Beach
Exploring the Getty Villa museum
Dining at Malibu's premier oceanfront restaurants
Taking a scenic drive along the iconic Pacific Coast Highway

Getting Ready Locations Near Cielo Farms in Malibu, California

Cambria Hotel Calabasas - A gorgeous hotel located just 13 minutes away from the Cielo Farms. It's beautifully decorated and has some stunning scenery and architecture and making it a prime getting-ready location for the day of your wedding.

Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village - Another getting-ready location about 14 minutes away from Cielo Farms is the Four Seasons Hotel in Westlake Village. This Malibu-based hotel is set at the foothills of the Santa Monica Mountains and right in between Malibu's sunny beaches and vineyard. It's relaxing and refined and just what you need the morning of your wedding.

Nobu Ryokan Malibu - Feeling fancy? Then I highly recommend checking out Nobu Ryokan Malibu, a 5-star hotel located just a short distance from Cielo Farms. An intimate Malibu hotel that was built surrounding the idea of Japanese minimalism. It's your perfect getaway escape for the morning of your wedding.