Unique Ways to Tell the Story of a Wine Country Wedding

When it comes to weddings, many couples dream of a picturesque setting surrounded by rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint small towns. That’s exactly what Jules Bianchi and Shawn Close found when they chose the Willamette Valley in Oregon as their dream wedding destination.

Jules and Shawn met through Match.com in 2015 and quickly bonded over their shared love of a computer game called Machinarium, escape rooms, and Jules’ dog Oscar. Despite living in different cities, they decided to make Portland their homebase and embarked on a long-distance courtship. Finally, in November 2021, Shawn proposed, and the couple eagerly started planning their wedding for September 2022.

However, with limited availability at their desired venue, Beacon Hill Winery in Gaston, Jules and Shawn had to push their wedding date to 2023. But this setback didn’t dampen their spirits. They were determined to find the perfect venue that matched their tastes and expectations.

For Jules and Shawn, two factors were essential in choosing their wedding location. Firstly, they wanted a venue close enough to Portland so that their friends and family could easily attend. Secondly, they fell in love with the two guesthouses on the Beacon Hill property, which allowed their families to stay nearby and be part of the entire day. Having a place to get ready and a front deck to enjoy their morning coffee while taking in the vineyard views was also a bonus, helping to calm any wedding day jitters.

Another crucial consideration for the couple was lodging options for their guests who didn’t want to drive home after the festivities. McMinville, located about a 25-minute drive from the winery, had excellent hotels and inns that accommodated their guests, such as McMenamins Hotel Oregon and 3rd Street Flats.

When their dream wedding finally arrived, Jules was overjoyed, saying, “My dream wedding was very much the wedding we had! Only close friends and family, a beautiful day, a lovely gown, my dog in the wedding, and at a beautiful winery.”

But what makes the Willamette Valley such an ideal wedding destination? According to Tyson Theese, the general manager at Beacon Hill Winery, the most popular time for weddings in the valley is from May to September, with August being the peak month. The ripe and abundant grapes during this time create a perfect backdrop for photographs. However, as any Oregonian knows, the weather can be unpredictable during these months. But at Beacon Hill, any weather concerns can be easily resolved by moving the event indoors to the tasting room and separate ballroom, provided the guest count is under 100.

Another vineyard in the Willamette Valley with its own unique story is Maysara Winery in McMinnville. The Momtazi family, immigrants from Iran, purchased a wheat farm in 1997 and started planting grapes the following year. Now specializing in Oregon pinot noirs and following biodynamic practices, the family-run business is managed by Mahmood Momtazi’s three daughters.

Hanna Momtazi, Maysara Winery’s event planner, has faced her fair share of challenges in recent years, including shutdowns caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, heatwaves, and wildfires. During a particularly challenging weekend in September 2023, with high winds and the threat of nearby wildfires, the winery received a two-day notice from the utility company about a potential power shutdown. Without skipping a beat, Hanna sprang into action, buying generators and informing coordinators and couples about the situation.

Despite the unforeseen circumstances, weddings at Maysara Winery continued as scheduled, proving that love can overcome any obstacles.

The story of Jules and Shawn’s wine country wedding in the Willamette Valley is a testament to the beauty and resilience of this region. From the stunning landscapes and vineyard views to the passionate winemakers and accommodating venues, there’s no doubt that couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable wedding experience will find their dreams fulfilled in the Willamette Valley.

Blog Post Title: A Tale of Weddings in Oregon’s Wine Country

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Planning a wedding is no easy task. From finding the perfect venue to selecting the right photographer, there are countless details to consider. But for these three couples, their weddings in Oregon’s wine country turned out to be unforgettable, despite some unexpected challenges.

Ally and Reggie Edwards-Collins had dreamed of their special day for years. Living in Seattle and Portland respectively, their long-distance relationship was put to the test. But after two years of courtship, they knew they were ready to tie the knot. However, finding a venue proved to be harder than they had anticipated.

Due to the backlog caused by COVID, many of the venues and vendors in the Willamette Valley were booked well into 2023. Disappointed but determined, Ally decided to explore Maysara Vineyards on a whim. The sprawling 532-acre vineyard stole her heart, and without hesitation, they booked the last available summer Saturday a year in advance.

Aside from the venue, finding the right photographer was crucial for Ally and Reggie. Luckily, they connected with Lindsay Newton of Till Death Do We Adventure. With over a decade of experience, Lindsay knew the Willamette Valley like the back of her hand and captured the couple’s special moments in stunning photographs.

Madison Campbell and Jake Gellos also faced unexpected hurdles when planning their wedding. Their original venue canceled just three months before the big day, leaving them scrambling for an alternative. Fortunately, Maysara had an opening around the same time. Serendipitously, they ended up getting married on September 4, exactly one year after their engagement.

Childhood sweethearts from Tualatin, Madison and Jake felt a special connection to the Willamette Valley. The breathtaking views, delicious food, and incredible wine made it the perfect location for their dream wedding. They wanted a destination-like feel without being too far from home, and the Willamette Valley provided just that.

For Haarika Reddy and Chris Bender, the search for the perfect wedding venue took an unexpected turn. While looking for dinner reservations, they stumbled upon Amaterra in Portland’s West Hills. Not only did the winery have breathtaking outdoor spaces, but it also had a modern indoor reception area – a combination that had proven elusive in their search.

Haarika and Chris, who met in college, were thrilled with their traditional Indian ceremony at Amaterra. Having moved to Portland for Chris’s medical residency, they knew they wanted a wedding that reflected their love for Oregon. Amaterra perfectly captured their vision and provided a stunning backdrop for their special day.

Despite the challenges and unexpected twists, these couples came out on top, creating unforgettable memories in Oregon’s wine country. From Maysara Vineyards to Amaterra, these venues provided the perfect setting for their dream weddings. And ultimately, that’s what it’s all about – celebrating love and creating lifelong memories, no matter the challenges along the way.

Portland’s West Hills is known for its stunning views, lush forests, and vibrant energy. It’s no wonder that it has become a popular destination for weddings, with couples from near and far flocking to this picturesque location to tie the knot. One venue that stands out among the rest is Amaterra, a modern winery that offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban accessibility.

For Haarika Reddy and Chris Bender, choosing Amaterra as their wedding venue was a no-brainer. They wanted a venue that could seamlessly blend traditional and modern aspects while being close to Portland for their relatives traveling in. With the help of their wedding planner, Katelyn Hansen, they worked closely with Amaterra’s team to plan the perfect 120-person event.

One of the challenges they faced was accommodating cultural cuisines and dietary restrictions. However, Executive Chef Jami Flatt and his staff at Amaterra were able to offer modifications to the menu, ensuring that every guest had a memorable dining experience.

On their special day, Haarika and Chris were blown away by the ambience and modern feel of Amaterra. Despite being so close to downtown Portland, they felt like they were in the middle of a forest. The breathtaking views, combined with the delicious wine, made their wedding day extra special.

Another couple who fell in love with Amaterra is Brian and Julie Cathey. Originally from Houston, Texas, they wanted an Oregon wedding to be closer to Julie’s family in the Willamette Valley. They got engaged in late 2021 and immediately started planning their wedding. However, due to long waiting lists for venues and vendors resulting from COVID, they had to push their wedding date to 2023.

Brian and Julie were drawn to Amaterra because of its easy access to the airport, which was important for Brian’s family coming from Wyoming. They also loved the modern structure of the winery’s buildings and its numerous outdoor spaces, which provided plenty of photo opportunities.

Molly Choma McMullin, a photographer who has worked with both the Gellos and the Catheys, agrees that romance and wineries go hand in hand. Having grown up in Napa Valley, Molly knows a thing or two about capturing beautiful wedding photos. She believes that Amaterra is the perfect venue for couples who want a luxury winery experience combined with Portland’s vibrant energy. The clean lines and contemporary touches of the venue play off against the backdrop of the vineyards and valley, creating a truly unique and breathtaking setting.

While Amaterra is undoubtedly a stunning venue, there are also other options available for couples seeking a romantic and unforgettable wedding in the area. Stoller Wine Group, for example, has three locations in the Willamette Valley. The Stoller Family Estate, with its rolling hills and vineyards, offers a tasting room and luxury guesthouses, making it perfect for large family weddings. The Chehalem Winery in Newberg has a tasting room and the Den, which can accommodate weddings and rehearsal dinners. There are also cozy rentals nearby. For a more extravagant experience, Black Walnut Inn & Vineyard in Dundee offers a formal dining space, stunning views, and a spacious cellar and tasting room. This location is ideal for couples with large weddings or those who want a sophisticated experience.

Beckenridge Vineyard in Dallas is another top wedding venue in the area. Surrounded by vineyards and gentle hills, it offers a picturesque backdrop for a romantic celebration.

In conclusion, Portland’s West Hills and the surrounding Willamette Valley offer countless options for couples looking to tie the knot in a beautiful and unique setting. Whether you choose Amaterra for its modern elegance, Stoller Wine Group for its stunning landscapes, or any of the other venues mentioned, one thing is for certain – your wedding will be a day to remember.

A Dream Wedding in the Countryside

Imagine a picturesque wedding in the heart of the Oregon countryside. Surrounded by majestic mountain views, Beckenridge’s event hall offers you over 3,200 square feet of space, creating the perfect setting for your special day. And if you prefer the great outdoors, there are several outdoor options available as well.

While there is no housing on the property, worry not, because Oregon-based rental company Vacasa has numerous options nearby. You can find the perfect accommodation for you and your guests, ensuring everyone is comfortable and ready to celebrate.

But let’s talk about the main highlight of your wedding venue – the stunning Laurel Ridge Winery. Founded by the visionary David Teppola in 1974, this family-owned farm spans across 240 acres in Yamhill County. It is truly an idyllic country setting for a wedding, with sprawling vineyards and breathtaking landscapes that will leave everyone in awe.

Conveniently located just a 55-minute drive from downtown Portland, this charming property can comfortably host up to 200 guests in their ranch house. The rustic yet elegant atmosphere of the winery perfectly complements the joyous celebration of your union.

What truly sets Laurel Ridge Winery apart is their special accommodation for your beloved four-legged friends. They understand that pets are part of the family and welcome them with open arms. You can have all your loved ones, two-legged or four-legged, be a part of your big day, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

At Laurel Ridge Winery, they believe in giving back to their loyal customers. That’s why if you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on their site, they may receive compensation. It’s their way of showing appreciation for your support.

As you explore this venue and its offerings, please be aware that your privacy is a priority. By browsing their site, they may share your information with their social media partners in accordance with their Privacy Policy.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a dream wedding location in the serene Oregon countryside, look no further than Beckenridge’s event hall and the beautiful Laurel Ridge Winery. With their ample space, breathtaking surroundings, and pet-friendly policies, they are truly the perfect choice for your special day. Start planning now and create memories that will be cherished forever.