Finding Southern California Style at The Fillmore on Central

Casual elegance abounds at The Fillmore on Central.

Nestled in the heart of Ventura County’s Heritage region, this 22,000 square foot Presbyterian church has recently been renovated to suit the needs of the 21st-century couple while maintaining an unending sense of authenticity.

The town of Fillmore is situated among the Topa Topa Mountains, about an hour north of Los Angeles and an hour south of Santa Barbara. Fillmore was established in 1887 and is a long-time favorite location for many major film studios – its immaculate charm speaks for itself as to why.

The Fillmore on Central was originally constructed in the 1920s and is teeming with art deco meets Mission style charm. The venue features both indoor and outdoor options that highlight the meticulous updates that were completed in 2020.

For indoor receptions, The Sanctuary can host up to 500 guests, who will ogle at the 40-foot lofted ceilings as they enter through the black Mission-style doors. Drawing the eyes upward are intricately painted beams, lantern-esque chandeliers and the iconic stained glass medallion that sits proudly above the altar. The space was preserved to maintain its idiosyncrasies while also creating a blank canvas on which couples can bring their unique visions to life.

If an outdoor celebration is preferred, The Central can accommodate up to 300 guests in The Fillmore’s peaceful courtyard. Flowering privet shrubs sit low among lavender and pepper trees in the grassy, secluded area as Spanish-tiled buildings border the space and imbue it with Southern California sensibilities. For parties that extend past the sun’s waking hours, couples can bring in twinkling lights to keep the romantic atmosphere going all night long.

And to really make it a party, take your event downstairs to 88below. Beneath The Sanctuary, 88below invites up to 300 guests into the mirror-lined space. Styled as a lounge, it’s perfect for everything from pre-wedding cocktails to a roaring after party.