Growing up here, I see the region as a jewelry box filled with sites that are pearls, emeralds and sapphires. The pearls are the wineries, historic churches and organic farmsteads tucked away in the forest or in the villages, opening to reveal their secret gardens, kitchens and private reception areas with all the professional amenities that make them long-time wedding and reception destinations for savvy couples. The emeralds are the lush gardens, redwood forests or lakes with tenting for a magical event that the sprites and fairies will grace. The sapphires are the private homes, inns, restaurants and outdoor locations with the blue Pacific in view. Champagne always seems bubblier when complimented by the sparkling ocean.

Here are the reasons I hear most often for why couples choose a destination wedding in Mendocino wine country.

1. Location: A destination wedding takes away all of the distractions of everyday life. This and a wedding planner who knows the region helps you focus on the important events of the day and enjoy the time being with your friends and family and each other.

2. Location: A destination wedding can save money. Yes, there are many ways to actually save money by having a destination wedding. You can get group rates for lodging, activities and even dining. Couples tell me “We can have our honeymoon in the same beautiful place as our wedding, finding our own little private hideaway for our time together alone.” Using natural surroundings as your backdrop also cuts costs and Mendocino has an abundance of natural beauty.

3. Location: A destination wedding is an opportunity to bring all your friends and family together. Another bride pointed out: “I love the idea of having my friends and family around me for a weekend or even a few days before or after the wedding day, making our celebration an opportunity for everyone to have a getaway together.” The North Coast offers a spectacular variety of activities where wedding parties can break out into groups and do together, depending on interest and physical prowess – horseback riding on the beach, kayaking in sea caves or up Big River, touring the botanical gardens, wine tasting, dining around, hiking, biking, and so much more.

Wherever couples fit on the eco spectrum, from eco-chic to card-carrying tree-huggers, our team presents a range of ideas that will respect and reflect their values.

From the invitation to the cake, Mendocino Weddings collaborates with vendors who are passionate about sustainable living—gourmet organic caterers, bakers who use free range eggs and organic flours and vendors who provide green wedding favors, elegant letterpress invitations on recycled materials, renowned locally grown flowers and more.