Our search for a venue continues…
Next we went to Spencer’s Restaurant. We had high hopes coming in–always dangerous, I know. But after reading the review in “Here Comes The Guide,” it sounded perfect for us. Rich in history as a hangout for old Hollywood (in Palm Springs Tennis District) and known for its delicious food, it seemed like it could be perfect.
The first red flag was when we walked up. The place was decked out with poinsettias and Christmas trees (we later asked and they would not remove these if we booked our wedding there). Now, ordinarily this wouldn’t be a bad thing. I LOVE Christmas and the whole holiday season. But Mr. Peppermint and I had been clear on the fact that despite our wedding being during December, we didn’t want it to be holiday-themed.
As we met with the coordinator here she took us through the facility. The building was retro, but not in a cool way. Instead, more in the they-haven’t-updated-this-building-since-the-’80’s sort of way. To be fair, on the day we came, there had been some mysterious leak from their indoor waterfall that forced them to clear the room and work on drying the carpet. The space, I’m sure, could be decked out to look really gorgeous. However, that day was not its best day.
She then took us to the grassy area where the ceremony would take place. I liked that it was versatile (you could set up the ceremony in a variety of directions and shapes). However, the one downside to the ceremony area is that it overlooks tennis courts from the Tennis Club next door (you can definitely hear the ball bouncing back and forth)–and they can’t guarantee that people won’t be playing a game on them. All in all, as you can tell, Spencer’s just had too many variables for us. I can see it being an amazing venue, but it was too big of a risk.
Here’s some of the pictures from the Spencer’s website & Here Comes The Guide:
Yeah and with luck you’d have a wannabe Serena and Venus out there whacking balls during your vows. We just shot a wedding next to a swimming pool where little kids kept cannonballing into the pool during the vows 
I agree with Andrea, I love the first one.
That venue is pretty and all, but I think the most prohibitive factor for me would’ve been those low ceilings! With the rock wall, it makes it seem a bit like a cave.
Here’s another vote for the first venue you posted about
The rock wall on the inside and the chairs are awful!! Don’t book this one!!!
The Willows is so much better, a great b&b for your guests too…my vote is for your first option. But if your hotel option happens to be the Parker Palm Springs, then hands down, that’s the winner! I recently spent some time with the catering manager on-site and she was wonderful! The property is pretty unique and a great ballroom, but not cheap…good luck!
This is my 21st year of living in the Palm Springs Area and I would be happy to help anyone with experienced information about all aspects of your wedding plans and there is no charge nor hidden agenda.
Miss Peppermint, LA/Palm Springs
Age and Occupation: 23, Actress
Fiance's Age and Occupation: 24, Web Producer
Engagement Date: October 21, 2006
Wedding Date: December 2007
Blogging Since: July 2, 2007
Venue: historic estate overlooking the heart of Palm Springs
About Me: I am a Southern California native who enjoys cooking, writing, travel and all things in the arts. Mr. Peppermint and I met in college and he proposed on our four year anniversary in one of our most special places, Joshua Tree National Park. We're having a destination wedding in Palms Springs that will incorporate tradition as well as reflect our personalities!
I see what you mean. The first one is still my favorite!