Summer is just around the corner, and now is when many happy couples’ thoughts turn to weddings. Sonoma is one of the world’s most popular locales for the blessed event, yet where exactly to stage the big day?

Here are some of our favorite Sonoma wedding venues, perfect for tying the knot. Tip: Looking for a large venue? Be sure to check into the Sonoma County Tourism Bureau’s Suite Deal referral service. It’s not only free, but can offer up to $1,500 toward your Sonoma County wedding. Just note that you must contact the Bureau before contacting a lodging property, at 707-522-5814 or smontes@sonomacounty.com.

Hyatt Vineyard Creek Hotel and Spa
Dreaming of a big wedding? Keep in mind that many venues such as restaurants, wineries and churches can only hold 100 or so guests indoors. Yet the Hyatt in Santa Rosa has hosted events for more than 400 guests, on two emerald green lawns and interior ballrooms that seat up to 420 people while still leaving space for a dance floor. Large events are easy, too, since Hyatt’s wedding planner coordinates everything from linens to glittering crystal, silver, and china, and can recommend top quality florists, live music, and other accents.
170 Railroad St., Santa Rosa, 707-636-7286.

River Rock Casino
It may seem like an unlikely spot (certainly we’re not suggesting marriage is a gamble). Yet for large groups, or wedding parties that want one-stop-planning, this venue is a unique, fun choice. Perched mountainside in Geyserville, the newly renovated property offers a wide range of private party spaces in all sizes and custom décor, with convenient, delicious dining and catering right on-site. For another bonus, there’s no need to hire an expensive band to play the reception, since the Casino features live entertainment every Friday and Saturday starting at 10 p.m.
3250 Highway 128, Geyserville, 1-877-883-7777, riverrockcasino.com.

Trentadue Family Estate Winery and Vineyards
For a fuss-free wedding, this elegant property in Geyserville takes the cake. Or brings the cake, actually. The Tuscan-style estate overlooking Alexander Valley offers room for up to 250 guests indoors and up to 500 guests outdoors, including vine-covered Garden Arbors, the South Lawn & Gardens, the Old World Italian ambiance Sala del Leone Vineyard Pavilion, and the North Lawn. On-staff coordinators handle the details, too, including use of on-site gourmet commercial kitchen, a VIP wine tasting for the bride and groom, and preferred packages from caterers.
9170 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-433-3104 ext. 107, trentadue.com.

Kunde Family Estate

Actor Seth Rogen took a break from making movies such as Superbad, Kung-Fu Panda and The 40 Year-Old Virgin last October to marry longtime girlfriend Lauren Miller at this Kenwood winery. He chose the winery’s Boot Hill surrounded by vineyards and a grove of oak trees, but Kunde parties can select from several one-of-a-kind event spaces overlooking the fabled Valley of the Moon, including the graceful stone ruins of the century-old Dunfillan Winery, Olive Hill, Mountain Top, the dramatic Aging Caves, or Hill House.
9825 Sonoma Hwy., Kenwood, (707) 282-1534, kunde.com.

Tip: Transportation sets the mood to-and-from the special day. Part of the Pure Luxury Wedding package includes a complimentary bottle of premium champagne, sodas and bottled water in your limo.

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