California Dreamin': 3 Destinations for the Ultimate Wedding or Honeymoon

Worthy of an Emmy award for most drama in the fight for gay marriage, California finally reinstated its position on gay marriage in 2013 and now gay and lesbian couples across the Golden State can get hitched in some of our country's most picture-perfect destinations.

It wasn't an easy fight, though. The Human Rights Campaign was the epicenter of the battle against Proposition 8. "Today is a day of profound celebration, but tomorrow - and every day from here on out - we will fight until joy, dignity, and full equality in all its forms reach each and every corner of this vast country," said HRC's President Chad Griffin. That day has come as the Supreme Court tackles the constitutionality of gay marriage this summer.

In the meantime, we have California (along with 36 other forward-thinking states) to celebrate our nuptials. EDGE takes a closer look at three California cities to say "I do" or escape from the doldrums of daily life for a honeymoon adventure of a lifetime.

From Gay to Z in San Diego

For a wedding with flair, The Abbey offers historical charm and masterful design. Architect Norman Foote Marsh designed the building as a Methodist Episcopal church and it is a stunning example of Spanish Colonial Revival architecture, featuring two enormous stained glass skylights, redwood molding, and hand-blown glass fixtures.

For a reception, nightcap or farewell brunch, W Hotel San Diego's rooftop lounge offers stunning views and stylish service. Take over the entire space for the ultimate nuptial celebration, or if you're traveling in smaller numbers consider a private cabana with bottle service. Those with an eye for style will appreciate the "wild coast" design imbued throughout the property by Mister Important Design, a California-based concept and interior firm.

For dining and nightlife, the Hillcrest area is San Diego's LGBT hub and you'll find plenty of options to whet your appetite. Consider cocktails and entertainment at Martinis Above Fourth, where recent acts have included 80s favorite Molly Ringwald and Barbra Streisand impersonator Steven Brinberg. Gossip Grill is a must-stop for the ladies, or you can even get married and renew your vows all in the same weekend with the help of Babycakes, one of the city's top bakeries who also hosts Sunday "church" - a weekly gathering of "beautiful people, stiff drinks, and groovy tunes."

Hooray for Hollywood

Glitz, glamour, and if you're lucky, maybe a Gaga sighting - Los Angeles has it all. Wedding and honeymoon revelers looking to debunk the City of Angels can plan a weekend of revelry and discover little-known gems that would look perfect on the red carpet or in a wedding album.

Set up your digs at W Hollywood hotel, a boutique property conveniently located at the intersection of Hollywood and Vine. The hotel offers an astonishing variety of rooms and suites (ten in total), but if you're looking to entertain, opt for the Extreme Wow Suite, a 1,660-square-foot play den featuring luxury furnishings in 50 shades of grey, a black marble soaking tub, and a dining area for seven of your favorite friends or playmates.

While any LGBT visit to Los Angeles should include an obligatory pass through West Hollywood and The Abbey (not to be confused with San Diego's wedding venue), venture a bit deeper and discover lesser-known gems like the downtown renaissance, where you can grab a whiskey and a beer at the Asian fusion hotspot, Far Bar, or catch some live music in Hollywood at the swanky Sayers Club, where you're likely to spot A-listers who have stumbled upon the tucked-away entrance through the back of a hot dog shop.

Tech Travel in San Francisco

Do you want to tackle the Golden Gate City for a pop of culture, food and gay history but don't know where to begin? Technological advances have reinvented how to maximize your visit so you can spend more time with your new spouse and wedding guests. Consider these three options:

Chefs Feed
San Francisco is the ultimate foodie town, so who better to offer dining advice than the very chefs who reside there? Chefs Feed delivers insider tips from local culinary experts, along with food news, videos, and reviews of specific dishes.

Golden Gate Park Field Guide
Golden Gate Park is San Francisco's 1,000-acre urban oasis. Use this app's easy to navigate template to discover the parks most popular attractions as well as hidden gems.

Coming soon! Detour
This location-based audio guide is about to launch and draws upon local experts including artists, journalists, tour guides and more to deliver immersive experiences throughout San Francisco's varied neighborhoods.

When the day is done and you're ready to settle into matrimonial bliss, the W San Francisco provides respite in the heart of SoMA - a neighborhood bristling with cultural attractions including the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, The Cartoon Art Museum, and a handful of innovative theater companies. The hotel recently completed a spectacular renovation of its wedding space, SOCIAL, a breathtaking venue with floor-to-ceiling windows.