By: Jaime Purinton

Have you been dreaming about having a romantic vineyard wedding but can’t figure out how to bring Napa to your backyard?

Luckily for you, we have the inside scoop on a beautiful wine country right here in Southern California! Located just 45 minutes north of San Diego, Temecula Valley Wine Country has over 35 wineries, many of which have gorgeous wedding facilities and offer top notch food, award winning wine, and exceptional service.

From the minute you enter wine country, you know you are somewhere special and unique. Everything seems to slow down and you can feel the tranquility. Temecula Valley Wine Country is known for its dramatic scenery and relaxing atmosphere which is a perfect combination for a beautiful and stress free wedding. There is nothing quite like it in Southern California.

THE EXPERIENCE
Each winery offers a unique wedding experience for you and your guests ranging from rustic chic to grand elegance and everything in between. The options are endless, including jaw dropping sunset ceremonies and vine covered arbors set amidst perfectly manicured lawns, flowered arches with sweeping views of the valley in the background, intimate candle lit barrel rooms, and grand reception rooms all with their own personality and charm. In addition, there are several places for your guests to stay including quaint Bed and Breakfasts and full service resorts complete with spas, dining, and concierge services. Many guests choose to stay the weekend and participate in other local activities such as wine tasting, hot air balloon rides, golfing, horseback rides, and shopping in Old Town Temecula.

THE WINE & FOOD
Your guests will be impressed as they sip on award winning wine and sensational wine country cuisine created by some of the best chefs in Southern California. Nothing is average in wine country, especially the wine and food. With all of the time spent by the winemakers to create incredible wine, it would all be for nothing if the food wasn’t up to par. Good food paired with good wine is part of the wine country culture. Many of the wineries offer complimentary wine pairing to maximize your guest’s experience.

THE SERVICE
People are down right friendlier in wine country. It probably has to do with the wine and atmosphere, but it definitely shows in the warm and welcoming service that is provided.

Most wineries have professional staff coordinators that are included in the wedding package. They know the ins and outs of their winery and will assist you with all of the planning start to finish. They have insider knowledge of their winery and know the best photo spots, who the greatest local vendors are, the most popular wines, and so much more. You and your guests will feel like a member of the wine country family.

Just because you live in San Diego doesn’t mean you can’t have the vineyard wedding of your dreams!