A WINERY WEDDING

Brides and grooms in San Diego are blessed with an abundant selection of beautiful wedding settings, from luxurious beachfront properties to upscale urban venues to any number of tropical resorts. Add to that already-impressive list the option to choose from a wide variety of local wineries, and a couple’s choice of wedding sites becomes much, much sweeter.

At Ponte Family Estate, in Temecula, professional wedding coordinators are at your service to create the wedding of your dreams among more than 300 acres of vineyards. The estate offers award-winning California cuisine and a variety of menu and bar choices, as well as the choice between two ceremony locations, including the ivy-lined Vineyard Garden and the grassy amphitheater surrounded by the vineyards.

Ponte Family Estate’s three reception venues include the newly revamped Vineyard Pavilion, the winery’s largest reception venue, which can hold parties of up to 280 and comes complete with atrium windows and French doors that open up to spectacular vineyard views. Parties of 100 or less can take advantage of the winery’s Barrel Room, while small parties of up to 14 can hold a wedding gathering in the VIP Tasting Room.

Ponte Family Estate is currently booking weddings for 2008 and 2009. 35053 Rancho California Road | 951-694-8855 | ponteweddings.com

    
 
 
   
WEDDING TRENDS: GOING GREY

Move over yellow and brown, there’s a new wedding accent color in town. Wedding experts are predicting that wedding planning in 2008 will not be simply black and white, but instead filled with shades of grey. From invitation detailing and lettering to bridesmaid dresses to reception décor, this year’s shade has shifted to a clean slate.

   
 
 
   
   

FINISHING TOUCHES:
GIFTING GREEN

As brides everywhere are becoming more eco-conscious, the environment is making its way onto more and more wedding guest lists. While the green wedding trend will continue through 2008, there’s no reason for those Earth-friendly feelings to fade after the big day is over. Couples can choose to give their guests the gift of green living through unique wedding favors from Tree Beginnings, Inc., which invites wedding guests to "plant a memory for a greener tomorrow." From flower, plant and tree seed and bulb packages to herbs, teas and soaps, green favors keep guests thinking about your event while also thinking about the environment.

For more information, visit www.plantamemory.com