Tuesday, March 24, 2009

Northern CA Brides Mag: Jewel's Top Venue Picks

I was asked by the editor of Northern California Brides which venues make a great backdrop for producing a beautiful wedding movie. You can see the answers in the latest Spring/Summer 2009 issue on page 142. But let me not hold you in suspense.

Jewel's Pick for the Best Resort: 
Cordevalle, San Martin

This little-known gem is surrounded by picturesque meadowlands, tree-covered hills and a vineyard. The villas are spacious and the entire resort is luxuriously casual. Kristi Hogue is just so nice and she and her staff really know how to serve and pamper their brides. 

Can I let you in on a little secret?  The latest and a simply wonderful new property will be opening in April, 2009 on the Peninsula, the Rosewood Sand Hill. As part of Rosewood Hotels & Resorts which includes Cordevalle and The Carlyle in New York City, this property will place the emphasis on superb service.  Todd Outhouse is the Director of Catering and is one of the most gracious and courtly people in the wedding industry. If the name is familiar it is because he worked at the St Regis in San Francisco, which is also very well known for its superb service. 

Other great resorts in wine country: 
Meadowood, Lori Wickersham
The Carneros Inn, Brooke Baglietto
Calistoga Ranch, Jennifer Beranek

Jewel's Pick for Best Mansion:

It's tough to choose among the Montalvo Arts CenterKohl MansionFlood Mansion and other beautiful mansions in the Bay Area. 

We chose Ralston Hall Mansion because of its affordability. And because of Karen Boquist-Gelineau and Denise Winkelstein who are so gracious. They make you and your guests feel so welcome. They encourage you to put out framed family pictures on the several mantles and side tables throughout the lovely mansion.















Jewel's Pick for Best Hotel:

San Francisco offers brides so many great options of luxury hotels. including the St. Regis, Ritz Carlton, the Westin St Francis, the new Intercontinental, Four SeasonsFairmontMandarin Oriental, and Mark Hopkins.  We chose the Palace for its opulent appointments such as the stained glass ceiling and beautiful crystal chandeliers. 

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Those are all great choices, Jewel... and I absolutely love having tea at the Palace Hotel! :)

J Sav said...

Great idea! Tea for Two when you visit San Francisco!

Anonymous said...

OK, it's a date! :)