Plan an Unforgettable Sonoma Wedding Weekend 

Sonoma is the epitome of a wedding destination. With its stellar wineries, beautiful weather, and variety of accommodation options, you and your guests can expect an unforgettable Sonoma wedding weekend. Come for love, leave with the memories you’ll cherish forever.

Sonoma is full of hidden gems, and as a Sonoma photographer who knows the area, I am here to guide you. I will be including my personal recommendations to make sure you have a one-of-a-kind wedding experience, from start to finish.  Weddings can feel chaotic, and I’m here to create a calm space in the middle of the whirlwind weekend, letting you be fully immersed in your love story. 

While we are going to get into specifics about an unforgettable Sonoma wedding weekend, if you are looking more for general wedding planning in Sonoma, Lovely Day Events has put together a great guide: Guide to Planning Your Sonoma or Napa Wedding.

Sonoma Wedding Venues

Sonoma has no shortage of exquisite wedding venues. The Sonoma County Tourism put together a list of venues, which is a great starting point to narrow down what you are looking for in your best day ever. I am sharing a few of my favorites from firsthand experience with couples. Together, we will create a great experience at whichever space you choose. I really believe in creating a holistic experience for my couples. It’s more than showing up on your wedding day; I am here for everything from the engagement sessions to the reception. I’ll help you navigate decisions, timelines, and family dynamics so you can fully experience your day without being overwhelmed by the noise. 

If award-winning wines and vineyard views are two of your must-have wedding essentials, then deLorimier Winery is the wedding venue in Sonoma County for you. deLorimier Winery wedding venue offers some of the most spectacular areas I  have seen. A favorite is the Cabana Courtyard, which includes a fountain, spacious tasting room, patio, and lawn. Their landscaped gardens are a romantic backdrop for outdoor ceremonies, dinner, and dancing. Plus, the entire venue is surrounded by gorgeous rolling hills of vineyards. See photos from one of our couples’ deLorimier Winery Wedding in Sonoma County.

Stanly Ranch

While technically in Napa, Forbes magazine points out that Stanly Ranch borders both the Sonoma and Napa valleys, making it a prime venue location. Read the Forbes article here.

I have photographed Stanly Ranch several times, yet it remains unique and fresh. Each couple has its own vision and dreams of the space. The venue always executes to a T, and couples love the customizable wedding packages. You can choose from a range of services that include catering, rentals, and coordination. Stanly Ranch event rental fees cover setup and breakdown, event staffing, and transportation to and from the hotel to the event site for guests staying at the venue. Couples who say “I do” at Stanly Ranch don’t have to sweat the details. Instead, they get to actually enjoy every moment of their wedding day.

Stanly Ranch Wedding Venue in Napa Valley

Things to Consider for Where to Stay for an Unforgettable Sonoma Wedding Weekend

Something to keep in mind when planning a destination wedding is the accommodations. You’ll be providing your guests with one to two options for where they can stay. Some Sonoma wedding venues include onsite accommodations, while others may have enough room for the wedding party but not for all of the guests. 

While it seems logical to choose a location close to the wedding venue, Sonoma is pretty spread out, and the expansive vineyards even more so. It’s unlikely that you’ll be able to find accommodations close enough to walk to the venue, so you should plan for transportation for your guests. 

The good news is that many hotels offer shuttle service. On the off chance the venue does not offer driving services, you can arrange your own transportation. California Wine Tours offers Wedding Transportation to ensure your guests arrive safely and on time with their luxury shuttle services, perfect for transporting guests between hotels, venues, and reception locations. This also allows your guests to relax and enjoy your wedding without thinking too much about what happens after.

The Sonoma Valley AVA (American Viticultural Area) is about 17 miles long, so don’t put too much weight on proximity and choose the place that feels right for you. 

What to do in Sonoma

Many guests come to Sonoma and are in peak relaxation mode. There are renowned spas, leisurely wine tours, and great places to lounge. Something slightly different that you can indulge in is the Boyes Hot Springs. Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa has access to the hot springs as well as other spa services. 

Another atypical activity I can’t recommend enough is prioritizing a hike while you’re in Sonoma. Whether you want a moment of privacy with your spouse to be in the great outdoors before the big day, or you are looking for a group activity, a hike should be on your list. Jack London State Historic Park is absolutely magical. It has a must-see botanical garden that is on my top three list. Moving your body and seeing something outside of the pamphlets; it’s the sort of thing that makes your wedding special. 

When planning your unforgettable Sonoma wedding weekend, think about what you like to do at home that you can incorporate into your weekend. I feel a responsibility to tell your story on your wedding day, not someone else’s. Every element of your weekend should reflect your personalities and values. We are starting your marriage, after all. 

Where to Eat during an Unforgettable Sonoma Wedding Weekend

Making sure your guests are fed and hydrated is the secret to a successful Sonoma wedding weekend. I have a few favorite restaurants that I recommend. Sunflower Caffè is my top morning spot. It’s sized to accommodate larger groups and has a more casual vibe while still being trendy. Sit out on their patio and soak in the Sonoma sun. Order a breakfast sandwich and get a round of wellness shots for the bridal party! It is truly a great way to start the day, surrounded by your closest people. This would also be a great place to host a farewell brunch. 

For lunch when you arrive, the rustic charm of the girl & the fig, coupled with their artisan dishes, is perfection. I think about their tomato risotto at least once a day. This spot can get pretty busy, but it is absolutely worth it. Be sure to plan ahead and spend some time at the restaurant. 

Water is key to a wedding weekend, especially in wine country. It can be easy to get dehydrated when you are eating, drinking, and enjoying the happy buzz of being with your favorite people. Bring a water bottle and refill it frequently. 

If you are torn between Sonoma and Napa (both great choices), be sure to look at our Favorite Things to do in Napa Valley – Wedding Weekend

Let’s Start

If you are ready to feel completely seen, supported, and safe, let’s set up a call. 

Contact | Alicia Parks Photography

My priority will always be my couple. I’m someone who listens deeply, guides with care, and brings a calming, wellness-focused presence into every step of your wedding journey. With me, it’s more than photos. You can expect a soulful experience that honors your connection and captures your love in the most authentic, empowering way. I’m looking forward to learning more about you and your vision for the future.