The Best Wedding Venues In Gold Country California

Gold Country has so many beautiful wedding venues to choose from. Many of the region's premier wedding venues are just minutes away from some of California’s most-awarded wineries.  With fantastic year round weather these Gold Country wedding venues are perfect for your rehearsal dinners, bridal showers, gorgeous ceremonies, and fun receptions! Keep reading for all of our favorite Gold Country California wedding venues. 

The Vow Gold Country

The Vow Gold Country Magazine was born of two local businesswomen in the wedding industry who saw a need for wedding inspiration in picturesque Gold Country California. The Vow strives to inspire people to host their special events, large or small, in our beautiful area of the world, the Gold Country in California. 

Gold Country stretches from the beautiful granite cliffs of Yosemite to the stunning wine country region of Amador County, the mountain areas of Bear Valley and Sonora Pass, and the foothills and ranches of Jamestown.

The Vow Gold Country features the newest trends in Gold Country weddings and trusted vendors who provide the highest caliber of work.  We hope brides gain the knowledge to create their dream wedding within our pages!  You can grab past issues of The Vow Gold Country here, and keep an eye out for our latest issue coming soon! 

Let’s chat about some of our amazing wedding venues in Gold Country! 

The Best Wedding Venues In Gold Country

Bear Valley Resort 

Bear Valley Resort, Bear Valley Lodge, and the Stanislaus National Forest provide an absolutely stunning setting for your special day. Can you imagine saying “I Do” on a mountaintop at 7,750 feet? How dreamy is that? 

Bear Valley Resort is the perfect place for your awe inspiring ceremony and the start of your happily ever after. If you love lakes, mountains,  wildflowers, towering granite walls, or snowy backdrops, then this is the wedding venue for you. Experience the grandeur of the Stanislaus National Forest, and provide an unforgettable wedding experience for both you and your guests.

After the ceremony, celebrate at the mountain or down in the village at the Bear Valley Lodge. The facilities at Bear Valley can accommodate receptions from 25-200 guests. It’s time to have fun on your special day!

Bear Valley Ceremony Locations Include: 

• Mountain Top Vista - The breathtaking mountain top venue is just a short three minute chair lift ride up our high speed six-pack. Offers their signature 360-degree mountain view of the incredible Sierra Nevada Mountainscape as your backdrop. Seats 50-200. 

• Scenic Vista - Located at the base of Bear Valley Resort, this venue offers a breathtaking view of the Mokelumne Peak. Seats 50-200. 

• Creekside Patio -  Seasonal venue right off  the Creekside Dining Room. At this wedding venue you can enjoy the fresh mountain air while sitting next to a flowing stream and appreciating the sights and sounds of the Sierra. Seats 35-80. 

• Cathedral Lounge - The beautiful indoor venue, located in the Bear Valley Lodge, creates a perfect rustic-chic setting, including a beautiful  four-story fireplace. Seats 50-150. 

Bear Valley Reception Locations Include: 

• Cathedral Lounge - The largest indoor venue for your reception at Bear Valley, this gorgeous indoor setting will leave your guests dancing the night away. There is additional seating available at the Creekside Patio as well. Seats up to 120 guests. 

• Creekside Dining Room - The ideal reception location for an elegant reception dinner. Seats up to 40 guests. There is additional seating available at the Cathedral Lounge.

• Creekside Patio - Seasonal reception area is located outside, right off the Creekside Dining Room. Seats up to 80 guests. 

• Sky High Pizza & Pub - Looking for a more relaxed reception, or a place to enjoy your late-night snack, try Sky High Pizza & Pub. Seating for up to 75 guests. 

• Monte Wolfe Bar - Located at the base of Bear Valley Resort, adjacent to the Scenic Vista ceremony site.  This is the perfect spot for an intimate reception or to enjoy the scenic views a little longer with appetizers and cocktails. Seats up to 100 guests. 

Bear Valley Wedding Packages include the following:

• Various Outdoor ceremony sites

• Your choice of reception venue(s)

• Floor-length white or ivory table linens and napkins

• Signature hors d’oeuvres 

• Buffet-style dinner menu 

• Five-hour hosted bar — one hour for cocktail hour and four hours following dinner

• House wine served with dinner (two bottles per table)

• Wedding cake cutting and late-night coffee/tea

• Selection of desserts

• Accommodations at the Bear Valley Lodge and/or at our Scenic Glampground 

• Shuttle services to wedding ceremony sites or site-seeing for your guests

• Complimentary Bridal Suite for the evening of your wedding

Bear Valley Accommodations include: 

• For The Newlyweds King Suite - this is included in both Bear Valley wedding packages. A romantic large corner room with a king sized bed, double bay window seats, large bathroom, and a full sized hot tub. 

• For Family and Friends - there are five different room types available at Bear Valley Lodge including: 

• Single Queen

• Double Queen

• Queen With Twin Bed

• Family Studio

• Single King

• Glamping at Bear Valley - The Glamping Tents are located at the base of Bear Valley Resort, directly next to the Scenic Vista Ceremony Site. There are 15 canvas tents available for guests. Each tent includes a queen sized bed, wood-burning stove, personal balcony, solar and wind-powered electricity and free wifi. 

Bear Valley Photography Provided By: Jennifer Rapoza

Hurst Ranch

Evoking the past of shady groves and beautiful country roads, the Hurst Ranch wedding venue is an inviting place. From the rural ambience to the beautiful spaces for your ceremony and reception, Hurst Ranch lures all those in search of a special place to get married here. 

Think of Hurst Ranch as a blank canvas, and let your imagination run wild! If you would like more information on booking for a wedding, or to schedule a viewing, please make sure to contact them. 

Hurst Ranch Wedding Packages include: 

• 3 Day Wedding Venue Rental

• Tables + Chairs

• Air Conditioned Bridal Quarters

• Restrooms

• Mini Train

• Wine Barrels

• Hay Bales and more!

Hurst Ranch Photography Provided By: Kim Sha Caton Photography

Mount Brow Vineyard

Mount Brow Vineyard is a place where memories are made! For owners Brandon and Jessica, this wedding venue is a labor of love and they are deeply committed to offering even more to their guests. Located in Sonora, Mount Brow is a beautiful vineyard, wedding venue & vacation retreat.  Nestled on 82 acres of rolling foothill charm, with both stunning sunrises & sunsets, they offer space for weddings, events, photoshoots, and vacations!

The large indoor 2,500 sq ft barn offers space for up to 200 guests, and this blank canvas is perfect for helping couples design a personalized experience for their family and friends. Located within the barn area is a beautifully remodeled bridal suite with bathroom & kitchenette. It makes the best spot for you and your bride tribe to get ready on the big day! 

The main house is 3,300 sq ft that comfortably sleeps 14 with a large gourmet kitchen, pool table, built in swimming pool/spa and more. It’s offered as an AirBnB to guests. 

Mount Brow’s ceremony site options include beautiful oak trees, rolling hills, serene meadows, with a background of majestic mountains. There is a year round creek & vineyard that are all picture perfect ready for your wedding day.

Rent it all and your wedding weekend is completely covered with weekend accommodations, wedding prep area, ceremony and reception site wrapped into one breathtaking location.

Included With Mount Brow Wedding Venue: 

• 3 day Use of Wedding Venue

• Friday Setup/Rehearsal (7 am - 7 pm)

• Saturday Wedding (7 am - 10pm)

• Sunday Cleanup (7 am - 3 pm)

• Outdoor reception (ending no later than 10pm)

• Use of Barn

• Use of Ceremony Sites

• 8ft rectangle tables (18) 

• White Plastic Folding Chairs (30)

• 8ft wood benches (18)

• Bridal Suite & Groom Suite Day Use

• MISC Items: Arch, Wine barrels, Bar tops, Water troughs

• 1 Parking Attendant

• Parking (during dry summer months)

• Winter dates guests may have to be shuttled in

• Mount Brow Vineyard Staff onsite at all times

You will need to provide: 

• Portable Restrooms (1 extra if parking trailers) - We love Powder Room Luxury Restrooms 

• 3 Day Event/Wedding Venue Insurance

• Setup and cleanup/trash removal (Additional fee for Mount Brow Vineyard cleanup/trash removal)

• All other off site vendors & services

Mount Brow Photography Provided By: Beth Sweitzer Photography

Twain Harte Tree Farm 

Twain Harte Tree Farm offers a scenic setting that features a pond, a stream, and a meadow, surrounded by majestic forested hillsides perfect for weddings. They don’t cater weddings, but we’ve got a fantastic list of caterers for you here! Wedding venue rental fees include tables and chairs, limited use of a bedroom in our home for bridal preparation, set up, clean up and parking attendants. 

At this boutique wedding venue, they only book one event per weekend so you won't feel rushed on your very special day.

Twain Harte Tree Farm’s wedding season runs from May 1st through Labor Day weekend (September). The wedding venue is set up to host around 100 people. 

It’s perfect for couples that prefer a more intimate, family-oriented gathering to celebrate their love. Creekside is the wedding ceremony site of your dreams if you love that Secret Garden vibe. Featuring an expansive lawn with several options for your beautiful ceremony. 

Twain Harte Tree Farm also has a permanent dance floor, an elevated stage, and a food serving area. This gorgeous setting includes multiple bridges, a rambling brook, and overlooks a scenic pond. 

Twain Harte Tree Farm Photography Provided By: Viera Photographics

Washington Hotel

The beautiful Washington Hotel is the place for you if you want a stunning outdoor space for your wedding. This gorgeous space is situated on the Stanislaus River in the 100-person town of historic Knights Ferry.  

The Washington Hotel is a replica of the original hotel that burnt down in 1896. Today this beautiful remodeled wedding venue offers 5 bedrooms that are used as a vacation rental, weddings,  and events. 

The Washington Hotel has a game room with pool table and darts perfect for the groom and his boys to relax in before the wedding. The spacious 3 room master suite with a sauna/spa, or the upstairs suite with private viewing deck is the perfect place for the bride and her tribe to get ready. The Washington Hotel also offers an updated kitchen with double ovens ideal for cooking for large crowds and outdoor seating with a smoker/grill and views of the river.

They can accommodate a wedding of up to 200 with indoor or outdoor seating. The huge shop next to the yard can seat up to 200 as well. The Washington Hotel is currently adding a second restroom inside the shop with serving areas and prep areas for caterers and servers. 

Have an idyllic ceremony riverside followed by dining inside, or your entire wedding can be on the beautiful grounds overlooking the Stanislaus River.

The house and event area generally rent separately but for a wedding or event they offer a package on the

We highly recommend the Washington Hotel in Knights Ferry for your wedding venue, especially if you’re getting married in the Spring when the gorgeous flowers will be in bloom!

Washington Hotel Photography Provided By: Storybook Photography

We invite you to experience the grandeur and beauty that Gold Country California has to offer. If you are looking for your perfect wedding venues - Gold Country has your back!

How To Get Married In Gold Country California 

You’re engaged? Congrats! Are you thinking of getting married in beautiful Gold Country, California? You’re in the right place! Here at The Vow Gold Country, our goal is to help couples create the wedding they've been dreaming of. The Vow is here to be your wedding resource with trusted vendors who will provide quality work. Keep reading to find out how to get married in Gold Country, California. 

The Vow Gold Country

The Vow Gold Country Magazine was born of two local businesswomen in the wedding industry who saw a need for wedding inspiration in our picturesque area. The Vow strives to inspire people to host their special events, large or small, in our beautiful area of the world, the Gold Country in California. 

Gold Country stretches from the beautiful granite cliffs of Yosemite to the stunning wine country region of Amador County, the mountain areas of Bear Valley and Sonora Pass, and the foothills and ranches of Jamestown.

The Vow Gold Country features the newest trends in Gold Country weddings and trusted vendors who provide the highest caliber of work.  We hope brides gain the knowledge to create their dream wedding on our pages!

You can grab past issues of The Vow Gold Country here, and keep an eye out for our latest issue coming soon! 

Let’s get down to it…how do you plan the best day of your life in Gold Country? 

Your Gold Country Wedding Planning Guide

We are so glad you’ve chosen Gold Country, California, for one of the most memorable days of your life. As wedding professionals, we know how important every detail of your big day is, and we are here to help. You can check out Your Wedding Timeline for help when you need to start booking your vendors. After choosing your date, first things first, you’ve chosen Gold Country, California, for your wedding.

Choose Your Gold County Wedding Destination

Tuolumne County

You can plan the perfect wedding in Tuolumne County! Here, you have your pick of adventurous and stunning locations in the High Sierras. Choose from destinations like the iconic granite cliffs of Yosemite National Park or a rusticly charming town in Gold Country. You won't find a shortage of Tuolumne County wedding venues as you can opt for a gorgeous 1860s Victorian Hotel, a lovely B&B, or a stunning mountain resort as the backdrop for your I do's. Your forever starts in Tuolumne County.

Calaveras County 

Calaveras County is such a special place to get married. Imagine a vast open space, natural beauty, and quaint small towns. Your Gold Country wedding can be set in picturesque vineyards, on the grounds of an Italian villa, among pines, or at a graceful country club. Weddings are magical moments that deserve a beautiful destination that will exceed your expectations, and you’ll find just that in Calaveras County.

Choose Your Gold Country Wedding Venue

Gold Country, California has some truly amazing wedding venues.

Bear Valley

Suppose your wedding vision includes mountains, wildflowers, granite walls, or snowy backdrops. In that case, Bear Valley is the perfect place for a stunning ceremony that marks the beginning of your happily ever after. Experience the grandeur of the Stanislaus National Forest as you say "I do" over 7,700 ft. 

Bear Valley provides an unforgettable experience for you and your guests. After your ceremony with stunning views, have the perfect celebration in the village at the Bear Valley Lodge.  This Gold Country wedding venue's facilities can accommodate receptions of up to 200 guests. Bear Valley offers several wedding packages that make planning your big day a breeze. 

Bear Valley Wedding Packages include:

• Multiple outdoor ceremony sites

• Your choice of reception venue(s)

• Signature Bear Valley hors d’oeuvres 

• Buffet-style dinner 

• 5 hours of hosted bar

• 1 hour cocktail hour and 4 hours after dinner

• House wine served with dinner

• Wedding cake cutting

• Selection of dessert options

• Accommodations at the Bear Valley Lodge 

• Or accommodations at the Scenic Glampground 

• Shuttle services to the wedding ceremony site 

• Complimentary Bridal Suite

Photography: Jennifer Rapoza

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Hurst Ranch

Are you looking for the perfect rustically charming Gold Country wedding venue? Hurst Ranch is a family-run ranch, and they know how vital special moments and big days are. They do everything they can to ensure your wedding day is exactly as you want! Are you looking for a classic wedding? Maybe rustic chic? Or a country wedding? Hurst Ranch has you covered! 

Think of Hurst Ranch as a blank canvas and let your imagination run wild! 

Hurst Ranch Wedding Packages include: 

• 3 day venue rental

• tables + chairs

• AC bridal quarters

• restrooms

• mini train

• wine barrels

• hay bales + more!

 Photography: Roberto Chavez

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Mount Brow

Mount Brow is a beautiful vineyard, venue & vacation retreat. On 82 acres of rolling foothill charm, Mount Brow offers stunning sunrises & sunsets and space for weddings, events, photoshoots, and vacations.  Mount Brow offers many options for your “I do’s” with oak trees, rolling hills, serene meadows, majestic mountains, and a year round creek & vineyard that are all picture perfect and ready for your wedding day.

Are you looking to have a barn wedding in a beautiful setting? The large indoor 2,500 sq ft barn offers ample space for up to 200 guests. The breathtaking barn is designed to allow hanging romantic lighting from the exposed beams and a blank canvas that you can make your own. Located within the barn area is a beautifully remodeled bridal suite with a bathroom & kitchenette.

Built to entertain, the main house is 3,300 sq ft and comfortably sleeps 14 with a large gourmet kitchen, pool table, bocce ball court, built-in swimming pool/spa, and more. It’s offered as an AirBnB to guests. Rent all of Mount Brow, and you’ve got your weekend accommodations, wedding prep area, ceremony, and reception site wrapped into one breathtaking location.

Mount Brow’s Wedding Packages include: 

• 3 day Use of Wedding Venue

• Friday Setup/Rehearsal (7 am - 7 pm)

• Saturday Wedding (7 am - 10 pm)

• Sunday Cleanup (7 am - 3 pm)

• Outdoor reception (ending no later than 10 pm)

• Use of Barn

• Use of Ceremony Sites

• (18) 8ft rectangle tables

• (30) White Plastic Folding Chairs 

• (18) 8ft wood benches

• Bridal Suite & Groom Suite Day Use

• MISC Items: Arch, Wine barrels, Bar tops, Water troughs

• 1 Parking Attendant

• Parking (during dry summer months)

• Winter dates, guests may have to be shuttled in

• Mount Brow Vineyard Staff onsite at all times

Photography Beth Sweitzer

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Twain Harte Tree Farm

The Twain Harte Tree Farm is an extraordinary Gold Country wedding venue. This peaceful venue is family-owned and makes for a very ethereal and fairytale wedding setting. Imagine yourself surrounded by towering pines in a secret garden where your partner crosses a beautiful bridge to say their vows. Sounds pretty amazing, doesn’t it?

While Twain Harte Tree Farm does require that the party ends 30 minutes before sunset, there’s no need to worry. This wedding venue is close to Twain Harte and Black Oak Casino. This secret gem is the wedding venue of your dreams if you are looking for a secret garden to say your “I do’s.” Twain Harte Tree Farm allows weddings of up to 100 people. 

Twain Harte Tree Farm Wedding Packages Include: 

• Table and chair rental 

• Vintage furniture available 

• Set up ceremony chairs

• Placement of reception tables 

• Bridal suite for the bride and her tribe to get ready 

Photography: Fox House Studio

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Washington Hotel/Knights Ferry Events

How idyllic would it be to get married by a river? The beautiful Washington Hotel is the place for you if you want a beautiful outdoor space. This stunning space is situated on the Stanislaus River in the 100-person town of historic Knights Ferry.  

The charming town of Knights Ferry, California, with its vibrant Spring wildflowers and exciting gold rush history, makes for a truly picturesque wedding location. The Washington Hotel offers beautiful lush lawns, stunning wildflowers (in the right season), and a picturesque riverfront for your epic outdoor ceremony. 

We highly recommend the Washington Hotel in Knights Ferry for your wedding venue, especially if you’re getting married in the Spring!

Photography: Storybook Photography (see below)

Next Let’s Talk Wedding Planners/Coordinators

A wedding coordinator assists you on your wedding day and ensures the event goes according to plan. They alleviate stress during both the final planning days and the actual wedding day.  

Wildflower Events Company

Wildflower Events Company specializes in wedding planning, design, coordination, and decor. Their design and planning packages are designed for couples who need help from start to finish. Beginning with an in-depth design meeting and ending with a full day of coordination that allows you to truly enjoy the process while the Wildflower Events Company handles all the essential details. They will be with you every step of the way!

If you've booked your venue and vendors but are having issues finalizing the day of coordination and design, then you want the Wildflower Events Company Design + Day Of Coordination package. This provides both design services and a detailed timeline for your wedding day. Through the Wildflower process, they will create a gorgeous and cohesive design for your wedding, assist you with booking any design-related vendors, and fully nail your day of vision. On the day of your wedding, they take over all coordination between vendors and guests so you can be fully present and have the best day of your life.

Have you picked your vendors and date but can't quite bring your complete vision and style to life? Wildflower Events Company will assist you in coordinating decor for your special day. Their team will find the perfect look and feel for you and your guests. From custom order decor to custom made pieces, Wildflower Events will advise you on venue layout, decor, centerpieces, floral accents, linens, lighting and much more. 

Photography by Storybook Photography (more below)

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VOW Wedding Planning Co

This team of wedding consultants is with you from your dress day until your best day! VOW Wedding Planning Co is here to take the stress out of your wedding day. The dream you had as a little girl has finally come true, and the VOW Wedding Planning Co. is here for you every step of the way. 

Wedding dress experiences are provided by the Bridal Vault (listed below), and it’s their job to know the top wedding trends.

Who Will Your Gold Country Wedding Photographer Be?

One of the most important vendors at your Gold Country wedding is the photographer who will capture one of the happiest days of your lives. This person will capture the memories and emotions that tell your story!

Storybook Photography

Storybook Photography’s Salisha is here to capture your memories creatively, authentically, and beautifully, preserving your story forever. She has 10+ years of experience as a photographer and has learned how to help you as a couple focus on each other and really stay present in the moment. Salisha loves to capture genuinely candid moments that will feel like you.

Storybook Photography specializes in adventure elopements and provides one-of-a-kind images captured with ease. 

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Sunshine Photography

Sunshine Photography’s Katie has been a professional photographer for over 6 years and started focusing specifically on weddings and family portraits in 2019. Katie is a passionate romantic who loves weddings and everything surrounding them. 

If you want an artistic eye for details, look no further than Sunshine Photography! Katie is also a nature lover and landscape photographer, and she tries to incorporate those qualities into her portraiture. 

Now You Will Need Your Wedding Dress/Groom’s Attire

The wedding dress process is the stuff of dreams for brides to be, and we completely understand why. This is the dress that you have been fantasizing about since you were a child, and this entire process is an important one.

Bridal Vault 

At the Bridal Vault, they genuinely care about you, your wedding, and your future. The Bridal Vault family is a fantastic group of women who were once little girls with big dreams and became women living their dreams. They want your wedding to be nothing short of perfection.

The Bridal Vault consultants make it their mission to guide brides to find their dream wedding gown. They go above and beyond to help the bride with everything they need, from fabrics and silhouettes to helping you find the perfect veil to go with your dress.

Our one-of-a-kind location gives you a one-of-a-kind experience. The spacious salon is in historic Jamestown, California. They offer a spacious dressing room in the vault and a semi-private viewing area so your family and bride tribe can enjoy seeing you in each gown. You will absolutely love visiting The Bridal Vault! 

The Bridal Vault carries Martina Liana, Stella York, Lillian West, and more.

Find tips for How To Travel With A Wedding Dress and Advice For Grooms On Wedding Day Attire. 

Your Wedding Florist Is So Important

Wedding florals truly set the tone for your wedding from the bridal bouquet, to the boutonniere, the ceremony space, and the reception area. 

Sweet Lilacs

Susan and the team of Sweet Lilacs provide relaxed, airy, casual, and romantic florals for your wedding. Sweet Lilacs loves using texture and sweet fragrance to envelop brides in their bouquets.  

Sweet Lilacs love the combination of peonies, ranunculus, peonies, open garden roses, berries, mixed foliage, and, of course, lilacs. Susan and her team are passionate about providing the best work in floral art design for every event. Sweet Lilacs has strong attention to quality, detail, texture, color, space, balance, and unity.

Susan has been part of thousands of weddings and has been a florist for over 13 years. She loves a challenge!

Of course, You Need To Feed Your Guests

Your wedding is likely to be one of the most important days of your life. You have spent countless hours deciding on the venue, the dress and suit, the photographer, and the flowers, so you should be equally as thorough when choosing the caterer. A delicious meal, in addition to celebrating your love, is also a major draw for many wedding guests.

Lila and Sage

At Lila and Sage, the goal is to provide excellence in everything they do to ensure that your day is stress-free, your event is beautiful, the service is phenomenal, and your menu is creative and delicious! 

Lila and Sage provide full-service event production for large and small events (like your wedding), from food, drink, rental services, event coordination, and aesthetics. They strive to ensure that your event is as special and unique as you are as a couple.

They offer tastings for weddings of over 100 people after you have reserved your date. 

Photography: Nichols Photographers

Entertainment Can Really Make Or Break Your Reception

The importance of a wedding DJ or entertainer is something you should not overlook when you are planning your wedding. A DJ can really provide an amazing experience for you and your guests. This is also something that can help you enjoy your wedding day more by limiting unnecessary stress. 

Sounds and Entertainment

DJ Jordan Clayton of Sounds and Entertainment believes selecting the right DJ is one of the best investments for your event. Your DJ doesn’t just have a playlist; sit back and enjoy the night. They INTERACT with your guests throughout your entire wedding. DJ Jordan wants to be an integral part of making your day memorable. He wants your guests to remember your wedding celebration.

What Does Sounds and Entertainment specialize in? 

• Specializes in music

• Keeps things moving

• Gets people dancing

• Helps with all the little details to make your event AMAZING!

You Will Need Wedding Rentals - And We’ve Got You Covered

Standard Event Rentals

Standard Event Rentals is passionate about events and bringing your vision to life. Since 1984, their family-owned and operated company has collaborated with clients to create events ranging from high-end weddings to smaller affairs. They set high standards and offer an extensive selection of exemplary products and phenomenal service.

Standard Event Rentals has locations in  San Francisco/Bay Area and Central Valley/Sacramento, and they service clients throughout all of Northern California, anywhere from the South Bay to beautiful Wine Country. 

Standard Event Rentals offers: 

An Extensive Selection

They see the big picture right down to the finest details, offering a variety of tent styles to the intricate designs on their dinnerware. They know the importance of the first and last impression and have a fantastic selection of products to make each event its own unique experience.

Exemplary Products

Their products are in a class all by themselves, which allows Standard Event Rentals to bring your vision to life no matter the occasion.

Phenomenal Service

Standard Event Rentals is a very customer-focused and service-oriented rental company. They are happy when you’re happy, so they always bring their A-game.

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Sweet Little Lilacs

As a subsidiary of Sweet Lilacs (listed above in florist), Sweet Little Lilacs offers limited rentals including: 

• Little Red is a beautiful 1961 Shasta Siesta Trailer used for a photo backdrop, lounge area, or even a cozy bridal getaway.

• Creative boards for table seating charts or guest favors. Let’s chat about ideas!

• Hanging wood chandeliers

• Rental of handmade pottery vases

• Rental of handmade table numbers

Sweet Little Lilacs is perfect if you are looking to elope in Gold Country! 

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Little Sipper Mobile Bar

You can tap into a good time anywhere with Little Sipper Mobile Bar! Little Sipper Mobile Bar is a 1964 Little Dipper trailer that has been renovated into a custom mobile bar perfect for your wedding. The vintage trailer is designed to service any event needing ice-cold drinks. As an added bonus, Little Sipper runs off of its own power source and can be towed to any location. 

Little Sipper Mobile Bar comes equipped with 4 tap handles that can easily be customized with any beverage, including: 

• Beer

• Wine

• Seltzer

• Mixers

• Non-Alcoholic Beverages

• Sparkling Water 

With plenty of packages, you will love how your guests react when they see Little Sipper Mobile Bar at your wedding! 

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The Powder Room Luxury Restrooms

The Powder Room Luxury Restrooms provides luxury restroom trailers to pamper your guests. Their trailers offer water-flowing sinks, hands-free flushing toilets, and modern and stylish interiors. The luxury interiors provide heat or air conditioning to make sure your guests are comfortable no matter what time of year you get married.

The Powder Room Luxury Restrooms offers several different styles and trailers, including: 

• The Majestic - two-door, six-station luxury restroom

• The Ritz - four-door, five-station luxury trailer has four private rooms

• The VIP - ADA accessible bathroom and two more bathrooms for a total of 3 separate rooms to accommodate your guests

• The Chic - two station luxury trailer is perfect for a smaller gathering

• The Parlour - boasts comfortable seating, refinished floors, and countertops, as well as a refrigerator and warm water sink

The Powder Room Trailers are sure to impress your guests.

The Best Wedding Cakes And Sweets

Simply Delish

Simply Delish wedding cakes and cupcakes that are baked fresh (and never frozen). These desserts are carefully handcrafted, emphasizing the best combination of flavors and sophisticated presentation. Vonnie has over 40 years of baking experience. She knows that using natural ingredients such as sweet butter, cream, fresh strawberries, pineapple, raspberries, lemons, bananas, and pure Bourbon Madagascar vanilla beans in her cakes and cupcakes creates the most delicious flavors. She takes great pride in creating cakes and cupcakes that are a step above the rest!

Have a vision for your wedding cake? A theme? An off-the-wall idea? Make sure to bring your ideas or pictures of the cakes you're interested into Simply Delish, and they will work to bring your vision to life. 
Simply Delish wants to make your event as special as you are as a couple! Every cake is made from scratch, with a filling of your choice. The cost of cakes depends on the cake's style, design, and size.

We’ve Got You Covered With Hair And Makeup

Braided Blonde Locks 

Alyssa of Braided Blonde Locks has been a Bridal Hair and Makeup artist for the past 15 years. She loves to create a timeless, naturally organic look to help you feel your best and most authentic for your wedding day. From formal weddings to intimate elopement adventures, Alyssa creates the hair and makeup of your dream bridal looks.

Braided Blonde Locks embraces your natural beauty to help you feel like the best version of your true self.

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Bronzed Deer

Are you looking for the perfect bridal glow? Your #1 choice for custom bridal spray tans has got to be Bronzed Deer. If you want to invest in your glow, this is the place for you. With plenty of packages to help you look and feel your best on your big day, Bronzed Deer has you covered with all things glowing and bronzed.

Big Wedding Not Your Thing? We’ve Got Gold Country Elopements Covered Too!

Range Of Light Wed 

The ladies at Range of Light Wed are seasoned wedding professionals who want to support you in your journey to do something a bit different. Their biggest goal is to give you a meaningful experience that feels just the way you want it to.

Range Of Light Wed are Sierra Nevada locals who think nature makes the best venue to say I do! Their elopement packages make planning your intentional day super easy and seamless, so these ladies joined forces to offer you the essentials all at once.

Each Range Of Light Wed package includes elopement planning (including timeline), hair & makeup, photography, florals, officiant, cake, and elegant picnic reception for up to 15 people.

Range Of Light Wed is dedicated to Leave No Trace principles.

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Storybook Photography

We’ve mentioned Salisha of Storybook Photography above, but she also needs to be mentioned as an epic elopement photographer. If you are feeling a bit lost when it comes to crafting your dream elopement, Salisha has your back. She will capture every magical moment of your big day and be your trusty guide through the wilderness of any national park or scenic spot you choose for your adventure elopement.

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We hope that The Vow Gold Country has inspired you to join us in beautiful Gold Country, California, for one of the most important days of your life! Welcome! We can’t wait to help you plan the perfect wedding or elopement.

Let Them Eat Cake - The Wedding Cake Process

Vow Vendor: Simply Delish

The wedding cake, cupcakes, or dessert of your choice is the big finale on your big day! The dessert that will complete the wonderful meal that your guests have enjoyed should have a real WOW factor and be memorable. Here are some tips for choosing the perfect wedding cake for you.

Choose a couple of designs on Pinterest or from Bridal Magazines (ahem, like The Vow). If there is one design that is really calling to you, that’s ok, stick with it.

Make sure to have the number when you meet with your wedding cake baker. They will want to know how many guests will be served at your wedding. Try to be as precise as possible, but you know your guest list better than anyone else, so take that into consideration when you could how many servings you will need. Keep in mind that not everyone eats dessert, some will share, and some will indulge and want two pieces of cake. Stacked cakes tend to be slightly less forgiving for numbers then cupcakes.

Vow Vendor: Simply Delish

With your design in mind and an approximate guest number, it’s time to call a professional baker! Once you find the perfect baker for you, ask if you can send photos of your designs before your first meeting. After they see your design they should be able to provide you with approximate cost per serving.

Your wedding cake and/or wedding desserts are one of the most important details of your big day. This task is best left to a professional baker who has had years of experience creating dream wedding desserts.

Schedule a tasting appointment with you professional baker of choice, and ask if there is a tasting fee? While this is a fun event it is also a business meeting. Most professional bakers do charge a tasting fee, it’s also a good idea to ask what kind of deposit is require should you book their services. That way, if it’s a good fit at your tasting you can book right away.

Before booking with a professional baker you want to ask if they deliver, and what their delivery fee is. You will also want to know if the cake or cupcakes need to be refrigerated.

Vow Vendor: Simply Delish

A professional bakery will have a contact that you will need to sign to work with them. This ensures that you and the bakery are in agreement with everything to do with the cake or desserts. Make certain you understand the contact, and if you don’t, make sure to ask questions.

Thank you to Vow Vendor: Simply Delish for the advice and beautiful photos!

Advice For The Groom On Wedding Day Attire Etiquette

On your wedding day, all eyes are on you and your fiancé. For both the bride and groom the options of what kind of attire to wear on your wedding day seem endless and overwhelming. Before you make any decisions let’s touch on the most common questions that are asked when couples are deciding on men’s attire for the wedding day.

Suit v. Tuxedo: What Is The Difference?

This may be the most important question when it comes to deciding on what fits you and your wedding best. The formality of your wedding has a strong influence on the type of attire you should wear.

Suit

The suit consists of a standard jacket, matching slacks, long tie, with an options vest or suspenders. Depending on your budget, renting or buying comes into play. Generally, renting a suit will be less expensive than purchasing one. The style of the suit, the color and the fit should tell them same story and the brides wedding dress. Most grooms opt for navy, light gray, black or charcoal suits as the color will never go out of style. Suits can be customizable and fitted your body type and liking.

Tuxedo

Tuxedos have satin features including satin buttons and stripe down the side of pants. Tuxes are usually worn with a bowtie and a vest. Tuxedoes are worn for more formal weddings. Make sure the attire compliments the bride’s wedding dress. The tux is most popular choice for a black tie affair, and usually only comes in black, but is available in many different styles.

Coordinating With Your Bride

Take the bride’s dress into consideration when deciding between a suit and a tuxedo. Without giving away too many details have her tell you, or your tuxedo consultant what type of gown she is wearing or the overall feel of your wedding. This way you can better compliment her gown. Whatever you and your bride choose, you want to compliment each other on your wedding day.

Thank You To Vendors:

Team: @rangeoflightwed

Cake/Catering: @perfectdaycatering
Florals: @sweetlilacsstudio
HMUA: @braidedblondelocks
Photography: @lovewildly @joleenwillis
Couple: @rebbbee94
Invitation Suite: @mintedweddings
Suit: @thebridalvaultco
Dress: @thebridalvaultco
Dress Designer: @martinalianabridal

How To Travel With A Wedding Dress

It’s no secret that a destination wedding requires plenty of logistical planning. Between booking your picture perfect wedding location, helping coordinate travel with loved ones, and designing your dream day with your vendors, transporting your wedding dress, and the logistics of it may slip your mind.

One of the most common questions is “How do I safely take my wedding dress on an airplane?”

It’s absolutely possible to fly with your wedding dress, but you will need to plan ahead. The best plan is to take your dress on the plane as a carry-on. This way, it doesn’t leave your sight while traveling. Your gown should never be added to your checked baggage, and you should only consider taking it on an airplane with you in a garment bag that can’t be seen through.

If the dress is small enough, you can pack it in your carry-on bag, but make sure to add a bright ribbon or a tag so you can easily detect and differentiate the dress.

While most carry-on bags are to be stored in overhead compartments, some airplanes may have additional closet space that can be used. Some aircrafts have larger “coat closets” in the first-class cabin area that can often be used for bridal gown storage. While closet space is not guaranteed, once onboard the aircraft it’s best to check with the flight attendants to see if they can accommodate a wedding dress.

If you’re interested in pursuing this option, you can call ahead to double-check if your plane will have this extra space available. You can also chat with customer service reps or flight attendants when you arrive at the airport, for extra help.

Lastly, connect with your wedding coordinator at your destination wedding venue and make sure that steaming services are available for your wedding dress, once you arrive to the location.

Have a dreamy destination wedding!

Advice and photos provided by The Bridal Vault

How To Look Nature In Your Wedding Photos

One of the most common concern when it comes to your wedding day is that you are afraid you won’t look natural, and you won’t feel like yourself. Or couples are afraid that their photos will feel stiff and look staged, but everyone photoshoot will eventually fall into a rhythm. Here are a few tips on how to look natural and enjoy the experience of your wedding photos.

Tip #1 - Movement Is Key

Chances are you are going to feel nervous before the first picture is event taken, that’s why movement will help you breeze through the warm up phase of your shoot. It will also distract you, and it’s hard to look too posed or stiff when you are moving naturally. It might feel silly to skip or run, but it will undoubtedly make you laugh at each other. That’s the moment, a seemingly small moment, when all of the joy and emotions of your wedding day will bubble up.

Tip #2 - The First Look

Many are concerned that they won’t react in the right way to the first look with their partner. Here is some advice from a seasoned photographer: this is very likely the most beautiful your beloved will ever feel, and all they want to see is that reflected from you. Take the time to truly be present in this moment, and just be with each other. Let your emotions rise to the surface and show - you can cry, laugh, or embrace. Nerves are a very genuine part of seeing your partner for the first time on your wedding day - don’t fight the nerves. Let them happen!

Tip #3 - Share Your Concerns

Don’t hide your concerns from your photographer, if you are feeling nervous let them know. They will be happy to make a game plan that will distract you from your nerves and re-direct you to what’s most important on your wedding day. You will feel better knowing that they’re ready for you!

Tip #4 - Allow For Imperfections

In the staged world of Instagram, it is more and more important to encourage and protect meaningful, authentic wedding day interactions. There is nothing wrong with fabricated moments - and I think as a generation that consumes media, we all know them when we see them. A fabricated moment might be something beautiful that you pinned on Pinterest or even an image you held in your imagination as “THE ONE THING” you wanted out of your photos on your wedding day. That’s ok.

Here comes the advice and some gentle pleading - don’t stage all of your wedding photos. Years from now, when you are looking at your photos and reminiscing about your wedding day, you should be able to recognize the gestures that are specific to you and your relationship. Your photographer can draw out little nuggets that make your relationship unique such as your relationship history, inside jokes, and nicknames for each other.

Tip #5 - React

Here is all you have to do to make your wedding photos natural: REACT. Your photographer will guide you, you just need to be real with each other, say the things you want to say. These will be some of your favorite photos because when you see them you will KNOW without a doubt that they are genuine. You will likely remember what you were saying to each other at that special time.

Tip #6 - Don’t Rush and Be Present

Many couples will find themselves in the role of event planners as they piece together their day and it’s difficult to turn that off when the actually wedding day arrives. The mindset has been on getting things done and checking off the to-do list for so long it is hard, and takes real intention to stop and be present.

With all the things that happen on a wedding day, you will probably be worried about getting back to your guests and making sure everything runs on time. Let your photographer and your actual planner worry about that, and try to focus on each other. There are no do-overs and you owe it to yourselves to enjoy this part!

Thank You To Vendors:

Photography: Joleen Willis

Venue: Venticello

Hair: Beauty By Kelsey Lane

Models: Captured Colour Weddings Lety & David

Caterer: Lila and Sage

Rentals: Standard Event Rentals

Dress: The Bridal Vault

Florals: Sweet Lilacs Studio

Here at The Vow Gold Country, we find that brides are often overwhelmed and at a loss when it comes to wedding timelines. Of course, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to your wedding, after all, the day is all about you.

Every wedding is different and comes with its own unique set of challenges and decisions to make. The wedding timeline may feel daunting, but don't fret, we've got you!

Let’s break this down into tasks that are easily doable and won’t stress you out…

10-12 Months before The wedding

• Get inspired! We’ve got so many amazing vendors here at The Vow Gold Country! Get inspired by checking out our vendor selection.

• Reserve your date

• Work out your budget

• Select your wedding party

• Start your guest list

• Hire a planner or day of coordinator

• Choose your color scheme

• Research vendors

8-10 Months before The wedding

• Hire a photographer and videographer

• Take engagement photos

• Purchase your dress

• Create wedding website

• Book florist

• Meet with caterers

• Reserve hotel(s)

• Start your registry

• Book officiant

• Book DJ or band

6-8 Months Before The Wedding

• Finalize guest list

• Start planning your honeymoon

• Choose bridesmaids dresses

• Reserve your rentals

• Order invitations

• Send out save the dates

4-6 Months before the wedding

• Go cake tasting and order your cake

• Book rehearsal venue

• Schedule hair and makeup artists

• Choose the ceremony and reception playlist

• Purchase/rent grooms attire

• Book accommodations for the wedding night

3 months before wedding

• Finalize menu with caterer

• Finalize floral selection with florist

• Purchase rings

• Finalize event schedule/Create day of timeline

• Order wedding favors

• Meet with officiant

2 months before the wedding

• Send out invitations

• Contact all vendors and send out any final payments

• Enjoy tour bachelor/bachelorette parties

• Review playlists

1 Month before the wedding

• Get your marriage license

• Attend final dress fitting

• Confirm times for vendors and send out day of timeline

• Create your reception seating chart

• Purchase wedding party gifts

• Write vows

• Call guests who have not RSVP’d

1 week before the wedding

• Outsource any day of tasks to family/friends

• Ensure wedding party has your timeline

• De-stress with a spa day!

• Send final guest list to caterer

• Have extra checks ready for day of payments

• Dance/walk around in your wedding shoes!

• Pack for your honeymoon

Day of the wedding

• say I DO!

• Live happily ever after!

After the wedding

• Clean and preserve your wedding gown

• Write thank you cards

• Officially change your name (if that’s what you choose to do)

We had a vendor call mid October for issue V. We felt so prepared. We even created a schedule for the materials to come in. We barely made the deadline to print December 31st. What happened? So many vendors were so busy, they could not get back to us. September and October were the busiest months for them and so many without a single day off. Looking beyond the work week was just not possible. Asking vendors for promotional materials was extremely difficult and we were all in the same boat. But like we always do out here, we pulled it off and we are so proud of Issue V. As soon as things slowed down, we made time for one another. Issue V is our biggest yet and the support from Gold Country vendors is humbling. Again, the words, “What can we do to help?” is heard over and over again. We are so proud of this issue and we hope this represents the many characteristics of our area. Enjoy.

We started the Vow Gold Country Magazine because we saw a need to inspire couples to get married in our beautiful area of the world, the Gold Country. 

We feel more adamant than ever that you must get married out here!!  

We’ve seen and been a part of more elopements in Yosemite Valley.  We’ve watch more couples struggle with having small and large gatherings.  Our local vendors have stepped up to the plate with all those changes.  We are so dedicated and supportive of our local vendors.  We’ve watched them struggle and be so flexible. We’ve worked long hours in over 100 degree heat, kept our cool while tensions are high, struggled with so many last minute changes and yet, we kept smiling to the end of the day, to make your event the best.  

We saw the frustration of brides and weddings guests. We also experienced our own frustration of labor and supply shortage. Frustrations were not personal; they were conditional. It has been a rough year.

Across the board, we are happy for this time to slow down and regroup for next year 2022.

This is our fourth issue and we doubled our list of advertisers and number of pages!  We couldn’t be more proud of this issue. We have a beautiful combination of real weddings and styled shoots.  Also, most of our advertisers have features within their ads.  It is a very cohesive magazine that shows off the best of Gold Country weddings from this past year.  

The location of your event along with the best vendors will make your event the absolute best.  Gold Country is the place. We are truly a hidden gem.  We are not listed on the Knot or Wedding Wire because they lump us together with the Sacramento or Modesto area.  That’s about a two hour drive from here.   So here we are, promoting ourselves and telling you that we do events well!

This year, we are proud to partner with the Calaveras Visitors Bureau and the Tuolumne County Visitors Bureau.  They are a wealth of information in the Gold Country and we are so happy to have their support.

We hope you like Issue 4.  We welcome your feedback!!  

Please follow us @thevowgoldcountry and consider getting married here,  

This is the third issue of The Vow Gold Country Magazine during Covid.  The cover and cover feature of this magazine was taken March 13, 2020 right when our world was shutting down.  Admittedly, this issue was extremely difficult to put together and launch.  

First of all, we knew we had to address CoVid and weddings during CoVid 2020.  Inside, we include features that have wonderful articles about couples getting married during Covid and their thoughts through this pandemic.  Some postponed, some eloped and some are going to celebrate when receptions are allowed.  

Secondly, we show many celebrations pre-Covid that really show off our part of the world.  We are so grateful to live and work in such a picturesque area and we love to share the images with you.

And finally, we want to be sensitive to our vendors and our industry.  Launching a magazine last year that promotes Gold Country weddings during CoVid with no end in sight would have been callous in our part.  

Finally, we see the door slowly open.  We feel confident to launch our magazine.  

We are excited to present our incredible wedding vendors that create the reality of the wedding in your dreams.  

Welcome to Issue III of the Vow Gold Country Magazine and let’s plan your dream wedding!!!