I was out siting venues in the San Diego area recently with one of my new, favorite Brides, her amazing Mom and her Sister, whose wedding I had planned a few years ago, and together, we visited the Keys Creek Lavender Farm. If you are a Bride that loves the idea of a “vintage” inspired wedding and truly appreciates rustic venues which are, literally, off the beaten path, then this venue is for you and you will love the beauty and uniqueness of this farm.

I love Lavender, (JUST AS MUCH AS I LOVE PEONIES) and this unique and beautiful farm has over 2 dozen varieties of lavender spread over 8 acres of land located in the hills of Valley Center, just northeast of San Diego, CA.

The Lavender is in full bloom in the months of May-June and the air is filled with the peaceful and calming scent of fresh Lavender. What better environment for any Bride on one of the most important days of her life? There is a charming “Bridal Room” adorned with hanging lavender and there are all kinds of vintage signage and charming, shabby chic details throughout the venue.

The owner, Alicia Wolff  and her assistant, Connie, are friendly and personable and also both informative and passionate about the quaint and rustic farm location. As I walked the property with them, my mind was racing with ideas of all the amazing things that could be done at this lovely venue. There is something so fabulous to me and just so very “cool” about hanging crystal chandeliers in willow trees, hanging lanterns, hundreds of candles lit,  and having pure, white lounge furniture placed out there in the dirt for guests to sit on and relax. ….Oh the ideas filled in my head with each step we took. The owner was lovely and you could just sense how much pride she took in her venue and in making sure that the Brides and Grooms and everyone who came to visit were cared for and happy.

The farm is open to the public during harvest season when the lavender is blooming. (Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays in May-June from 10-4) Aside from being a perfect setting for a romantic wedding, engagement session, intimate farm house dinner or tea party, during the harvest season, they offer tours, a Tea House where English Lavender teas and scones are served, a gift shop where you can purchase all kinds of products made with lavender, classes and workshops as well as demonstrations of how they distill their own essential oils in their distillery (everything is organic on the farm and the oils are lovely). They have different varieties of lavender and will explain them to you, as well as let you touch them and smell them. There is a small labyrinth, meditation garden and a distillery. The sunsets are breathtaking and really worth seeing. Off season tours are available upon request as well.

This lovely, rustic venue is unique and is a photographer’s dream come true. It is perfect for engagement sessions– that is if you do not mind having photos taken in a setting where you are surrounded by fields of sweet smelling Lavender.

I cannot wait to design my next wedding at the Keys Creek Lavender Farm and I will definitely bring my daughter, Ava, for a visit in May to see the gorgeous, blooming lavender and of course to get my hands on some wonderful, organic, lavender products! I would also love to have another cup of the English Lavender tea that was served to me when I was there. It was delicious!

Please remember, it is important to “gas up” before you visit and you will be driving on winding, dirt roads, (it’s a farm), but you must go and experience the pure magic of Keys Creek Lavender Farm.