Church Chapel

Last year we blogged about Long Branch Saloon & Farms wedding facility, since then Kevin Palmer and his family have taken everything to a whole new level, dismantling an old church and rebuilding it in their vintage western town near Half Moon Bay California.

For years, Kevin stockpiled redwood from old buildings he was tearing down for 20 years through his construction company, having no idea he’d use the great redwood and western items; until in 2005 he hit on the idea  of building a western town on land just south of Half Moon Bay. The town includes the following: western facades of a jail, dressmakers shop, feed n’ fuel, barbershop and a hotel; the original barn transformed into a saloon with authentic gambling tables and an enormous bar; a mercantile shop with western paraphernalia for sale.

Kevin says the town is “always evolving & growing”. The latest editions are The Grand Palace Parlor with the original bar from The Palace Hotel in San Francisco which survived the 1906 earthquake and the old western church that seats 80 people, opening out the back of the church to seat 200.

However, a wedding ceremony is not confined to just the church.  Ceremonies have been held above the saloon, inside the saloon, in a horse pasture, just about everywhere in the town. There have even been “theatrical weddings” where the officiant and the bridal party were decked out in western garb.  Long Branch can even provide a horse for the bride to ride up to the ceremony, a full casino night with dealers, two 20 x 20 tents, and much more.

Pricing varies depending on the services added to basic site fees, but the location price includes use of this unique old western town for the whole day, chairs, tables, and outdoor heaters if needed.  Kevin has a list of recommended and experienced vendors from caterers to florists and even has a special discount arrangement with the Half Moon Bay Lodge for discounted lodging for anyone involved with the wedding ceremony.

See lots of great photos of the location for weddings or other events at Long Branch Saloon & Farms.

Authored by Terry Plank

The Pasta Moon Restaurant is located in quaint downtown Half Moon Bay in a quiet corner of town, just 30 miles south of San Francisco. It has a wonderful atmosphere and is well known as an authentic Italian ristorante.

Half Moon Bay’s bounty of beauty has lured people to settle there from around the world. Several Italian growers have been growing and supplying fresh organic produce that has been a staple of the restaurants menu since it opened 17 years ago.

They have a fabulous selection of antipasti, insalata and zuppa, pizza, housemade pastas, and secondi piatti dishes for you to choose from.

For a rehearsal dinner or dinner reception Pasta Moon has a lovely private room overlooking their garden and Pilarcitos Creek. The room seats up to 45 people and is available for a luncheon or dinner.

For more information visit, www.pastamoon.com or call Teresa at 650-726-5125.

Best Regards,