The Wedding Planner
Tracy Curnutte, Event Manager and Marriott Certified Wedding Event Planner
The Lodge at Sonoma, Sonoma, California

California's wine country is ripe with romance so it's no surprise that one of its most elegant resorts, The Lodge at Sonoma [photo gallery], is also a favorite wedding location. This month, we talk with Tracy Curnette, Event Manager and Marriott Certified Wedding Event Planner, about planning a wedding at this special property.

Tracy, like other planners interviewed in this monthly column, has passed the Marriott International Wedding Certification Program. Tracy has arranged many weekend weddings; for tips on setting up a weekend wedding, click here.

What aspects of The Lodge at Sonoma are most attractive to brides?

The Lodge at Sonoma is a Renaissance Resort & Spa. We are honored to be a Four Diamond Property. We are just 3 and 1/2 years old, and we were blessed with finding the ultimate location for our property - the beautiful wine country of Sonoma Valley. The surrounding hills and vineyards provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic wedding. The architecture and decor of the Lodge is warm and inviting. As a destination, our brides find that they have very little trouble convincing friends and family to travel here for their weddings!

We pamper our brides with a luxurious full service spa that includes a lush outdoor courtyard setting with Watsu therapy pools, mineral water soaking pool, treatment cabanas, and hot tubs all connected by charming, secluded pathways. Raindance Spa provides the perfect environment for relaxing and indulging our brides before the wedding.

What are the most popular wedding venues at the property, both for large and small weddings?

Our Sonoma Ballroom is a grand venue for a wedding reception in the classic sense - striking chandeliers, soft cream colored walls with wainscoting and lush carpet in a rich palette of color. The Sonoma Ballroom is the ideal stage for an unforgettable event of up to 200 guests for seated dining.

Our most popular venue, however, is The Stone Building (right). Reminiscent of the abbeys constructed by European masons in the late 1800's, the Stone Building (interior photo) represents the traditions of wine country. The cobblestone exterior appears to have been magically transplanted from the valley's vineyards. The adjoining garden is a picturesque setting for exchanging vows and holding an elegant cocktail reception. The drama of the interior is achieved by the exposed beam ceiling and generous amounts of natural light from the many windows and doors leading to the garden. The Stone Building is the perfect wine country setting for your wedding of 60 to 120 guests.

What local elements can a bride add to her wedding to give it a regional atmosphere?

Definitely wine! The Lodge at Sonoma is in the heart of the Carneros appelation. Here we are known for our "jammy" pinot noirs - full of fruit and berry flavors and lush chardonnays.

But the Sonoma Valley is rich in more than just wine. We are favored with many local artisan producers of cheese, bread, olives - the list goes on and on. Our executive chef, Ercolino Crugnale, and his talented team are dedicated to using the bountiful resources of our valley in every menu. With that in mind, we have designed our wedding packages to showcase the best artisan products and produce in our beautiful valley.

In addition to our menus, one can certainly tie in the wine country theme through floral designs. Tall, rustic candelabra's with cascading roses and grapes are a stunning centerpiece on the guest tables. A charming custom here is to identify your guest tables with grape varitals such as Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, etc. as opposed to table numbers.

In mentioning our rich, local resources, I cannot overlook our staff! Led by our Senior Banquet Manager, Kimberly Smith, and our Director of Events, Michael Murphy - this team is outstanding. As the wedding coordinator for The Lodge at Sonoma, it is a pure delight to hear the accolades given to this staff following a wedding. "Gracious, professional, genuine warmth" - these comments are a common occurrence by our brides and their parents. It truly makes my job a joy.

Click here for an interview with Tracy about planning a weekend wedding!

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.

Photos courtesy The Lodge at Sonoma