How to Plan an Intimate Wedding or Elopement at Montaluce Winery

As a wedding photographer who's had the privilege of capturing love stories in some of the most magical places Montaluce Winery in Dahlonega, Georgia stands out as a dreamy spot for couples who want to elope or host a very intimate wedding. Here are my top tips and a few insider thoughts for planning an elopement or micro-wedding at this beautiful venue.

Versatile Ceremony Locations

The Oak Tree site

my favorite!

The Vineyard Overlook

and some other ones would be the covered terrace and The Wine Production Room

On-Site Accommodations
Because Montaluce was also developed as a villa community, you can actually stay on the estate. The villas (Tuscan-style) are available to rent. Here’s is the link to book the villas

Pick Your Lighting with Intention

• For vineyard or terrace ceremonies: aim for golden hour (just before sunset) — the light is soft and dreamy, and the vines glow.

• For the wine production room (if you're indoors): talk with your photographer ahead of time. It’s low-light, so we’ll plan for candles, uplighting, or even bring some extra lights if needed.

You can check out their wedding and elopement pricing here

plan for rain, just in case

Even if you're having an outdoor ceremony, have a backup in place (like the wine production room).

Staying in one of the villas can turn your elopement or micro-wedding into a full, slow, romantic weekend! Make it a full destination wedding!

Example of a Full Winery Experience Elopement (4 Hours of Coverage)

Includes getting ready, ceremony, portraits, and a mini reception/dinner

3:00 PM — Photographer arrives at the Montaluce villa

• Getting-ready coverage

• Flatlays + details

• Bride/Groom final touches

3:45 PM — First Look at the Villa Balcony or Terrace

• Private moment overlooking the vines

• Portraits around the villa + stone pathways

4:30 PM — Ceremony at the Oak Tree or Vineyard Overlook

• Soft light, fewer winery guests around

• Family photos after the ceremony

5:00 PM — Couples’ Portraits Around the Property

6:00 PM — Sunset Photos at the Pond

6:30 PM — Dinner on the Terrace

• First toast

• Candid storytelling photos

• Cake cutting if included

7:00 PM — Coverage Ends

If you’re considering Montaluce, I’d be honored to capture your day: You can reach out here! Talk soon, and happy planning!