Skip to main content
Weddings
This venue is popular with couples. Start a conversation

Attributes highlighted by couples

Quality catering
Guests comfort
Amenities

About

On WeddingWire since 2015

A hidden gem. Tucked away in the heart of historic San Juan Capistrano, Franciscan Gardens features elegant wooden gates, a blossoming garden, and a beautiful backdrop for intimate weddings and special events.

ABOUT THE VENUE

Franciscan Gardens is an enchanting and inviting special event venue located in beautiful San Juan Capistrano. Located steps from California’s “Jewel of the Missions,” the venue offers a private, secluded environment for weddings, social gatherings, and corporate events.

The Spanish courtyard is tucked behind elegant wooden doors that open to a blossoming garden, with fountains, vine-wrapped pergolas, and bistro lights strung throughout. Originally built in 1920, the venue’s indoor ballroom displays the buildings’ original brick walls and wood flooring while modern and elegant crystal chandeliers adorn the ceilings. The rustic and charming 5,000 square foot property features romantic indoor and outdoor spaces, along with two on-site suites and signature service from 24 Carrots Catering & Events.

AMENITIES & RENTAL INCLUSIONS

(2) Getting Ready Suites that include full length mirrors, mini fridge, and plenty of storage space

- Getting Ready Room includes vanities and private restroom access

- The Billard Room includes a pool table and large flat screen tv

Historic 1920’s brick walls and iconic chandeliers in the Ballroom

Tables and bentwood chairs for up to 200 guests

Round sweetheart table and circular archway

Bistro string lights, lamppost lights, and landscaping lights throughout the property

One-hour rehearsal booked upon availability

Menu tasting at 24 Carrots Catering & Events headquarters

Flexible indoor and outdoor event layouts

Access to the property from 10am to 12am on the day of your event

Unlimited photo opportunities located within walking distance

Ample adjacent parking in City operated parking structure (additional fees apply)

CAPACITY

The Courtyard (outdoor)

- 180 seated guests

- 200 guests for cocktail-style reception

The Ballroom (indoor)

- 200 seated guests

- 200 guests for cocktail-style reception

ABOUT 24 CARROTS

24 Carrots is a full-service experiential caterer and hospitality group committed to creating elevated culinary events with personalized service, offering you peace of mind and a remarkable journey. Serving Southern California for over 20 years, our approach is simple: We hold ourselves to exceptionally high standards because you deserve the absolute finest.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

No

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
China
Clean Up
Flatware
Glassware
Set Up
Tables

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Cake Cutting
Server(s)

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

2

Describe your venue:

Ballroom
Garden
Historic Building
Loft

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party
Elopements
Rehearsal Dinner

What event services do you offer?

Bar Services
Catering Services
Clean Up
Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
Family Style
Hors d'oeuvres
Outside Cake
Plated
Server(s)
Stations
Tastings

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)
Cash Bar
Champagne Toast
House Beer
House Liquor
House Wine
Open Bar
Premium Liquor
Signature Drink
Specialty Beer
Specialty Wine

What event items are available?

Altar/Arch
Chairs
Dance Floor
Furniture
Tables

What food and beverage items are available?

Barware
China
Flatware
Glassware
Linens

What transportation and access is available?

Parking
Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
illustration notebook

Any other questions?

Reviews of Franciscan Gardens

We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.
4.7 out of 5 rating
4.7 out of 5 rating
82 Reviews
94% recommend it
  • Quality of service
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    4.7 out of 5 rating
Weddingwire
4.7/5 82 reviews
Google
4.7/5 115 reviews
L
Lizzy S. Sent on 07/30/2024
5 out of 5 rating

Best Wedding Venue

We got married at Franciscan Gardens on July 20th and couldn’t be happier with our experience. The venue, staff, and catering were all phenomenal. Elizabeth and Nasime made the planning process a breeze, always incredibly professional and communicative. Believe what you read about the food - 24Carrots catering truly is the best! One of the hardest decisions we made was deciding on our menu items after the tasting - everything was so delicious! And on Wedding Day, guests were commenting not only on how beautiful the venue was and how amazing the food was, but also how friendly and helpful the staff were. We truly had the best experience with Franciscan Gardens and could not recommend this venue more!
Andrea
Andrea S. Sent on 09/21/2023
5 out of 5 rating

Dream Day!

Josh and I were SO pleased with our wedding at Franciscan Gardens! They were so helpful and attentive at all times. The whole team and staff made our event seamless and flow perfectly. Our dream came true!!!
C
Chelsea R. Sent on 10/04/2022
5 out of 5 rating

Best Venue!

Not only was the venue incredibly beautiful, but Melissa Keller was so helpful and went above and beyond anything I could have expected. She was so quick to respond and answered every question we had. The staff at the venue was so on top of it as well on the wedding day. King (the bartender) was so much fun and we received so many compliments on how great he was! Can't recommend this venue enough!
illustration message review

Are you interested?

Awards

82
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2017 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2016 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2014 Winner
WeddingWire Couples' Choice Awards 2013 Winner

Professional Network & Endorsements

12 Endorsements
Oh Lovely Wedding Oh Lovely Wedding Wedding Photographers

Such an adorable Orange County venue! Always a pleasure documenting beautiful events here! Great staff, great location!

Lucero Photography, Inc. Lucero Photography, Inc. Wedding Photographers

Franciscan Gardens is a first class wedding venue. I have had the pleasure to work at this location and they do an amazing job. I highly recommend them to anyone that is planning a wedding.

Click Chicks Photography Click Chicks Photography Wedding Photographers

This is such a pretty venue, and so close to some of my favorite photo spots: The San Juan Mission and the Los Rios District of San Juan. Your photos are sure to be great! And, the food will be divine as the property is owned by 24 Carrots Catering. You can't go wrong choosing Franciscan Gardens!

Map

illustration visit

Would you like to visit?

Other vendors in Orange County for your wedding

Wedding Venues

Responds within 24 hours