Summer is in full force, which means HELLO, wedding season! Despite living in Orange County, where the weather is pretty tolerable compared to others- I still get giddy when the temperature increases, the days get a little longer, and you don’t have to wear the thickest wetsuit you own. Summertime also means a booked-up schedule with weddings left, right, and center- but I wouldn’t have it any other way. With a surplus of weddings under my belt, I had the chance to shoot at this lovely venue relatively new to Southern California; The Grand Gimeno wedding venue. Because this wedding venue just recently opened, I thought it would be nice to do a little spotlight blog and give you the complete 411 on everything you need to know!

Location

The Grand Gimeno wedding venue is nestled in the heart of Old Towne Orange, California, encircled by antique shops, restaurants, and historical districts. Inspired by its Spanish roots, the building’s design encapsulates its authentic Spanish history while being influenced by modern-day design- a truly unique space.

Versatile Spaces

Indoor Spaces

One of the biggest things I loved about the Grand Gimeno is its diverse range of spaces to choose from and use. It has a beautiful foyer with warm lighting that creates a welcoming vibe paired with natural cedar beams and a high ceiling. If you need a place to touch up and get ready, have no fear! Their powder room is designed to fit every girl’s dream. With modern rounded couches, natural lighting, and long countertops for makeup and hair equipment, this powder room is DREAMY! If you need a parlor to lounge around while your party is getting ready, this is the place to do it. With a small kitchen set up and a comfy three-seated couch, the parlor is an excellent place for the groom and the groomsmen to do their thing before meeting the ladies. Not to mention the glamorous grand central space for those choosing to host an indoor wedding. Tons of windows for natural light, high ceilings, simple chandeliers, and tons of seating for those wanting to host a PARTY! 

Outdoor Spaces

The Grand Gimeno wedding venue is fantastic because it also has a great selection of outdoor spaces. A beautiful expansive, open courtyard with rounded arches, white outdoor couches, strung patio lights, and a stunning outdoor fireplace. This space does not disappoint. The beauty about this particular outdoor venue is that it can fit a variety of wedding styles: rustic, boho, classic, etc. The courtyard is a stunning space with an easy-going vibe. If you aren’t convinced already, here is the kicker- the place has an olive grove where guests can dine under magnificent olive trees. With food and drink preparation spaces as elegant as these, sitting down for a drink doesn’t sound too bad!  

Amenities Offered

Let’s be honest- planning a wedding can be SO stressful, especially if it’s your first time. The Grand Gimeno offers a variety of different amenities and accommodations for future and potential guests as a way to relieve stress. They allow guests to come three hours before an event to prepare and set up; they also have convenient on-site parking and provide tables and chairs. They also only focus on one event at a time. This ensures guests that the venue is adequately prepared for each reservation.

Food and Drink

If you’re worried about what you’ll serve your guests, worry no more. The Grand Gimeno provides catering services for those lost in that department! With two different menu options to choose from, guests can choose from a diverse selection of appetizers, entrees, desserts, and of course, drinks. Their catering services include uniformed staff, utensils, table cloths, etc. If you are a big fan of barbecue, you’re in luck. They also offer an Asado menu with different selections of barbecued food (nothing screams summer like barbecued food!). The beauty about their catering services is that the company, Jays Kitchen, believes that everyone, despite financial positions, should have the opportunity to taste world-class food. An excellent motto that is highly respectable!

Furthermore

The Grand Gimeno is seriously a breathtaking venue with lots to offer! As a wedding photographer, I am always on the lookout for venue’s to reccomend. The Grand Gimeno was an absolute pleasure and I hope to be back there soon!