Sprawled among 12 acres in one of the world's most exclusive neighborhoods, Hotel Bel-Air has been one of Hollywood's most beloved hideaways for nearly three quarters of a century. Now, the property’s wedding experts are back to share even more about what couples can expect when hosting a wedding at this luxury destination.
GO: How would you describe the architectural style of your property?
A: With our lush gardens, winding foot paths, covered archways and beloved Swan Lake (home to four resident swans), the enchanting setting and Spanish Colonial architecture seamlessly blends LA's indoor and outdoor lifestyle. Pink stucco buildings spread among the property house 103 guestrooms and suites, as well as canyon accommodations built up into the hillside. Rather than the usual, long corridors lined with room numbers, most of our rooms and suites open directly onto gardens. Wind your way through the palms and the paths, past babbling fountains and secret gardens to discover your doorway, hidden amongst creamy magnolia blossoms and vibrant ferns.
GO: What was the inspiration behind the design of your interiors and guest rooms?
A: Each of our spacious guest rooms feature contemporary décor by Champalimaud Design and a range of innovative technology – from Bang & Olufsen televisions to beautiful desks with integrated media hubs and iPads in every room. Custom heated limestone floors, natural wood ceilings and exquisite Egyptian cotton sheets add touches of freshness and cozy luxury. The canyon accommodations feature retractable glass walls that open onto airy terraces with lounge chairs for sunbathing and private spa pools. Our seven uniquely designed signature suites feature a variety of residential-style amenities such as dining rooms, kitchens and outdoor space to create a true home away from home.
GO: When is your busiest time of year, and how far in advance should couples book if they hope to secure a date during those months?
A: Summertime is our busiest season. Events are typically reserved 16 months prior to the event date.
GO: Is there a type of wedding that fits best with your venue? (i.e. Traditional, glamorous, bohemian, rustic, etc.)
A: From the expansive front lawn to the neutral interiors of the garden ballroom, our flexible event spaces gracefully accommodate any style and color scheme. The lawn beside Swan Lake is one of the most romantic ceremony spaces in the city, complete with a white gazebo just waiting to be adorned with flowers. The Garden Ballroom and Garden Ballroom Foyer & Courtyard host up to 250 people and provide a perfect event flow between the indoor and outdoor elements. Whether you want to dine under the moonlight or waltz beneath glittering chandeliers, our idyllic setting makes the perfect backdrop for magical weddings, always intimate and utterly unforgettable.
GO: In what type(s) of cuisine does your culinary team specialize?
A: Master chef Wolfgang Puck oversees the hotel's entire culinary operation, including the restaurant Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air, the Bar and Lounge, in-room dining, and all functions and events, offering modern California cuisine with a Mediterranean influence.
GO: What type of activities are available for guests to partake in during a wedding weekend?
A: Our hotel features a five-star spa with seven treatment rooms, fitness center and weekly yoga classes. Tucked away in a tranquil setting, the large outdoor swimming pool is surrounded by hanging palms and cascading blooms. As the temperature rises, guests are refreshed with hourly, seasonal ‘pop-up refreshments’ such as frozen grape skewers, mini ice cream sundaes, and sorbet push pops.
GO: What facilities, restaurants, or catering options do you have available for wedding week events like welcome dinners or post-wedding farewell brunches?
A: Any of our event spaces can be booked for additional wedding week events. The restaurant features a private dining room which can accommodate 20 guests and is surrounded by multiple glass wine cellars displaying over 2400 bottles. The restaurant terrace can also be configured to accommodate a group.
GO: What are some nearby attractions that guests can visit?
A: The hotel is located just a mile away from Beverly Hills, the famed shopping destination featuring high end boutiques and luxury department stores.
The nearby coastal town of Santa Monica offers sandy beaches, trendy restaurants and a pier with an amusement park.
The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States, is a short drive away and features numerous works of art from a broad range of cultures and historical periods in its collections and exhibitions.
