Napa Valley is one of Caleb and Brianne’s favorite places in the world. In fact, it is one of the first places the couple traveled to together. So, naturally, California’s wine country was top-of-mind when the couple began their search for the ideal wedding destination. Beyond loving the landscape, the couple knew it would be easy for guests to get to, as it is not far from San Francisco International Airport. The area was a slam-dunk, but hotel blocks and venues in Napa Valley were at such high demand, they needed an alternative that would still allow them to incorporate the Valley in their wedding activities and not suffer in style or allure.

“Part of the charm of Yountville is the many boutique hotels that line the main street, and we wanted our guests to create their own weekend experience based on their budget and style,” Caleb and Brianne say.

The couple loved the idea of hosting a wedding weekend retreat that would perfectly balance play and relaxation. “We planned a Friday evening welcome party at Brix in Yountville in a beautiful vineyard with drinks and desserts to kick the weekend off,” the bride says. The couple balanced the party night with a brunch experience the following day. This way, the group could enjoy the morning breeze and bountiful greenery. Their casual brunch took place at one of Caleb and Brianne’s favorite spots in Napa, Gott’s. “This was a great way to take off the pressures of the hello’s for our wedding day – we wanted to be able to enjoy and have fun at our wedding without worrying if we had the chance to say hello to every guest,” the two say. Having multiple events over the course of the weekend allowed the couple to spend time with everyone who traveled there to celebrate.

The couple says they had little worry about leading up to and during their special weekend due to their amazing planner. “We owe our firstborn to Stephanie Cole at Cole Drake Events. Her connections and expertise in the area immediately set us at ease in planning a wedding so far from home,” Brianne says. With Stephanie’s expertise, the couple only took two visits to Napa during the planning process for formal meetings with their vendors. 

Once Caleb and Brianne arrived in Yountville for the beginning of their wedding weekend, a peaceful excitement rested on their hearts. “We were so grateful to our guests for traveling to celebrate with us, and felt like it gave everyone a great excuse to explore Napa Valley and drink amazing wine,” the two say.

After hosting a destination wedding they’ll be able to reminisce on for years to come with their guests, Caleb and Brianne leave you with this parting advice:
“Let go of your expectations, and you will feel much more at ease when these little things go wrong. This is a day that won’t ever be replicated, so focus on the people, the conversations and the love that surrounds you.”

Vendors: Photographer: Molly + Co Photo; Wedding Planner: Cole Drake Events; Ceremony/Reception Site: Hotel Villagio; Florist: Jennifer Cole Florals; Stationery: Cecile’s Paper Co; Macarons: Bouchon Bakery; Makeup: Summer Brazell; Hair: Tommy Tisso; Ceremony/ Reception Gown: Allison Webb; Dancing Gown: Atelier Pronovias; Groom’s Clothing Designer: J.Crew; Bridesmaids/Groomsmen’s Clothing Designer: Marchesa & The Black Tux; Linens: La Tavola; Lounge Furniture Rentals: Encore Event Rentals