USA
Destination Wedding in Napa Valley
Toast to forever among rolling vineyards and world-class wines in California's most celebrated wine country.
Start PlanningHighlights
- World-class wine country setting
- Michelin-starred dining
- Harvest season magic
- Hot air balloon experiences
- Easy Bay Area access
- Mediterranean climate
Overview
Why Choose Napa Valley?
Napa Valley has earned its place among the world's great wine regions, and with that reputation comes an equally renowned status as a wedding destination. Here, couples celebrate surrounded by a landscape that seems purpose-built for romance—rolling hills covered in orderly rows of vines, stone wineries reminiscent of Tuscany, and a culinary scene that rivals any in the world. The valley stretches 30 miles from Napa to Calistoga, with each town offering its own character. Yountville is the culinary capital, home to multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. St. Helena combines small-town charm with sophisticated wineries. Calistoga offers hot springs and a more casual vibe. Throughout, the valley's 400+ wineries provide venues ranging from historic stone estates to sleek contemporary tasting rooms. Beyond wine, Napa offers the California lifestyle at its finest—farm-to-table cuisine, year-round sunshine, hot air balloon rides at dawn, and the easy elegance that makes celebrations here feel both special and effortless. For couples who love fine wine, exceptional food, and natural beauty, Napa Valley delivers an experience that ages as beautifully as its finest vintages.
Timing
Best Time to Get Married
Napa Valley enjoys a Mediterranean climate with warm, dry summers and mild winters. The wedding season runs year-round, but harvest season (September-October) offers the most magical combination of weather, colors, and winemaking activity.
Spring
March - May
Mustard flowers bloom between vines, temperatures are pleasant (15-24°C), and the landscape is lush and green. Excellent conditions before summer crowds.
Summer
June - August
Warm and dry (24-32°C) with near-zero rainfall. Peak tourist season. Vines are full and green. Book 12-18 months ahead for popular venues.
Harvest Season
September - October
The most coveted time—golden light, grape picking activity, warm days cooling to crisp evenings (21-27°C). Many consider this Napa at its finest.
Winter
November - February
Cool temperatures (10-16°C) with occasional rain. Fewer crowds, dramatic bare-vine landscapes, and cozy indoor celebrations. Significant savings.
Planning Ahead
Legal Requirements
California offers simple marriage requirements with no residency, blood tests, or waiting period. Marriage licenses can be obtained from any California county and are valid for 90 days.
Pro Tip
Consider a confidential marriage license if you prefer your marriage record not be public. Unlike public licenses, confidential licenses require no witness and reduce junk mail. File completed paperwork in the same county that issued the license.
What You'll Need
- No California residency required
- Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties
- Marriage license fee approximately $90-100 (varies by county)
- License valid for 90 days after issuance
- Can obtain license from any California county
- One witness required for public license; none for confidential license
Venues
Popular Venue Types
Winery Venues
Historic estates like V. Sattui, Charles Krug, and Chandon offer celebrations among barrels and vines. Due to local ordinances, only venues specifically permitted for events can host weddings.
Vineyard Estates
Luxury properties like Meadowood and Carneros Resort provide rolling hill backdrops, elegant architecture, and full-service wedding experiences.
Cave Venues
Unique underground spaces like Meritage Resort's wine caves offer dramatic barrel-room atmospheres with natural temperature control.
Resort Hotels
Properties like Silverado Resort and Harvest Inn combine guest accommodations with event spaces and vineyard views.
Historic Properties
Century-old stone buildings, Victorian mansions, and converted barns offer European-inspired charm with California character.
Restaurant Venues
Michelin-starred restaurants and acclaimed farm-to-table establishments offer intimate celebrations with legendary Napa cuisine as centerpiece.
At a Glance
What Makes It Special
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