Discover the Magic of the Ojai Labyrinth: A Unique Wedding Venue and Meditative Labyrinth in the Heart of the Ojai Valley


In the heart of the picturesque Ojai Valley, nestled amidst the rolling hills and serene landscapes, lies a hidden gem that's capturing the hearts of engaged couples seeking a more intimate wedding experience. Ojai Labyrinth, a newer wedding venue and a beacon of land stewardship, offers a one-of-a-kind experience that will leave you and your guests inspired.


From the venue's website:


What is the Labyrinth?

 

The labyrinth offers an opportunity for walking meditation representing the journey to enlightenment. Just as we think we are closest to the center, we are actually the farthest away. We are all on the same path, but we all travel at a different pace, and we all must navigate unexpected twists and turns. There is only one path to the center, and unlike a maze, there are no dead ends. As we get closer to the center of the labyrinth, we get closer to our own center and our own truth.

The labyrinth takes several minutes to walk in its entirety. Enter the path holding a question in your mind. By the time you reach the center the answer may rise up from your subconscious as if by magic. Is it magic, or is it Ojai? By the time you wind your way out on the path, feel centered, calm, and at peace with the natural beauty that surrounds you every step of the way.

The stone path was constructed circa 1990. The design is based on an ancient pattern and is the same as the labyrinth of the Chartres Cathedral, in Paris, France. The Chartres labyrinth may have been built as early as the 13th century, though the actual date is unknown. This pattern has been duplicated at churches, monasteries, hospitals, and other locations throughout the world.

Candid moment of a couple laughing during their Ojai wedding reception outdoors.

Ojai Labyrinth is a dream venue, plus it's owners are incredibly kind and thoughtful people.


Before we dive into this wedding at Ojai Labyrinth, let's take a moment to appreciate the captivating beauty of Ojai itself. Known for its idyllic setting, this charming town is a sanctuary of tranquility just a short drive away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles. Surrounded by the Topa Topa Mountains and enveloped in a Mediterranean climate, Ojai is a natural wonderland that has long attracted artists, dreamers, and those seeking a connection with nature and a slower lifestyle.


The Ojai Labyrinth is more than just a wedding venue; it's a testament to the deep respect and care for the land and nature it inhabits. The labyrinth itself, an intricate and ancient symbol of spiritual journey and self-discovery, serves as the centerpiece of this enchanting property. As you tread its winding paths, you'll feel a profound sense of connection to the earth and your surroundings.


One of the most admirable aspects of Ojai Labyrinth is its commitment to land stewardship. In an era where sustainable practices are paramount, this venue stands as a shining example. The owners have taken great care to ensure that weddings and events hosted here leave a minimal environmental footprint. From water conservation to native plant restoration, every effort is made to preserve the natural beauty of this cherished valley. Plant Shop 805 which provides the plant décor is committed to native California plant and botanical care, specializing in desert tropical plants.

Long banquet tables with white linens set for outdoor dining against a dramatic desert mountain backdrop at Ojai Labyrinth.
Rustic outdoor table setting with potted rosemary plant, small floral arrangement in glass vase, and place settings.
Outdoor wedding ceremony with a mountain backdrop at the Ojai Labyrinth venue.

Vintage glassware by Otis and Pearl- one of the preferred vendors.

Otis and Pearl Vintage Glassware Rentals in Ojai.

Tim and Erin


Tim and Erin hosted their intimate private wedding with only their family members. They gathered together to chat beforehand, and then were pronounced man and wife with the beautiful Topa Topa mountains behind them. I loved being able to photograph this Ojai wedding, and I hope to get invited back to photograph many more events at Ojai Labyrinth. The peace of being so high up with a 360 degree view of the Ojai Valley cannot be beat.

A joyful person in an elegant dark suit and patterned tie stands outdoors in natural lighting.
Elegant outdoor dining tables with white tablecloths set against a backdrop of rugged mountain scenery at Ojai Labyrinth.
A decorative table setting with small terracotta pots containing fresh flowers and greenery casting shadows on a linen tablecloth.
Chilled beverages and drinks nestled in ice inside a woven basket cooler at an outdoor gathering.
People gather for an outdoor social event on a scenic terrace overlooking mountains with a wicker basket in the foreground.
Formal dress shoes and polka dot socks on stone pavement in sunlight.
Two groomsmen in suits hold white parasols while standing on a mountain overlook with desert scenery behind them at Ojai Labyrinth.
A beautiful desert wedding scene with a person in white holding a bouquet amid golden desert plants and sunlight.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a hilltop during their outdoor wedding ceremony with mountains in the background.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a mountainside trail during their outdoor wedding ceremony.
A couple in wedding attire poses together on a scenic desert path with mountains in the background at Ojai Labyrinth.
Black and white wedding photo showing a pair walking together on a stone path, with the bride holding a bouquet.
An outdoor mountain wedding ceremony with beautiful scenic views of rugged terrain in the background on a clear sunny day.
Black and white wedding photo showing an emotional embrace between a bride in a lacy dress and an older gentleman outdoors.
An emotional moment during an outdoor wedding ceremony with mountains in the background on a sunny day in Ojai.

And now my favorite part! A family ring blessing.


I have never seen this in any of the weddings I've attended. Tim and Erin passed their wedding rings around to all members in attendance and asked them to bless their rings with a word or phrase that they hoped would be in their marriage. Words like "patience" "kindness" and "forgiveness" held energy now passed to the rings and their wearers. I'm trying to not make a Lord of the Rings joke or reference here. I genuinely thought it was so beautiful and unique.

A joyful couple shares a laugh during their outdoor wedding ceremony on a sunny day at Ojai Labyrinth.
Black and white close-up of newlywed couple holding hands, showing bride in white dress and groom in dark suit.
Someone in sunglasses speaks while standing at an outdoor dining table with mountains visible in the background.
People interacting on an outdoor terrace with mountain views in the background during a social gathering.
Guests gather at an outdoor wedding ceremony with mountainous backdrop during a sunny afternoon.
Black and white photo of people sharing a laugh during an outdoor gathering with sunlight in the background at Ojai Labyrinth.
Wedding guests seated on wooden chairs in an outdoor desert setting while awaiting the ceremony to begin.
Wedding guests sit on wooden chairs at an outdoor ceremony on a sunny hillside beach location.
Wedding guests seated outdoors in formal attire on a hillside as someone in a dark suit stands before them.
People sitting outdoors on a sunny day looking at something together while engaged in casual conversation.
A group of guests sit together at an outdoor event, with a woman in a floral green dress gesturing animatedly.
An intimate outdoor wedding ceremony takes place on a mountain overlook with desert scenery and rustic decorations at Ojai Labyrinth.
A couple exchanges vows during their outdoor wedding ceremony against a backdrop of rugged mountain scenery at Ojai Labyrinth.
A joyful wedding couple shares their first look moment against a scenic mountain backdrop on their special day at Ojai Labyrinth.
Black and white photo of a couple exchanging wedding vows outdoors on a hillside with mountains visible in background at Ojai Labyrinth.
A bride and groom elope on the mountains at Ojai Labyrinth.
A couple shares a romantic kiss on a rustic rug with mountains in the background on their wedding day at Ojai Labyrinth.

After the first kiss...


Tim and Erin went to enjoy a private moment by themselves, and then we went into taking photos. When couples are this happy on their wedding day it's hard to take a bad picture honestly. As a wedding photographer in Ojai I get to see so many couples get married, and the most striking thing of every wedding is that palpable joy. It's one of the happiest days of your life for a reason.

A black and white wedding photo showing a romantic couple embracing against a backdrop of majestic mountains in Ojai.
A couple shares an intimate moment on a hilltop overlooking a mountain landscape during sunset at Ojai Labyrinth.
Elegant outdoor table setting with peach floral centerpieces, succulents, and glassware on white linen tablecloth at Ojai Labyrinth.
A couple shares an intimate moment in a golden field at sunset, the bride wearing white off-shoulder gown and groom in dark suit in Ojai.
A happy couple in wedding attire stands together holding champagne glasses in front of scenic mountain landscape.
A couple in wedding attire pose together in a sunlit field with cypress trees and golden grass at sunset in Ojai.
A romantic wedding silhouette of a couple embracing on a mountaintop with desert brush and mountains in the background at Ojai Labyrinth.
Person in business attire writing on paperwork at desk with pen and paper materials at Ojai Labyrinth.
Ojai Labyrinth Bride and Groom smiling at the camera.
A joyful couple celebrates their desert wedding at sunset with scenic mountain views in the background and golden grass at Ojai Labyrinth.
Newlyweds walk hand in hand along a dirt path with mountains in background during golden hour at Ojai Labyrinth.
A couple in wedding attire holds hands while walking on a mountain path overlooking scenic hills in black and white.
A couple in wedding attire holds hands while walking outdoors with mountains and sunlight in the background at Ojai Labyrinth.
Ojai Labyrinth Bride and Groom share first dance at Ojai wedding venue.

Ojai Rotie provided catering for a small dinner after the ceremony and marriage license signing. A picnic style restaurant in downtown Ojai.

Fresh artisan bread loaves and pink garnishes displayed on a white tablecloth outdoors.
Winding mountain road curves through brown hills and rugged terrain in Southern California wilderness area.
Sliced meats and appetizers arranged on wooden serving boards at a catered event.
Two plates of grilled meat and vegetables served on white dishes.
Wedding invitation with floral design and glass of champagne on textured tablecloth.
White delivery van parked on mountain road with group gathered nearby.
Group of wedding guests gathered outdoors in casual attire.
Wedding guests serve themselves food from a buffet line at an outdoor reception with mountain views in the background at Ojai Labyrinth.
Newlyweds sitting at an outdoor reception table with mountain backdrop at Ojai Labyrinth.
A couple toasts with wine glasses at an outdoor picnic table set with food in a natural setting at sunset in Ojai.
Couple seated at outdoor wedding reception with mountain views in black and white.
Wedding guests enjoying dinner at long table with mountain scenery.

In conclusion. Definitely get married at Ojai Labyrinth. I cannot say more than that honestly. It's perfection.