Green Wedding Venues

One of the first decisions (and some would argue the most important decision) most couples make when planning their wedding, is deciding where it's going to happen.  The venue...  

For the green couple, finding a venue that will represent their value systems and green choices is important.  But, not all venues talk green and not all actually walk the green talk.  This brings us to Wilbur Hot Springs.  Yes, it's a local and sustainable event Venue. If you're a Bay Area local, you may already be familiar, and if not, it's definitely worth checking out, multiple times, I might add.  (photography above by Gia Canali)

I recently discovered that this place, one of my favorite hot spring destinations, also acts as a venue for weddings.  And so, two worlds come together and I can't imagine a more beautiful and tranquil destination for a sustainable and nature-inspired wedding. I've asked the event coordinator/officiant at Wilbur to share some insight into their venue and some pictures, so that you can imagine the peace and tranquility while reading this post.

Photographer: Meg Solaegui

1. How is Wilbur a sustainable wedding/event venue?
Wilbur is 100% off the grid, powered entirely by solar panels and propane. Renovations and improvements are performed using eco-conscious building materials and practices. The solar panel array was installed in the early 1990s. Up to that time, the Wilbur hotel had been lit with kerosene lamps. The transition to solar-powered lighting was completed in 1991.

The refrigerators are all electric and are specifically designed to run on solar power. They are more efficient and use approximately one-third the power of consumer refrigerators The stoves in the kitchen, and the fireplaces, which heat the hotel in winter, are powered by propane. Wilbur uses compact fluorescent light bulbs and low-flow toilets. And the cleaning products we use are all eco-friendly.

Wilbur’s hot springs flumes are non-impact. In other words, the water is simply diverted from the geothermal source, held temporarily in the flumes and then returned to the creek. No chemicals are added to the flumes,and as a result no chemicals are being added to the water table.

The hotel and hot springs are located on approximately 240 acres. In 1999, the surrounding 1560 acres were purchased and designated as a nature preserve. In 2006, Wilbur began working with range ecologist Craig Thomsen from UC Davis to restore native plants to the area, and combat invasive species. Thomsen’s work continues currently, with Wilbur participating in raising grant money, and providing lodging in trade to guests who work with Craig.

Photographer: Meg Solaegui

2. What can Wilbur offer that other venues can't? (hot springs and natural elements, obviously, but I'd love your take on it)
We offer seclusion and privacy. It's incredibly quiet here, not including the bird songs, the running creek and the breeze in the trees. Our mission statement is Sustaining Wilbur Hot Springs Hotel and Preserve as the Perfect Place to Relax. When a group books exclusive use of the hotel, our staff is available to assist, yet not intrude.

Yes, our waters are unique...The waters had been used for healing for centuries by the Native Americans  and soon the European settlers knew of the healing springs. Specific sources along the creek were determined to be beneficial for hair, another for the feet. The unique minerals have a positive effect on muscles, joints and particularly for skin and all over detoxification. 

Photographer: Kurt Foeller

3. How does your role as officiant play a part?

A wedding is supported by the location of the ceremony and reception. Couples often request that I say something about this unique, natural place. I love to speak of the seasons and the animals that live here. How precious to see a hummingbird or deer during the ceremony!

I provide personal, meaningful and heartfelt ceremonies. Traditional or non traditional, I am experienced in creating spiritual, non-religious or secular, yet romantic ceremonies. I have collaborated with many couples of diverse backgrounds and beliefs. I honor all faiths, traditions or simply non-religious. There is no requirement that a couple use my services, I am available if they choose.  http://www.sacred-ceremony.com 

Photographer: Jacqueline Lasahn

4. Most amazing/interesting fact about Wilbur?
1: The hot springs rise up from a deep source at about 128 -140 degrees. Of course, we cool it down before it enters the flumes! 

2: Fresh air - we're up above the pollution. No city lights, an amazingly clear sky. One summer night, a guest pointed to the sky and remarked that there was smoke from a forest fire. When I told him it was the Milky Way, we both laughed! 

Wilbur Hot Springs is a great local venue, or even destination venue for your green-minded wedding or event.  I know it's going to be a destination of mine for years to come.

G&G