Wedding Venues in El Dorado County

How to Choose a Wedding Venue Location in El Dorado County, California

El Dorado County is one of a kind. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and stretching down to the western foothills, it offers a huge variety of wedding locations that combine natural beauty, historic charm, and modern amenities. With such a diverse range of options, it might be tricky to choose the right spot to exchange vows. Don’t, we’ve got you covered! This guide will explain what to consider when planning to get married in California’s El Dorado County. 

Budget: For couples not afraid of higher costs, we recommend checking out luxurious resorts like the Lake Tahoe Beach Retreat. For budget-friendly options, have a look at what places like the historic Gold Hill Vineyard in Placerville have to offer. In general, though, El Dorado has a broader range of mid-priced venues if compared to neighboring counties like Placer and Amador.

High/Low Seasons: In El Dorado, just like in the whole state of California, the high season for weddings is from late spring until early fall. Due to the warm weather and stunning scenery, places like the Edgewood Tahoe Resort are in high demand and must be booked well in advance. Weddings in the county’s higher elevations are also very popular in summer so if you’re planning to celebrate around Lake Tahoe, book your spot in advance as well. 

Visit in Person: The landscapes and charming, often historic, venues in El Dorado County are best appreciated in person. For example, if you’re dreaming of getting married at Boeger Winery in Placerville, you must visit the location in person to see its lush vineyards and rustic elegance up close to fully understand if this place suits your wedding theme. El Dorado County venues often require a bit more travel, which is why visiting potential sites here is more important than when planning a wedding in another location. 

Guest List: If a larger wedding is on your mind and you want expansive spaces with panoramic views that can accommodate hundreds of guests, research venues like the Serrano Country Club in El Dorado Hills. On the other hand, if you’re planning a more intimate affair, consider spots like Smith Flat House in Placerville.

Aesthetics: Everyone praises El Dorado County for its stunning natural landscapes. If you picture the rustic charm of a mountain lodge, consider wedding locations in the Sierra Nevada. Would you rather go with the elegance of a vineyard estate? Sure, no problem, check out venues in the foothills or around Lake Tahoe like The HideOut. 

Local Vendors: If you wish to bring some authenticity to your celebration and enhance your wedding experience, consider working with local vendors in El Dorado County. Everyone who has got married in this part of California will say that local florists are excellent at creating arrangements with locally sourced wildflowers and caterers are perfect at including the renowned wines from the region in your menu.

Weather Considerations: As El Dorado County has different elevations, varied climates should be expected. In lower elevations like Placerville, weddings are more common in summer, which comes with a plenitude of warm, sunny days. If you’re arranging a celebration in higher locations such as Lake Tahoe, prepare for cooler evenings. Winter weddings are truly magical with those snow-covered landscapes in the Sierra Nevada but also require proper planning for possible road closures or difficult travel conditions.
 
The Vibe: El Dorado County in California beautifully captures historic charm, natural beauty, and laid-back lifestyle. Whatever is on your mind – a rustic wedding in a mountain lodge or a more refined event in a vineyard – El Dorado is an ideal location for a wedding. El Dorado features a distinct vibe compared to that of neighboring counties like Amador, which mainly focuses on Gold Rush history, or Placer, which carries more suburban feelings. El Dorado County has a perfect balance, offering a relaxed yet elegant setting for your big day.