When you envision your ceremony, do you imagine rows of vines and golden light shining through the leaves, surrounded by loved ones on a charming brick patio or a beautiful lawn surrounded by nature? We’ve hosted hundreds of vineyard ceremonies here at Willow Creek Winery, and we’ve seen firsthand what makes outdoor vows feel effortless and meaningful. Here are the details that truly make a difference on your day.
A vineyard ceremony at Willow Creek Winery offers a picturesque and seamless experience with stunning views, customizable options, and thoughtful planning. Choose between the Winemaker’s Patio or Estate Lawn based on your guest count, timing, and light preferences. With smooth transitions to cocktail hour, a dedicated coordinator, and personalized touches, your ceremony will reflect your style while ensuring a stress-free celebration.
Planning Your Ceremony in a Cape May Vineyard Vineyard
ceremonies may look effortless, but a few decisions early on can make the day flow beautifully. You’ll want to consider your guest count, the season, and how everyone will transition from one moment to the next. At Willow Creek Winery, we have experience and understand both what makes ceremonies shine and what couples tend to worry about most. So let’s walk through choices that help shape a seamless and memorable ceremony.
Choose Your Ceremony Spot Based on Your Guest Count
We offer two beautiful outdoor ceremony locations, each with its own distinct feel. The Winemaker’s Patio is a charming brick setting that comfortably accommodates your guests and flows seamlessly into cocktail hour, so everyone can move easily from ceremony to celebration. The Estate Lawn, located at the front of our 50-acre vineyard, offers sweeping panoramic views of the vines and is ideal for couples who prefer a separate ceremony setting. If your guest list is 75 or more, we recommend seeing both locations so you can experience the flow of each space firsthand.
Think About Timing and Light
Golden hour truly shines at Willow Creek Winery, as the sun filters through the vineyard and illuminates the ceremony space in warm, romantic lighting, particularly in late spring and early fall. To capture this glow, we recommend scheduling your ceremony for late afternoon or early evening, depending on your date.
Midday ceremonies can be a great option as well, especially if you’re hoping for more lighting or a day-time celebration. Just keep in mind that the sun can be strong in the summer, so we always encourage couples to consider guest comfort. Shade is limited at both locations, but the Winemaker’s Patio offers beautiful covered space beneath its statement porch for guests that need it. You may also wish to consider parasols or other unique touches to enhance your guests’ comfort and elevate the ambiance of your ceremony.
Keep Your Ceremony Setup Straightforward
We provide classic white padded chairs for your guests. If you’d like to add florals, or a ceremony arch, your florist is welcome to set up earlier in the day. An arbor is also available for rental and can be styled to complement your ceremony décor. We also have our Rosé Room. It is the private bridal dressing suite that is available from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on wedding days, giving you and your wedding party a comfortable space to relax and prepare while details come together.
Sound is an important detail that can sometimes be overlooked. Since both locations are open, it’s helpful to coordinate with your DJ or musicians in advance to ensure optimal speaker placement for clear, comfortable audio throughout your ceremony. Both ceremony locations offer ample electrical access for lighting, sound, and any additional enhancements you may wish to include.
Transition Smoothly to Cocktail Hour
After your ceremony, guests will transition to The Vineyard Bar Patio to enjoy hors d’oeuvres and wine service (wine provided by the winery; outside alcohol vendors permitted). Your guests can sip our wines, enjoy passed appetizers, and take in the vineyard views while watching the sun set over the tree line.
If you choose the Estate Lawn for your ceremony, we’ll help coordinate timing so your guests can be transported to the Vineyard Bar Patio while you take advantage of the grounds for photos. The transition flows seamlessly, and your coordinator will be there every step of the way to keep things running smoothly.
Conclusion
Your ceremony should feel like a true reflection of you. If you’re drawn to rolling vines, open skies, and a team that handles every detail, we’d love to connect. We’ll walk you through the ceremony logistics, answer your questions, and help you plan a day that flows beautifully from your vows all the way to the dance floor.
Ready to see the vineyard for yourself? Book a personalized tour and consultation or call us at 609.770.8782 to start planning your Cape May wedding.
FAQs
Can we have our ceremony on the Estate Lawn if we’re having a smaller wedding?
Yes. The Estate Lawn works for any guest count, though couples with fewer than 75 guests often prefer the Winemaker’s Patio because it feels more intimate. We’ll review both locations during your tour so you can decide which setting fits your vision.
What happens if it rains on our ceremony day?
If rain is in the forecast on your ceremony day, we recommend either renting a tent or moving the ceremony indoors. Your event coordinator will stay in close communication with you as your date approaches, and will help you decide which option will work best for your special day.
Do you allow outside vendors for ceremony music or officiant services?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own officiant or musicians. We provide a list of trusted vendors, but the choice is yours! Your event coordinator will communicate with your vendors and help ensure everything flows smoothly.
Is there a fee for having our ceremony on site?
Yes, there is a ceremony fee for using the Winemaker’s Patio or Estate Lawn. The fee varies by day and season. Your coordinator will go over all costs during your consultation so you can budget accurately.