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Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara’s Wine Country in the Santa Ynez Valley is Gainey Vineyard. The lush setting along with several areas to accommodate guests creates an ideal setting for a relaxing rehearsal dinner. The Spanish inspired decor of the tasting room provides a view of both the vineyards and the mountains that maintains a limit of 50 guests. The Patio and Vineyard View Picnic Area are quaint outdoor settings surrounded by the vineyards, majestic oak trees and mountain vistas. Both of these may accommodate up to 200 people. Three other settings are available for larger groups and are suited for events such as weddings. The Courtyard is an on-site, outdoor setting with a large circular area near the entrance which can meet the needs of 500 guests. The old homestead, called The Ranch is a half mile from the vineyards and features an original 1890s barn. Gainey prides itself on providing barbecue events for a minimum of 35 guests. Gainey Vineyard’s rustic locale rife with wine and whimsy is truly a California experience. Call 805.688.0558 for more information.

The El Dorado Kitchen housed in the chic, boutique El Dorado Hotel, is the ideal locale for a Sonoma County wine-country wedding or rehearsal dinner of guests from 20-250.  You may choose an ambiance that suits your discerning tastes from a wedding under the fig tree on their garden patio, to a stylish cocktail party in a private lounge or a warm, friendly dinner at the communal table. If you so desire, the entire restaurant is available to reserve for larger parties. The El Dorado executive chef will tailor a menu to your unique specifications. Contact Director of Special Events and Group Sales, Angie Bettinelli, at angie{at}eldoradosonoma.com or call 707.996.3030.

Copley’s on Palm Canyon exudes a California Casual ambiance while also demonstrating a flair of sophistication in its extensive wine list and taste tempting menu for the perfect rehearsal dinner experience. The dining room accommodates up to 55 people while the garden which features mountain views, fountains and a fire pit may serve up to 120 guests. Inspired dishes from roasted duck breast on foie gras cremé brulee to shellfish paella will satisfy your guests’ exquisite taste in cuisine. Nothing is quite as relaxing as spending an evening in the warm desert under the vastness of the stars!

If you are lucky enough to be getting married in San Diego, La Jolla is a go-to destination that really showcases the beauty of the coast. Trattoria Acqua is a quaint Italian restaurant that overlooks the La Jolla Cove and the Pacific Ocean. As if that wasn’t enough to get you there, the extensive banquet menu offers an array of choices from the ocean to the range. There are several rooms available to accommodate your specific needs. Up to 24 guests may be held in the Gazebo Room, 30 guests may be accommodated in the Wine Room and the Main Dining Room is capable of serving up to 60 guests.

Catalina Island brings out the quixotic side of even the most level headed individuals. M Restaurant at Hotel Metropole offers visitors to the quaint enclave of Avalon on Catalina Island an ambiance of warmth and hospitality while the menu, inspired by California’s local resources, brings a flair to the concept of New American cuisine. Your rehearsal dinner (or wedding menu) may be customized to suit your taste. Besides having many savory food options, you cannot beat the oceanfront views that can be yours when reserving the outdoor patio for your event. The patio accommodates up to 50 guests, while the indoor dining area holds a capacity of 100 guests. There is a reason Catalina Island is called “The Island of Romance.”