Grand Tradition Fallbrook Wedding Venue Guide
I have shot a lot of weddings in Temecula, as well as throughout Southern California. After a while most venues start to blur together. Grand Tradition does not.
Located in Fallbrook about 45 minutes north of San Diego, this place has 30 acres of manicured gardens, a heart shaped lake, cascading waterfalls, and two completely different ceremony and reception spaces on the same property. The first time I drove through the gates I genuinely did not expect what I found. The Grand Tradition is just one of those awesome all-inclusive wedding venues.
I have photographed weddings at both the Beverly Mansion and the Arbor Terrace multiple times over the years. This guide is my honest take on both. What I love, what to watch out for, what it costs, and everything else you need to know before making a decision.
Arbor Terrace Ceremony Location
This is my favorite of the two and it is not close.
You walk into this space and it just does not look like Southern California. Tropical blooms everywhere, a massive multi cascade rock waterfall as your ceremony backdrop, and this constant ambient sound from the water features that makes the whole thing feel completely removed from the outside world. The first time I shot here I remember thinking this does not feel real.
The reception happens in the open air Arbor Pavilion right next to the ceremony site. Stone and granite bar, outdoor fireplace, another waterfall. The whole setup flows naturally from ceremony to reception which makes my job easier and your day feel less choppy.
Gabe and Jaymee got married here and they brought their own decor into the space which worked beautifully. That is one of the things I like about this side of the venue. You can make it your own without fighting against what is already there.
Go see it in person before you make a decision. Seriously.
Beverly Mansion Ceremony Location
f the Arbor Terrace is for the free spirits, the Beverly Mansion is for everyone else. And I mean that as a compliment.
Heart shaped lake, a lakeside gazebo, formal gardens, grand staircase, Swarovski crystal chandeliers in the ballroom. This side of the venue is flat out elegant and makes no apologies for it. Ben and Viktoria chose it because they wanted a classic estate feel with a proper sit down dinner and that is exactly what they got.
The reception was one of those nights where everything just worked. Full dance floor, great cocktail hour, guests having a blast. The floral team styled the crystal ballroom beautifully and Viktoria’s veil in that space is genuinely one of my favorite photos I have taken at this venue.
Worth knowing. There is a horse and carriage entrance available on this side which I have seen done a handful of times and it never gets old. The grounds around the lake also give you a ridiculous amount of variety for portraits without ever having to leave the property.
If you are leaning toward Beverly Mansion just go tour it in person. Standing next to that lake with the mansion behind you tells you everything you need to know.
Grand Tradition Wedding Cost
Pricing at Grand Tradition runs between $145 and $185 per person depending on the day of the week and the package you choose. Weekdays and Sundays come in lower than Saturdays so if you have flexibility on your date that is worth exploring.
Here is what is included in the base packages. Eight hour rental, in house catering, Chiavari chairs, linens, flatware, stemware, China, tray passed hors d’oeuvres, buffet dinner, champagne toast, tended cash bar, dressing suites, complimentary parking, outdoor lighting, and event coordination. That is a solid list and covers most of what you actually need to pull off a wedding without losing your mind.
What is not included. Florists, your kick ass Temecula wedding photographer (hi), videographers, and other outside vendors. Plan for those separately.
One thing worth noting. There is a 23 percent service charge on top of the per person pricing which catches a lot of people off guard when they see the final number. Factor that in early so there are no surprises when you get the contract.
Guest minimums are 75 for Monday through Thursday, 100 for Friday and Sunday, and 125 for Saturday.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a guest minimum?
Yes. Monday through Thursday is 75 guests, Friday and Sunday is 100, and Saturday requires 125.
What is included in the packages?
Quite a bit actually. Private venue, parking, dressing suites, golf cart assistance, seating, audio equipment, buffet dinner, cake cutting, champagne toast, tended cash bar, and professional staff. The little finishing touches like champagne flutes, cake knife, flower girl basket, and ring bearer pillow are also covered.
Can I have an outdoor ceremony?
Yes and both venues offer it. Beverly Mansion overlooks the heart shaped lake with a lakeside gazebo and Compass Garden waterfall. Arbor Terrace has the tropical garden setting with the dramatic multi cascade waterfall as your backdrop.
Does Grand Tradition do catering?
All catering is in house. Outside kosher and ethnic catering is allowed with approval which is worth knowing if you are planning a cultural celebration.
What are the photo locations at Grand Tradition?
The Grand Tradition offers a wealth of photo opportunities. The heart-shaped lake, lush gardens, grand staircase, Beverly Mansion, and Arbor Terrace all provide picturesque backdrops for your wedding photos. Remember to choose a true wedding photographer familiar with the Fallbrook, CA venue. Why? Because they know all the best photo spots on the property!
Can we have our rehearsal dinner at the Grand Tradition?
Yes, the Grand Tradition can host your rehearsal dinner, as well as bridal showers and engagement parties. Their dedicated events coordinator and staff will ensure that every event leading up to your wedding day runs smoothly.
What do previous brides say about their experience at Grand Tradition?
The Grand Tradition Estate & Gardens has received rave reviews from past brides, with a 4.9 out of 5 stars rating on The Knot from over 150 brides who had a real wedding on the property. This indicates a high level of satisfaction and positive experiences from choosing Grand Tradition as their wedding venue.
