Looking for dreamy Central Coast wedding venues? Well, you’re in luck, welcome to The Penny! Tucked away in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, The Penny offers an idyllic and historic setting for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience. In this blog, we’ll walk you through our venue spaces, showcase our unique amenities & inclusions, and answer some FAQs.
Address: 664 Marsh St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Embracing Coastal Charm on Your Big Day
The Allure of Central Coast Wedding Venues
On the Central Coast, you are spoiled for choice with locations that boast a quintessential Californian beauty. We’re lucky to host some of the most spectacular weddings, each infused with its unique charm and character—at our industrial indoor/outdoor venue.
We’ve created this helpful map so you can make the most of your wedding day (or weekend) in downtown San Luis Obispo. Check out hotels and attractions nearby, explore the city’s parks and hiking trails, and indulge in delicious local treats and cocktails.
Introducing The Penny: A Gem in the Heart of California
Situated in downtown San Luis Obispo, The Penny is a renowned wedding venue celebrated for its prime location, customizable venue spaces, exceptional decor closet, and dedicated onsite team. More than just your average vineyard or barn wedding, our historic venue offers couples an unforgettable setting to exchange vows and celebrate their love. Featuring a spacious open floor plan, our venue effortlessly blends industrial chic with the charm of the outdoors with our lush courtyard. Ideal for weddings, receptions, parties, corporate events, photo shoots, productions, corporate retreats, and MORE, The Penny provides unmatched flexibility when it comes to venue rental options.
Historical Elegance Meets Modern Luxury
Stepping into The Penny, you’re immediately swept up into a narrative of historical elegance. With its roots stretching back to the 19th century, this venue marries the quaint charm of yesteryear with current luxury, ensuring a wedding experience that’s both timeless and contemporary. You’ll find the venue’s past whispered in the original brick walls while modern luxuries speak through chic décor and state-of-the-art facilities.
Tailoring Your Perfect Wedding at The Penny
Indoor and Outdoor Spaces for Wedding Ceremonies and Receptions
- Historic Indoor Space: Step back in time and immerse yourself in our historic indoor space, a captivating glimpse into the 1930s. Spanning over 2,000 square feet, this urban sanctuary can comfortably accommodate up to 125 seated guests or 300 standing. Preserving the venue’s rich heritage as a former blacksmith shop, guests are greeted with a sense of nostalgia and charm. Original hollow clay brick walls exude warmth and texture, while high ceilings adorned with weathered beams add character. Natural light filters through leaded glass windows, casting a soft glow throughout the space. An all-glass roll-up door seamlessly connects the indoor ambiance with the inviting outdoor patio, creating a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor allure.
- Outdoor Courtyard: Step into our outdoor courtyard, where modern landscaping, lush greenery, and the rustic backdrop of a 1930s barn set the stage for unforgettable moments. Whether hosting your wedding ceremony, company cocktail hour, or reception, this unique setting offers a picturesque backdrop against the vibrant urban cityscape. As dusk falls, bistro lights twinkle overhead, casting a magical ambiance over the surroundings.
- Bridal Lounge and Showroom: Your journey at our venue begins in the vibrant bridal lounge and eclectic showroom, designed for pre-ceremony relaxation and celebration. Here, you and your closest companions can unwind and indulge in the excitement of the day ahead. Capture precious moments in our photo-ready spaces as you prepare to embark on the most memorable day of your life.
Customizable Options For a Personal Touch
We believe that your wedding should be as unique as your love story. That’s why The Penny provides a canvas for your imagination with customizable options that allow you to personalize every detail. From the layout of the space to the choice of décor, you’re empowered to tailor the ambiance to your exact liking. Whether you dream of a rustic, boho-chic vibe or a sleek, modern affair, we offer endless possibilities to make your vision a reality. So go ahead, and let your personality shine through every element of your big day.
Planning Made Simpler
Our Onsite Amenities
- Explore over 2,200 sq ft of historic brick interior
- Step out onto a private landscaped patio spanning over 1,600 sq ft
- Exclusive access to a wide range of specialty rentals and decor
- Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces adorned with bistro lighting
- Enjoy a gorgeous bridal lounge and showroom space
- ADA-accessible venue space and bathrooms for inclusivity
- Dedicated on-site event staff and security for peace of mind
- Benefit from thoughtfully curated vendor suggestions
- Surround yourself with abundant indoor plants for a touch of greenery
- Convenient catering area for seamless meal service
- Custom-built modern tables and chairs for comfort and style
- Stylish custom-built bar for beverage service
- On-site security for added safety
- Stay connected with WiFi and ample power hookups throughout the venue
Luxe Decor Closet
Enter our decor closet and immerse yourself in your destination wedding vision, where you’ll find a world of bespoke decor and eclectic accent furniture, each carefully curated to complement any style and theme. Explore our extensive inventory of rental pieces, allowing you to infuse your wedding day with a personalized touch. Whether you’re seeking unique photo opportunities or creating a cozy space to relax with your guests, our collection enhances the overall aesthetic of your celebration.
Photographic Opportunities at The Penny
Your memories will be beautifully captured against The Penny’s picturesque backgrounds. The venue’s architecture, with its aged brick walls and beam ceilings, provides an idyllic industrial-chic canvas for your wedding photos. Venture outside, and you’ll find that the courtyard, aglow with string lights, creates an ethereal setting for romantic evening shots. Plus, every corner of The Penny seems to whisper its own story, offering a variety of opportunities to immortalize your day through stunning and emotive photography.
Success Stories From The Penny
We’ve witnessed a tapestry of love stories unfold within The Penny’s embrace, each distinct and deeply personal. Couples often share how the versatile spaces allowed them to create the wedding they’d always envisioned, with our team supporting them every step of the way.
“I had a phenomenal experience booking and planning my sister’s bridal shower at the Penny. It was an absolutely beautiful venue even to the smallest detail – from the industrial chic atmosphere of the entire building to the unbelievable glamour and class of the bathrooms as well. The owner was kind and professional and helped us make everything run smoothly on the day of the event which was much appreciated.”
FAQs: Answers to Your Central Coast Queries
What is the capacity of The Penny?
The Penny can comfortably host your celebration with a capacity for up to 125 guests, creating the perfect atmosphere for both intimate and sizable gatherings.
What is the pricing of your packages?
To learn about our pricing details get in touch with our team by clicking the button below and filling out our website form. As we offer customizable packages tailored to meet your specific needs and budget, these amounts can vary. After a quick consultation, we’ll be happy to provide you with all the information you need to start planning your dream wedding at The Penny!
What is the Central Coast?
This picturesque area extends from Point Mugu to Monterey Bay. Ventura, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Monterey Bay collectively form the four distinct regions that define the charm of the Central Coast.
Are there any other wedding venues nearby?
Yes, venues like Flying Caballos Ranch, Santa Margarita Ranch, Ancient Peaks Winery, Higuera Ranch, Paso Robles Inn, Rincon Beach Club, and La Lomita Ranch are on the Central Coast.
What are some other nearby places and attractions?
- San Luis Obispo County
- California Wine Country
- Paso Robles Wine Country
- Avila Beach
- Big Sur Coast
- Pismo Beach
- Santa Cruz
- Carmel Valley
- San Miguel
What kind of events does The Penny host?
- Corporate Events: These gatherings typically include meetings, conferences, team-building activities, and networking sessions aimed at achieving business objectives and fostering employee engagement.
- Holiday Parties: Festive celebrations held during holidays such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Halloween, and Thanksgiving, bringing colleagues, friends, and family together for joyous occasions.
- Workshops: Interactive sessions where participants learn new skills, gain knowledge, and engage in hands-on activities led by experts or instructors.
- Birthday Parties: Celebrations held to commemorate an individual’s birthday, featuring food, drinks, entertainment, and often themed decorations.
- Rehearsal Dinners: Pre-wedding gatherings where family and friends of the bride and groom come together for a meal, speeches, and socializing before the wedding day.
- Cocktail Parties: Stylish events characterized by socializing over cocktails and hors d’oeuvres, often held for networking, celebrations, or product launches.
- Celebrations: Generic term encompassing various events such as anniversaries, graduations, retirements, and milestone achievements, marked by festivities and jubilation.
- Photo Shoots: Sessions where professional photographers capture images for personal or commercial purposes, including portraits, fashion, product, and editorial photography.
- Product Launches: Events organized to introduce new products or services to the market, showcasing features, and benefits, and generating excitement among potential customers and stakeholders.
- Networking Events: Gatherings designed for professionals to establish and nurture connections, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations or business opportunities.
- Seminars: Educational events featuring lectures, presentations, and discussions on specific topics, allowing participants to learn from experts and engage in dialogue.
- Charity Fundraisers: Events held to raise funds and awareness for charitable causes, often including auctions, raffles, performances, and other fundraising activities.
- Award Ceremonies: Formal events recognizing and honoring individuals or organizations for achievements, contributions, or excellence in various fields.
- Team-Building Activities: Exercises and challenges designed to enhance collaboration, communication, and cohesion among team members, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
- Trade Shows: Exhibitions where companies showcase their products, services, and innovations to industry professionals, potential clients, and the public.
- Art Exhibitions: Displays of artwork, including paintings, sculptures, photographs, and installations, allowing artists to showcase their talent and creativity to a wider audience.
- Concerts: Live performances by musicians and bands, ranging from intimate gigs to larger-scale events, offering entertainment and cultural experiences to audiences.
- Film Screenings: Screenings of movies, documentaries, or short films for entertainment, educational, or promotional purposes, often followed by discussions or Q&A sessions with filmmakers.
- Fashion Shows: Runway presentations showcasing the latest trends in clothing, accessories, and fashion design, attended by industry professionals, media, and fashion enthusiasts.
What is the weather like seasonally in SoCal?
Season |
Temperature (F) |
Precipitation |
Spring |
60-75 |
Low to Moderate |
Summer |
70-90 |
Low to None |
Fall |
60-80 |
Low to Moderate |
Winter |
50-65 |
Low to Moderate |
Contact Us
Feel free to get in touch with us at The Penny for any inquiries or to schedule a visit to our unique venue. Whether you’re planning a corporate event, holiday party, workshop, or any other special occasion, our team is here to assist you every step of the way. You can reach us by clicking on the button below and filling out the contact form on our website. We look forward to helping you create unforgettable memories at The Penny!