About Oakland

Sitting pretty directly across the bay from San Francisco, Oakland is often overshadowed by its bigger and better-known neighbor. But Oakland has started making a name for itself as a vibrant and inviting city in its own right in recent years.

The “other” city by the bay is steeped in history, boasts stunning views, and is home to a burgeoning food and wine scene. It’s artsy, it’s creative, and it’s exciting, and Oakland is now seen as a great place to be all year round.

So if you’re planning an event in Oakland, whether it’s a corporate reception or a private party, you’ll find a host of diverse and delightful options right on your doorstep.

Event Options in Oakland

If you want to run the best possible Oakland event, you can’t expect to do everything yourself. Happily, there are plenty of great local businesses and professional services that can help you add a special touch to your celebration or gathering.

• Caterers

Whether you’re planning a milestone birthday party, a wedding reception, or a corporate picnic, every event needs great food to be a success. If you want to provide a treat for your guests’ taste buds, compare caterers in Oakland to find someone who can deliver delicious food at the right price.

• Florists

Looking for ways to decorate your Oakland event venue? Carefully chosen floral arrangements can make a big difference to the look and feel of any space. And with an experienced florist in your corner, you can add aesthetic appeal to any event.

• Entertainment

From musicians to comedians, guest speakers to acrobats, entertainment is a wonderful component of any live event. Shop around to find creative professionals that can spice up any event and help you create the perfect atmosphere.

Event Companies in Oakland

From private parties to corporate events, planning any event can be a stressful experience. From choosing the best Oakland event venues to organizing catering, decor, entertainment, and more, there’s much you need to consider for everything to run smoothly. So why not leave the hard work to a professional? Here are a few local options you might like to consider.

• Barbara Llewellyn Catering & Event Planning

An event planning service based in Oakland, Barbara Llewellyn Catering & Event Planning has been staging memorable occasions in the Bay Area for over 30 years. Whether you need help finding the right Oakland event venue, perfecting the menu, or coordinating the finer details of your event, the company offers a wide range of services for private and corporate clients.

• Event Magic

Oakland-based Event Magic has been offering party rentals to the San Francisco Bay Area since 2002. From props and games to backdrops and sound and lighting equipment, the company hires out an extensive range of products. It also offers event production and planning services to help you stage your dream event.

• Jenni Grubba Events

Planning a wedding reception in the Bay Area or somewhere further afield? Jenni Grubba Events can help you plan your perfect day, regardless of whether you want something small and intimate or a big celebration with hundreds of guests. Elopements and destination weddings are also available, and the company offers honeymoon and travel planning services too.

Pros and Cons of Events in Oakland

Advantages

• By the bay

With its pretty bayside location, Oakland sits in an enviable location.

• Green spaces

If you like enjoying the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of beautiful places to explore in the area.

• Great climate

With its mild climate, Oakland is a lovely place to be all year round.

• Thriving food and wine scene

From its high-quality restaurants to its urban wine trail, Oakland offers a host of gastronomic experiences.

• Close to San Francisco

When you live in Oakland, you can also enjoy easy access to the many attractions and experiences that San Francisco has to offer.

Disadvantages

• Crime

Unfortunately, crime can be a problem in some neighborhoods in the area.

• High cost of living

Housing costs in the desirable areas of Oakland are often quite high.

• Overshadowed by San Francisco

Oakland is sometimes overshadowed by its neighbor across the bay, San Francisco.

• Homelessness

Sadly, homelessness is also a problem in Oakland.

• Road conditions

The Bay Area has an unfortunate reputation for having poorly maintained roads.

Famous Locations in Oakland

• Lake Merritt

Covering 155 acres, Lake Merritt is one of Oakland’s most unique urban attractions. This tidal lagoon offers three miles of shoreline and is the ideal spot for anyone who wants to get outside or get active. It is also North America’s oldest wildlife refuge and is home to a diverse array of birdlife for added interest.

• Oakland Museum of California

Want to learn more about the history, culture, and art of California? This popular attraction is a must-visit. From its vibrant gallery of California art to exhibits showcasing California’s diverse native habitats and ecosystems, there’s much to enjoy here for visitors of all ages.

• Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park

Located just a few miles from downtown Oakland, this 1,833-acre park offers a peaceful escape from the city. It’s home to a forest of majestic, 150-foot-tall redwoods, making it the ideal destination for nature lovers. If you like the gorgeous look of redwood, why not book a warehouse space with redwood floors near the Port of Oakland for your next event?