If you dare to dream big, wake up to the reality of Cal-a-Vie Health Spa Resort in the rolling hills of Vista, California.

Imagine a platinum wedding, dipped in gold and served on a silver platter. It’s an experience and destination which every bride certainly deserves (although far less may have the means to realize).

I found myself escaping my own mind during my experience, because this place is truly phenomenal. I was the queen of my own castle and the staff made sure I knew it. This is the experience each and every guest of Cal-a-Vie takes away with them.

The Details:

Imagine exchanging your vows on the property’s hilltop, inside a 400-year-old candle-lit chapel, surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards and lavender fields. Move to the 300-year-old L’Orangerie just next door for a reception fit for royalty. Both buildings have been relocated directly from Dijon, France and exude warmth, romance and elegance.

The grounds are not just picturesque, but remarkable. With the serene ponds and lush gardens, it felt other worldly. There isn’t a corner on the property you couldn’t just sit and enjoy all day. A gift to all of your senses, Cal-a-Vie sits on 200 private acres of land. For a destination wedding, you are able to reserve the entire property for your personal event (I thought only celebrities could do that?). You could treat up to 64 guests to three nights of complete luxury, inclusive of all meals and beverages, and fully customizable spa and health activities. For your reception, the L’Orangerie can accommodate up to 200 guests.

Consider planning a group hike or yoga session. The fitness team can help organize activities from golf to sand volleyball, to keep all fitness levels involved.

There are no catering or sales offices here asking for clients to choose from packages and offerings. You truly work as a team with the Cal-a-Vie staff to make your dreams come true.

Make no mistake, Cal-a-Vie earns its A-list reputation as a health and wellness retreat, but for a bridal destination, this property is unparalleled. You need only see this property with your own eyes to appreciate the minimum investment of $100,000. Chances are, you’ll compare all other options to Cal-a-Vie.

This article first appeared in Destination I Do’s Spring/Summer 2015 issue. You can order a copy here.