Carlos and Lareza chose the beautiful old world Spanish and Moorish architecture of the Carmel Mission Basilica for their wedding. The historic church was the perfect setting for their elegant and family-filled celebration.
Lareza prepared for the day in the Basilica's elegant Bride room, surrounded by the love of family and bridal party. When every detail was in place, she walked down the aisle in a stunning strapless gown, glowing with joy to be joining her groom. Tears streaked Carlos' face at the sight of his beautiful and beloved bride. As family looked on, the couple exchanged vows in a reverent ceremony that was incandescent with happiness.
When the happy couple was pronounced married, they stole a few minutes together to laugh and soak in the love and magic of the day. And then it was time to dance!
The reception was a party in the best possible way. There was the elegant first dance of the bride and groom, and then emotional dances with family members. Finally, everyone was able to hit the dance floor. No one, young or old, could resist the music.
The Carmel Mission Basilica
The Carmel Mission Basilica offers unparalleled historical impact. It was established in 1770, making it both traditional and truly unique as a wedding venue. With two settings for ceremonies, they can accommodate a guest list of 70 or 450. The grounds have several gardens, and they are lush with roses, bougainvillea flowers, and citrus and olive trees. The church has two bell towers, a smaller one with a Moorish-style dome, and a larger one that has nine bells.
Weddings in the Basilica
For larger weddings, the Basilica is a beautiful setting. It seats up to 450 guests, and it features the elegant old world architecture that is a mix of Spanish and Moorish influences. It is unique from other mission churches because of the stunning arch of its wooden vault ceiling. For weddings that are held in the Basilica, a Bride's room is available before the wedding. Weddings are performed on Fridays at 2:00 PM or Saturdays at 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM. Rehearsal times are available on Thursday or Friday evenings before the wedding.
The Blessed Sacrament Chapel
For smaller weddings, this intimate setting seats up to 70 guests. The architecture is in the same style as the Basilica, with a unique and breathtaking mix of Spanish and Moorish design. Weddings are performed on Saturdays at 2:00 PM. Rehearsal times are available on Thursday or Friday evenings.
Planning Your Wedding at The Carmel Mission Basilica
Because The Carmel Mission is an active Catholic parish, there are unique details to attend to. Permission must be obtained from your local Catholic pastor to be married outside of your parish, and this must be delivered to the Basilica at least one month before the wedding. The parish priest will perform your ceremony unless you wish to arrange for another priest to celebrate. Evening wedding times are not available.
The Basilica provides a wedding coordinator who will work with you or your consultant, to ensure that the details are in place for a religious ceremony. She will take care of working out the details of the ceremony, opening the Bride's Room, and the ringing of the bells.
The organist and cantor used in the ceremony must be the ones from the Basilica. The music director will coordinate the music, providing options that will work within the context of the setting. Soloists other than the cantor may perform before or after the ceremony. Speak with the music director if you wish to bring in your own musicians.
If you are looking for a stunning, historical setting for a traditional Catholic wedding, The Carmel Mission Basilica is a unique and beautiful option.
