Meet one of our newest members, Tar Creek Ranch! This gorgeous ranch on the outskirts of Arroyo Grande holds a peaceful and charming ambiance that embodies the serene and country esque feel that most brides on the Central Coast are looking for. The barn speaks for itself with it's gorgeous presence overlooking the landscape. I had the pleasure of interviewing Matthew Abbate about the ranch. Keep scrolling to read about this gem of a wedding venue!



Tell us about your venue and your story!

"Tar Creek Ranch is located in San Luis Obispo County, in the heart of the bucolic Huasna Valley, yet only minutes from the quaint village of Arroyo Grande and Pismo Beach. The TCR barn was built between 1925 and 1927, following the wreck of a lumber ship, right off the coast of Oceano. Farmers who lived on the ranch during this time built the barn for the purpose of storing hay nearly a century ago. TCR has been in the Abbate family since 2018. When first acquired, the property was overgrown, hiding the beauty and great potential it held. Over the span of 5 years, the property was renovated and turned into the breathtaking venue that lies there today."



Can you describe the key features of your wedding venue?

"The main attraction to Tar Creek Ranch is the iconic barn, with its exposed wood interior, lit with breathtaking chandeliers. This feature is the perfect backdrop to any wedding. Adjacent to the barn is the ceremony and cocktail area. This features a large grass space with an elevated ceremony platform. The cocktail space provides ample area for guests to mingle before the reception. Tar Creek Ranch also includes a 3,300-square-foot enclosed structure for the outdoor dining feel. Lastly, with occupancy for 10 guests on-site, the Ranch House is a perfect bridal suite or additional guest accommodations."


How do you accommodate different wedding sizes and styles?

"We have options for couples with weddings with guest counts up to 175. For weddings of all sizes, ceremonies and cocktail hour occur in the expansive outdoor area next to the barn. Dinner for guest counts of 150 or more will now take place in the newly added event tent, just steps away from the barn and patio."



What amenities do you offer for couples and their guests?

"We offer a wondering 3 bedroom, 3 bath home that can have various uses throughout the weekend. This home can be used for a rehearsal dinner before the wedding. In addition, it is a wonderful spot for the bride and bridal party to get ready the day of. Lastly, the home offers a place for the newlyweds to stay post-wedding. For 2024 Tar Creek Ranch will be adding a groomsman suite that will provide a location for the groomsman to relax before the wedding."

How do you customize and personalize the wedding experience for couples?

"At Tar Creek Ranch, our main focus is exceeding the couple's expectations for their big day! We offer flexibility with amenities and timelines. With several different package offerings, the experience can be tailored to the couple's dreams."



Do you have a favorite wedding that is memorable from your experience hosting weddings? Tell us about it!

"The most memorable wedding we have hosted at Tar Creek Ranch was Tony and Laura Andreini's. The day began with a beautiful ceremony, and perfect weather for a summer wedding. Between the donkey serving beer and the grand exit on a Vespa, guests were left with exciting stories to tell from Tar Creek Ranch."


Tar Creek Ranch and All It's Beauty

Tar Creek Ranch and All It's Beauty

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