Based in San Jose, California, the Winchester Mystery House is a mansion wedding venue. A historical building, this house underwent nearly 40 years of constant construction from 1886 to 1922. The result was an incredibly distinctive Queen Anne-style Victorian mansion. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this house offers couples the chance at a unique ceremony and reception.

Facilities and Capacity

The Winchester Mystery House has spaces for both indoor and outdoor celebrations, offering carefully landscaped grounds and a select number of rooms inside the house. Couples can celebrate in the romantic and airy surroundings of the Greenhouse with a cocktail reception of up to 90 guests. An intimate meal in the Carriage House can seat up to 60 of the couple’s loved ones in a vintage atmosphere. For a truly indulgent experience, couples can say their vows in the beautiful Victorian gardens, where the mansion acts as a backdrop. Up to 200 of their nearest and dearest can celebrate with them while they mark their momentous occasion surrounded by flowers and elegant fountains.

Services Offered

The unique architecture of the Winchester Mystery House offers endless opportunities for wedding pictures. Packages are available to aid couples in their planning and feature a range of additional services. A venue coordinator can use their knowledge of the house to help clients decide which event space would best serve their wedding. Tables and chairs can be supplied and set up prior to the celebration. Depending on the weather, heaters can be supplied for outdoor events to maintain a high level of comfort. Should these prove insufficient, tents can be erected for an extra charge, or celebrations can be moved indoors.

History

A prominent historical landmark, this house was originally owned by Sarah Winchester, the widow of William Wirt Winchester. On her husband’s death, she inherited a considerable portion of his family fortune and moved from their home in Connecticut to this property. At the time, it was an unassuming farmhouse with eight rooms. Renovations only ceased after her death in 1922, leaving no explanation for her motivations to design such a bizarre home. The house features 10,000 windows and 2,000 doors, among other oddities.