Eden Gardens Weddings • Moorpark • California 93021

Equal parts enchanted forest and tropical oasis with a large helping of event-friendly amenities, Eden Gardens is two acres of "wow" from the moment you step inside the private gates.

An arched entryway beckons you deep into fairyland. Here, lush, meandering paths canopied in greenery yield surprises at every turn: a waterfall that feeds a running brook … vintage birdcages aglow with luminarias … urns brimming with blooms … a covey of wedding-white peacocks. Down one walkway, you'll find yourself among a series of fantastical aviaries alive with sound and color. Vivid parrots engage in friendly chatter (Arturo se habla espanol!), while lovebirds and rosy-cheeked cockatiels trill a sweet serenade. A clearing serves as a pre-event welcome station, where guests quaff lemonade amid the fluttering of doves' wings. And you haven't even arrived at the ceremony site yet!

Couples have their choice of three scenic spots. Our favorite might just be the Ceremonial Garden. A series of twinkle-lit archways entwined with colorful flowers leads to a breathtaking vision: an elevated circular stage where vows are exchanged overlooking a serene pond filled with seasonal irises and lilies. Guests view the bridal couple from their seats on manicured lawns, while an uplit waterfall cascades softly behind them. At day's end, the sunset's reflection turns the pond into a scintillating waterscape. "Dreamy" doesn't begin to describe this storybook setting.

The myriad of photogenic backdrops lures the wedding party away during the social hour, but guests won't mind—they're busy exploring several pondside terraces set with cocktail tables. As evening descends, your gathering moves on to the open-air Amphitheater, which has a cut-stone floor with a low, colorfully lit waterfall along the perimeter. Overhead, market lights merge with the starscape for maximum magic. A raised demilune stage that looks as if it was made of alabaster is perfect for showcasing the sweetheart table and wedding cake or your entertainment.

Down a nearby path, the lofty whitewashed Pavilion has the feel of an open-sided barn. A dollhouse porch off to one side is a fun spot to serve late-night snacks or the wedding cake.

With so many delights competing for your attention, it's easy to overlook Eden Gardens' practical enhancements. For example, an abundance of specialty lighting accentuates the nighttime glamour of each fountain and event area, and many of the tree trunks are wrapped with twinkle lights. Your choice of music fills the air, thanks to a sound system discreetly wired throughout the grounds.

Eden Gardens' chosen caterer, Command Performance, is "Certified by The Guide." Experienced and caring with an expert staff, the company boasts a knowledgeable catering coordinator as well as chefs who specialize in exciting food station receptions and theme menus. Their wedding packages offer both convenience and flexibility, and customization is welcome.

For true romantics, Eden Gardens will be love at first sight, but anyone who appreciates natural beauty and exceptional services will fall under its spell.