Venue Series: Woodinville
It’s July 5 which means it is officially summer in Seattle! After growing up here I spent over a decade living in other parts of the country so have actually appreciated what has felt like a throwback to the summers of my childhood with our cool June this year, but I know not everyone feels the same. I digress - to celebrate the *actual* start of summer here in the 206, I’m launching my new weekly venue series. Each week I’ll highlight a different category of Seattle-area venues to consider as you’re planning your wedding.
What better way to kick off the summer than a visit to our own local wine country? Today I’ll be sharing a few of my favorite venues in Woodinville, a suburb that has become a wedding destination in and of itself. The area is a great option for those who want the convenience of a major airport and lots of hotel options for guests without sacrificing natural beauty unencumbered by significant construction.
Photo: City of Woodinville
I’ll be including my own information along with links to some of my favorite venue resources. Please note that pricing is always subject to change and often varies based on time of year/day of the week.
The Wineries
Chateau Lill
Seated capacity: 200
Pricing: $4,500+ for receptions, $2,000+ for ceremonies
One of the best hidden gems in the area, Chateau Lill offers a stunning setting with ten acres of gardens and both indoor and outdoor event options. They have partnerships with a variety of beloved area caterers and welcome other types of vendors of your choice with advance coordination. Wedding packages include use of the bridal suite and parking options.
Photos (L to R): Wiley Putnam Photography via Chateau Lill, Affinity Photography via Chateau Lill
JM Cellars
Capacity: 125 seated, 150 standing
Pricing: $6,500+
Wedding packages at JM Cellars include a lot - exclusive use of the winery/arboretum and the private home on-site, furniture/décor rentals, sound system, and valet service, among other things. The indoor/outdoor fireplaces and fire pits are such a lovely touch and the 7 acre property feels like a true escape despite its convenient location. JM offers both indoor and outdoor options and they still have 2023 availability! Check out their virtual tour here.
Photos (L to R): Samantha McFarlen via Bridal Bliss Wedding Planner, Sasha Reiko
Novelty Hill-Januik Winery
Capacity: 100 seated, 300 standing
Pricing: $2,500+ rental fee, $6,000+ F&B minimum
Novelty Hill-Januik offers both indoor and outdoor options and has great on-site catering along with a list of preferred vendors for other parts of your day. One of my favorite features is the Tree House, an intimate space that is perfect for use as a bridal suite or rehearsal dinner venue.
Photos (L to R): Novelty Hill-Januik Winery, Rachel Birkhofer via Novelty Hill-Januik Winery
The… Not Wineries
Woodinville Lavender
Seated capacity: 60 (hard maximum, includes couple)
Pricing: $6,400+ but higher pricing for when the lavender is in bloom (June-August)
I’m going to the Côte d'Azur for the first time next month and while everyone insists I have to check out the famous Provence lavender fields, I kind of feel like I’ve already experienced them having grown up in Western Washington. For those who don’t know, we have lavender farms all over the state and you need not look further than Woodinville Lavender for the lavender wedding of your dreams. This outdoor event venue provides an unforgettable outdoor setting along with indoor spaces, covered spaces for inclement weather, and open catering policies. Their wedding package includes a wedding planner/day-of coordinator which is huge.
They also offer great elopement packages for receptions of 15 (including the couple) or fewer. Pricing starts at $2,250.
Photos (L to R): Azzura Photography via Woodinville Lavender, Michelle Douglas Photography via Woodinville Lavender
Bella Luna Farms
Seated capacity: 150
Pricing: $8,500+
Farm animals hold a special place in my heart and the opportunity to celebrate such a special occasion in a beautiful setting while surrounded by sheep, goats, and more is… a dream. Weddings at Bella Luna include the opportunity for guests to explore the grounds and meet the animals and enjoy true farm-to-table food.
Photos (L to R): Seattle Bride Magazine, Shannon Rosan Photography