How to Elope in California Wine Country
How to Elope in California Wine Country
Eloping has become a popular and intimate way to celebrate love, and there’s no better backdrop than California’s beautiful wine country. With rolling vineyards, breathtaking views, and luxurious accommodations, the Sierra Foothills wine region offers the perfect blend of romance and serenity. If you’re dreaming of a small, private wedding surrounded by nature’s beauty, here’s how to plan the perfect elopement—featuring the Grand Reserve Inn as an ideal venue.
1. Choose the Right Wine Country Location
California’s wine country is vast, but the Sierra Foothills region offers something special for couples looking to elope. With fewer crowds than Napa or Sonoma, the Sierra Foothills provides an intimate, peaceful setting that allows you to focus on what matters most—each other. The natural beauty of the area, paired with world-class wines and stunning vineyard views, creates the perfect atmosphere for a private, romantic ceremony.
2. Find the Perfect Venue: The Grand Reserve Inn
For couples looking for a luxurious and private elopement experience, the Grand Reserve Inn is the ultimate destination. Our boutique hotel features just six signature suites, providing you with exclusive use of the property and a sense of seclusion. Whether you’re planning a simple ceremony for two or a small gathering with close family and friends, the Grand Reserve Inn offers a breathtaking backdrop with vineyard views and elegant accommodations.
3. Plan a Stress-Free Elopement Package
The beauty of eloping is the simplicity, and the Grand Reserve Inn makes it easy with tailored elopement packages. Our team can help you plan every detail, from arranging an officiant to curating a romantic setup for your ceremony. Choose to say "I do" among the vineyards, or opt for a more intimate indoor setting in one of our elegant suites.
We also offer options to enhance your celebration:
- In-Room Wine & Champagne Delivery: Toast to your love with a selection of local wines or sparkling champagne, delivered right to your suite.
- In-Room Massages: Start your new journey relaxed and rejuvenated with a private couples’ massage in the comfort of your room.
- Private Wine Tastings: Celebrate your elopement with a private tasting of wines from our on-site winery, a special touch that makes your day truly memorable.
4. Capture the Moment
The Sierra Foothills’ natural beauty provides the perfect backdrop for wedding photos. Whether you’re exchanging vows surrounded by the vineyards or posing for sunset photos on our terrace, your elopement at the Grand Reserve Inn will be picture-perfect. We can recommend local photographers who specialize in capturing the romantic, intimate vibe of wine country elopements.
5. Celebrate with a Post-Elopement Getaway
After your ceremony, why not turn your elopement into a mini honeymoon? The Grand Reserve Inn offers the perfect setting for newlyweds to relax and celebrate. Enjoy wine tastings, explore the Sierra Foothills’ charming towns, or simply unwind in your suite with sweeping vineyard views.
6. Plan a Small Celebration
If you’d like to invite a few close friends or family members to witness your special day, the Grand Reserve Inn’s six-suite setup is perfect for small gatherings. You and your guests will enjoy the exclusivity of having the entire property to yourselves, creating a private and personal experience for everyone involved. We also offer the option to host a private dinner or wine tasting to celebrate your elopement with those closest to you.
7. Make It Legal
Eloping in California is easy, but you’ll still need to take care of a few legal details. Be sure to obtain a marriage license before your ceremony, which can be done at any California county clerk's office. There is no waiting period, so you can get married the same day you receive your license.
Start Planning Your Wine Country Elopement Today
Eloping in California wine country is a magical way to celebrate your love, and the Grand Reserve Inn is the perfect venue for a luxurious and intimate experience. Whether it’s just the two of you or a small gathering of loved ones, our team is here to help make your elopement as special and stress-free as possible. Contact us today to start planning your dream wine country elopement.

