Vistas of vineyards, local wines in your glass, settings ranging from 5-star resorts to low-key farms with gnarled olive trees and rustic barns—if this sounds like heaven, then plan to have your wedding in California's wine country. Choose from castles, manors and elegant estates in the celebrated Napa Valley. Or, for a more intimate experience just north of San Francisco, consider the rolling hills and lush vineyards of the inviting Sonoma Valley. Travel to the North Coast to discover wineries, many focusing on organic growing techniques, adorned with tall redwoods. Just east in the bucolic Lake County wine region, find surprising elegance at under-the-radar vineyards.

If you dream of a wedding with relaxed country appeal, consider the Central Coast. In Monterey wine country, quiet country roads lead to understated and friendly wineries with beautiful settings. Santa Ynez Valley, near Santa Barbara, is known for producing exceptional Pinot Noirs, and has wineries and vineyards nestled in rolling coastal hills. And in Paso Robles, the former ranch land has gained an international reputation as an acclaimed wine region, but there are still plenty of cowboy hats and boots around.

And, for the warm evenings that truly turn weddings into magical affairs, try these two destinations. First, the Central Valley’s Lodi Wine Country, with more than 70 boutique vineyards in inviting grounds, many of which are available for weddings. Another option is the Temecula Valley and its expansive wine region. Roughly halfway between Los Angeles and Palm Springs, this verdant region blanketed in vineyards of Chardonnay, Syrah and Grenache grapes has both lavish wine estates and low-key wineries—and hot-air balloon rides too.