Congratulations you are engaged! How does it feel to say, fiance? You must be soaking in the celebrations, and on cloud nine as you step into your wedding planning journey. 

Now you are asking yourself, where do I start when searching for wine country wedding venues? Here are some tips and tricks to get you off on the right foot!

1. What time of year do you prefer?
   • Peak wedding season in Northern California wine country is June through September. 
2. Where in wine country should we consider?
   • There are quite a few picturesque areas to remember, spanning from Napa wedding venues to Sonoma wedding venues and all towns in between. You can even go further North to Healdsburg, St. Helena, or Calistoga.
3. What venues appeal to you?
   • Here is a short list of wine country standouts to get you started!
     • Wine Country Chic Carneros Resort and Spa 

Garden Dreams Beaulieu Garden

Sophisticated Soiree Silverado Resort and Spa 

1. What is your ideal budget range?
   • Your ideal budget range will be influenced by guest count, the type of venue package, and what vendors you prefer. Start by having a conversation with your partner about your non-negotiable attendees. Does this round out to about 50? 100? 150? This total number will directly influence your venue and budget. What elements of the wedding do you place a high value on and the least? For example, if you both highly value a live band or plated dinner, and less on floral arrangements, you can plan to budget more or less with those vendors.  
2. Compare Packages
   • It will be helpful to place the proposals side by side and review what each venue package offers. Do they have a list of preferred vendors? Do they have suites for both parties to get ready? Do they have catering onsite, or would you need to hire a caterer? 

• Schedule Appointments
  • Pick your top 3-5 locations. Take lots of photos while touring! It’s always so wonderful to look back, and truly envision the day
• Must Ask Questions When Touring
  • Do you include tables and chairs or do they need to be rented?
  • Do you include lighting?
  • Do you include bathrooms or do they need to be rented?
  • Do you allow liquor or just beer and wine?
  • Do you require shuttles or a valet?
  • Does the couple get ready on-site or somewhere else?
  • Do you have a list of preferred vendors?
  • What options are available if it rains?
  • Are there any regulations around music after 10:00 pm?

Notes to keep in mind for wine country weddings, 

• A true winery is not permitted to serve liquor, only beer and wine. 
• The county noise ordinances do not allow amplified music outdoors after 10:00 PM. However, indoors, all night long! 

Now that you have the basics, time to jump in. Your wine country wedding venues are awaiting you! You and your partner are closer than you’ve ever been to your very special day. 

Let’s chat more about wine country wedding venues! 

The Ebinger Events philosophy? Indulging in the details and designing personal, immersive wedding experiences that feel like a custom celebration from start to finish.

Contact us HERE