Business Details
12 Years
experience
Your Dream Rustic Wedding Venue in Wine Country
The Highlands Estate was founded in 2014 by Gard and Whitney, who transformed their shared vision of creating a unique wedding destination in Northern California's wine country into reality. Nestled on 21 acres of rolling vineyards and oak-dotted hills, the venue combines rustic elegance with modern comforts. The climate-controlled Four Seasons Barn accommodates year-round celebrations, while on-site lodging for 22 guests enhances the weekend retreat experience. With panoramic vistas, handcrafted farm tables, and seamless integration of indoor/outdoor spaces, the estate offers unparalleled flexibility for ceremonies and receptions. Gard and Whitney's hands-on approach ensures personalized service, supported by a curated network of trusted vendors.Their commitment to excellence is evident in meticulous details like built-in sound systems, hidden microphones, and eco-friendly amenities. The venue's international appeal attracts couples from across the globe, drawn by its combination of natural beauty and practical advantages like proximity to Healdsburg. Over a decade of continuous improvementsfrom generator installations to upgraded dressing suitesdemonstrate their dedication to maintaining industry leadership. Client testimonials consistently highlight the owners' exceptional hospitality and the property's unmatched photographic opportunities.
Services
Weekend Wedding Package
Day Wedding Package
Intimate Wedding Package
Corporate Events
On-site Lodging
Ceremony Locations
Vendor Coordination
Event Planning
Photo Opportunities
Shuttle Service
Details
- Year established: 2014
Highlights and features
- We offer exclusive use of 21-acre property with panoramic vineyard vistas
- Our climate-controlled Four Seasons Barn ensures year-round celebrations
- On-site lodging accommodates 22 guests in luxury suites
- Over $5,000 in included amenities eliminates costly add-ons
- Owners Gard & Whitney provide personalized, hands-on wedding coordination
What people say
GORGEOUS venue
Made our dreams come true
Stunning natural beauty
Flawless execution
Incredible customer service
Services
Weekend Wedding Package
This comprehensive package offers exclusive venue access for three days, featuring two nights of lodging for 22 guests. The schedule allows for rehearsal dinners, flexible ceremony times, and extended celebration hours. Couples benefit from complete privacy and the ability to customize their wedding weekend with activities like yoga sessions, pool access, and billiards. The package includes all necessary infrastructure for seamless execution.
On-site Lodging
Five premium suites sleep up to 22 guests with modern amenities including HVAC controls, ensuite bathrooms, and scenic views. Two suites feature jetted tubs while others offer versatile sleeping arrangements. Common areas include a chef's kitchen, gym, billiards room, and expansive deck with redwood dining table. This exclusive lodging option enhances the weekend wedding experience.
Corporate Events
Our venue hosts corporate functions up to 200 guests with complete amenities included. Packages feature four-hour access periods, with options for indoor/outdoor dining and AV equipment. The climate-controlled barn ensures comfort year-round while vineyard views create memorable backdrops for conferences, holiday parties, and charity events.
Intimate Wedding Package
Designed for gatherings up to 40 guests, this package offers flexible scheduling Monday-Thursday. Includes three-hour event time with optional hour extension. Requires use of preferred vendors for catering and planning. Ideal for couples seeking an affordable yet picturesque wedding setting with all essential amenities included.
Ceremony Locations
Multiple venues include the Oak Tree site surrounded by vineyards, the Arbor overlooking valley vistas, and the Four Seasons Barn with climate control. Each location offers unique photographic opportunities and capacity for 125-200 guests. Hidden microphones and rock-speakers ensure perfect audio quality without visual obstructions.
People
Gard Cookson
Co-Owner & Venue Designer
Co-founder Gard Cookson personally crafts venue elements like the 8-foot farm tables. With extensive event planning experience, he oversees property maintenance and technical upgrades including sound systems and climate control infrastructure. His hands-on approach ensures operational excellence.
Whitney Cookson
Co-Owner & Event Coordinator
Whitney Cookson manages client relations and vendor coordination. Her background in hospitality ensures exceptional guest experiences. She maintains the venue's preferred vendor list and provides personalized support throughout the planning process, earning consistent praise in client reviews for her responsiveness and care.
Questions
What wedding packages do you offer?
We offer three packages: Weekend Wedding Package with lodging, Day Wedding Package, and Intimate Wedding Package for smaller gatherings.
Are ceremony and reception spaces included?
Yes, our venues include the Four Seasons Barn, Oak Tree location, and Arbor site with capacity for 125-200 guests.
What amenities are included in rental?
Included amenities feature 12 farm tables, seating for 150, market lights, sound systems, ADA restrooms, and dressing suites.
Can we bring our own vendors?
We require use of our pre-vetted caterers, but other vendors may be approved with exceptions.
Is on-site lodging available?
Yes, our Estate accommodations sleep 22 guests across five luxury suites with private bathrooms.
What happens if it rains?
The Four Seasons Barn provides full weather protection with climate control and acoustically tuned sound system.
