Pelican Inn Wedding | Intimate Scottish-Inspired Celebration in Muir Beach
Oh how I love the Pelican Inn. Tucked away in the coastal hills of Muir Beach, this charming, English countryside–inspired inn is one of my favorite venues for an intimate Bay Area wedding. With its English Tudor–style exterior, lush lawn, and warm, inviting atmosphere, the Pelican Inn feels cozy, romantic, and completely transportive. It’s the kind of place that encourages couples and guests alike to slow down and truly savor the day.
ith M’s Scottish heritage and A’s English roots, this venue was the perfect backdrop — rich in character and filled with meaningful details. The inn’s English antique décor, layered with history and charm, set the tone beautifully, while whimsical dried floral arrangements from Mill Valley Flowers, added a soft, romantic touch throughout the space. From the moment guests arrived, the setting felt welcoming, relaxed, and full of old-world charm.
This wedding was a heartfelt nod to Scottish tradition. From the classic tartans and kilt, to the sound of a Scottish bagpiper echoing across the property, every element felt intentional and deeply personal. During the ceremony, the couple also incorporated a Quaich ceremony, a traditional Scottish ritual symbolizing unity and trust. They shared a drink from a two-handled Quaich cup, representing the joining of their lives and families.
Guests gathered in the dining room around the cozy fireplace, enjoying a candle-lit meal filled with hearty, comforting food. The beef Wellington, along with bangers and mash, was especially delicious and a perfect nod to the couple’s heritage. The glow of the fire and flickering candles, paired with the intimate setting, made the evening feel especially special.
One of the sweetest highlights of the night was dessert — a spread of delicious donuts from Donut Savant, which guests absolutely loved. The playful, laid-back dessert choice felt perfectly in line with the relaxed, joyful spirit of the celebration.
One of the things the Pelican Inn is known for is its coastal fog, which often rolls in and creates a beautifully moody, romantic atmosphere — a dream for photography. However, this spring wedding surprised us with clear skies and gorgeous weather, giving us soft light and a calm, serene backdrop throughout the day. In the spring, the property comes alive with blooming lavender, which made the perfect backdrop for family portraits and bridal party photos, adding gentle color and a timeless feel to the images.
As a Bay Area wedding photographer, I love how effortlessly the Pelican Inn photographs. From the English Tudor exterior and antique interiors to the open lawn, dried florals, and seasonal blooms, every corner of the venue tells a story. It’s an ideal setting for couples planning a small, intimate wedding in Marin County or the San Francisco Bay Area who want a celebration that feels personal, cozy, and deeply meaningful.
This wedding was a beautiful reminder that the most memorable celebrations are rooted in tradition, thoughtful details, and genuine connection — all things the Pelican Inn does exceptionally well.
As a Pelican Inn wedding photographer, I love documenting celebrations here for couples who value intimacy, meaningful traditions, and a relaxed, timeless approach to their wedding day.
Venue/ Catering: The Pelican Inn - DJ: Heart of Gold DJs , Jordan Springman - Dessert: Donut Savant - Florist: Mill Valley Flowers - Makeup/ Hair: MilVali Salon and Cosmetics
