A vision realized in Northern California wine country — built from a personal experience, shaped by a commitment to creating something truly special.
The Highlands Estate was born from a dream shared by founders Gard and Whitney, who spent years visiting Northern California's wine country from their home in Los Angeles. Inspired by the region's natural beauty and charm, they envisioned creating a wedding venue that combined rustic elegance with sweeping vineyard vistas.
The idea took root when Gard's sister and her fiancé searched extensively for a private wedding location featuring a barn, vineyards, and scenic views. After driving over 500 miles and exploring countless options, they settled for a venue lacking both a barn and the desired vistas — an experience that sparked Gard and Whitney's commitment to building something truly special.
After more than a year of thoughtful design, construction, and navigating the permitting process, The Highlands Estate came to life. Nestled on over 21 acres in the heart of wine country, the venue offers a unique blend of modern comfort and rustic charm.
The Highlands Estate is more than a venue — it's a destination. With on-site lodging for up to 22 guests and capacity for up to 200 attendees, couples can enjoy a relaxed weekend wedding experience immersed in the natural beauty of Northern California.
Conveniently located just 30 minutes from Healdsburg and the renowned Dry Creek Valley, The Highlands Estate has welcomed couples from across the United States and around the globe — including Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia — making it a truly international wedding destination.
Part of what makes The Highlands Estate feel like home is that it genuinely is one. Gard and Whitney live on the property, and their warmth and personal investment in every celebration is something couples consistently describe as the thing that sets this venue apart from all others.
From the hand-crafted farm tables Gard built himself to the thoughtful details Whitney coordinates with every couple, the care here isn't professional courtesy — it's personal.
