It's probably a good thing that there are no fancy signs or gates marking the entrance to the Gardens at Kenwood: people drive right past it, never realizing that they've just cruised by one of the Wine Country's most delightful event sites.
At the turn of the century, these grounds were part of a working ranch, and remnants from the original structures give the property much of its old-fashioned country charm. The first building you come to on your way down the driveways is an original ranch house. Built in 1908, it now serves as a cozy dressing room for brides. Right behind the house is a quaint conference room, overgrown with ivy and red roses. At the end of the driveway, a large green barn is really a wonderful space for an indoor reception. Split rail fences adorned with ancient wagon wheels, and old wooden wagons (one of which is festooned with tulle and used for holding gifts) add an irresistible rustic charm.
Just beyond the event center, a broad lawn provides an open-air ceremony site. A beautiful arch is set up beneath the oak trees, against a backdrop of vineyards and green hills. After you exchange vows, you have quite a few options for cocktails, dining and dancing. Some couples like to host an al fresco reception under the white canopy on the lawn: others prefer the timeless appeal of the event center. Fortunately for us, the owners of the Gardens have restored the barn, but left its original rough-hewn beams and rafters in tact. Natural pine siding and a pressed-wood floor complete the relaxed ambiance. On one side, two huge barn doors slide open to let in sunlight and a soft breeze/ on the other a series of windows overlook a veranda, completely shaded by the sloping overhang of the barn. Wine barrels stationed around the veranda can be covered with tabletops and set up with a buffet. At night, twinkle lights illuminate the barns' interior. A band is usually ensconced at the far end of the barn, audible to guests partying indoors or out.
A walk around the grounds reveals many more lovely surprises: a small waterfall pond, ringed by lush greenery is a perfect background for photos/ a trellised walkway, laden with climbing roses, gives the bride a fragrant grand entrance/ and an orchard filled with peach, apricot, apple and cherry trees is a sun-dappled spot for casual strolls and conversation.
The privacy and seclusion of the Gardens is preserved by the rolling hills and vineyards, which surround the property. There are no neighbors in sight, and the views are so peaceful, one father of the bride from the Midwest plunked himself down on the main lawn to gaze off at the hills and he didn't budge for ages. Maybe he was mesmerized by a full moon-here in the Valley of the Moon, the romantic orb glows so large and close you feel that you can reach out and touch it.
If you've ever fantasized arriving at your wedding by horse and carriage (or stagecoach), this is the place to do it. One couple even floated in via parachute. Although the Gardens at Kenwood Farms is a dreamy location for weddings, it's just as wonderful for company picnics, family reunions, corperate events, fundraisers and concerts. And if you're concerned that the Gardens might be a little too down-home or rustic for what you have in mind, don't be: this versatile site is compatible with any type of event, from a formal evening wedding with tuxedo and gown to a casual afternoon barbecue. You may need to look hard to find this place, but once you've seen it there's a good chance you'll stop looking altogether.
