Napa Valley Wedding FAQs

Most Napa Valley wineries cannot host a wedding due to the Winery Definition Ordinance (WDO). Only a few wineries are permitted to host weddings, as they were "grandfathered" in due to their pre-regulatory status.

The WDO was established in 1989 to protect our agricultural land by clearly specifying what sorts of activities were allowed and not allowed on property.

The good news is that a great number of the valley's wineries, while not available for weddings, are permitted to host unique and intimate wedding-related events, such as rehearsal dinners, bridal showers and family gatherings.

To be married in California you must obtain a marriage license prior to the marriage ceremony.

There's never a bad time to visit the Napa Valley – the weather and scenic beauty is ideal year-round. Our two favorite times of year are Cabernet Season (late fall through spring) and harvest (early to mid-fall).

During harvest, be prepared for places to get a little crowded and rates to be a bit higher. During Cabernet Season, you'll have a little more elbow room. Plus the bonus that mustard flowers are in bloom February – March, painting the vineyards a gorgeous yellow hue.

A hotel guest room block is a reservation of 10+ hotel rooms. The perk of a room block is that they save you time, money and ensure that all of your guests will have a place to stay during your wedding.