You found the one, and now you have the ring. Congratulations! Now comes the fun part: planning the celebration of a lifetime. If you and your partner love nothing more than sharing a good bottle of Cab Sav on a Friday night or spending your weekends exploring vineyard tasting rooms, why not let that passion inspire your big day? A wine-themed wedding brings a level of sophistication, romance, and warmth that few other themes can match. It feels grounded and elegant at the same time. Plus, it offers so many opportunities to infuse your personality into the details.
Imagine saying “I do” surrounded by rolling hills of grapevines, the sun setting in a golden haze behind you. Venues like Léal Vineyards offer a breathtaking backdrop, effortlessly setting the scene for a wine-centric celebration. But even if you aren’t getting married directly in a vineyard, you can bring that rustic-chic charm to any location with the right decor and drink choices. We have gathered some of our absolute favorite ways to incorporate wine into wedding decor and drinks. So grab a glass of your favorite red or white, and let’s start planning!
Repurposing Wine Bottles
Let’s talk about those empty wine bottles you have been saving. You can finally put them to good use! Wine bottles make incredibly versatile decor pieces that add instant charm to your venue. You might paint them in matte gold, rose gold, or silver to create elegant centerpieces that catch the candlelight during dinner. Grouping three bottles of varying heights together creates visual interest without blocking your guests’ view across the table.
For a more organic look, keep the bottles clear or green and fill them with simple stems of eucalyptus, lavender, or baby’s breath. These minimalist arrangements look stunning lining the aisle or placed on high-top cocktail tables. If you want to get really creative, you can use wine bottles as table numbers. Simply print custom labels with the table number and a cute fact about you and your partner, or paint the number directly onto the glass. You could even use bottles from special occasions in your relationship to add a sentimental touch that your guests will love discovering.
Creative Cork Accents
Who knew tiny pieces of cork could be so adorable? Start collecting corks now because you have endless ways to use them. One of the most popular ideas involves using corks as escort card holders. You simply make a small slit in the cork and slide a name card in. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and fits the theme perfectly. Line them up on a vintage table near the entrance, and you have an organized and thematic display.
You can also fill large glass vases or lanterns with corks to anchor candles or floral arrangements. This arrangement adds texture and warmth to your decor. For a fun guest book alternative, ask your guests to sign a cork and drop it into a shadow box frame with your last name and wedding date on the glass. You will have a cool piece of art to hang in your kitchen long after the wedding is over. If you feel crafty, you can even glue corks together to make a large monogram letter or a heart shape to display at the gift table or near the bar.
Setting the Mood With Wine-Inspired Colors
When you think of wine, you probably picture deep, rich reds and crisp, bright greens. These colors form a naturally stunning palette for a wedding. Think burgundy, merlot, and marsala for your bridesmaids’ dresses or floral arrangements. These shades look universally flattering and scream romance. You can pair these deep reds with soft blush pinks or creamy ivories to keep the look balanced and not too heavy.
For a fresh, spring, or summer vibe, look to white wines for inspiration. Champagne gold, chardonnay yellow, and soft sage greens create a light, airy atmosphere. You might incorporate these colors through your table linens, napkins, or even the groomsmen’s ties. Metallic accents like gold or copper work beautifully with wine colors, adding a touch of glamour to the rustic vineyard feel. Don’t forget about the grapes themselves! Deep purples and lush greens can appear in your bouquets or even as fresh fruit accents on your cheese boards during cocktail hour.
Perfecting the Pairings for Your Reception
The food at a wedding is important, but the wine makes the meal memorable. Treat your reception menu like a tasting experience. Work with your caterer or venue to select wines that complement each course perfectly. If you are serving a rich steak or braised short ribs, a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel will stand up to the flavors beautifully. For lighter dishes like chicken or fish, a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a buttery Chardonnay works wonders.
If you choose a venue like Léal Vineyards, you have the advantage of their expert team and incredible wine selection right at your fingertips. They know exactly which of their vintages will make your menu shine. You might even consider printing a small menu card for each place setting that explains why you chose specific wines for the meal. It gives your guests a little insight into the culinary experience and sparks conversation at the table.
Shaking Things Up With Signature Wine Cocktails
Who says you have to drink wine straight from the bottle? Signature cocktails offer a fantastic way to personalize your bar menu, and wine-based cocktails are delicious and refreshing. For a warm-weather wedding, a classic Sangria is a crowd-pleaser. You can customize it with seasonal fruits—think peaches and berries for summer or apples and cinnamon sticks for fall. A white wine spritzer with fresh mint and lime makes for a perfect cooling drink during cocktail hour.
For something a bit more elegant, try a French 75 made with sparkling wine, gin, and lemon juice. Or, keep it festive with a mimosa bar featuring different juices and fresh fruit garnishes. You can name these drinks after meaningful places or moments in your relationship to add that extra personal touch. Imagine sipping on a “Honeymoon Highball” or a “First Date Fizz” as you dance the night away!
Giving the Gift of Vino
Send your guests home with a favor they will actually use and enjoy. Miniature wine bottles are always a hit. You can add a custom label with your names and wedding date, or a cute tag that says “Olive You” or “The Perfect Blend.” If giving alcohol isn’t your style, consider wine-related accessories. Personalized wine stoppers, corkscrews, or stemless wine glasses make practical gifts that remind your loved ones of your special day every time they pour a glass.
For a consumable treat, wine-infused jams or jellies paired with artisanal crackers make for a sophisticated favor. You could even give out small grapevine wreaths or packets of wine-colored flower seeds. The goal is to choose something that reflects the theme and feels like a genuine “thank you” for celebrating with you.
Embracing the Vineyard Setting
If you have chosen a vineyard for your venue, let the natural beauty do the heavy lifting for your decor. Rows of grapevines, rustic barrel rooms, and sun-drenched patios provide built-in ambiance that you simply cannot replicate in a ballroom. Lean into the setting for your photos—wander through the vines at golden hour for those dreamy, romantic shots. Use the barrel room as a backdrop for your cocktail hour or even your ceremony if the weather turns.
A winery in Hollister, CA, like Léal Vineyards, offers stunning landscapes that require very little embellishment. You can keep your ceremony decor simple with a wooden arch draped in fabric or greenery, allowing the rolling hills behind you to take center stage. Incorporate wine barrels into your altar area or use them as high-top tables for the reception. The authentic atmosphere of a working winery adds a layer of charm and history, making the entire event feel special and grounded.
A Toast to Your Happily Ever After
Planning a wedding involves telling your love story, and if wine plays a part in that story, it deserves a place in your celebration. Whether you go all out with a vineyard venue or simply nod to the theme with cork place card holders and a killer wine list, these details help create an experience that feels unique to you. Your guests will remember the laughter, the love, and yes, the excellent wine they enjoyed while celebrating your union.
Choosing a venue that understands your vision makes all the difference. Léal Vineyards offers a stunning location and the expertise to bring your wine-themed dreams to life. From the perfect pour to the most beautiful backdrop, they handle the details so you can focus on the most important thing: marrying your best friend. So here is to you, to love, and to a lifetime of happiness. Cheers!