A vineyard can be the ideal wedding destination. The gorgeous scenery, decadent wine, and natural décor bring a lot to love. We asked our wedding coordinators for their best tips on planning a winery wedding, and here’s how they answered. With our list, you can plan your dream winery wedding with confidence.

UNDERSTAND THE GRAPE GROWING SEASON

Full, luscious grapevines offer a natural beauty for wedding photo backdrops. Bud break begins in mid-April. This is when vines sprout leaves that protect grapes. A couple of months later, the vines are lush and green, and grapes grow during the summer and ripen in the fall. After the fruit has been harvested, the leaves slowly lose their color.

When do you want to have your winery wedding? If it’s in the late spring, summer, or early fall, you can see the grapes in different stages of the growing process. If it’s in the winter, you can set up additional décor for the venue to play off your theme and tie in the wintry landscape.

INCORPORATE SMALL DETAILS FOR WEDDING GUESTS

Outdoor weddings can be hot or cold, depending on the weather. It’s recommended to have summer wedding ceremonies later in the day or evening so it’s cooler in temperature. We also suggest turning your wedding program into a handheld fan to keep your guests cool. These programs can look rustic or minimalistic, have a floral design, feature gold font calligraphy, and more.

In cooler weather, a station set up for blankets will ensure guests stay warm. Roll them up individually and place them in a basket or wooden crate. A large sign will make them easier to spot, and we love when our Chaumette couples do a cute play on words like “To have and to hold in case you get cold.”

USE WINE BOTTLES AND CORKS AS DÉCOR

There’s more to a vineyard than grapes. Consider adding wine bottles and corks as décor! For example, one of our favorite ways to incorporate wine corks is by using them as stands for place cards. After creating a slit, a card can be tucked into place.

Fairy lights add another dimension to wine bottles. The strands look pretty at any time and glow when the sun goes down. All you’ll need to do is gather empty wine bottles, place the fairy lights inside, and complete the look with a cork on top.

BRING IN ELEMENTS OF NATURE

Outdoor venues provide an excellent opportunity to have a nature-themed wedding. Shades of green, maroon, and even neutrals bring earth tones into invitations, bridesmaid dresses, and more. A ceremony arch lets you get creative with beautiful flowers and have a stunning backdrop for the ceremony. Check the time for sunset to get the most out of your outdoor photos.

PLAN YOUR BIG DAY WITH CHAUMETTE

Allow the experts at Chaumette Vineyards & Winery to help you plan a remarkable wedding you’ll cherish and remember forever. Our award-winning wedding venue offers indoor and outdoor event spaces, classic and rustic wedding venues, and lodging for guests. To learn more or schedule a tour, please give us a call at (573) 747-1000 or email us at events@chaumette.com!