Hey there, soon-to-be-wed friends! As your go-to local wedding photographer, I’ve had the joy of capturing heartwarming moments across a variety of Bay Area wedding venues. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect place to tie the knot, you’re in luck. I’m here to share some personal favorites that dazzle with their unique vibes and stunning backdrops. Let’s dive into the gems that make these venues stand out from the crowd!

Tre Posti Events & Catering

Tucked away in the heart of wine country, Tre Posti Events & Catering is an absolute dream for couples looking for that quintessential Napa Valley flair. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering of 50 or a grand bash of 400, Tre Posti offers an array of settings from lush gardens to elegant ballrooms. The top-notch catering, featuring Italian-inspired fare blended with local tastes, ensures your guests are in for a culinary treat. Trust me, it’s a stellar choice for both indoor weddings and breathtaking outdoor celebrations.

I think my favorite aspect about this venue, aside from the stunning views, is their food. Oh my gosh! They have the best menu of any wedding venue I’ve worked with. I’m drooling over here just thinking about the braised beef short ribs.

Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery

Picture this: Mediterranean grandeur meets California charm. At Casa Real at Ruby Hill Winery, every corner is ready for the spotlight. From the Amber Room’s cozy ambiance for your ceremony to the Grand Salon’s spacious grandeur for dancing the night away, this venue adapts beautifully to both small and large weddings. The vineyards with perfect sunset glow, golden walls and classical arches create an air of luxury that’s just perfect for those timeless wedding photos.

The Bridges Golf Club, San Ramon, CA

Imagine saying your vows with the rolling hills of San Ramon as your backdrop—The Bridges Golf Club makes this picturesque scene a reality. With its Mediterranean villa vibes and lush golf course setting, it’s ideal for couples who want a mix of rustic and chic. The Garden Pavilion, with its dramatic archways and vaulted ceilings, offers an indoor space that’s both grand and intimate, perfect for any season.

With the option to have a golf cart, your portraits can feature your venue in the background making you feel like you own the place. It’s not only romantic, but epic!

StoneTree Estate

Stonetree Estate is where rustic elegance meets serene Northern California landscape. This venue is a knockout for those who love nature intertwined with stylish architecture. With a variety of outdoor and indoor options, it suits just about any wedding style, from laid-back to lavish. The panoramic views and beautifully manicured grounds are a photographer’s paradise and your wedding album’s best friend.

I especially love this venue because there are so many options for portraits, family formals, and wedding party. The fall foliage here is absolutely stunning and adds extra pops of color!

Montalvo Arts Center

One of my all-time favorites is Montalvo Arts Center, especially if you are planning an early spring wedding when the wisteria is in bloom. It feels like something straight out of a storybook.

For those who adore a touch of historical charm, Montalvo Arts Center is a treasure trove. Set against the Santa Cruz Mountains, this venue not only offers stunning garden settings but also a rich history that adds depth to your wedding narrative. Whether you choose the Spanish Courtyard or the Great Lawn, each offers a unique backdrop that reflects elegance and artistry, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated celebration.

Rosewood Events

Rosewood Events encapsulates the essence of a dreamy, secluded estate wedding. With its sprawling fields, romantic redwoods, and enchanting garden settings, it’s a sanctuary for lovebirds looking to escape the city’s hustle. The flexible indoor and outdoor spaces allow you to craft an event that’s truly your own, making it a favorite among couples seeking a personalized celebration in nature.

Mountain House Estates:

Mountain House Estate in Cloverdale is a true standout for those who cherish customization and a laid-back vibe. This venue is all about making your day uniquely yours with its BYOB policy and a flexible vendor list that even includes food trucks! You can spice up every detail of your wedding exactly how you envision it.

With not just one or two, but THREE different ceremony sites and equally diverse options for your cocktail hour and reception, Mountain House Estate is ready to match whatever style you’re dreaming of. From the charm of a garden setting to the rustic beauty under an ancient oak, your choices are nearly limitless. And for us photographers? It’s a paradise with endless stunning spots to capture your moments.

Plus, Lane & John, the owners, are practically family to me by now. Every visit feels like coming home for a mini family reunion. If you’re looking for a venue that offers both privacy and a personal touch in the heart of wine country, Mountain House Estate should definitely be on your radar.

V. Sattui Winery

Dubbed “Napa Valley’s Most Romantic Destination,” V. Sattui isn’t just one of the few wineries in Napa that can host weddings—it was the pioneer. I find that incredibly special. With its Tuscan villa architecture, you and your guests will be enveloped in the stunning vineyards and rolling hills that Napa is famed for. Here’s the best part: your wedding will be the exclusive event at the winery, no matter the size of your guest list. You’ll have sole access to the winery and its spectacular grounds. Personally, when I’m snapping those romantic portraits, I like to pretend we own the place—it just adds that extra touch of magic!

Sbragia Family Winery (a Milestone Events Group Venue)

Sbragia Family Winery absolutely steals my heart every time, so much so that I just have to give it its own shoutout, separate from the Milestone Events group. Nestled north of Santa Rosa, this gem is cradled by vineyard-draped rolling hills and the majestic coastal mountains—a picturesque setting to start your new chapter together. You’ll love the access to the cozy tasting room for your cocktail hour and their private library brimming with exclusive wines. It’s a spot that definitely deserves a place on your venue shortlist. Don’t miss out on Heidi & Spencer’s blog post either; it’s a fantastic showcase of how they beautifully utilized the different spaces at Sbragia for their big day!

Start planning your wedding today!

If any of these fabulous Bay Area wedding venues have caught your eye, or if you need a hand piecing together the finer details of your big day, let’s talk! Reach out to me and let’s ensure your wedding photography captures the essence of your love story in a venue that feels just right. Together, we can make your wedding not just an event, but a masterpiece of memories. Don’t wait, get in touch now and let’s start crafting your unforgettable wedding experience in one of the best Bay Area wedding venues!

~Kristen