At True Photography, we’ve had the pleasure of working at some of San Diego’s most beautiful wedding venues. In this post we want to highlight one of our favorites: The Prado at Balboa Park.
The Prado at Balboa Park
Located in the heart of San Diego, Balboa Park is an iconic landmark that’s home to numerous museums, gardens, and cultural attractions. The Prado is a historic building in the park that has been beautifully restored and is now a popular wedding venue.
Firstly, the architecture of The Prado is stunning. The building was originally built for the 1915 Panama-California Exposition and has since been designated a National Historic Landmark. The Spanish Colonial Revival style of the building features intricate tile work, colorful murals, and ornate details that make for a stunning backdrop for wedding photos.
Ceremony/Reception options:
Because The Prado offers a variety of unique spaces it’s perfect for capturing those special moments. The courtyard outside of The Prado is a popular spot for ceremonies and receptions. The space is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers, and the fountain in the center makes for a picturesque focal point. We love to capture the newlyweds in front of the fountain or amidst the greenery.
The indoor spaces at The Prado are just as beautiful as the outdoor areas. The Grand Ballroom is a spacious and elegant room that’s also perfect for large receptions. The high ceilings, ornate chandeliers, and intricate details make for a grand and romantic setting. We love to capture shots of the bride and groom on the dance floor, surrounded by their loved ones and the beautiful décor.
Another unique space at The Prado is the Alhambra Room, which is a smaller, more intimate space for weddings. The room features a beautiful fireplace and intricate tile work, which creates a warm and cozy atmosphere. We love to capture candid shots of the couple and their guests mingling in this space.
Photography Opportunities:
Additionally, one of the biggest advantages of The Prado as a wedding venue is its location in Balboa Park. The park is filled with endless opportunities for beautiful wedding photos. From the botanical gardens to the Spanish Village Art Center, there are countless stunning backdrops to choose from. As photographers, we love to take advantage of the park’s beauty and capture shots of the newlyweds in front of some of its iconic landmarks.
Lastly, in terms of logistics, The Prado is a great venue for weddings of all sizes. The Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 350 guests, while the Alhambra Room can accommodate up to 120 guests. An outdoor courtyard is perfect for ceremonies and receptions. The venue also provides catering and bar services, which makes planning easier for couples.
Overall, we highly recommend The Prado at Balboa Park as a wedding venue. Its stunning architecture, unique spaces, and beautiful surroundings make for a magical wedding day. Additionally, as photographers, we love the endless opportunities for capturing beautiful and memorable moments at this venue. If you’re looking for a San Diego wedding venue that’s both elegant and unique, The Prado at Balboa Park should definitely be on your list. Check out our Prado gallery for more wedding inspiration!