My Top Wedding Venues in Northern California

Nov 4

Capturing Love Across Northern California

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of photographing weddings throughout Northern California — from vineyard estates to rustic barns and sunlit gardens. Each venue offers its own personality, lighting, and emotion that makes every love story unique. Here are some of my favorite wedding destinations that have truly stood out through my lens — each one offering breathtaking backdrops, unforgettable moments, and that signature Northern California charm.

Union Hill Inn – Sonora, California

Hidden in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Union Hill Inn is one of the most beloved rustic venues in Northern California. It’s a place where timeless charm meets romantic elegance — complete with a warm chapel, soft candlelight, and handcrafted wooden architecture.

I’ve captured so many emotional and joyful moments here — from tender handholds and candlelit vows to grand celebrations surrounded by family and friends. The venue’s natural light and cozy interiors create the perfect balance between rustic beauty and refined grace.

Perfect for: Couples who dream of a warm, romantic setting surrounded by the rustic beauty of the foothills.

Recent wedding highlight: Muriel and Keith’s day at Union Hill Inn was filled with emotion, elegance, and heart. From the bride’s lace gown and candlelit ceremony to the joyful walk down the aisle, every frame reflected love and unity in its purest form.

Sparks Ranch Resort – Sonora, California

A hidden oasis tucked away in Sonora, Sparks Ranch Resort offers lush landscapes, peaceful ponds, and the kind of soft, golden light photographers dream of. It’s a venue that perfectly blends natural serenity with refined beauty, ideal for intimate weddings or celebrations of love and new beginnings.

One of my favorite sessions here was a maternity celebration with Malik and Araniqua. Set by the poolside, surrounded by trees and vibrant greenery, their shoot radiated connection and joy. This venue brings out the natural warmth and tenderness in every couple — a peaceful retreat that feels like stepping into a fairytale.

Perfect for: Outdoor ceremonies, intimate gatherings, and couples who want to be surrounded by nature’s calm.

Gibson Ranch Park – Sacramento, California

If you’re dreaming of an open-air wedding filled with sunlight, rustic charm, and wide-open landscapes, Gibson Ranch Park in Sacramento delivers it all. The venue’s sprawling fields, rustic fences, and mature trees provide a naturally beautiful setting for both ceremonies and portraits.

I love how this park transforms with every season — offering golden light in the fall and vibrant greens in the spring. Taliyah and Saul’s wedding here captured that essence perfectly: a joyful celebration surrounded by nature, filled with laughter, and framed by the warm California light.

Perfect for: Couples who love the outdoors, rustic country themes, and timeless wedding portraits in a natural setting.

Andis Wines – Plymouth, California

Few venues capture the sophistication of wine country quite like Andis Wines in Plymouth. Rolling vineyards, elegant architecture, and panoramic views make it a dream location for couples who love both style and scenery.

I recently photographed a beautiful wedding at Andis Wines where the couple shared heartfelt vows surrounded by soft clouds, vineyard hills, and golden afternoon light. From their tender ring exchange beneath the stone columns to a champagne toast filled with laughter, every image radiated elegance and joy.

Perfect for: Couples who want a romantic wine country celebration with a mix of luxury, laughter, and scenic beauty.

Why I Love Photographing Northern California Weddings

Each of these venues tells a story — not just through their scenery, but through the emotions they hold. Whether it’s the rustic glow of Union Hill Inn, the tranquility of Sparks Ranch, the countryside charm of Gibson Ranch, or the vineyard elegance of Andis Wines, Northern California offers endless inspiration for love stories that deserve to be captured beautifully.

As a husband-and-wife photography team based in Oakdale, we take pride in documenting authentic, emotional moments that reflect your personality, your connection, and the atmosphere of your chosen venue. With over 20 years of photography experience and 1,000+ drone flight hours, our goal is to capture every moment — from wide scenic shots to intimate details — with artistry and care.

Let’s Capture Your Northern California Love Story

If you’re planning your wedding in Northern California, I’d love to help you tell your story through timeless imagery. Whether it’s a vineyard celebration, a rustic barn ceremony, or a lakeside elopement, we’ll make sure your photos reflect the beauty, emotion, and joy of your day.