Planning Your Dream Wedding

By Camille DeVaul

Planning a dream wedding is an exciting and daunting task, but planning a dream wedding on the Central Coast takes it to a whole new level. With its rolling vineyards, scenic views, and perfect weather, it's no wonder why the Central Coast is a popular destination for weddings. If you're looking to plan your dream wedding, here are some things you should consider:

First and foremost, finding the right photographer for your big day is crucial. San Luis Obispo County is home to many talented photographers, so take the time to research and find someone whose style aligns with yours. Look at their portfolio and read reviews from previous clients. It's also a good idea to schedule an engagement session with them to get to know each other and ensure that you are comfortable working together.

Location

Next, choose a location that reflects your style and vision. Southern California has a plethora of options, from beaches to vineyards to elegant ballrooms. Make a list of your top choices and visit each one to get a feel for the space. Don't forget to consider logistics such as parking, accommodations, and transportation for you and your guests.

Checklist

Creating a checklist is an essential step in planning any wedding, but it's even more important for a destination wedding. Include tasks such as booking vendors, sending out save-the-dates and invitations, creating a seating chart, and arranging for transportation. Break down each task into smaller, manageable steps to make the planning process less overwhelming.

Catering

Food is a crucial element of any wedding, and our county has no shortage of delicious options. Whether you're looking for traditional wedding fare or something more unique, there are many catering companies and restaurants to choose from. Schedule tastings with your top choices to ensure that the food is not only delicious but also meets any dietary restrictions or preferences.

Planning Your Guest List

When it comes to the guest list, it's important to be mindful of your budget and the venue's capacity. Consider who you want to share your special day with and create a preliminary guest list. Remember that destination weddings can be more expensive for guests, so give them plenty of notice to make travel arrangements.

Season

One thing that many couples overlook when planning a wedding in San Luis Obispo County is the weather. While the area is known for its mild climate year around, it's important to plan for the possibility of rain in the spring or extreme heat waves, especially in July and August. Consider renting tents or fans to keep guests comfortable, and have a backup plan in case of inclement weather.

North County is full of dog-friendly activities and places

By Camille DeVaul

There is no reason to leave your furry best friend behind when having a day out in North County. Between Paso Robles and Atascadero, there are plenty of dog-friendly activities and businesses where you and your pup can have fun together.

We have put together ways you and your dog(s) can spend some quality time together in the sunshine here in North County.

Stroll around Downtown Paso Robles, visit the shops, and top it off with a bite to eat and some drinks at one of the many downtown eateries, wineries, or breweries. Downtown Paso Robles has many friendly shops and restaurants for well-behaved hounds.

Start the day slow by picking up some coffee and a bite to eat on the outside table at AMSTRDM Coffee House. Here you can watch the streets and shops wake up and plan your agenda for the day. If you are in Atascadero, get caffeinated at Bru Coffeehouse or Joebella Coffee.

From here, the options are endless. Warm the legs up with a loop around City Park or Sunken Gardens and pop in a few of your favorite shops like The General Store or Wildflower Women’s Boutique.

April happens to be one of the best times in Paso Robles for weather, and we are home to an abundance of pet-friendly wineries. We recommend giving your winery of choice a call ahead of time to verify it is okay for your pet to tag along.

When you are done taking in your daily antioxidants, head back to town for dinner at one of North County’s dog-friendly restaurants. In Paso you will find many pet-accommodating patios Red Scooter Deli or Jeffry’s Wine Country BBQ. In Templeton, visit the Kitchenette, 15 Degrees C, or even Chulo’s Cafe and Cantina. For some wine alternatives, Atascadero is home to The Rancatour Room, Poison Apple, and Ancient Owl — all host of a variety of beer and ciders. Other beer gardens in Paso include Tin City, The Backyard on Thirteenth, and the California Coast Beer Company.

If your dog has some extra energy, we have plenty of dog parks where they can work out all the zoomies and even make a friend:

• Sherwood Dog Park is open from sunrise to sunset and is located at 290 Scott St. in Paso Robles

• Vineyard Dog Park is located at 1010 Semillon Lane in Templeton

• Heilmann Dog Park is located at 9445 El Bordo Ave. in Atascadero.

• Centennial Park is located at 600 Nickerson Drive in Paso Robles

• Salinas Riverwalk Trail is located in downtown Paso Robles, off South River Road

This April, Woods Humane Society will host its annual Wine 4 Paws event to raise funds for homeless pets. Visit any of the over 75 participating wine, cider, and olive oil producers throughout the Central Coast on April 22 and 23, and they will donate 10 percent of sales to Woods Humane Society. You can find more information on the initiative and list of participating businesses here, wine4paws.com.

So like we said, there are countless ways to spend some quality time with your dog in North County. If you decide to take your dog out on the town this month, we want to see! Send us photos of your dog on their local adventures to editor@13starsmedia. com for a chance to be featured in an upcoming issue of Paso Robles Press.

My experience with Front Porch Properties has been amazing! Nicole and Tressa think of everything. I couldn’t be more pleased with the extra touches they have added for my guests. I have definitely stepped up as a host because of their expertise!

Front Porch