California’s Napa Valley is considered one of the most romantic spots in the world for couples to get married. It’s also a dream destination for wedding guests.
There’s so much to do, see and eat – and of course, drink.
Idyllic wedding venues with inspired views plus favorable weather for most of the year are part of the allure. However, grapevines are only green from May to October if you’re planning to get married among the vines.
Weddings are such a big deal that Visit Napa Valley has an entire section of its website dedicated to weddings, including everything from how to get a marriage license to booking a venue or finding a wedding planner. The area is easy to get to—it’s only 90 minutes from San Francisco, and there are three international airports within 65 miles.
Why Napa
Wedding venues include vineyard estates offering romantic and picturesque settings among the vines; luxury resorts with top-notch amenities and service accommodating weddings of all sizes; charming gardens with manicured landscapes and blooming plants; and historic estates with exquisite architecture and sophistication.
Fine dining and wine are imbued in the Napa Valley culture. Local, sustainable and farm-to-table food can be found everywhere from food trucks to the Michelin Star restaurants located throughout the valley. Vineyards with award-winning wines are ubiquitous, and there’s a growing craft cocktail scene.
For guests before and after the wedding, book a wine tasting or distillery tour, get a thrill at the Sonoma Raceway Outdoor Karting, take a hot air balloon ride, hike or bike one of the many scenic trails, schedule a spa day or take a cooking class.
Luxury Resorts
And finally, there is an abundance of luxury accommodations, including six ALHI properties. Here they are, along with something that makes each one special for a wedding.
Portola Hotel & Spa, Monterey
Couples can have a Portola-catered wedding in Memory Garden, operated by California State Parks. The garden is reminiscent of “Old Monterey” with its historic adobe architecture and lush plant life. The open layout accommodates romantic ceremonies or grand affairs.
Carneros Resort and Spa, Napa
Vineyard Lawn is Napa Valley’s newest 10,000-square-feet venue that can host small or large weddings under the stars. The eco-friendly lawns and landscaping offer views of scenic vineyards and rolling hills.
The Meritage Resort and Spa, Napa
Built into the hillside beneath Meritage’s nine-acre vineyard, the Estate Cave has a dramatic barrel ceiling with ornate wall sconces and chandeliers. The resort’s food truck serves everything from burritos to barbecue at receptions.
Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, Sonoma
Fairmont Sonoma has been hosting weddings for more than 100 years. Couples and their guests can soak in that history at intimate weddings and cocktail receptions on Creekside Lawn, shaded by 100-year-old redwood and eucalyptus trees.
Silverado Resort, Napa
The Bocce Courts and surrounding gardens are a unique space for receptions that offer a taste of the best Napa Valley has to offer. Hors d'oeuvres like chorizo-manchego croquettes, premium charcuterie boards and fresh seafood are among the locally sourced offerings.
The Estate Yountville, Yountville
Get married among the vines at The Vineyard at the south end of the estate. A secluded path with greenery on both sides leads to an intimate and private event lawn. Then take advantage of the concierge to plan excursions like hot air balloon rides.
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