Christmas House 9240 Archibald Avenue • Rancho Cucamonga • CA 91730

All the quaint pleasures we associate with a Victorian Christmas—old-fashioned elegance, warm family gatherings, and a childlike sense of wonder—are available year-round at the Christmas House Inn, a historic landmark that received its yuletide moniker thanks to the extravagant holiday parties hosted by its early owners.

Built in 1904, the three-story mansion is a charming example of the Queen Anne-style favored by late Victorian architects. After a meticulous and loving restoration, it still maintains its authentically romantic feel, boasting all of the original stained-glass windows and gorgeous woodwork—the seven Victorian fireplace mantels are each made of a different wood, and accented with Italian tiles and beveled glass mirrors.

Wedding parties will definitely feel at home in the Celebration Suite, the comfortable upstairs dressing room replete with fireplace, lacy adornments, and an abundance of mirrors. There's another unique dressing space downstairs, too: The Butler's Quarters, created with a vintage English pub in mind, features rock walls, leather club chairs around a flatscreen TV, a game table with vintage poker chips, and a dart board in the wine cellar.

Outdoor ceremonies are set in The White Garden, a classic European walled garden lined with Indian Hill Laurel Trees and over 200 white rose bushes. The focal point is a French wire "Birdcage" gazebo, where the couple exchanges vows to the sound of a fountain trickling in the background.

Another option is to follow Victorian tradition and say "I do" in front of the parlor's hearth, decked with shimmering candles. As the accompanist plays the processional on the grand piano, glide down the carved, redwood burl staircase to say your vows before your family and friends, gathered close enough to hear every word. After the ceremony, guests may stroll through the house and grounds while savoring tray-passed hors d'oeuvres in the lovely rose garden, on the shady veranda, or in the the house itself.

When everyone returns to the garden for the reception, they'll find tables and chairs elegantly set with floor-length linens and gleaming glass and cutlery. Dinner is served beneath the leafy boughs of magnolia and guava trees strung with twinkle lights. The newlyweds share their first dance in the adjacent garden ballroom, complete with crystal chandeliers, multiple grand carved mirrors, and classic topiaries. (More intimate weddings of 30 to 50 guests may be held inside the house.)

Among the most endearing attractions of the Christmas House are the six distinctive guest rooms. The luxurious honeymoon suite comes with a fireplace, a private garden courtyard with hot tub, and a delicious breakfast the morning after. Add in the affordable packages that include gourmet catering and other extras, and this venue becomes simply irresistible.