It’s the reality of any extra-special day – the weather can take an unexpected turn. Think about “Forces of Nature,” the movie that ends with Ben Affleck’s hurricane-fraught wedding.
Sonoma County, even with its temperate Mediterranean climate, isn’t immune to finicky Mother Nature. At the same time, the landscapes in this magical county of ocean front, forested, vineyard carpeted and mountainous settings are an irresistible draw for couples wanting a spectacular setting to tie the knot.
Solution: have a backup plan for your venue, in case of sudden cold, heat, rain, or yes, the surprisingly heavy fog that can creep in. That can mean something as simple as having a tent on reserve (some styles have clear plastic walls for nearly uninterrupted views), or as elaborate as choosing your gorgeous location because it also offers indoor options.
Many Sonoma properties offer the best of both worlds. At Trentadue Family Estate 
Winery and Vineyards in Alexander Valley, for example, the spacious yet romantic outdoor areas exude old-world Italian charm, with vine-covered arbors, splashing fountains, shaded gardens and sprawling lawns flowing to views of vineyards, redwood forests and majestic mountains.
Yet the Tuscan-style winery also features the grand Sala del Leone Vineyard Pavilion, elegant with high ceilings capped in exposed beams, and arched French doors overlooking the estate vineyards for a feeling of being outside while enjoying the comfort of the indoors.
Often, Sonoma County’s inclement weather is slight and passing. Rain can mean just a few minutes of downpour, opening to brilliant sun. A prepared checklist should include ease of indoor-outdoor activities – at Trentadue, the party can easily reconvene outside with a port and cigar bar or sparkling wine display with desserts at the fire pit lounge.
Be sure to check your space requirements, too, since no party wants to be crowded. Trentadue can accommodate up to 250 guests indoors and up to 500 guests outdoors, and all weddings are private, since bookings include exclusive use of all special event areas including the Garden Arbors, South Lawn and Gardens, Sala del Leone Vineyard 
Pavilion and North Lawn.
Ben Affleck and Maura Tierney may have looked movie star gorgeous even as their wedding clothes were pummeled by their hurricane. Their guests may have thought the disaster was movie-style cute. But why risk rain on your wedding? It’s as easy as thinking ahead, and can mean no sacrifice to your stunning Sonoma setting.
Details: Trentadue Family Estate Winery and Vineyards, 19170 Geyserville Ave., Geyserville, 707-433-3104, trentadue.com.
