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Petite Weddings at Auberge du Soleil


Photo courtesy of Auberge du Soleil

All romantics long for the perfect wedding, and if small is your idea of perfect, I’ve uncovered something that even the most discerning romantic will love.  The venue?  A wine country getaway that is repeatedly lauded as one of the world’s top retreats.  The setting?  A hillside terrace overlooking the Napa Valley. The format?  A simple ceremony followed by light fare to enjoy with your small cadre of guests.  The price?  Lower than you think.

Starting at $3,000 for an affair hosting between two and ten guests, Petite Weddings by Auberge du Soleil include almost everything—a minister or non-denominational officiant, florals for the bride and groom, a cake designed by the Executive Pastry Chef, and an hour of photography that leaves you with the digital proofs.  The most basic package includes a bottle of Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs to toast the occasion; upgraded packages include artisan cheeses and other add-ons such as canapés, chocolate-covered strawberries, and truffles to enjoy with your companions.

And, what better way to celebrate a first (or second) honeymoon, than to treat yourself to a stay?  The resort offers spacious, comfortable guest rooms that make for a cozy love nest, and the Auberge Spa maintains a long list of treatments crafted for couples.  The Fresh Herbal Tea and Steam Ritual, Couples Massage with Mud Bath, and Meritage (a grapeseed exfoliation, bath, and warm oil massage, all enjoyed as a couple) are all recommended. For the ultimate couples’ journey, consider the Lover’s Fireside Retreat, which includes two 120-minute spa treatments, a chef’s tasting plate with accompanying wine served fireside in the Melisse Suite, private use of a hot pool and outdoor shower, and two spa robes.

Related Articles:

Five Things You Haven’t Done in Wine Country
Ever Heard of Camp Schramsberg?
Pairing Wine with Food:  The Enoteca Signorello Experience
Playtime for Foodies:  New Programs for Non-Pros at Culinary Institute of America
Interactive Wine Programs with Meadowood’s Master Sommelier

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Slideshow: Auberge du Soleil - Rutherford, CA

, SF Luxury Travel Examiner

Kim Palacios is a Bay Area transplant whose epicurean tendencies are matched only by her wanderlust. She is quadrilingual and holds an M.B.A. in Finance. While not mourning the death of free markets, she enjoys film.

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