Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara

By Zohe Felici, Felici Events

The Spanish style Unitarian sanctuary and grounds combine all the elements of a unique event in Santa Barbara.  This beautiful historic church designed in 1930, incorporates a number of beautiful antique architectural elements.

Two large stained glass windows reflect colorful light at all hours of the day on the original wooden pews in the Sanctuary.  Clients can supplement overhead lighting with graceful candelabras at each pew.  The church’s acoustics are some of the best in Santa Barbara as it was designed to accommodate music.  A Steinway grand piano and 1800 pipe organ are available to for use during the ceremony.  Rates available upon request for musical accompaniments.

Amidst lovely manicured gardens which are enclosed by a brick courtyard, a fountain centers the unique brick courtyard ideal for outdoor cocktail or seated dinner receptions.

Attached to the gardens in the Fellowship Hall.  This quaint room is ideal for a more intimate seated dinner, a show or band on the stage.  The wooden floors, high ceilings, ornate details and 4 step stage make this room dynamic and one of a kind.  A few bonuses about the location: newly upgraded stage lighting and the sound system and the use of the full commercial kitchen available for caterers to use.

Adjacent to the building, the Jefferson Courtyard is available for separate rental and can be used for dinner or cocktail hour.

This is a Ceremony and Reception or Reception Only Venue

For more information on pricing and availability contact Celina Paul, Facilities Use Coordinator(805) 965-4583 x223 or facilities@ussb.org

Pricing:
Site fees are:
$1500 for ceremony only including the (Sanctuary and Garden); 4 hours
$1500 for reception only at Parish Hall including the (Kitchen and Garden); 6 hours
$3,200 for both ceremony & reception (Sanctuary, Parish Hall, Kitchen and Garden); 12 hours

Capacity:
the Sanctuary seats up to 285 guests seated; the Garden can accommodate 200 for an outdoor seated dinner reception and Parish Hall accommodate 120 guests seated dinner.

Restrooms:
Available on site

Bridal Dressing Room:
Available with rental of sanctuary.  Larger room available for rental at $50/hr.

Requirements:
$500 reservation fee with signed contract. balance due 6 months in advance, $1000 refundable security deposit due 1 month in advance.

Time Allotments:
Sanctuary up to 4 hours, Parish Hall and Garden up to six hours, full facility rental up to 10 hours.
Catering:
Client must provide own certified caterer.  Commercial kitchen available for use, additional kitchen rentals may be necessary.

Parking:
6 spaces reserved for bridal party, ample street parking for guests.

Music:
Sanctuary provides a magnificent pipe organ and fine acoustics.  Outdoor music must be non- amplified and end by 9:00 p.m.  Indoor events have speakers set up.

Alcohol Policy:
Client to provide own alcohol.

What is Provided:
Facility staff for sound, lights and supervision.  Newly upgraded sound and light system in Parish Hall, 8’ rectangular tables, banquet chairs (can only be used indoors), one hour rehearsal.

Decoration:
All decor vendors must carry insurance.

Insurance:
Wedding insurance required

Cancellation Policy:
Reservation Fee is non-refundable ($500)

Address:
Unitarian Society of Santa Barbara
1535 Santa Barbara Street
Santa Barbara, Ca. 93101

Phone:
(805) 965-4583 x223

Email:
facilities@ussb.org

Website:
http://www.ussb.org/joomla/index.php/about-ussb/weddingguide

Photos: 1, 4 Art P Suwansang; 2,3 You’re the Star Digital Films; 5 Unitarian Society