The Clarke Estate Santa Fe Springs: A Hidden Gem Wedding Venue


If you’ve been searching for a wedding venue in the greater LA area that feels a little tucked away, a little timeless, and a whole lot magical – let me introduce you to the Clarke Estate.


I had the chance to visit Clarke Estate – this beautiful outdoor venue in Santa Fe Springs – back in April, and honestly? I left completely smitten. As a wedding photographer based in Los Angeles, I’m always on the lookout for venues that photograph beautifully and make couples feel like they’ve discovered something special. Clarke Estate is exactly that.

Table of Contents


What Is the Clarke Estate?


The Clarke Estate is a historic outdoor venue managed by the City of Santa Fe Springs – and it’s the kind of place that doesn’t feel like it belongs in the middle of SoCal suburbia. Think lush greenery, open-air spaces, and a romantic atmosphere that lends itself beautifully to dreamy, emotional wedding photography.

The venue has two main areas:

  • The Courtyard, which accommodates up to 100 guests
  • The Backyard & Reception Area, which can host up to 200 guests


Whether you’re planning an intimate ceremony or a full celebration with all your people, there’s a space that fits.

Courtyard
Backyard


The Spaces & What’s Included


One of the things I love about Clarke Estate is that they keep things simple and stress-free. The rental fee includes tables, chairs, easels, a podium, a speaker and mic, plus kitchen and suite access. (Linens and cutlery aren’t included, so you’ll want to arrange those separately – but that just gives you more room to add your own personal flair!)


They only host one event per day, which means you’re not sharing the space with anyone else. The whole venue is yours, and everything is fresh and ready by the time you arrive. That kind of exclusivity is rare and honestly such a relief for couples who want a seamless, unhurried experience.


Ceremony, Reception, or Both?

Here’s how the rental periods break down:

Ceremony Only — 1 hour setup, 2 hours event time, 1 hour cleanup

Reception Only — 3 hours setup, 6 hours event time, 1 hour cleanup

Ceremony & Reception — 3 hours setup, 7 hours event time, 1 hour cleanup

All events wrap up by 10 PM, so you’ve got a solid window to celebrate.


Pricing


Pricing varies depending on your guest count and the type of event (ceremony only, reception only, or both), and honestly for what you get – a fully exclusive outdoor venue in the LA area – it’s really reasonable. For the most up-to-date rates and package details, I’d recommend reaching out directly to Arieana (her contact info is at the bottom of this post!). She’ll be able to walk you through everything and answer any questions you have.


A Few Things to Know

Vendors: You have a lot of flexibility here! Photographers (hi, that’s me 👋), florists, and singers are not restricted. Bartenders and DJs do need to be selected from Clarke Estate’s approved vendor list, and if your caterer isn’t on the approved list, a 10% catering fee applies.

Decorations: All decorations need to be free-standing – no nails, tape, glue, or adhesives on the venue walls or structure. Open flames, sparklers, glitter, confetti, and fog machines are also not allowed. Flameless/electronic candles are totally fine though, and honestly they photograph just as beautifully!

Music: All music must stop by 10 PM. Live bands (up to 5 members) and mariachi are welcome, though live music can’t be amplified due to a local noise ordinance.

Pets: Furry family members are welcome for ceremonies! 🐾

Weather: It’s an outdoor venue, so fingers crossed for those beautiful SoCal evenings. In the event of rain, the team can discuss tenting options or relocating to another available facility.


Engagement & Bridal Photos

Yes! The Clarke Estate is available for photo sessions outside of event rentals – and this is something I’m especially excited about as your photographer.

  • Down payment: $50
  • Rental fee: $100/hour (2-hour minimum)

To book, you just need to submit a photo reservation application and credit card authorization form online at SantaFeSprings.gov. It’s a beautiful backdrop for engagement sessions, bridal portraits, or even maternity shoots if you’re looking for something lush and romantic.


How to Book & Tour the Venue

Ready to see it for yourself? Here’s how:

Open house tours happen Tuesdays & Fridays from 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM – no appointment needed, just show up!

Private appointments are available Monday–Friday, 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM.

Residents can book up to 1 year in advance. Non-residents can book up to 9 months out.

To check availability or book a tour, reach out directly to Arieana Siccama, who handles all wedding and event inquiries:

She is absolutely lovely to work with and will walk you through everything you need to know.


Why I Love Shooting Here

As a photographer, I’m always thinking about light, texture, and atmosphere – and the Clarke Estate delivers on all three. The greenery creates such a natural, organic backdrop, and the open-air setting means we’re never fighting harsh indoor lighting. Whether you want romantic golden hour portraits or soft, ethereal ceremony shots, this venue gives us so much to work with.

I’m now on their preferred vendor list, which means I’m already familiar with the space, the flow of the day, and how to capture it at its absolute best. If you’re considering Clarke Estate for your wedding and looking for a photographer who already knows and loves the venue – I’d love to chat!


Find the Clarke Estate

Address: 11740 E. Telegraph Rd, Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670

Phone: +1 (562) 863-4896 

Website: SantaFeSprings.gov

Thinking about booking Clarke Estate and looking for a wedding photographer who knows the venue? Let’s connect! I’d love to be part of your day.

The Clarke Estate Santa Fe Springs: A Hidden Gem Wedding Venue