Travel Betty

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To read about our first wedding location experience with the Monte Verde Inn, see “Planning A Wedding In California’s Gold Country? Part I of IV.” Otherwise, we continue on with our adventure.

Our Second Stop:

Forest House Lodge

When TB and I pulled up to the Forest House Lodge, we almost didn’t get out of the car. It looks like a rustic motel from the outside and I wasn’t really getting the concept. Since we had 3 hours before our third and final meeting though, we decided to at least take a look. I’m glad we did because it at least gave us a very different option to consider from the other two. As the owner told us, “We are a very specific flavor and either you get us or you don’t.” I would say that is a fair and truthful assessment and there’s nothing wrong with being fair and truthful. In fact, I appreciate it.

Our impression was that basically this place would be great if you wanted to just have a big blow-out bash and oh, yeah, as an aside, get married. There are enough rooms to put up 70 of your closest frat buddies and family. And you get the run of the whole damn place for as long as you care to rent it. To be honest, I would LOVE to come to a wedding being held at this place. I just don’t want to be the person hosting it. Unfortunately, as I told the owner, I’m about 10 years too old to take advantage of all Forest House Lodge has to offer.

The great part about their property though is the wedding site. It is stunning. About a mile down the road, they have a small piece of land that overlooks a gorgeous tree-filled valley. So, the backdrop of your ceremony is nature, nature as far as the eye can see.

I would say that if you’re looking to do a more casual family-reunion type of event and you don’t mind carrying wheelchairs up and down the many staircases (as was suggested for Travel Boyfriend’s handicapped father), and most important to you is a breathtaking view for the ceremony, then Forest House Lodge should definitely be in your consideration set.

To continue reading about California Gold Country Wedding locations, see “Planning A Wedding In California’s Gold Country? Part III of IV”

Travel Betty Wedding Resources

Outdoor Weddings: Unforgettable Celebrations in Storybook Settings

Bridal Bargains, 8th Edition: Secrets to throwing a fantastic wedding on a realistic budget (Bridal Bargains)

Anti-Bride Guide: Tying the Knot Outside of the Box