6 West Coast Wedding Venue Faves From Floral Designer Sarah Winward

After designing floral arrangements for almost 100 weddings (including a few featured in Martha Stewart Weddings), Sarah Winward knows a thing or two about venues. We asked the Salt Lake City-based expert, who owns the floral design shop Honey of a Thousand Flowers, to share her favorite places to say “I do” from Sundance to Santa Cruz.

Where: Heber Valley, Utah

What Sarah Loves: Set on a beautiful mountainside, Red Cliff Ranch has incredible views of both the property itself and the Heber Valley. The site has multiple areas that can be used for different functions, including open grassy fields, a converted stable that makes an intimate setting for dinner, and a pavilion for dancing. The ranch is privately owned, so it feels personal and authentic. Since it is within driving distance of several great resorts, you can easily turn your wedding into a several day event. 

Book It: Pricing available upon request.

Where: Santa Barbara, California

What Sarah Loves: San Ysidro Ranch offers many wonderful spots for both indoor and outdoor events. The gardens are exquisite and natural feeling, so they can work with any style of wedding.

Book It: Pricing begins at $3,500 for a ceremony and reception with additional food and beverage minimums. Prices vary depending on venue and additional cottage rental.

Where: Santa Cruz, California

What Sarah Loves: Located just a short drive from San Francisco, Nestldown provides a beautiful and cozy setting for those who want to feel a world away from the city. One of the best parts about this venue? The “chapel,” which is an open area in the middle of the forest of tall redwoods where most of the ceremonies are held.

Book It: Pricing ranges between $8,000 and $18,000 depending on time of year and day rented.

Décor by Bloomsters

Where: Santa Ynez, California

What Sarah Loves: Set on a hill, Sunstone Winery has sweeping views of the valley around it. The vast lawn provides many possibilities for wedding set-up and the vineyard adds a picturesque charm. But the home at the center of the property is the true highlight. The stone exterior glows and reflects light, while the interior has a gorgeous staircase and wonderful doorways. Although photographers often avoid using buildings as a backdrop, this winery is an exception.

Book It: Pricing ranges from $6,000 to $25,000 for ceremony and reception. The site also accommodates elopements and smaller parties ranging from $750 to $3,500.

Where: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

What Sarah Loves: Amangani is truly a luxury resort. The staff makes their work feel effortless and puts everyone at ease. Although the hotel is small, it can be easily transformed to suit the needs of any event. Another bonus? The artwork and furniture at this site is so beautiful that there isn’t much need to add any extra décor. Of course, the Jackson Hole scenery is stunning as well.

Book It: Pricing available upon request.

Where: Sundance, Utah

What Sarah Loves: Sundance Resort doesn’t have a lot of the bells and whistles that other resorts have, but that’s what gives the location its charm. The food is delicious, the cabins are cozy, and there is enough hiking, biking, skiing, and river rafting to keep guests entertained, making it an amazing destination for those who come from afar.

Book It: Pricing available upon request.