I'm working with a couple whose August wedding will be at Arista Winery in Healdsburg.The winery is set among oak trees and, of course, vineyards. Its public buildings are small (in a good way) and modern; its outdoor spaces are manicured and offer both shady and sunny spots.
Guests enter from a spacious parking lot (certainly would hold 50 cars comfortably) to a path that leads to the building that's home to the tasting room. This is where, for weddings, the bride and groom would get ready; this is also where the restrooms are located. (Photo from Arista website.)
Paths lead wander through several tiers of lush gardens that are punctuated by sculptures and water features.
Wedding ceremonies traditionally take place on the upper lawn, often in front of the wooden pergola. The lawn is also a wonderful spot for a cocktail hour prior to a reception or event of any kind.
The upper lawn, with the pergola in the foreground, the bar on the left and lower lawn just beyond. (Photo credit: Arista website)
Looking at the upper and lower lawns from the paths that lead from the tasting room.
The large lower lawn is perfect for a reception or upscale company picnic. It's surrounded by mature oak trees and overlooks a vineyard. (Photo credit: Arista website)
The lower lawn during a reception. (Photo credit: Viera Photographics)
Pros:
Large outdoor site with several location options
Not typical winery fare
Gardens offer numerous seating and conversation areas
Plenty of parking
Staff members are very friendly and helpful and unpretentious
Offer some items gratis: umbrellas, wine barrels (for kiosks), white lights strung over both lawns
Beautiful grounds=less need for decor/florals
Cons:
No real indoor options
Some of the paths are slightly rugged
Hot in the summer!
Off the beaten path; might be hard for guests to find (not a huge deal, but just account for this in timeline)
