Why We Love It: Throwing a vineyard wedding? It's no secret that California produces 90 percent of the nation’s wine, but couples aren't just limited to Napa. For a lesser-known alternative, consider the Livermore Valley. This hidden gem has been in the winery business for over 130 years. In addition to award-winning wineries, the region also features championship golf courses and a bounty of restaurants. Livermore is just an hour east of San Francisco, but it feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the city thanks to its quaint setting.
Where to Get Hitched: A proud family-run venue for five generations, Wente Vineyards is dedicated to a high level of service and offers six different wedding locations. The weather is beautiful year-round, but keep in mind that the landscape changes as the vineyard matures. "March through May is the best time if you want lush green scenery as the backdrop. June through September is perfect for those who want golden hills with grapes hanging from them. We especially love the period between late September and November, when the grapes have been harvested and the leaves turn into vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red," says Heather Jones from Wente Vineyards.
