Hummingbird Nest Ranch: A Hidden Gem for LA Weddings

After shooting weddings at Hummingbird Nest Ranch for over a decade, Allison and I still get that little rush of excitement driving up the long entrance road. Tucked away in the Santa Susana foothills just outside LA, this place feels worlds away from the city despite being such a quick drive from the city.

Ceremony Sites

The ranch has three main ceremony spots, each with its own vibe. Sitting Bull is the most intimate - surrounded by these massive olive trees that filter the light beautifully right before sunset. It's my favorite spot for couples who want something a bit more secluded and private. Q Vineyard gives you that wine country feel without having to trek up to Napa. The rows of grapevines make for killer photos, especially when the golden hour light hits them just right. I've found this spot works best for medium-sized weddings where you want that "under the Tuscan sun" atmosphere. The Villa has this grand European estate feeling - think Spanish architecture meets California landscape. The backdrop here is seriously photogenic with mountains framing the scene. Weddings usually take place on the patio at the rear of the villa, with a view of the Santa Susana mountains.

Reception Sites

The Lake Lawn is where most of the weddings we have photographed take place. It’s simply amazing. There's something about dining under the stars with those market lights strung overhead that guests absolutely love. The lawn is huge, so you've got plenty of room for both dinner and dancing. The Grand Prix tent works great for larger weddings or as a backup for unpredictable weather (though let's be honest, that's rare in SoCal). We have seen several different configurations - you can really do anything under that tent! Other sites include the Villa, which probably has one of the most amazing sunset views for any wedding in Los Angeles. We have also seen The Barn used for reception. It has this cool rustic-meets-elegant vibe that makes for gorgeous photos.

What Makes This Place Special for Photos

After shooting so many weddings here, we’ve discovered all the hidden Callaway Gable spots that make for epic portraits. If you're considering Hummingbird Nest for your wedding, let's chat. After all these years shooting there, Allison and I have plenty of insights to share about making the most of this incredible venue. Good luck!