Napa Valley Photographers – Best In Wine Country

Widely recognized as one of the most romantic locations for a destination wedding in the United States, Napa Valley embodies the rustic, elegant, vineyard wedding. There is so much to love about Napa wine country, but before you put down a deposit for your Napa wedding there is a lot you should know. And I am not talking about what Pinot Grigios, Merlots, or Cabernet Sauvignons to drink! Don’t worry, there will be plenty of time for drinking wine and celebrating later! My name is Ryan Horban, one of the Napa Valley photographers specializing in wedding. In fact, I have over 12+ years of experience documenting wine country weddings, which basically means I am just old. In this article, I will outline everything you need to know about Napa Valley wine country weddings!

For nearly a decade, I have been capturing wedding photos that are authentic, candid, and filled with raw emotion in Napa, California. The goal of my Napa wedding photography has always been to mix a photojournalistic style that intertwines elegance, unposed moments, and all the elements that epitomize luxurious, modern, Napa wine country weddings. I invite you to review some of the previous destination weddings I have captured throughout the years and see firsthand all the good times. And if my wedding photojournalism style of photography connects with your vision for your destination wedding, please do not hesitate to message me to learn more about Napa wedding photographer packages! Or, say hello by sending me a text message (951-704-9503), using the contact form, or completing the information below. I look forward to learning more about your Napa wedding! Cheers- Ryan

6 Napa Wedding Venues – Best In Wine Country 

The first step in wedding planning is choosing the venue you want to get married at in Napa Valley, CA. The good news? There are many majestic outdoor wedding venues in Napa Valley that offer stunning vineyard views among other luxury amenities for couples planning a destination wedding in wine country. Although I strongly recommend each bride and groom take a guided tour of the unique wedding venues Napa Valley has to offer, sometimes that is not possible due to logistics. For couples doing online research on destination wedding packages and the different venues in wine country, here is my list of the 7 best wedding venues in Napa, California!

Auberge du Soleil

If you’re looking for a wedding venue that offers breathtaking panoramic views and a luxurious setting, look no further than Auberge du Soleil in Napa Valley. As a wedding photographer, I have seen firsthand how the stunning natural backdrop of the valley floor and the Mayacamas Mountains in the distance creates a perfect setting for your special day.

At Auberge du Soleil, the outdoor Terrace and Ceremony Deck provide an idyllic spot for exchanging vows and celebrating your union. And with exclusive guest use of the entire property, you and your guests will enjoy complete privacy and access to all locations on the property, ensuring a truly memorable experience.

When it comes to capturing your wedding day memories, Auberge du Soleil offers countless picture-perfect opportunities. From the breathtaking views to the luxurious setting, this venue is the perfect choice for couples looking for a modern and luxurious wedding experience. As a wedding photographer, I highly recommend Auberge du Soleil as one of the top wedding venues in Napa Valley.

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V. Sattui Winery

V. Sattui Winery is a premier wedding venue in Napa Valley. In fact, this luxurious winery located in Napa has even been recognized as one of the “Top Five Winery Wedding Venues in The World” by Destination Weddings and Honeymoons Abroad.

V. Sattui Winery is renowned for its romantic ambiance, lush landscapes, and rustic charm, providing the perfect setting for your dream wedding in Wine Country. Oh, and don’t forget to try some of their award-winning wines to cap off your celebration in style!

As a foodie, what I like most about V. Sattui Winery is the dining experience. Italian Michelin Star Chef Stefano Masanti and his hand-selected team will create your wedding menu, perfectly paired with V. Sattui wines. As a special treat, brides and grooms get a complimentary Chef’s Table tasting with Stefano to help create the perfect menu for their big day. Pretty rad right? Overall, V. Sattui Winery is a top choice for couples seeking a truly unforgettable wedding experience in Napa Valley.

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Trentadue Winery 

As you plan your dream wedding in Napa Valley, you’ll want to consider Trentadue Winery as your ultimate venue. Located in Alexander Valley, this charming wine country venue is surrounded by picturesque vineyards and stunning mountains, providing an idyllic backdrop for your special day. With both indoor and outdoor options, Trentadue Winery can easily accommodate small and large weddings.

The outdoor space at Trentadue Winery provides a romantic and intimate atmosphere, with vine arbors and matured redwood trees that evoke an old-world Italian feel. The stunning Sala de Leon Pavilion boasts picturesque French doors that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains, allowing you to enjoy the scenery while being indoors. Whether you choose an indoor or outdoor ceremony, your wedding at Trentadue Winery will be unique and unforgettable. With a variety of venue options, this winery is the perfect place to celebrate your love with family and friends.

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Beaulieu Garden

If you’re looking for an enchanting wedding venue that seamlessly combines old-world charm with modern elegance, Beaulieu Garden is a perfect choice. Tucked away in a secluded and breathtakingly beautiful setting in Napa Valley, this venue offers a half-mile drive beneath a canopy of sycamore trees that sets the tone for your unforgettable day.

With its picturesque sunken garden, romantic sycamore arbor, and sparkling pool bordered by manicured lawns and grapevines, Beaulieu Garden is the ideal backdrop for your exchange of vows, exquisite dinner, or elegant reception. As the stars come out, your guests can dance the night away in a dreamlike atmosphere, surrounded by rolling hills and magical lights.

With Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events as the exclusive caterer for Beaulieu Garden, you can rest assured that every aspect of your event will be nothing short of perfection. Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, the possibilities are endless at Beaulieu Garden.

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Solage Resort 

If you’re dreaming of a luxurious and stress-free wedding venue in Napa Valley, Solage is an exceptional resort and spa that offers everything you could wish for. The resort is nestled amidst lush, densely wooded hills, boasting an exquisite sense of space and flow that radiates a sense of relaxed luxury. Here, you’ll find all the comforts of a posh retreat, with breathtaking views of the Palisades Mountains and Mt. St. Helena.

At Solage, couples can enjoy the ultimate peace of mind, knowing that the staff is highly skilled at ensuring their comfort and relaxation. Guests can arrive a day or two early to unwind in private courtyard accommodations, and couples can walk through the wedding and reception site two hours before their ceremony to ensure everything is perfect. The stunning Solstice pavilion is Solage’s prime wedding venue, featuring soaring floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto a terrace and lawn with awe-inspiring views of the mountains. For more intimate ceremonies or post-wedding brunches, Solage’s smaller venues, Spectera and Nova, are also available. With exceptional catering and world-class service, Solage is the ultimate destination for couples seeking a stylish, sophisticated wedding venue that’s infused with relaxed, stress-free luxury.

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Carneros Resort & Spa

For an unforgettable wedding experience in Napa Valley, look no further than Carneros Resort & Spa. This stunning venue boasts 10,000 square feet of event space, perfect for an intimate reception or a grand dinner under the stars. With eco-friendly lawns and landscaping, as well as scenic views of vineyards and rolling hills, Carneros Resort & Spa is committed to sustainability while providing a beautiful backdrop for your special day.

Carneros Resort & Spa offers 35,000 square feet of event space and nine unique venues, both indoor and outdoor, with a reception capacity of up to 300 guests. What makes this venue truly unique is its ability to cater to weddings of all sizes, from small ceremonies to resort-wide buyouts. The vineyard setting offers a picturesque backdrop, and the outdoor venues provide a beautiful and memorable atmosphere. In addition to the stunning event spaces, Carneros Resort & Spa also offers cottages and luxury home rental accommodations, allowing you and your guests to fully immerse yourselves in the beauty and tranquility of Napa Valley.

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It is no surprise that the best winery wedding venues in California are located in Napa Valley. A Calistoga Ranch wedding will be absolutely stunning, or Auberge du Soleil wedding will offer any bride and groom the most luxurious Napa Valley wedding experience. With so many romantic wedding venues Napa, the best advice is to tour at least 5 vineyards and book the venue that sings to their rustic hearts. Ideally, with a wedding planner that specializes in Napa and Sonoma weddings. From the perspective of a Napa wedding photographer, as long as you have that vineyard golden light and good vibes that is all that matters.

Related Article: SF City Hall Elopement Guide 

10  Best Napa Valley Photographers – Bride’s Choice 

Your Northern California wine country wedding in Napa or Sonoma is going to be AMAZING! Honestly, I look forward to learning more about you and your destination wedding in this picturesque region. However, if for some reason I’m already booked, or perhaps you’re not feeling my unique approach to fine art, modern, colorful wedding photojournalism, I have good news! Consider checking out the following wedding and portrait photographer teams in Napa. It’s important to me that you get kick-ass wedding photos, even if I’m not the one behind the lens for your Napa, CA, or Sonoma County celebration. Why? because nobody deserves shitty wedding photos! Rest assured, the portrait photographers listed below specialize in weddings. Therefore, please explore each review and wedding website to see if one of these talented artists is the perfect fit for your unforgettable event!

1. Ryan Horban Photography

An award-winning wine country wedding photographer, Ryan Horban’s work has been featured in Green Wedding Shoes, People Magazine, and JuneBug Weddings. With over a decade of experience, his candid and colorful approach to photography has made him one of the top destination wedding photographers according to Yelp! In fact, he is one of the only Napa Valley photographers with a perfect 5-star rating, according to online reviews!

• 12+ years photographing wine country weddings in Napa, Sonoma, and Temecula
• California Wedding Day Magazine cover photo & feature
• 70+ online reviews – all 5 stars
• Featured in Green Wedding Shoes, June Bug Weddings, and other publications

2. Jen Philips Photography

With 17 years of experience and over 300 weddings under her belt, Jen Philips knows the keys to capturing your special moment in Napa CA. Expect flexibility and focus on your wedding’s important memories, ensuring the day is uniquely yours. From portrait photography to micro weddings, Jen’s boutique-style customization and online gallery will make your memories flood back. As your concierge with a camera, she brings calm to the amazing wedding chaos. Whether it’s family portraits or engagement sessions, she’s more than a wedding photographer in Napa; she’s your partner in making your day unforgettable. Her photography business offers everything you need to fall in love all over again with each glance at your photos.

3. Megan Reeves Photography

Living in Napa for over 20 years, Megan Reeves offers profound, intimate wedding photography. Her background in managing events and PR for wineries, coupled with her adventures in the entertainment industry, brings a distinctive flavor to her photography business. Megan’s roles as a wife and mother add empathy, making her your ideal photographer in Napa CA. Her portfolio includes family portraits, special moments, and engagement sessions. Choose Megan Reeves Photography for a unique, heartfelt experience that tells your story.

4. Christophe Genty Photography

Christophe Genty captures life’s beauty through 25 years of outstanding photography experience. Specializing in wedding, proposal, and portrait photography, he’s become one of Napa’s most sought-after photographers. His wedding photography embodies romance; his portraits reveal authentic emotion. What sets Christophe apart is his ability to make clients feel at ease, leading to candid, natural captures. With numerous awards, features in publications, and 52 five-star Google reviews, his work speaks for itself. His photography company even offers photo booths, adding fun to your special day. For timeless, natural, and emotionally resonant photography in Napa CA, choose Christophe Genty Photography.

5. Lily Rose Photography

Debbie Labrot, owner of Lily Rose Photography, specializes in capturing life’s moments in Napa Valley and beyond. Since opening in 2006, she’s photographed over 750 weddings, also covering engagement sessions and events. Serving locations including Carmel, San Francisco, and Tahoe, her studio emphasizes a personal touch. Named after her niece’s middle names, “Lily” and “Rose,” Debbie’s brand reflects her compassionate approach. Not just a wedding photographer, she’s known as a calming force on a hectic day. Following the belief “We do not remember days, we remember moments,” she crafts images that trigger memories. Whether it’s a real wedding or an intimate engagement, Lily Rose Photography promises to tell your story with grace and style.

6. Caitlin O’Reilly Photography

Caitlin O’Reilly lives in Napa Valley, inspired by its landscapes, food, art, and culture. Growing up, she dreamed of being a wedding photographer and later pursued a degree in photography. After college, she moved back to Napa to start her photography business. Now, she thrives on documenting every emotion at weddings, including laughter, kisses, and tears. In her work, Caitlin connects closely with her clients, ensuring an archive of cherished memories. From engagement rings to planning tools, her services cover a range of wedding needs. If you’re looking for a passionate photographer in Napa who can tell your unique love story, Caitlin O’Reilly Photography may be the perfect choice.

7. Willow and Ben

Willow and Ben, a husband and wife duo, specialize in Napa and Sonoma wedding photography. Based in Northern California, they love hiking, good food, and their dogs. They capture special moments across California, from Santa Barbara’s coast to Sonoma Valley. Their love story began with a beach date and led to a Yosemite proposal. Later, they eloped at Mt. Shasta, enhancing their understanding of love’s essence. This personal experience helps them create unique wedding photographs. Boasting 106 five-star Google reviews, their professional expertise could be ideal for your big day. In fact, they are one of the highest-rated Napa Valley photographers!

8. Kristine Herman Photography

Kristine Herman Photography is based in Northern California, blending documentary and editorial styles. Utilizing her love of fashion and storytelling, Kristine crafts authentic images in the San Francisco Bay area. She lets emotions shine through, connecting with clients from Sacramento to San Jose. Across the scenic California coast, her work resonates with clients in various venues. Each year, she selects only a limited number of weddings to ensure a great fit. Outside of weddings, Kristine enjoys time with family, travel, and snowboarding. In the world of Napa Valley photographers, her unique approach stands out. Whether for micro weddings or complete wedding vendor services, she is a top choice.

9. Michelle Walker Photography

Michelle Walker Photography offers a heartfelt and unique approach to capturing love stories. Growing up in the Bay Area, Michelle’s passion for photography was inspired by her father. Now, with every event, she aims to create images that are meaningful and soulful. Since 1999, she’s been photographing weddings, allowing the emotions to unfold naturally. In addition, her wedding photojournalism style is perfect for those who want their day to feel authentic. For couples in Santa Rosa, CA, to the California coast, her work is celebrated. She thrives on capturing the little moments, making it an effortless experience for her clients. Whether it’s a micro wedding or a grand celebration, Michelle’s laid-back approach resonates with many. Her belief is that your photographs should be cherished forever, telling your unique story. Her work in wedding and event photography sets her apart among Napa Valley photographers.

10. Monica Dawn Photography

Monica Dawn, the heart behind Monica Dawn Photography, celebrates love with a lens, capturing moments since 2006. A wedding photographer at heart, she infuses her work with elegance and romance, photographing love across the stunning California coast and Northern California locations. Her experience in fashion photography adds flair, and her personal touch makes each event special. Whether it’s photographing weddings, offering planning tools, or creating an online gallery, she’s there to tell your love story. With a focus on details, from beautiful gowns to heartfelt speeches, her work mirrors her passion for love and family. For those seeking a wedding photographer in Napa CA, check out Monica Dawn Photography’s portfolio!

Napa Elopement Photographer

Are you sitting on your couch right now, with a glass of wine in hand, thinking about Napa and Sonoma weddings? Maybe you and your fiancée want something simple and are planning a Napa elopement. Whether the guest count is 2 or 200, remember that this is your wedding and you should do whatever makes your collective hearts happy.

Escaping to Napa wine country for a romantic and relaxing elopement is a trend many engaged couples are embracing. The allure of avoiding traditional wedding stress, savoring world-class wines, and soaking in majestic vineyard views makes it an appealing choice. Napa elopements are gaining popularity, offering an untraditional but intimate experience. Even a ceremony with just two people deserves to be captured beautifully. So, what’s the next step? Investing in a Napa elopement photographer is essential. Having a professional by your side ensures that you’ll have stunning photos of your vows amid breathtaking vineyards. Finally, don’t forget to toast the night away with some intoxicating red wines or champagnes. It’s all part of the unique and cherished experience that Napa Valley offers to couples seeking something truly special.

How Much Does A Napa Valley Photographer Cost?

The cost of a Napa wedding photographer starts at around $925 an hour, but the total price varies based on the selected package and specific needs. Whether you desire a grandiose affair at Calistoga Ranch or a private elopement at Meadowood in St. Helena, best Napa wedding photographer studios offer a variety of packages to suit your wedding in Northern California’s wine country. You can even save some money! Booking the photographer for additional hours can reduce the hourly rate, and don’t forget to factor in extras. Napa engagement photos, fine-art wedding albums, second shooters, and professional prints are additional costs. If you want a comprehensive wedding package, expect to invest anywhere from $4500 to $9,500.

Napa Valley Photographers – Frequently Asked Questions 

When Is The Best Time Of Year To Get Married In Napa Valley?

Late spring and early fall are ideal for Napa Valley weddings, providing mild temperatures and beautiful scenery. Spring offers rolling green hills and blooming flowers for a perfect backdrop. Plus, tourism slows, possibly lowering rates on intimate wedding packages in Napa Valley. Beware, though; there’s a small chance of rain, so tent plans might be necessary.

Summer, on the other hand, is the best time in Napa wine country. With 90-100 degrees at peak times, it’s hot, but evenings cool by 25-30 degrees, perfect for outdoor receptions. The longer days allow for breathtaking views and golden hour photos with your Napa wedding photographer.

Need more help with wedding planning? Your planner can find bridal shops for custom dresses or calligraphy for save-the-dates, making your Napa or Sonoma Valley wedding uniquely yours.

Where Are Some Great Places To Have A Rehearsal Dinner In Napa Valley or Sonoma?

Napa Valley and Sonoma offer many great options for rehearsal dinners, including some of the same wineries and vineyards that host weddings. Some popular options include The French Laundry, The Restaurant at Meadowood, and Bottega Napa Valley. For a more casual atmosphere, you can also consider spots like Oxbow Public Market or Gott’s Roadside.

Are There Any Interesting Historical Or Cultural Sites To Visit In Napa Valley or Sonoma?

Yes, both Napa Valley and Sonoma have rich histories and offer many interesting cultural sites to visit. Some popular options include the Mission San Francisco Solano, the Napa Valley Wine Train, and the Napa Valley Opera House. You can also explore some of the historic downtown areas, such as Yountville or Sonoma Plaza.

What Are Some Fun Local Wineries To Visit In Napa Valley Or Sonoma?

Yes, there are many great wineries to visit in Napa Valley and Sonoma. Some popular options include Beringer Vineyards, Robert Mondavi Winery, and Chateau Montelena. You can also consider visiting some of the smaller, boutique wineries for a more intimate and personalized experience.

From San Franciso Bay to Half Moon Bay, Napa Valley California continues to be a top spot for destination weddings so nearly any time is a good time to get married, eat some wedding cake, and relax in a vineyard among loved ones!