Read: 2 Incredible San Francisco Wedding Venues

Searching for San Francisco wedding venues? You’ve found the right spot if you’re searching for a rustic venue within two hours of the Bay Area! Welcome to Mountain House Estate, home to THE best wedding photos ;)

San Francisco Reception Venues

Mountain House Estate

• Towering Oak Tree ceremony area & natural amphitheater
• Lodging for 38 guests
• 2 separate ready rooms
• BYOB & BYO Vendors
• Rustic elegance

Nestled in the scenic beauty of California’s wine country, this esteemed venue is a stone’s throw away from the Pacific Ocean and neighboring vineyards and wineries. With its convenient next-door lodging and dozens of unique wedding photo opportunities, choosing Mountain House Estate goes beyond selecting a simple event space; it’s opting for an unforgettable experience.

Wedding Venues in the San Francisco Bay Area

Mountain House Estate in Cloverdale provides an enchanting wedding experience just a short drive from the San Francisco Bay Area. Unlike crowded city venues with traffic, our serene estate offers a more intimate and charming setting, making destination weddings here a favorite among couples. The proximity to San Francisco allows guests to escape the city for a romantic celebration surrounded by the natural beauty and vineyards of Northern California.

Lodging at Mountain House Estate

Local Activities to Plan Around Your Wedding

When you select Mountain House Estate for your wedding, you not only immerse yourself in the allure of our picturesque property but also gain access to a myriad of activities inland and along the Mendocino CA coast. With no McDonald’s in sight (and captivating ocean views of the Pacific Ocean – don’t miss Glass Beach!), a visit to Mendocino County is a must.

Embracing a warm and cozy ambiance, often referred to as California’s Cozy Coast or Mendo Mellow, the region offers a range of experiences. From savoring farm-fresh produce to indulging in wine tastings and marveling at the towering Redwood forests, here are our top ten favorite activities in Mendocino County, recommended by us and our expert wedding planners, to enhance your pre or post-wedding adventures at our venue. Below are some exciting activities.

Plan Your Wedding Week at Mountain House Estate

We’ve created this helpful map so you can visualize your wedding experience at our San Francisco venue. Plan a hiking excursion, go wine tasting, visit our local secret spots, and make your wedding an unforgettable experience.

Begin Your Journey with a Picturesque Drive Along Highway 128.

Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of perfect bay views, from the Bay Area to San Francisco showcases rolling hills, towering Redwood forests, and Oak trees, leading you to Mountain House Estate in the Yorkville Highlands AVA—a perfect opportunity for wine tasting! Indulge in the breathtaking beauty of perfect bay views.

Experience the Taste of Organic Wines at Yorkville Cellars.

Certified organic since 1986, this small-lot winery offers an interactive and intimate tasting room. Don’t miss the chance to engage in a blind tasting of their exceptional Bordeaux varietals.

Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Paysanne in Boonville, CA.

This charming spot, from colorful candy to organic ice cream and locally roasted espresso, allows you to indulge in delightful treats made with love.

Embark on a Farm Tour at Pennyroyal Farm.

Explore their fully solar-powered barn, meet friendly animals, and discover the integrative methods behind their artisanal wine and cheese. Cap off the tour with a delightful wine and cheese tasting.

Enjoy a Rustic and Refined Dining Experience at the Bewildered Pig.

Located in the quaint village of Philo, CA, this culinary gem founded by Chef Janelle Weaver and partner Daniel offers unexpected and delightful dishes in a unique setting.

Gaze at the Majestic Redwoods at Hendy Woods State Park.

Protecting towering redwoods over 300 feet tall, this state park offers five miles of trails through a fern-filled forest for a refreshing outdoor experience.

Explore Mendocino Village and Face Your Fear of Heights at Mendocino Headlands State Park.

With New England vibes, whimsical shops, and galleries, the village is a charming stop. Walk along cliffs with panoramic views, visit hidden grottos, and savor an ice cream from Frankie’s.

Paddle Along The Big River to Befriend Otters and Seals.

Enjoy a canoe or paddle boarding trip on the waterfront to prevent a food coma, surrounded by crystal-clear water, glowing plankton, and encounters with river otters, harbor seals, and great blue herons.

Ride the World-Famous Skunk Train.

For a close-up view of old-growth redwoods, trestle bridges, historic tunnels, and the scenic Noyo River Canyon the ride is a must.

Take in Breathtaking Views at Point Arena Lighthouse.

Standing tall over a dramatic bluff, this 115-foot landmark lighthouse provides postcard-perfect views of the Pacific Ocean’s whitecaps.

Relax at Orr Hot Springs, Nestled Between Mendocino and Ukiah.

Situated on 27 acres, these hot springs at the Big River’s headwaters offer a tranquil experience with clothing-optional options, Creekside clawfoot tubs, and a body-positive atmosphere.

Services and Amenities at Mountain House Estate

Property & Venue

• Exclusive use of our 40-acre property on your wedding day.
• The property includes a beautiful garden with a conservatory, perfect for enjoying the sunshine and surrounding nature.

Lodging

• Lodging options for up to 34 guests in five separate homes right next door.

Engagement Photoshoot

• Schedule a 2-3 hour engagement or bridal photo shoot upon booking your wedding.

Ceremony and Reception Sites for Wedding Ceremonies

• Indoor and outdoor options, including Oak Tree Terrace, the Pond, and Indoor Barn.
• Climate-controlled indoor spaces like a reception hall with ADA gender-neutral bathrooms for up to 250 guests.
• Space heaters are provided for outdoor receptions in colder weather.

Planning App

• Free access to All seated, a state-of-the-art event planning platform.

Getting Ready Suites

• Three separate Ready Rooms, including the Juliet Prep Room, Oasis, and Hangout.

No Fees

• No hidden, corkage, or additional fees after signing the contract.

Extra Hours

• Option to add additional early prep hours or late hours for extended celebrations.

Lighting Features

• Lighting features in architecture are an essential aspect of design.
• Custom-built indoor lighting, outdoor market lights, and uplighting for ambiance.

Fire Pits, Music, and Entertainment

• Two fire pits with propane supplied, a built-in surround sound speaker system, a freestanding selfie photo booth, two dance floors, and lawn games.

Food and Alcohol

• BYOB allowed no required alcohol purchase and accommodation for food trucks.
• Dedicated concrete pad for food trucks and a caterer prep kitchen.

Photo Opportunities

• Dozens of scenic locations on the property for unique photo opportunities.

Tables and Chairs

• Stylish seating options, including round and rectangular tables, cocktail tables, and white resin chairs for up to 250 guests.

Furniture and Large Interior Decor Items

• Heptagon and triangle arches, market umbrellas, bar stools, moveable wine barrels, lounge furniture sets, and more.

Rehearsal Time

• Included 90-minute rehearsal time by appointment.

Smoking/Vaping Area

• Stylish smoking and vaping area, the Smokin’ Olive Lounge, and a Cigar Bar.

Parking Attendant and Security

• Complimentary parking with an attendant and security for guest safety.

Payment Plan

• Acceptance of a $1500 initial payment with monthly payment options.

Sustainability Efforts

• Sustainable practices, upcycled materials, and water conservation in the gardens.

Safety Details

• Legal permits, commercial insurance, CPR & AED certified staff, and a backup generator.

Rave Reviews from Wedding Couples

Welcome to a glimpse of the unforgettable moments shared by our cherished couples at Mountain House Estate. Our client testimonials serve as a testament to the joy, love, and enchantment that unfolds within the scenic embrace of our venue. Explore the heartfelt experiences of those who have celebrated their weddings with us, and discover the unique stories that make Mountain House Estate a truly magical place for your special day.

Reviewed on 7/10/2022 by Julie L.

This stunning venue truly speaks for itself. The second we stepped foot on the property, we knew it was the place for our wedding. It is gorgeous and truly plays off it’s natural surroundings so we didn’t even feel the need to decorate much. With all the different outdoor options for ceremony and reception events, as well as places for both bride and groom to get ready, it was amazing. Lane and John are so sweet and did so much more than just provide the venue. They helped us select our date, provided recommendations for many vendors and were always quick to provide answers for any questions we had. They keep in touch with you every step of the way and really care about the couples. The venue, along with Lane and John (and the wonderful vendors they recommended), truly made our wedding a bespoke experience.

Reviewed on 5/03/2022 by Brittany B.

Mountain House Estate is absolutely amazing! It was the perfect venue for our spring time wedding. The property is beautiful and even the pictures don’t do it justice. It has just about everything you need right there. A Bar, plenty of bathrooms, two separate suites for couples and wedding party to get ready in, multiple ceremony locations, a cute barn that can be used for just about anything, patio, big inside space, lots of beautiful photo spots and perfect first look location. Lane and John at Mountain House really put thought into every detail. They also have an amazing list of suggested vendors, which was very helpful. The day was beyond magical and everything went smoothly. They are professional and really go above and beyond to make sure the couple and their guests have the best time.

Reviewed on 8/11/2023 by Jenna A.

Our wedding was perfect from the getting ready rooms to the party at the end of the night. This venue showed our families why we love where we live. So many great memories will be remembered forever. So many options and they really make sure your day is smooth and stress free!

FAQs About MHE and San Francisco Weddings

Why Should I Spend the Night for My Wedding?

1. Convenience: Lodging at Mountain House Estate provides unparalleled convenience for you and your guests, eliminating the need for extensive travel before and after the event.
2. Exclusive Access: Staying on-site ensures that you have exclusive access to the picturesque surroundings and amenities of Mountain House Estate throughout your stay.
3. Time Efficiency: By staying on the property, you save time that would otherwise be spent commuting, allowing you to maximize the enjoyment of the wedding festivities.
4. Safety and Security: With on-site lodging, you and your guests benefit from a secure and controlled environment, enhancing safety and peace of mind.
5. Enhanced Celebration: Extend the celebration into the evening without worrying about transportation, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.
6. Scenic Views: Wake up to breathtaking views, whether it’s the rolling hills, gardens, or other natural landscapes, enhancing the overall experience of your stay.
7. Flexibility: Lodging options cater to various group sizes and preferences, ensuring that everyone can find accommodations that suit their needs.
8. Memorable Experience: Staying at Mountain House Estate transforms the wedding celebration into a complete and memorable experience, fostering a sense of togetherness and connection among guests. Many of our guests loved this experience more than the typical hotel wedding venue.

What’s the Weather Like at Mountain House Estate?

No skyline views in sight, just gorgeous weather and the sound of rustling leaves (and your wedding decor).

When planning your Mountain House Estate wedding, consider the weather for a seamless celebration. Spring offers mild temperatures and lush greenery, while summer provides warm, dry weather. Fall brings vibrant foliage, creating a picturesque backdrop. Winter offers a cozy atmosphere with festive decorations. Our venue accommodates both indoor and outdoor celebrations, ensuring a delightful experience regardless of the season.

Why Should I Choose Mountain House Estate?

Embark on the journey of a lifetime at Mountain House Estate, where the allure of a romantic destination wedding meets the charm of a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path venue in the heart of California. Nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of wine country, Mountain House Estate stands as an idyllic choice for couples seeking an enchanting and relaxed setting for their special day.

Photo Opps & Multiple Ceremony Sites

What sets Mountain House Estate apart from other wedding venues in Northern California (United States) is its array of picturesque locations that cater to diverse preferences. Whether you envision exchanging vows under the ancient and majestic oak trees, beside a serene private pond, within the rustic charm of a barn, or surrounded by the towering Redwood trees, this venue offers multiple stunning ceremony sites. Each location presents a unique ambiance, allowing you to curate a wedding experience that reflects your style and vision.

Getting Ready

The experience begins with the artful and stylish Oasis, an elegant space designed for wedding preparations. Adorned with a dazzling chandelier and plush seating, the Oasis provides a luxurious backdrop for the moments leading up to your ceremony. Simultaneously, your partner can indulge in the distinctive ambiance of The Hangout, a thoughtfully crafted space dedicated to creating a one-of-a-kind getting-ready experience.

Personalized Experiences

Beyond the picturesque landscapes and versatile venues, Mountain House Estate offers more than just a backdrop for your wedding; it provides an immersive and personalized experience. The venue’s commitment to excellence ensures that every detail is tailored to your desires, making your destination wedding a seamless and unforgettable affair.

Choose Mountain House Estate for a wedding full of elegance that transcends the ordinary, where the beauty of nature and the warmth of romance come together to create memories that last a lifetime.

Do I Need to Check Out Hotels in Santa Rosa & Cloverdale for My Wedding?

Although we offer lodging, it’s for up to 38 guests. The rest of your loved ones may choose a nearby hotel or Airbnb.

Cloverdale: More Quaint Hotel Stays Over San Francisco

Cloverdale, with its quaint charm and serene atmosphere, offers a refreshing contrast to the bustling cityscape of San Francisco. Here’s why the hotel stays in Cloverdale surpass those in the San Francisco city club, especially for events near Mountain House Estate.

• Cloverdale provides a peaceful and relaxed environment, ensuring a rejuvenating stay away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
• Perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat after attending events at Mountain House Estate.
• Hotels in Cloverdale typically offer more budget-friendly accommodations compared to the often-expensive options in San Francisco.
• This affordability allows visitors to allocate their budget to other aspects of their trip or event.
• In addition to hotels, Airbnb options in Cloverdale provide a unique and personalized lodging experience.
• Guests can choose from a variety of properties, including cozy cottages, country homes, or charming guesthouses.
• The hotels in Cloverdale are conveniently located near Mountain House Estate, making it a practical choice for attendees of events at the estate.
• Cloverdale boasts a welcoming community and genuine hospitality, providing a more intimate and friendly atmosphere for guests.
• Surrounded by vineyards and picturesque landscapes, Cloverdale offers a scenic backdrop for visitors, enhancing the overall stay experience.
• Guests can take leisurely strolls or explore nearby attractions, adding to the enjoyment of their visit.

Booking accommodation in Cloverdale, whether through traditional hotels or Airbnb, presents a compelling alternative to the bustling and often costly hotel scene in San Francisco. The added advantage of proximity to Mountain House Estate makes Cloverdale a top choice for those attending events in the enchanting wine country setting.

What Event Types Do You Host?

How Do I Choose the Right Venue for My Big Day?

Orchestrating your wedding day can be tremendously exciting! However, with so many venues on offer, choosing the one best suited for your celebration is essential. In your selection process, consider factors like budget, preferred date of the event, venue aesthetics, provided amenities, guest capacity, and the venue’s geographical location. Like a puzzle piece, the right venue complements your wedding’s overall style, theme, and feel. You can always visit a website like The Knot to see thousands of venue options. Some show the wedding venue price and others you must inquire for their pricing.

What Are Some Trending Wedding Spots?

Couples are increasingly drawn to open spaces for their weddings, eschewing the traditional hotel wedding venues. The allure lies in the expansive, natural surroundings that add a touch of romance and uniqueness to the celebration. Unlike the confines of a hotel, open spaces like Mountain House Estate offer a canvas of rolling landscapes, allowing couples to tailor their wedding to their vision. The freedom to embrace the outdoors, under the open sky, creates an unforgettable experience that resonates with the desire for a distinctive and enchanting celebration.

How Much Does a San Francisco Wedding Venue Typically Cost?

The cost of a San Francisco wedding venue varies based on location, capacity, amenities, and time of year. According to the Annual Couples’ Survey 2022, the average cost of hiring a wedding venue in San Francisco is about $9,240, which is slightly higher than the national average of $9,058. That being said, there are ample affordable options available. Couples planning their wedding in San Francisco spend around 28% of their total wedding budget on the reception venue. Due to the exorbitant costs associated with weddings in San Francisco, many couples opt for the more budget-friendly yet equally enchanting option of Mountain House Estate in Cloverdale. Beyond the cost savings, they are drawn to the exceptional services and amenities offered, making their wedding or reception experience not only affordable but also unforgettable.

Where Is Mountain House Estate Located?

Mountain House Estate can be found seven miles west of Cloverdale on Hwy 128, heading towards the coast. We recommend using “Mountain House Estate” for your GPS search instead of a street address. This precaution is taken as some mapping programs may provide incorrect directions, ensuring a smooth arrival for you and your guests at our wedding venue.

What is the maximum capacity?

Our winery wedding venue can serve a maximum of 250 people.

Do you allow food trucks at the venue?

Certainly! We proudly stand out as one of the few California wine country wedding venues that welcome food trucks. Our venue boasts a designated concrete pad area, conveniently accessible to guests, where multiple food trucks can park. Additionally, we offer a second area known as the ‘show-off kitchen,’ capable of accommodating additional trailers, BBQ setups, paella preparation stations, wood-fired pizza ovens, fresh-made donuts, or even photo booths, providing a diverse range of options for your culinary preferences.

How Can We Contact You for a Tour?

For bookings and inquiries at Mountain House Estate, simply reach out to our dedicated team through the following contact details:

Phone: (707) 385-1410

Website: https://mountainhouseestate.com/

What Is the Estimated Cost of a Wedding in California?

In Northern California, wedding expenses, including the wedding price, can vary widely, with an average cost of around $200 per guest. There are different wedding packages for our clients to ensure that we can cater to them with the best in their budget. This figure is influenced by factors such as venue selection, catering services, and choices for ceremony and reception rentals.

So many venues, like Exploratorium, the Presidio Golf Course, Julia Morgan Ballroom, venues in San Ramon CA, Chapel of Our Lady, San Francisco Botanical Garden, The Firehouse at Fort Mason Center for Arts & Culture, Stern Grove Trocadero Clubhouse, California Academy of the Sciences, Haas-Lilienthal House, Swedenborgian Church, and other downtown San Francisco wedding venues, will all have a wide range of prices.

All costs are subject to California state tax, encompassing labor charges, set-up and take-down fees, ceremony expenses, and more. The current standard rate for California state sales tax is 7.5%. Popular months for weddings in Northern California, such as March, September, and October, align with favorable weather conditions. Opting for an “off-peak” month doesn’t significantly impact the overall ambiance due to the region’s mild year-round weather.

Given California’s expansive geography, the wedding cost varies based on whether the couple chooses a venue in Southern, Central, or Northern California. Venue options abound, ranging from intimate mountain venues like Mountain House Estate to breezy beach locales, romantic countryside settings, and chic downtown venues. Budget considerations vary based on preferred ambiance.

High-end hotel weddings, especially in trendy cities like Los Angeles and San Francisco, can substantially increase expenses. Hotel options range from cozy inns to luxurious five-star establishments catering to celebrities, influencing the overall wedding cost in these regions.

How Far Are the Nearby Hotels?

Your guests may choose accommodations through Airbnb, VRBO, or local motels for their weekend stay in San Francisco or Oakland. We offer convenient lodging options next door for up to 34 guests. They can explore areas as far north as Ukiah, west to Mendocino, east to Cloverdale, and south to Santa Rosa. Additionally, the San Francisco Bay provides numerous activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy during their stay.

Our wedding venue in the beautiful Sonoma Valley is located in a charming rural area of wine country, with the nearest town, Cloverdale, approximately 15 minutes away. San Francisco i just 30-minute drive, while Windsor is approximately 45 minutes away.

What Is the Recommended Lead Time for Booking Your Wedding Venue?

Selecting the perfect wedding venue is a pivotal step in curating your dream celebration, and at Mountain House Estate, we recommend securing your booking well in advance to ensure a seamless and personalized experience. With our venue’s popularity and the desire for specific dates, it’s advisable to plan ahead, ideally 12 to 18 months before your envisioned wedding date. This lead time allows you to secure your preferred date and time, providing ample opportunity for meticulous event planning.

Booking early not only guarantees availability but also allows you to take advantage of our comprehensive event-planning services. Our dedicated team at Mountain House Estate is committed to turning your wedding vision into reality, and early bookings ensure that we have ample time to tailor our services to your unique preferences.

Moreover, an early reservation provides you with the flexibility to choose from various ceremony and reception spaces, ensuring you find the perfect banquet hall wedding venue setting that resonates with your style and theme. Whether you envision exchanging vows under the majestic oak trees, hosting a reception in the elegant Grand Ballroom, or celebrating on the picturesque lawn, securing your booking in advance ensures you have the pick of our versatile banquet hall wedding venue spaces.

Schedule a Tour

Embark on the journey to envision your dream wedding at Mountain House Estate by scheduling a personalized tour with us. Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of our 40-acre property, explore the diverse venue spaces, and witness the picturesque settings perfect for your special day. Gather your wedding group for an unforgettable celebration at Mountain House Estate. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the possibilities, answering your questions, and ensuring that every detail aligns with your vision. Schedule a tour today to experience the magic of Mountain House Estate and begin crafting the wedding of your dreams.