We visited the Lodi region early spring, just prior to the grape vines leafing out, and our imaginations went wild when we approached the lovely gates of Bare Ranch.  As the Vixens sat in the Cat Mobile waiting for the intricately designed gates to open, we were excited to see this beautiful property.  Driving down a shady tree-lined roadway, you approach the private estate, acquired by Michael-David Winery in 2007.  From the ample parking lot, guests enter through a charming rock archway and meander through gardens, which, although not in full bloom was very pretty and we were advised that the grounds are stunning in full season... again it didn't take much for us to imagine the splendor.

There are several areas at Bare Ranch that can be utilized during a wedding celebration and it's also a fabulous venue for any type of party.  The ceremony can take place in the circular drive with the majestic estate and fountain as a grand background, or marry poolside with lovely vistas of the vineyards, or on the sprawling lawn with a beautiful built-in pergola.  180 acres of surrounding vineyards are visible just beyond the stone wall on the perimeter of the lawn area...oooh, so perfect for photos of the couple walking through the vines. Following a ceremony, again there are several locations for cocktails, mixing up the previously mentioned locations, or perhaps letting guests wander and explore the botanical gardens before heading to the reception spot, under a seasonally permanent tent on the back lawn.

 

The Phillips family has created a lovely location for celebrations and added many amenities to make it perfect.  They only allow one wedding per day, keeping the feeling of exclusivity and giving the guests plenty of time to enjoy the grounds.  They have wrought iron tables and chairs that are perfect around the pool area making great conversation areas during the “cocktail hour” or  late night visiting sipping Michael-David wines.  The weekend rental of this venue also includes rental and setup of ceremony and reception tables and chairs,the dance floor and tent.  The grounds are well lit for evening events, keeping the party atmosphere in mind while hi-lighting the beauty of the grounds.    There is a preferred caterers list, so you will have several options for your dining experience, and the caterers have a separate prep room which is fantastic for staying hidden from the guests while making your culinary delights.
This location is truly a gem and we are so excited to be featuring it!  We all are excited to bring our clients here and plan some fun and beautiful events.  Lori Phillips, the gracious onsite coordinator, welcomes outside coordinators and professional vendors to the property so we are sure to hear much more about this up and coming location!
Thank you to Visiting Vixen Rebecca of Ford Family Photography for taking these great shots!  We’ll need to make a return trip when all their flowers are in bloom.
~ Vixen Kendra