Ventura Weddings

Miraflores, the stunning 10-acre garden estate that has been home to the Music Academy of the West since 1951, originally served as the site of the Santa Barbara Country Club.Purchased in 1915 by Mr. and Mrs. John Percival Jefferson, the property took on its distinctive Mediterranean revival-style elegance under the direction of architect Reginald D. Johnson and landscape architect Paul G. Thiene. Originally encompassing 18 acres, the richly wooded, garden-filled estate was bequeathed to the Academy by Mr. Jefferson's personal secretary of 36 years, Helen Marso, who sought to establish a lasting memorial to the Jeffersons. More than five decades later, the property continues to evolve. site improvements include a substantial increase in parking spaces, a widened main driveway for improved vehicular circulation, elegant landscaping that recalls Miraflores' original stately splendor.

The Music Academy's gardens and facilities are available for rental when the Academy is NOT presenting its eight-week Summer School and Festival, which takes place from mid-June through mid-August each year. Acceptable rental purposes include weddings, fundraising, musical performances, auditions, and rehearsals, and seminars and meetings.

Hahn Hall is the campus' primary recital facility. The main building has a grand ballroom (Lehmann Hall), formal dining room (Stewart Hall), and large patio. Braun Library, next to Lehmann Hall, is not available for rent. Lehmann Hall can accommodate 180 guests and Stewart Hall has a capacity of 70 seated for concerts or dining.

The Music Academy requires a nonrefundable deposit at the time the rental agreement is signed. The fee balance and a security/damage deposit are due three weeks prior to the event. The event rental fee includes the use of tables and chairs. The following are available for use inside and on the patio: 15 - 60" rounds, 12 - 48" rounds, 14 - 8' banquets, and180 stacking chairs.

Restrictions on attendance and event times may apply. For pricing and information about restrictions, please contact Leslie Kelleher, Director of Operations at (805) 695-7913. The Music Academy requires evidence of personal liability insurance.

The grounds and gardens at the Music Academy of the West are absolutely stunning. My ceremony was magical overlooking the city below with the mountains off in the distance. The ponds and manor style gardens made a lovely private entrance and cocktail/ entertaining area for my guests. The facilities are sophisticated looking and classy. A gorgeous location for any wedding. Glad I waited for this unique site!

Chelsea H.