Planning Napa Valley same-sex weddings--and on a budget

photo bypjryan3

I am proud to announce that this post marks The Valley's Other Fruit's first(!) guest post, co-authored by Charles Kimball, a local officiant and concierge (see below for his information). This post is in response to a reqeust for information on how to plan a same-sex marriage in Napa and on a budget....Please share your feedback, let us know what you think about this post and also any other ideas for future topics, other guest writers, etc.

Now that same-sex marriages are just as legal (and perhaps we'll find out more successful?) as hetero, one-man-one-woman marriages there isn't too much information about Napa wedding planning that is specific to same-sex couples. We aim to please, however, so here is our

Top 10 Things to Keep in Mind when Planning a Napa Valley Same-Sex Wedding (& on a budget)

1) Run to the county clerks office Mon thru Friday 8am to 4pm. Both grooms and both brides must be present with valid id. No blood test....No witnesses needed, For more info go to.. http://www.co.napa.ca.us/GOV/Departments/DeptPage.asp?DID=28000&LID=620

2) Any resident of any state can come to Napa Valley and be married.

3) Find a (queer-friendly) officiant or minister or priest to help you with your vows and setting up a great celebration. You'll probably want to meet them as they set the tone for the ceremony. (The author of this post is available to officiate, his info is below.)

4) Remember that weddings are not welcomed at most wineries in Napa Valley. That is where the officiant or concierge comes in. They can help you select a great time and place for your celebration.

5) Look around at state parks and recreation areas that you can bring your friends and family to. Create your own place and time.

6) Rent a house for a few days and have the wedding there. (Search Google, Vacation Rentals By Owner or Purple Roofs for some great locations)

7) Take a balloon ride. Take a hike into a vineyard and have a small private moment with just you, your bride or groom and your family and friends. (You don't need to tell the zoning department everything you're up to!)

8) Make your wedding fun...ask your friends to help you out. Have a pot luck. Ask your best friend if you can get married in their beautiful back yard.

9) Check out NapaWeddingSource.com for some great ideas on local music makers and local businesses that cater to the GLBT travel and wedding market.

10) Remember another option could be the beach...(and the fog). Nevermind, stick with a beautiful Napa wedding!

Celebrate your life together! Celebrate equality in our beautiful valley (and for not too expensive)!

For more (or more personalized) information, tips and help planning your Napa Valley wedding, feel free to contact Charles at www.GayNapaGetaways.com.



Additional photos by TedRheingold and davemc500hats