Read: Mission de Tolosa Wedding Dreams | Walk to Your Reception in San Luis Obispo

Congratulations, lovebirds! So you’re engaged and looking for something classic and meaningful that still feels modern and like you…

Let me introduce you to the perfect San Luis Obispo + Mission de Tolosa wedding combo: a timeless ceremony at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa followed by an unforgettable reception at The Penny, just a five-minute stroll away.

Talk about something old and something new! 💒✨

A Tale of Two Venues | Planning Your Downtown SLO Wedding

@sunandsoulphoto Since i meant to actually make a reel…. Tiktok is not my friend. Spent the day in SLO with Z & S for their beautiful & intimate Fall wedding. They choose to have their ceremony at Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa as its a family tradition they wanted to keep. Z even wore his dads leather loafers that he had passed down to him. Getting married here wasn’t even a question for them. It brought many memories of nostalgia for his family who was their as many of them had exchanged their vows in the same place. Their ceremony was followed by having an intimate reception at their families in the hidden hills of the countryside of SLO with incredible serene views. It was truly the perfect day. #s#sanluisobispon#napavalleyc#californiaweddings#socalw#weddingtiktok ♬ original sound – ally salort

Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa isn’t just another pretty church – it’s a slice of California history that’s been witnessing love stories since 1772. As the fifth mission founded in California, this stunning landmark brings serious “wow” factor to your wedding photos (and your guests’ Instagram feeds!).

Mission Magic

Founded in 1772 by Father Junípero Serra, Mission de Tolosa is an iconic SLO landmark…

• Known as the “Prince of Missions” for its beauty
• Features unique “L” shaped church design
• Historic gardens perfect for photos
• Stunning altar and chapel featuring handpainted murals
• Downtown location in the heart of SLO

Fun Facts For the History Nerds 📚

• Named after Saint Louis of Anjou, Bishop of Toulouse
• Built with the help of local Chumash people
• Once housed a booming cattle and wheat operation
• Survived fires and pirate attacks (talk about resilience!)
• Still serves as an active parish today

The Perfect “I Do” Flow

1. Begin with historic charm at the Mission
2. Take stunning photos in the Mission gardens (subtract from that floral budget)
3. Stroll through downtown SLO’s charm (hello, photo ops!)
4. Arrive at The Penny for your reception
5. Dance the night away in urban-chic style and walk to the many hotels or bars nearby to keep the party going

Planning Your Mission Ceremony |The Need-to-Knows ✍️

Important note: The Mission requires…

• Six months advance notice of the sacrament date
• Parish membership (current or recent) or immediate family connection
• Completion of marriage preparation and counseling
• Engaged Encounter Retreat attendance before the sacrament of holy matrimony (think of it as marriage bootcamp, but fun!)

Why The Penny is Your Dream Reception Space 🌟 After Your Mission de Tolosa Wedding

In the Heart of SLO

Imagine…

• A 5-minute walk from the Mission (your first walk as newlyweds!)
• Central location but fully private
• Easy access for guests
• Close to hotels and nightlife

All-Inclusive Magic

Take a peek at some of the features and inclusions that make us stand out amongst other San Luis Obispo wedding venues…

• 2,200 sq ft of historic brick interior
• 1,600 sq ft private landscaped patio
• Full-service catering
• Bar services from Sidecar Cocktail Co 🍸
• Extensive decor closet to fit a variety of color palettes and themes
• Comprehensive coordination
• Custom-built modern layouts with furnishings
• Setup and breakdown
• Waitstaff and security
• & more!

Photo Timeline Goals 📸

• 1:00 PM: Getting ready shots at Mission
• 3:30 PM: First look in Mission gardens
• 4:00 PM: Ceremony begins
• 5:00 PM: Family photos at Mission
• 5:30 PM: Couple photos downtown
• 6:00 PM: Reception begins at The Penny

History Deep Dive

What makes Mission San Luis Obispo so special?

This historic gem was built to serve the local Chumash people and Spanish settlers. The Chumash were integral to the Mission’s success, contributing their skills in construction, farming, and crafts.

The Mission underwent several rebuilds and renovations over the years, mainly due to fire damage. Fun fact: its unique L-shaped design was added to accommodate a growing congregation! Today, it stands as a testament to California’s rich history while serving as an active parish offering sacramental matrimony, baptism, confirmation, and first holy communion.

3 More Fascinating Facts

1. The Mission’s garden features plants from the original 1700s era
2. It was the first Mission to use tile roofing
3. The Mission plaza hosts many of SLO’s major events

FAQs Your Mission + Penny Questions Answered

Can we take photos inside the Mission?

Yes, of course, during designated times with your photographer.

How many guests can the Mission accommodate?

The Mission can seat 200+

What’s the walking route to The Penny?

A charming 5-minute stroll through downtown SLO’s historic streets. Use this time to soak it all in; you’re married!

Can The Penny help coordinate with the Mission?

Absolutely! Our coordinators are very familiar with Mission weddings.

What if it rains?

Both venues offer beautiful indoor spaces – no weather worries!

Making History Together 👰🤵

Your love story deserves a backdrop as timeless as the Mission and as unique as The Penny. From sacred vows in a historic sanctuary to dancing under bistro lights in our garden patio, this perfect pairing of venues creates an unforgettable wedding day with SO much local love.

Ready to write your own chapter in SLO’s history? Contact us by clicking the button below and filling out our website form and reach out to the parish office and email Corina Onato at conato@oldmissionslo.org.

Let’s add to SLO history together! 💍