Stonepine Estate, Carmel Valley, California

May 23

Written By Shelley Albanese

As a wedding planner, few things are more exciting than discovering a venue that’s not just beautiful, but truly magical. Recently, I had the absolute pleasure of attending a familiarization event hosted by Stonepine Estate in the heart of Carmel Valley—and what a breathtaking experience it was! From the moment I arrived at the historic property, it was clear this wasn’t going to be your typical venue tour. What unfolded over the next two days was a perfectly curated immersion into the romance, elegance, and charm that Stonepine offers—paired with the warmth and talent of fellow wedding professionals who made the experience unforgettable.

A Setting Straight Out of a Fairytale

Stonepine Estate is nestled among the rolling hills and trees of Carmel Valley, just far enough from the buzz of town to feel like a world of its own. Spanning over 400 acres, the estate is a blend of refined European charm and rustic California beauty. It’s not just a venue—it’s an experience. With the estates Tuscan villa Chateau Noel its ivy-covered manor house, sprawling gardens, and equestrian facilities, it felt like stepping into an old-world dream with modern luxuries.

We were welcomed onto the estate with the kind of hospitality that instantly made everyone feel like an honored guest. The gracious team at Stonepine left no detail overlooked—from the welcome gifts to the carefully crafted itinerary that allowed us to experience the property through the eyes of a couple planning their wedding weekend.

A Weekend Full of Inspiration

Over the course of two days, I was able to explore the estate through a thoughtfully designed series of events. We began with a welcome dinner at the ranch, where we mingled with fellow planners and vendors. It was the perfect setting to set the tone for the rest of the weekend: relaxed, elegant, and inspired.

That evening, we were treated to a family style dinner in the Blacksmith Bar. Every detail was executed beautifully, showing just how much the venue can offer couples looking to host a romantic, elevated wedding celebration.

On Day 2, we savored breakfast at Chateau Noel, then spent the afternoon riding through the scenic streets of Carmel in vintage cars, taking in the coastal views, vibrant gardens, and charming architecture along the way. We ended the evening with an elegant dinner under the lights at the Chateau. On our final day, we embraced serenity with a restorative yoga session and immersive sound bath, a perfect farewell before our departure.

Connecting with the Creative Community

One of the most meaningful parts of the weekend was the opportunity to connect with other incredible planners and vendors from across California and beyond. These are the people who live and breathe creativity, and getting to share ideas, laughs, and insights with them in such a beautiful environment was truly energizing.

It’s always refreshing to step away from the day-to-day and into a space where you can learn, collaborate, and be inspired by others who understand both the artistry and the logistics of wedding planning. From late-night chats to casual morning walks through the estate’s gardens, every conversation felt like a reminder of why we do what we do.

A Venue That Tells a Story

What struck me most about Stonepine is that it’s not just a venue—it’s a storyteller. The estate has a rich history, and you feel it in every corner: the antique furnishings, the heirloom details, the timeless architecture. For couples who want to craft a wedding weekend that feels immersive, intimate, and luxurious, Stonepine is a rare gem.

Whether you’re envisioning a weekend-long celebration with friends and family or a romantic elopement tucked away in the hills, Stonepine offers versatility without losing its character. From garden ceremonies, receptions in front of the majestic Chateau Noel to late night parties at the ranch, the possibilities here are endless—and unforgettable.

Grateful and Inspired

I walked away from this experience deeply inspired, both creatively and professionally. There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about being in a place so beautiful, surrounded by people so passionate about their craft. I’m grateful to the Stonepine team for hosting such a thoughtful and inspiring weekend, and to all the talented planners and vendors who made it even more memorable.

Experiences like these remind me why I love what I do—crafting celebrations that are deeply personal, breathtakingly beautiful, and filled with connection. If you’re a couple dreaming of a destination-style wedding that feels both elegant and adventurous, I can’t recommend Stonepine Estate enough. It’s a place where love stories come to life.

Until next time, Carmel. You were magic.

Let’s begin to plan your dream wedding at Stonepine.