As a Southern California wedding photographer, I’ve had the chance to visit countless beautiful locations over the years, but the Grand Gimeno wedding venue still remains one of my favorites. Its light and open feel perfectly captures the spirit of Southern California, while its timeless, classic design adds an effortless sense of elegance. Read on to learn more about the Grand Gimeno and why it might be the perfect backdrop for your celebration.
Why You’ll Love It
The Grand Gimeno is a dream for couples looking for an elegant, all-in-one wedding venue. With so many thoughtfully designed photo spaces right on the property, you won’t have to waste time traveling from place to place. This means more time to be present and celebrate with the people you love most.
The Spanish colonial revival architecture also adds an old-world romantic charm, while the grounds are beautifully constructed with no shortage of classy backdrops that I love. From the large stucco archways in the courtyard to the lush, vibrant Olive Grove, you’re surrounded by timeless design details and lush greenery. Truly, every corner of the property is photogenic, inviting you to slow down and savor each moment.
Quick Facts About the Grand Gimeno Wedding Venue
General Information
- Venue Name: Grand Gimeno
- Location: 146 N Grand St, Orange, CA 92866
- Seated Capacity: 250
- Standing Capacity: 600
- Website Link: www.grandgimeno.com
Amenities
- Complementary date holds for up to two weeks
- Tables and chairs for all your guests
- Easy guest parking on-site
- Spacious and vibrant getting-ready suites for both partners
- Flexible start time
- Full-service catering and rental services
- Pet-friendly policy
Ceremony + Reception Options
Olive Grove
A beautiful outdoor space with lush greenery, fun design details, and olive trees interspersed throughout. To me, it’s one of the best places on the entire property.
Grand Central
The main indoor event space with a high ceiling and plenty of natural light.
Where is the Grand Gimeno Wedding Venue?
Located in Old Towne Orange, in the heart of Orange County, the Grand Gimeno wedding venue is especially convenient to get to, with several airports within driving distance.
I recommend out-of-towners book a flight into John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana. It’s only about 10 miles from the venue, making it the closest and most convenient option.
Los Angeles International Airport, while a little further, is the largest airport in the area and offers the widest range of flights.
Long Beach Airport, Ontario International Airport, and Hollywood Burbank Airport are also worth considering, depending on where your guests are coming from and what their itineraries look like.
How Many Guests Can the Grand Gimeno Accommodate?
Weddings at the Grand Gimeno can include up to 250 seated guests, making it a great option for larger celebrations. In fact, it offers plenty of space for couples who want a clean slate to decorate the venue and make it truly their own. Your wedding guests will also appreciate that there’s on-site parking, as well as plenty of nearby lots in the surrounding area.
If you’re planning a cocktail-style reception without a seated dinner, the venue can accommodate up to 600 guests, perfect if your vision leans more toward a lively, open-flow evening.
How Much Does it Cost to Get Married at the Grand Gimeno?
The Grand Gimeno doesn’t publicly list its pricing. That said, most couples can expect to spend around $10,000 to $15,000 to book the venue, giving you access to its gorgeous architecture and vibrant atmosphere that embraces the history and vibe of Southern California.
Unique Amenities
One of the standout features that really sets the Grand Gimeno apart is its thoughtfully designed getting-ready suites. Their suites are spacious, beautifully furnished, and filled with natural light, which is ideal for getting ready, spending time with your closest people, and taking candid pre-ceremony photos. Access to the venue begins four hours before your event, with the option to add early access starting at 8 a.m. if you’d like a more relaxed, unrushed morning.
Tips and Advice
The Grand Gimeno is a truly versatile wedding venue that you can mold into the perfect reflection of your style. In fact, the main event space, Grand Central, is a true blank canvas with 30-foot ceilings and gorgeous natural light. Whether you want lush florals, romantic draping, or grand, statement decor, there’s room to bring your vision to life. You can create a day that beautifully reflects the love and life you’ve built together.
In terms of vendors, The Grand Gimeno has an approved list you can choose from for catering, bartending, wedding planning, and rentals. Beyond those, you’re welcome to bring in your own florists, late-night food vendors, and others, as well as your wedding cake.
Best Photo Spots at the Grand Gimeno Wedding Venue
Of course, if you are considering the Grand Gimeno wedding venue, you probably want to know what the photo spots around the property look like. I love the Olive Grove and it’s one of my favorite places to create portraits at the Grand Gimeno. It’s lush and green, with mature olive trees creating an intimate atmosphere and complementing the property’s Spanish colonial revival design. Details like string lights, a fountain, and an outdoor fireplace also add character and help accent the already inviting space.
As a photographer, I also appreciate that the Olive Grove’s light is beautiful and soft all day long. This takes the pressure off having to perfectly time your portraits or ceremony, and instead lets you stay fully present and enjoy every moment. Truly, though, the entire property is stunning, and there isn’t a bad spot for photos anywhere.
Jeny and Joey’s Wedding at the Grand Gimeno
I had the opportunity to capture Jenny and Joey’s wedding at the Grand Gimeno, and it was such a beautiful day from beginning to end. They met in college and chose to marry in Orange County, where Jenny grew up. In fact, she was raised just down the street from the venue, making it feel like a true homecoming! They also loved how convenient the location was for guests traveling in. Because the venue is close to many exciting destinations, like Angel Stadium, Disneyland, Knott’s Berry Farm, and the beach, many out-of-town loved ones turned their trip into a vacation.
On the day itself, Jenny and Joey leaned into the venue’s timeless aesthetic, adding touches of fall colors like red and orange to reflect the season. Still, they embraced the laid-back Southern California vibe, complete with an In-N-Out truck at the end of the night. I felt so lucky to capture the lovely couple and their beautiful wedding day.
The Grand Gimeno is a refined wedding venue that’s perfect for couples dreaming of an elegant Southern California celebration. From the Olive Grove’s intimate charm to the spacious, light-filled Grand Central event space, it’s a beautifully versatile space designed to help you create lasting memories. If you’re thinking of getting married at the Grand Gimeno, I would love to help you plan your ideal day—click the link below to get started.
