Venue Spotlight: 440 Elm

Walking into 440 Elm feels like slipping into a story, in motion. Light streams through the stained‑glass scattering across marble and tiled floors while the soaring 30‑foot ceilings and graceful columns draw the eye without overwhelming the space. An effortless elegance fills the room as if every architectural detail has been waiting for a wedding to breathe life into it. Originally built in 1913 as the First Church of Christ Scientist, this storied Long Beach landmark has been thoughtfully transformed into a wedding venue that weaves together grandeur and intimate coziness providing couples a canvas where every moment may be honored with purpose and style.

The vision of architect Elmer Grey, famed for designing the Beverly Hills Hotel and Pasadena Playhouse, comes alive at 440 Elm. Once a sanctuary for more than a thousand worshippers, the building now serves as a canvas for love stories, preserving its Renaissance Revival architecture while accommodating modern weddings. Sunlight streams through original stained-glass windows, coffered ceilings soar overhead, and sweeping archways guide the eye through spaces that feel sacred, yet inviting. Each corner tells a story, from the gentle curve of a column to the patterned black-and-white floors, making every photograph and memory feel framed in timeless beauty.

The Grand Ballroom

The Grand Ballroom, formerly the Sanctuary, is the heart of 440 Elm. Spanning more than 6,700 square feet, the room is both majestic and intimate. Sunlight filters through the stained glass, creating jewel-toned light that dances across tables and guests alike. The scale is impressive - up to 900 seated and standing - but the design ensures that every guest feels close to the moment. Couples can exchange vows under the soaring ceilings, enjoy their first dance surrounded by family and friends, and celebrate late into the night, all without ever losing a sense of intimacy.

The Outdoor Plaza

Step outside to the Plaza, an open-air courtyard that serves as a perfect complement to the indoor grandeur. Lush greenery, elegant architectural walls, and a romantic passionfruit vine create a backdrop that’s both soft and striking. Here, couples can host sunlit ceremonies, cocktail hours, or al fresco receptions. The transition from indoor to outdoor feels effortless, letting guests experience multiple dimensions of the venue without interruption. The Plaza captures the romance of an open sky while still offering the architectural drama that makes 440 Elm so unique.