Vineyard Wedding Planning Ideas

1 Why Vineyards Make the Best Venue

"There's a big trend in couples seeking unique wedding venues (i.e. not your typical church and ballroom celebration). A vineyard wedding ticks a lot of those boxes — a picturesque outdoor space, romantic grapevines (perfect for amazing wedding pictures), and delicious libation. There's something sophisticated but not stuffy about a vineyard too, which is a balance so many couples are hoping to achieve. Vineyards are special enough for a wedding but still a really fun party their friends and family will love."

1 / 11

2 Tablescape Ideas

Image Source: Cooper Carras

"If a couple wants to play up the vineyard theme, there are plenty of ways to do so, from subtle color choices to full-on grape motifs. The best part about a vineyard is the ability for you to have as casual or as fancy a celebration as you'd like. If you want something luxe, start with a neutral color palette and add garlands and lush florals to the space."

2 / 11

3 Tablescape Ideas

Image Source: Clane Gessel Photography

"Candlelight or dimly lit lanterns create amazing ambiance, while wine-cork escort cards can hint at the location."

3 / 11

4 Tablescape Ideas

Image Source: Evangeline Lane

"If you're going for a more relaxed vibe, try setting rustic wood tables with linen runners and simple, undone florals or terra-cotta pots filled with fresh herbs. Market lighting can be a fun addition if you're celebrating outdoors, while mix-matched china and flatware will keep things from feeling too fussy. Regardless of the style of the wedding, don't forget the wine glasses."

4 / 11

5 Perfect Appetizer With Wine

Image Sources: The TomKat Studio / Kim Stoegbauer and California Milk Advisory Board

"Nothing pairs better with wine than cheese! Set up an antipasti station as a cocktail-hour complement. Include different cheese and meat varietals, olives, and nuts, and allow guests to help themselves. If you're hosting a more casual wedding, consider serving a family-style dinner."

5 / 11

6 Wine Pairings

Image Source: Laura Segall Photography

"Have caterers serve each guest the main course and include big bowls of sharable sides like fresh asparagus and roasted potatoes (think farm-to-table fare). If you're having an intimate celebration or looking to really impress your guests, partner with your caterer to offer a wine pairing for each course. This will allow your family and friends to sample a few wine varietals throughout the evening."

6 / 11

7 The Cake

Image Source: Sarah Bradshaw Photography

"Consider the kind of wedding you're throwing — if it's more of a glamorous affair, opt for an elegant design. Buttercream frosting will keep the cake from skewing too formal, and consider swapping tractional sugar flowers with gum-paste grapes."

7 / 11

8 The Cake

Image Source: Cassie Jones Photography

"Keeping things more casual? Try a naked cake. Frosting-less layers are perfect for garnishes like fresh fruit or wildflowers."

8 / 11

9 The "Cake"

Image Sources: The TomKat Studio / Kim Stoegbauer and California Milk Advisory Board

"And if you're not cake people, consider having a savory dessert instead — cheese cake. We're not talking the graham-cracker-crust variety, but actually stacked wheels of fromage. You could even "cut" this at your cocktail hour for a twist on tradition."

9 / 11

10 Party Favors

Image Source: Yes Dear. Studio

"The obvious favor choice for a vineyard wedding is wine, of course. Talk to the vineyard about bulk-pricing options or half-bottle offerings. You can opt to give one bottle or favor per couple in this case too — who wants to drink alone? You can even personalize the bottles with a custom label sporting your new monogram or wedding date. If that's not in the budget, opt for a fun bottle stopper. It's practical, so guests won't dare leave it behind."

10 / 11

11 / 11