There’s something really special about Serendipity Gardens Weddings in Oak Glen, CA. From the second you arrive, the whole atmosphere feels peaceful, romantic, and tucked away from the hustle & bustle.

Between the mountain views, garden pathways, glowing sunset light, and the sweetest staff, it’s easily become one of my favorite wedding venues in Southern California.

I first photographed this venue as a second shooter back in 2023. Then I came back in July 2025 to photograph my own couple’s wedding day here, and somehow loved it even more the second time around.

bride gets makeup done for big day at Serendipity Gardens
bride adjusts her earring next to a window by Southern California wedding photographer
groom's father adjusts his tie before first look by Desiree Ashley Photography

A Meaningful Start to Their Big Day

One of my favorite moments from this wedding was the couple’s first look. It was so emotional in the best way!! They shared such a sweet moment together before the ceremony, tucked beneath the trees while soft light filtered through the property.

The entire venue photographs beautifully from almost every angle.

Everywhere you turn, there’s another gorgeous backdrop waiting for photos. The tree-lined pathways, garden spaces, mountain views, and reception patio all work so well for wedding photography.

And the natural light here? Absolutely dreamy.

woman approaches her groom for first look outside at Serendipity Gardens
brunette wipes tears from her eyes during first look by Southern California wedding photographer
couple in formal wear walk down pathway in garden by Desiree Ashley Photography
bride and groom stand on path under large trees at Serendipity Gardens
bride and groom stand in gardens before ceremony by Southern California wedding photographer

One thing I always notice at this venue is how smoothly everything flows throughout the day.

The team at Serendipity Gardens Weddings is incredibly organized, welcoming, and kind. It creates such a relaxed environment for couples and vendors alike.

After their first look, these two said I Do at an outdoor ceremony overlooking the rolling hills of Southern California. Their guests cheered and cried and celebrated their love as they officially became husband and wife!

bride walks with both parents down the outdoor aisle by Desiree Ashley Photography
guests sit on lawn for ceremony overlooking rolling hills at Serendipity Gardens
guests sit on lawn overlooking outdoor ceremony by Southern California wedding photographer
man and woman share a first kiss under large floral alter by Desiree Ashley Photography
newlyweds fist pump the air in celebration after ceremony at Serendipity Gardens

Some standout parts of this BEAUTIFUL day included:

  • A stunning outdoor ceremony overlooking the hills
  • Guests dancing immediately after the grand entrance (we love the hype!)
  • Beautiful desserts and reception details
  • An amazing DJ that kept the energy high all night
  • Golden hour portraits with the prettiest sunset glow
  • A private last dance before the sparkler exit

Everything was seamless from start to finish. As a photographer, that makes such a difference. It allows more time for genuine moments and stress-free portraits throughout the day.

brunette woman in long white dress holds parasol walking with her man by Southern California wedding photographer
man and woman stroll through white rose garden by Desiree Ashley Photography
bride and groom walk through rose garden at Serendipity Gardens
newlyweds enter their reception with hands in the air by Southern California wedding photographer
couple share a first dance on outdoor dance floor by Desiree Ashley Photography
newlyweds cut the cake during reception at Serendipity Gardens
bride and groom share a kiss after cutting their cake by Southern California wedding photographer
guests form a dancing line around dinner tables by Desiree Ashley Photography
guests dance with the newly married couple at Serendipity Gardens

After dinner, we snuck away for sunset portraits and honestly… Serendipity Gardens shines during golden hour.

The hills glowed warm behind them while the light filtered around the bride’s veil so beautifully. These ended up being some of my favorite portraits from the entire day.

Afterward, the reception was so pretty once the sun went down.

String lights twinkled overhead while everyone danced under the stars. It was equally fun and relaxed as everyone partied the night away in celebration.

To end the night, the couple shared a private last dance before running through a sparkler exit surrounded by all their favorite people. Then they drove away in a bright red sports car, which was such a fun ending to the day.

Newlyweds snuggle close in courtyard during golden hour by Southern California wedding photographer
newlyweds walk around courtyard fountain at golden hour by Desiree Ashley Photography
newlyweds cross road outside of at Serendipity Gardens during golden hour
bride and groom hold up their rings during golden hour by Southern California wedding photographer
guests dance in fading light under twinkle lights by Desiree Ashley Photography
guests dance under twinkle lights at Serendipity Gardens
guests roast marshmallows for smores during reception by Southern California wedding photographer
couple share a kiss on dance floor at end of reception by Desiree Ashley Photography
newlyweds share a last dance under twinkle lights at Serendipity Gardens
bride and groom walk through sparklers to red corvette by Southern California wedding photographer

Why I Love Photographing at Serendipity Gardens Weddings

This venue truly has everything I love as a wedding photographer. Romantic scenery. Incredible natural light. Gorgeous views. An amazing vendor team. And a peaceful atmosphere that helps couples actually enjoy their wedding day.

If you’re planning a romantic outdoor wedding with an elegant but laid-back feel, I genuinely can’t recommend this venue enough. I would absolutely love to photograph more weddings here in the future.

If you’re interested in working together, reach out here!