Not every couple wants a ballroom. Some want a bar with murals, creative cocktails, and a Downtown Oakland address. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Hella Bees! Our planning collective is thrilled to produce our first event there this October. Today, we’re sharing the lowdown on hosting celebrations in this vibrant space and why it’s such a great fit for Oakland couples searching for a unique venue.
Oakland Wedding Venue: Hella Bees
We recommend Hella Bees to any couple looking to curate a one-of-a-kind experience for their guests. It’s a boldly modern space unlike any other in the San Francisco Bay Area. With contemporary art, industrial-inspired design, and a menu of innovative drinks and small plates, the venue feels both elegant and down-to-earth (a.k.a. quintessentially Oakland).
Planning a courthouse elopement followed by a dinner party, or a downtown microwedding? Hella Bees strikes that rare balance: elevated enough to feel celebratory, yet intimate enough for meaningful, small-scale gatherings. With a capacity of up to 100 guests, you can expand your guest list or simply enjoy extra room to spread out, all while having a prime downtown location to yourselves. The flexible layout also allows us to configure the space for cocktails, dinner, and dancing without it ever feeling cramped.
Hella Bees sits in the heart of downtown Oakland, steps from Lake Merritt and a short walk from several hotels, making it an ideal choice for out-of-town guests. This also makes it a great location for hosting a welcome party the night before or a rehearsal dinner to kick off your celebration. The central location means your guests can arrive easily and get back to their accommodations without the stress of a long drive.
Because Hella Bees is located in Downtown Oakland, parking can require a bit of planning. We recommend hiring a valet service, especially for high-traffic dates. It streamlines guest arrival and lets everyone settle in and celebrate without worrying about their vehicles.
The starting rental fee for Hella Bees, including a full bar package, is $10,000. If this venue feels like your kind of place, it’s probably because you’re our kind of couple. Reach out and tell us about your celebration! We’re so excited about this space, and we’d love to help you make it yours.
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Featured Venue: Hella Bees
Photography: Nye Lyn Tho
