Driving through the country just puts you in a better frame of mind, and driving through Yolo County’s “Lamb Valley” really did the trick. FreeHeart Event Center is on 40 acres of beautiful land covered in almond trees. The nearest community is Esparto, which is the gateway to the Capay Valley, yet FreeHeart is only 45 minutes from Sacramento and 1 ½ hours from San  Francisco… arriving here will change your city life attitude.

In the spring the almond orchard is in full bloom, which is stunning, and in the summer, the trees provide a nice green canopy. After leaving the main country road, you’ll enter a small farm road and wind through those beautiful trees to come to the central portion of the property, somewhat tucked back into the orchard. A lush green lawn greets guests right off the convenient parking area.  This oasis is perfectly set up for outdoor parties, dinners, fundraisers, a wedding ceremony or any social desired. Dinner and dancing can be set up on the large cement pad, which can be tented. To the side of the dinner area is a great bar area, nestled amongst more almond trees with wonderful bistro lights strung from tree to tree.  I loved the low stone wall that makes a nice break and terraced effect  in the expansive lawn… it felt very Scottish countryside to me.

For those looking to step away from the party action, strolling the grounds is magical. Small rolling grassy knolls, a sweet little lake (I think there are night time croaking bullfrogs!) and even a small vineyard for easy access to photos amongst the rows. And speaking of photo ops… be sure to check out the metal sculptures created by a local craftsman. The bride and groom figures are darling!

For a rehearsal dinner or a ladies luncheon, consider the sweet rose garden and pergola.  This space is not part of the main party area (it’s beyond the lake) so it’s considered a separate area to rent and utilize.

FreeHeart Event Center is very accommodating with great staffing; parking attendants, golf cart transport for guests, an event coordinator present on site and assistance can be given for your rental needs. The Rolston’s developed this lovely property and gave it the name FreeHeart because of their love of free spiritedness and their stand for love in the world.

And Fun Fact: The almond symbolizes happiness, romance and fertility according to ancient Western tradition.

Thank you to Carmen Salazar for joining us and taking these images.

~Vixen Lora