Padua Hills Theatre 4467 Padua Avenue • Claremont • California 91711

Ensconced in the chaparral-covered foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains is the Padua Hills Theatre, a landmark banquet facility with a significant cultural past. The theatre was built in the 1930s as a centerpiece for a community of local artists, and Claremont residents made a tradition of attending dinner theatre in the lovely Spanish-Colonial building. In the early ‘70s the theatre became a historic site, and by the early ‘80s it began hosting private special events under the expert direction of Chantrelles Fine Catering. Lavishly renovated in 2008, the theatre is more impressive than ever. It’s no wonder wedding couples flock here to wed on the tranquil grounds and entertain their friends and family with Old World panache.

Staged against the mountainous silhouette of the Angeles National Forest and overlooking a wilderness preserve, events at the Padua Hills Theatre enjoy a picturesque rural setting. The buildings and landscape capture the simple allure of vintage California, with red-tile roofs, brick and flagstone. As your guests arrive, they walk beneath a long arbor hugged by olive trees and perfumed by jasmine. At the entrance, they’re treated to a refreshing glass of iced lemon water and a romantic melody playing in the background.

Three sites offer a variety of ceremony settings. In the Plaza Courtyard, located to the right the arbor, brick and stone paths amble among olive trees, manicured shrubbery and terracotta pots brimming with blooms. Couples say “I do” beneath a unique wrought-iron gazebo. The courtyard is also a versatile option for receptions. You can host an al fresco cocktail hour next to a blazing fireplace, or a sumptuous dinner with linen-draped tables, Chiavari chairs and the sparkle of twinkle lights.

The breathtaking Sunset View Terrace wraps around the banquet hall and provides a spectacular vista. As the sun sets over the densely forested canyon and the city lights begin to shimmer on the horizon, it becomes the perfect backdrop for a ceremony and wedding photos (you’ll want to pose next to the terrace’s beautiful fountain, too!). If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a hummingbird or a baby deer, out for a stroll in the fresh mountain air.

From the terrace, French doors open into the Garner Dining Room, where guests mingle over cocktails and delicious hors d’oeuvres. The room’s original hardwood floors give off a rich luster, and the ceiling’s open beams can be decorated to suit any occasion. A neighboring alcove also has doors to the terrace, as well as a built-in bar covered with painted Spanish-style tiles. On the upper level of the Garner Room is an oversized fireplace that warms the space during the winter months.

Dinner is served in the stunning Theatre Ballroom, with a vaulted ceiling, wrought-iron chandeliers and the original wall sconces. Lining the walls are hand-carved mirrors framed by rich draperies, lending an overall impression of grandeur. The room’s design enables each guest to witness everything that takes place: the first dance, cake cutting, bouquet toss, etc.

Your hosts at the Padua Hills Theatre are renowned for their delectable gourmet fare, themed buffets and elegant presentation. They’re also experienced event planners, so relax. In their hands your celebration will unfold as smoothly as a professional theatrical production—but you’ll get all the applause.