Make it a Perfect Day for You

If a church wedding with garden reception doesn't appeal to you, then plan your non-traditional wedding around the things that matter most to you. With or without the pomp and circumstance, you can make your wedding day truly your own.

Some things to keep in mind when planning your unique wedding:

• There are no rules here, so relax, get creative and let your personality shine through
• You don't have to start from scratch; sometimes a non-traditional wedding simply means giving old traditions a new twist that's more in sync with your style
• Wearing attire that matches your theme can be less expensive than a traditional bridal gown, plus you might be able to wear it again
• Unfortunately, you should be prepared for some adversity for doing something that isn't wholly traditional

One-of-a-kind San Diego wedding locations:

San Diego Zoo and San Diego Zoo Safari Park

If the idea of having giraffes and gorillas in the background of your wedding photos sounds exciting, this might be the place for you. Perhaps you envisioned sharing your first married kiss overlooking a vast savanna while herds of rhinos, giraffes, and gazelles roam in the distance or in a lush tropical setting on the edge of a lagoon filled with rare birds. From animal print linens to exotic entertainment, and even the occasional furry visitor, a zoo wedding is sure to drive your guests wild.

SeaWorld San Diego

Maybe you met at the beach, or share a love of scuba diving. If so, SeaWorld San Diego is a natural spot to take the plunge. Imagine having your wedding ceremony adjacent to the graceful manatees, followed by a reception at the ever-popular Penguin Encounter. Other possibilities include the dramatic Shark Encounter and Rocky Point Preserve, home to playful dolphins and sea otters. The park can provide full service catering, a dance floor and complimentary parking for guests.

House of Blues San Diego

House of Blues San Diego is a premier restaurant and entertainment venue located in the downtown business district with the ambiance of an old Southern Delta Juke Joint. The 30,000-square-foot site features indoor and outdoor space, offering a dynamic setting for weddings with the best in live music and great eclectic cuisine. You can serve your guests their famous Southern specialties seasoned with a touch of the Delta, or create your own unique menu.

Birch Aquarium

Celebrate your special day with an ocean theme at Birch Aquarium. Imagine an outdoor wedding on Tide Pool Plaza overlooking La Jolla Shores at sunset followed by an indoor reception surrounded by Pacific marine life in more than 60 habitats.

Petco Park

A baseball lover's wedding dream can come true at Petco Park, home of the San Diego Padres. Take to the mound for an all-American wedding ceremony, followed by a baseball-themed reception on the playing field. Hand out signed baseballs for wedding favors, and have guests sign a custom baseball jersey or home plate in lieu of a guest book. The Petco Park staff can even arrange for a current Padres player to make a guest appearance at your event.

On the Water

Say your vows against the backdrop of San Diego's beautiful skyline.  Many of San Diego's boat tour providers can create elegant weddings on the water. Packages can include catering, beverage service, floral arrangements, entertainment and even help selecting a photographer.  Many captains are also able to officiate.  A few to explore are Adventuress Luxury Catamaran, Hornblower and Flagship Cruises.

Hot Air Balloon Ride

The coastal communities just north of downtown San Diego are among a few places in the world where hot air balloons can fly both at sunrise and sunset, providing wonderful opportunities for romance in the sky. How about holding an intimate ceremony high above the shores of San Diego or lifting off right after the ceremony? The possibilities seem endless, and all end with a champagne toast and some tasty goodies on land.

Center Stage Wedding

If theatre is your passion, why not get married on stage with your wedding as act one and the reception as act two? With professional lighting, sound and theatrical effects at your fingertips, your once-in-a-lifetime event can be as dramatic as you like. San Diego theatre choices include the North Park Observatory, Lambs Players Theatre, Horton Grand Theatre and California Center for the Arts, Escondido.

Find additional information for planning your destination wedding at Resources for Getting Married in San Diego.