Perched above the Carquinez Strait, the sleepy little town of Benicia is a rich nugget of California history. Its former incarnations include the capital of California, the Solano County seat and the location of the militarily significant Benicia Arsenal. Though the political and military movers-and-shakers are long gone, they left behind a legacy of beautiful old structures like the Wedgewood Jefferson Street Mansion. Built in 1861 for the commanding officer of the Arsenal, this classical Federal Italianate-style building has been renovated, retrofitted and restored, giving it a new lease on life as a fabulous special event venue.
Once inside the Mansion, turn to your right and enter the magnificent double parlors, whose cream-and-pale green washed walls are adorned with custom gilt molding and medallions. The twelve-foot-high windows have sumptuous wine velvet drapes, bedecked with gold fringe and tied back with plump gold tassels. (Incidentally, these drapes were custom-made in New Orleans by renowned designers Buzz Harper and Les Wisinger, whose other projects include Savannah's Calhoun Mansion, the location of the movie Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil.) The parlors also feature two marble fireplaces, oil paintings, crystal chandeliers and gilt-framed antique mirrors.
Upstairs is the bride's dressing room. Like the parlors, it has gilt molding, a chandelier, fireplace and custom-made drapes in cream and peach brocade, as well as practical items like a white-and-gold wooden dressing screen, an antique mirrored armoire, and a dressing table. Nervous brides can regain their composure on the primrose brocade "fainting couch," or pose for whimsical photos with the groom in a carved wooden "courting chair." Also on this floor is the elegant Salon, whose generous balcony is the perfect spot for bouquet tossing.
Other rooms at the Mansion include Reginald's Pub, designed to resemble a French officer's club in Rangoon and three antique and collectible showrooms. It's quite clear why "Bay Area Backroads" called the Mansion the "Most Romantic Spot in Northern California," the California Heritage Council gave it the 2004 "Preservation of the Year Award" and CBS "Eye On The Bay" featured it as a top wedding site.
Though you and your guests are encouraged to wander through the Mansion, the primary festivities take place outside. On the generous side lawn, with a water vista, a classic colonnaded fifteen-foot-high arbor guarded by two majestic palm trees makes a charming spot for exchanging vows. Receptions take place on the Mansion's opposite side. Here, your guests mingle among fountains, statues, and flowerbeds, or seek shade in the two elegant fabric-draped pavilions (each with its own chandeliers). Please note, due to the seasonality of the tents, we are only able to host events from April - October. The buffet is set up in front of two exquisite antique back-bars, fashioned with intricate carving and spool work.
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Recommended by 97% of couples
User2536350 · 2+ years ago
Most amazing place to get married! Renee is a brides dream come true! This place is magical and very romantic. Book in advance!!
Isah · Married on 04/11/2018
I do not even know where to begin... I fell in love with this place the very first time I walked in! It was a true blessing that we’re able to have our ceremony and reception in such a beautiful place! Not to mention the wonderful staff who went above and beyond to work out all of the details and make our dream day come to life. I really appreciate the way they communicated and touched base with me to make sure they have all the details correct and they were open for any changes that I made all throughout the process. Planning from way across the country could be very difficult but the Jefferson St. Mansion team was very professional and caring and they are just so wonderful to work with. They have everything you need, and a lot of options for couples who’s on a budget. I suggest availing the wedding coordinator option! Everything was taken care of for us the day of the wedding… it was the best feeling, as a bride, not having to worry about the details and just getting to enjoy the day. Having people that we trusted to take care of us on one of the most special days of our lives was a huge weight lifted off of our shoulders… and honestly, they exceeded our expectations! From start to finish, everything ran smoothly and we were able to just enjoy the time with our friends and family. The Mansion itself is absolutely stunning. It had that classic, sophisticated charm that we love! Also, the food was AMAZING! It is one of the first times I remember actually wanting to eat everything on my plate at a wedding! I could say so many more wonderful things about this venue… if you are considering having your wedding here, don't think twice! I promise that you will not be disappointed! We can never thank them enough for making our day so special… it truly was a day of pure joy. Shout out to Morgan, David, Ali and Dawn! You guys rock!
Sent on 04/29/2018
Wedgewood Jefferson Street Mansion's reply:
Elizabeth · Married on 10/26/2017
Wedgewood at Jefferson Street Mansion was amazing. It was affordable for this area and the all inclusive program was amazing. Nicole and Morgan were great! I honestly didn't have to worry about a thing the day of the wedding because they executed everything so well. The location is stunning and everyone raved about the food.
Sent on 11/13/2017
Wedgewood Jefferson Street Mansion's reply:
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1 Endorsement
As a preferred vendor for JSM, I have the pleasure of delivering to the site often - and every single time, things are perfect! Beautiful site with ah-mazing(!) decor and antiques the give the venue a truly unique aesthetic. The outdoor tent is beautiful with dramatic crystal chandeliers, the ceremony space is elegant and inviting, the staff is outstanding! I always look forward to working with JSM and i know things will be "right" :)
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