At Camarillo Ranch Events, we guide engaged couples and their planners through every detail of an outdoor celebration in Ventura County. These actionable steps address local permitting, weather, décor, logistics, and more so you can focus on what matters most—celebrating your love.

1. Select the Ideal Outdoor Venue

Define your guest count and style. Determine whether you need sprawling lawns for 200 guests or an intimate garden for 50.
Visit multiple sites. Compare parking, load-in access, and on-site restrooms. At Camarillo Ranch, our 4.5 acres feature a restored Queen Anne mansion, lush gardens, and a historic red barn—ideal for ceremonies, receptions, and photo backdrops.
Assess amenities and extras. Confirm the availability of tables, chairs, lighting hookups, backup power, and any preferred vendor requirements.

2. Understand Permits and Local Regulations

Apply early. Submit a Special Event Permit through Ventura County Planning at least 60 days before your event date.
Address noise limits. If your ceremony or dancing runs past 10 p.m., secure a Noise Variance.
Obtain insurance. Most venues require a $1 million liability policy naming “The City of Camarillo” or the property owner as additional insured.
Food and alcohol. Verify health department approvals for catering and obtain a Type 41 or Type 47 liquor license through the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) if you will serve beer or wine.

3. Plan for Seasonal Weather and Contingency Options

Know Ventura County’s patterns. Spring and fall deliver mild days and cool evenings; summer can bring “June Gloom” mornings and Santa Ana winds in September.
Build in shade and hydration. Rent pop-up canopies, provide estate umbrellas, and set up self-serve water stations.
Secure a rain plan. Reserve tenting or an indoor fallback (our red barn seats up to 100) so your celebration stays dry.

4. Design Floral and Décor Inspired by Local Surroundings

Choose climate-friendly blooms. Work with a florist on native wildflowers, succulents, or citrus blossoms that thrive in coastal sunshine.
Reflect the ranch’s character. Incorporate barnwood signage, wrought-iron accents, and neutral linens that complement our historic architecture.
Plan for sunset color shifts. Select uplighting gels or ribbon colors that transition gracefully from day to dusk.

5. Organize Lighting and Audio-Visual Setups

Map out power needs. Identify outlets for string lights, uplights, and sound equipment; rent generators if needed.
Optimize ceremony and dance lighting. Hang bistro lights overhead; use LED uplights to highlight trees and architectural features.
Coordinate sound permits. Submit your AV plan to the venue manager and confirm any county restrictions on decibel levels after dark.

6. Coordinate Catering Logistics and Menu Customization

Plan for an open-air kitchen. Ensure your caterer visits the site to identify staging areas near power and water sources.
Select outdoor-friendly fare. Choose dishes that hold heat or chill well—such as well-passed hors d’oeuvres, plated dinners with covered chafing dishes, or elegantly presented buffet stations.
Position beverage stations thoughtfully. Please keep them in shaded areas and stock them with labeled signage to prevent lines in the sun.

7. Ensure Guest Comfort with Seating, Shade and Amenities

Mix seating options. Offer padded chairs for the ceremony, lounge furniture for cocktail hour, and tables with centerpieces that will not wilt in the breeze.
Provide climate controls. Rent portable fans, heat lamps, or blankets depending on the season.
Offer convenient amenities. Arrange for premium portable restrooms, welcome-area water coolers, and a discreet first-aid station.

8. Structure Vendor Timelines and Coordination

Draft a detailed timeline. Break down load-in, rehearsal, ceremony, photos, cocktail hour, dinner, and teardown into 15-minute blocks.
Assign vendor leads. Share a single timeline document with your florist, caterer, photographer, DJ, and venue manager so everyone is aware of the schedule and location.
Schedule a walkthrough. Meet on-site with all vendors 7–10 days before the wedding to confirm layouts, power hookups, and emergency plans.

By following these steps, you will create a worry-free outdoor wedding that celebrates Ventura County’s beauty and Camarillo Ranch’s historic charm. We look forward to helping you bring

How to Plan an Outdoor Wedding