Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara 1535 Santa Barbara Street • Santa Barbara • California 93101


Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara

1535 Santa Barbara Street
Santa Barbara, California 93101
WEBSITE

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Why You'll Love This Place

A Here Comes The Guide Wedding Venue Review
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Directly across from the blossom-filled Alice Keck Park Memorial Garden is the Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara, a historic, nondenominational church with a long tradition as a wonderful wedding location. Their beautiful Sanctuary evokes a peaceful sense of divine mystery, and the congregation’s inclusive philosophy makes this venue a congenial gathering place, perfectly suited for life’s celebrations. Unitarian Universalists support one another on their various spiritual paths, and are nonjudgmental, compassionate and socially conscious. As you and your soul mate begin your own lifelong journey together, consider letting the tranquil surroundings of the Unitarian Society provide you with a memorable send-off.

The Unitarian Society campus includes the Sanctuary, a Reception hall, a Terrace and two Gardened Courtyards. Designed and built in 1930 in the city’s signature Spanish-Revival style, the Sanctuary’s rustic glamour is enhanced by antique architectural elements: Vintage lantern-style light fixtures are suspended from the vaulted ceiling’s open beams. The original wooden pews are flanked by lofty, rectangular stained-glass panels in subdued shades of pale blue and honey, each inscribed with the name of a famous Unitarian freethinker like essayist Ralph Waldo Emerson. At the front of the Sanctuary, the chancel is softly illuminated by a breathtaking stained-glass rose window in radiant jewel tones; a smaller rose window looks out over balcony seating at the rear. The Sanctuary conveys a momentous yet joyful ambiance, and its quality acoustics make music sound even more dramatic. Hire one of their recommended musicians, and walk down the aisle to the impressive sound of the Sanctuary’s genuine 1,500-pipe organ or Steinway concert piano. Couples of any faith or sexual orientation are invited to pledge their love in this glorious space, a welcome solution for interfaith marriages and same-sex unions.

Following the ceremony, guests often enjoy an open-air social hour in the pretty Jefferson Courtyard. A brick patio flanked by twin lawns crowned with olive saplings is a delightful spot to toast the newlyweds; then, while refreshments are served, bridal parties can sneak across the street for photos in the park. A second-story terrace lets guests survey the festivities below. Tucked in one corner of the courtyard, a semiprivate enclave with a labyrinth and small amphitheater invites cozy conversations.

Outdoor receptions are usually held in the Parish Courtyard at the front of the facility. Lovely and serene, this bricked garden plaza offers a spacious yet intimate environment for up to 200 guests. Well-placed foliage provides filtered shade, and at the right time of year a grand magnolia tree shows off delicately fragrant flowers. A triple-arched breezeway is a perfect place for the bar and, once the sun sets, ambient lighting lends a romantic luster to the idyllic setting.

Through the breezeway lies the newly refurbished Parish Hall, an attractive banquet room with a high ceiling. Earth-toned walls bring out the room’s Mission-style flavor and complement a large stained-glass window (similar to the Sanctuary panels). The hardwood floor is great for dancing, and a proscenium stage puts the entertainment on display. Recent upgrades include an audiovisual system, and behind the scenes your caterer cooks up a feast in a professional kitchen.

Flexible, welcoming, and aesthetically pleasing, the Unitarian Society continues its legacy as host to unforgettable events.

Prices: What's this going to cost?


Rental Fee
  • $1,450–3,990/event
  • Rental fee varies depending on:
    • Time of day
    • Space reserved
    • Event duration
    • Type of event

Capacity

Indoors Outdoors
Ceremony Seated 285 200
Cocktails, etc. Standing 220 220
Reception Seated 110 200
Meetings Total meeting capacity for this venue is 150.

CEREMONY CAPACITY: The Sanctuary holds 285 seated guests; the courtyard 200 seated.

EVENT/RECEPTION CAPACITY: Indoors, the site holds up to 110 seated; outdoors 200 seated.

MEETING CAPACITY: Spaces are available that accommodate up to 150 seated guests.


Venue Details

Site Uses

  • Ceremony
  • Outdoor Ceremony
  • Wedding Receptions
  • Outdoor Reception
  • Rehearsal Dinner
  • Special Events / Parties
  • Business Functions / Meetings
  • LGBTQ+ Friendly

Essential Info

Price

$ • $$

Catering

Preferred list
BYO

Alcohol

BYO

Amplified Music

Indoors
Outdoors
Some restrictions

Wheelchair Access

Wheelchair accessible

Availability

Year-round, daily. Monday–Saturday 9am–10pm; Sunday 3pm–10pm.

Venue Type

Buildings, other structures, and natural settings available at this venue:

  • Banquet Hall / Events Facility
  • Chapel / Church / Temple
  • Garden
  • Historic / Landmark Building
  • Patio / Deck / Terrace

Venue Views

Peep the views you’ll enjoy from this venue!

  • Fountain / Water Feature
  • Garden
  • Mountains
  • Other View
  • Park

Services & Amenities

Feel like a VIP with these services and amenities:

Catering: select from list or BYO
Kitchen Facilities: new commercial kitchen
Tables & Chairs: CBA
Linens, Silver, etc.: BYO
Restrooms: wheelchair accessible
Dance Floor: provided indoors
Bride’s Dressing Area: yes
AV/Meeting Equipment: some provided
Parking: on street and valet CBA
Accommodations: no guest rooms
Outdoor Night Lighting: CBA
Outdoor Cooking Facilities: BBQ CBA
Cleanup: CBA
View: gardens, park, mountains
Other: grand piano; vocalists and organist CBA

Restrictions

But take note of the following limitations!

Alcohol: BYO, licensed server only
Smoking: not allowed
Music: amplified OK with restrictions
Wheelchair Access: yes
Insurance: one-day liability policy required


Map

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Wedding Venues  >  Southern California Wedding Venues  > Santa Barbara County Wedding Venues

Alternate Info: USSB Unitarian Church of Santa Barbara Unitarian Society Santa Barbara