Looking for breathtaking Morro Bay wedding venues near the coast? Just 14 miles away in the charming town of San Luis Obispo, The Penny offers an idyllic setting for your special day. With its stunning views near the Pacific Ocean, charming rustic ambiance, and exceptional amenities, our venue provides a picturesque backdrop for creating unforgettable memories. Whether you envision a serene outdoor ceremony or an elegant indoor reception, The Penny near Morro Bay seamlessly blends natural beauty with timeless elegance, making it an ideal choice for couples seeking a romantic and unique wedding destination.
Address: 664 Marsh St. San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
The Penny: A Wedding Destination Dream
Located in the vibrant heart of downtown San Luis Obispo, The Penny enchants with its unique charm. Featuring an expansive open floor plan, this venue beautifully blends industrial chic with the appeal of an outdoor courtyard. Ideal for weddings, receptions, parties, corporate events, photo shoots, productions, and workshops, The Penny provides unparalleled flexibility with both venue-only and all-inclusive rental packages.
Diverse Venue Spaces For Every Couple’s Style
Historic Indoor Space
Step into our urban indoor venue, a beautifully preserved piece of the 1930s. Originally a blacksmith shop, this 2,000+ square foot space can host 125 seated guests and up to 300 standing. The venue retains its historic charm with original hollow clay brick walls, high ceilings featuring weathered beams, and natural light streaming through leaded glass windows. An all-glass roll-up door seamlessly integrates the indoor area with the inviting outdoor patio.
The Outdoor Courtyard
Modern landscaping, lush green walls, and the original 1930s barn backdrop create a distinctive setting for weddings, cocktail hours, or receptions. As night falls, bistro lights illuminate the space, casting a magical glow over the vibrant urban cityscape.
The Bridal Lounge
Your special day begins the moment you arrive at our stunning venue, ready for a beautiful wedding celebration. The vibrant bridal lounge and eclectic showroom offer a perfect space for pre-ceremony relaxation and fun. Enjoy capturing special moments with your bridal party in our photo-ready areas as you prepare for the most memorable day of your life.
Our Unique Offerings and Packages
At The Penny, we offer a range of wedding packages designed to cater to your unique vision and needs. Whether you prefer the flexibility of our Venue Only Package or the comprehensive convenience of our All-Inclusive Package, we ensure every detail is meticulously planned and executed. Explore our packages below to find the perfect fit for your special day, and let us help you create unforgettable memories in our stunning, historic venue.
*If you’re viewing this on mobile, flip your phone sideways.
|
Venue Only Package |
All-Inclusive Package |
|
Exclusive access to an extensive list of specialty rentals and decor. Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces with bistro lighting. Gorgeous bridal lounge and showroom space. ADA-accessible venue space and bathrooms. Dedicated and experienced on-site event staff and security. Thoughtfully curated vendor suggestions. Abundant indoor plants. Catering area. Custom-built modern tables and chairs. On-site security. WiFi and ample power hookups. |
Full-service catering served buffet-style. Dessert or donut bar with assorted sweets. Tableware (plates, glasses, flatware, etc.). Catering equipment (chilling tubs, serving platters, etc.) Comprehensive wedding coordination. Exclusive access to an extensive list of specialty rentals and decor. Indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception spaces with bistro lighting. Gorgeous bridal lounge and decor showroom space. ADA-accessible venue space and bathrooms. Dedicated and experienced on-site event staff and security. Staffing to set up and break down all items. Waitstaff for serving. Abundant indoor plants. Custom-built modern tables and chairs. WiFi and ample power hookups. Optional floral packages. |
Making Your Selection: Things to Consider
Capacity and Amenities – Finding the Best Fit For Your Special Day
- On-Site Venue Liaison: Our dedicated on-site venue liaison ensures that your event runs smoothly from start to finish. This experienced professional is available to help with all aspects of your event, providing support and coordination on the day to make sure everything goes according to plan.
- Tables and Chairs For Large or Small Events: As a rough estimate, we can host up to 125 guests for an indoor seated dinner, 75 for an outdoor luncheon, and up to 300 for a combined indoor/outdoor cocktail-style event. If you require additional seating, we offer rental options to accommodate larger parties, ensuring all your guests are comfortably seated.
- WiFi: High-speed WiFi is available throughout the venue, allowing you and your guests to stay connected. This service is perfect for live streaming your event, sharing photos in real time, or simply ensuring seamless communication.
- Custom Wooden Bar: Our venue features a custom-built wooden bar that adds a rustic yet elegant touch to your event. The bar is fully equipped to handle all your beverage service needs, ensuring your guests enjoy a premium drinking experience.
- Private Outdoor Patio: Enjoy exclusive access to our private outdoor patio, an ideal space for mingling, cocktail hours, or simply relaxing. The patio offers a charming atmosphere with comfortable seating and beautiful surroundings.
- Bistro Lighting Outside: Our outdoor area is adorned with bistro lighting, creating a warm and inviting ambiance as the sun sets. These twinkling lights add a touch of magic to your evening events, enhancing the overall experience for you and your guests.
- ADA Accessible Space and Restrooms: Our venue is fully ADA accessible, including restrooms, ensuring that all guests, regardless of mobility, can comfortably and safely enjoy the event. We prioritize inclusivity and convenience for everyone attending.
- Plentiful Indoor Plants: The venue is decorated with abundant indoor plants, bringing a touch of nature indoors. These plants not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also contribute to a fresh and vibrant atmosphere.
- Set Up and Break Down of All Venue-Owned Items: Our team takes care of the setup and breakdown of all venue-owned items, allowing you to focus on enjoying your special day. This service ensures that everything is perfectly arranged before your event and efficiently cleared away afterward, providing a hassle-free experience.
Theme and Atmosphere – Matching the Venue With Your Vision
Your wedding theme and the atmosphere you want to create are the essence of your big day; the venue is the canvas on which you’ll paint your memories. Is your heart set on a fairytale romance in a castle-like setting or a sophisticated soiree in a modern loft? Maybe you’re dreaming of a laid-back beach vibe or an opulent ballroom affair. Morro Bay has venues to match every theme from rustic barns nestled in the countryside to elegant estates with manicured gardens, and industrial warehouses for a trendy, urban feel. You must contemplate what these spaces offer in decor and vibe, looking for those that require minimal alterations to make them our own. After all, the less you have to add, the more you can immerse in the authentic atmosphere of your chosen venue, letting your wedding theme shine.
Local Vendors and Services: The Complete Package
Morro Bay’s local vendors and services cater to every facet of your wedding needs, making it a breeze to coordinate the finer details of your day. We’re talking about a smorgasbord of choices from skilled caterers who can tantalize your taste buds with local flavors, to florists who weave the natural beauty of Morro Bay into stunning floral arrangements. Bands and DJs with the ability to create the perfect soundtrack for your wedding, and photographers and videographers adept at capturing the magic of the moment are readily at hand. Not to forget, the wedding planners with the prowess to bring it all together seamlessly, and beauty professionals who ensure you look and feel your best. With such a comprehensive array of services, we can effortlessly create a wedding ensemble that not only meets but exceeds our expectations.
Insights from Newlyweds: Tips and Recommendations
Newlyweds who’ve basked in the beauty of Morro Bay on their wedding day often have pearls of wisdom to share. They recommend taking advantage of the natural scenery for breathtaking photo ops; Morro Rock and the shoreline offer picture-perfect backdrops. It’s wise to book venues and vendors early, as the best in Morro Bay get snapped up quickly. Consider the timing of your wedding carefully – while summer offers stunning sunsets, off-peak seasons might provide a more intimate feel and better rates. They emphasize the importance of visiting potential venues at the same time of day as your planned event to get the truest sense of lighting and ambiance. Lastly, they suggest incorporating local seafood and wines into your menu for a true taste of the Central Coast that your guests will savor.
Testimonials
Reviewed by Morgan M.
I got married at The Penny in September and it was such an incredible experience working with Anelise and the team from start to finish. We toured venues from Sacramento, CA to the Bay Area to Paso and a few others in SLO but fell in love with The Penny and their rental inventory from our very first visit. Their team made our wedding day go so seamlessly and we loved working with our vendor team from their preferred list of partners! Our guests loved the convenient location downtown and had a blast walking to the bars on Higuera after our reception ended.
Reviewed by Shannon W.
We wanted to say thank you so much to the Penny and all the staff for what a wonderful job they did for our wedding! The Penny team handled everything so well leading up to and during our big day which allowed us to relax and have the most wonderful day celebrating with our family and friends. Our Penny wedding coordinator, Anelise, and her team were so welcoming and the absolute best to work with. They had the perfect energy for our event and we felt right at home having our wedding there. Highly recommend the Penny and working with Anelise & the Penny team for your wedding or any event! Such a lovely space in downtown SLO!
FAQs: Planning Your Central Coast Wedding
What factors to consider while selecting a wedding venue?
When selecting a wedding venue, several crucial factors need to be considered to ensure that it meets your needs and vision for the big day. Here are some key points to consider:
- Accessibility: Ensure the venue is easily accessible for your guests, considering travel time and transportation options.
- Proximity to Accommodations: Check if there are hotels or lodging nearby for out-of-town guests.
- Setting: Decide whether you prefer a city, countryside, beach, or mountain location based on your wedding theme and style.
- Guest List: Confirm the venue can comfortably accommodate your estimated number of guests.
- Layout: Check if the venue’s layout supports your planned activities, such as the ceremony, reception, and dance floor.
- Cost: Determine if the venue fits within your budget, including any additional fees for services or rentals.
- Inclusions: Understand what is included in the venue price (e.g., tables, chairs, linens, catering).
- On-Site Coordination: See if the venue provides an on-site coordinator to help with event planning and execution.
- Catering: Check if the venue offers in-house catering or if you need to hire an external caterer.
- Bar Services: Confirm if the venue provides bar services and what packages are available.
- Aesthetic: Ensure the venue matches your wedding theme and personal style.
- Decor Flexibility: Check how much you can personalize the space with your decorations.
- Indoor/Outdoor Options: Consider if the venue has both indoor and outdoor spaces in case of inclement weather.
- Climate Control: Ensure the venue has heating or air conditioning, depending on the season.
- Parking: Ensure there is ample parking for guests or valet services available.
- Accessibility: Confirm that the venue is ADA-compliant and accessible for all guests.
- Restrooms: Ensure there are enough restrooms for the number of guests and that they are easily accessible.
- Noise Restrictions: Check for any noise ordinances or restrictions on amplified music.
- Vendor Policies: Understand if the venue has preferred vendors or if you can bring in your own.
- Alcohol Policies: Be aware of any restrictions on serving alcohol.
- Feedback: Read reviews and testimonials from other couples who have used the venue.
- Recommendations: Get recommendations from your wedding planner or recently married friends.
- Walkthroughs: Schedule a visit to the venue to see the space in person and visualize your event there.
- Meet Staff: Meet with the venue staff to ask questions and gauge their responsiveness and professionalism.
- Date Availability: Check if the venue is available on your desired date.
- Flexibility: See how flexible the venue is with changes in plans or accommodating special requests.
Can I host a beachfront wedding in Morro Bay? Are there any restrictions?
While we’re not located on a beach, there are venues that can host beachfront weddings in Morro Bay, providing a picturesque ocean backdrop for your big day. It’s important to be aware that public beaches may require permits, and there could be restrictions on things such as sound levels, catering, and decor installations. For a seamless experience, consider working with a wedding planner familiar with the local beach regulations to ensure all details are addressed, and your ceremony aligns with the coastal environment’s preservation. Private beachfront venues may offer fewer restrictions and typically provide more amenities for a beach wedding.
What are some nearby places and attractions?
- Cambria
- Santa Margarita
- Avila Beach
- San Luis Bay
- Atascadero
- San Luis Obispo County
- Pismo Beach
- Paso Robles Wine Country
- Cayucos Beach
- San Simeon
- Morro Bay Harbor
- Margarita Vineyard
- Baywood- Los Osos
What events can be celebrated at The Penny?
- Corporate events
- Weddings
- Holiday parties
- Workshops
- Staff retreats
- Birthday parties
- Rehearsal dinners
- Cocktail parties
- Club events
- Celebrations
- Photo shoots
- Product launches
- Networking events
- Seminars
- Charity fundraisers
- Award ceremonies
- Team-building activities
- Trade shows
- Art exhibitions
- Music concerts
- Film screenings
- Fashion shows
What are some other Morro Bay wedding venues?
Some of the most popular wedding venues near Morro Bay include charming barns and elegant ranches like Flying Caballos Ranch, Santa Margarita Ranch, and La Lomita Ranch which offer a rustic yet chic atmosphere. Vineyards and wineries are sought after for their romantic settings amidst rolling hills. Additionally, the tranquil park and garden venues provide lush landscapes ideal for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. Each location offers a unique perspective on this coastal town’s natural beauty, ensuring that every couple can find a space that resonates with their vision for their special day.
When is the best time to plan a wedding in California?
*If you’re viewing this on mobile, flip your phone sideways.
|
Season |
Average Temperature (°F) |
Precipitation (inches) |
Best Wedding Time |
|
Spring |
50-70 |
1-2 |
Ideal for outdoor weddings with blooming flowers and mild weather. |
|
Summer |
70-90 |
0-1 |
Perfect for beach and waterfront weddings; warm weather with minimal rain. |
|
Fall |
60-80 |
0-2 |
Great for scenic vineyard or garden weddings with pleasant temperatures. |
|
Winter |
40-60 |
2-4 |
Best for indoor venues; enjoy off-peak rates and holiday themes. |
Plan With Us
For those dreaming of a coastal wedding, The Penny which is very close to Morro Bay offers an array of stunning venues that capture the natural beauty and charm of the California coastline. From breathtaking ocean views to unique and charming locations, these venues provide the perfect backdrop for a memorable celebration. Whether you prefer a rustic downtown ceremony or a sophisticated indoor reception. Ready to find the perfect venue for your big day? Schedule a tour today and take the first step towards making your dream wedding a reality.
