Spreafico Farms, a rustic vineyard, country style estate established in the gracious rolling hills of San Luis Obispo offers visitors and party goers the quintessential slice of heaven. For miles, the surrounding Edna Valley hillside flirtatiously curves upwards into soft peaks and dips into low valleys, adding to the serenity and delicacy that can be found on the grounds below. Today, the land maintains itself year round as a family-owned vegetable and cattle homestead, however still tightly manicured to host extravagant weddings and large-scale events. The owners—Brandon and Jim—are extremely present, looking to aid in any way they can, have without a doubt created an atmosphere that exudes kindness, comfort and elegance.
There are many reasons why people have and will continue to choose Spreafico Farms as their wedding or event destination, however, for a bride and groom in particular, we can imagine being immediately drawn to the idea of choosing from not one but two outdoor ceremony locations. Both options overlook the Edna Valley hilltops with rare 360 degree panoramic views, yet differ slightly depending on the soon-to-be-newlywed’s preference. With almost omnipresent California sunshine year-round, a beautiful outdoor reception is almost guaranteed. No matter the case, each structure and location on the farm presents itself as a photographer's dream scenario.
Not long ago, The Venue Report chatted about Spreafico Farms with Tina Loveridge, the you-better-book-way-in-advance, sought after wedding photographer from Loveridge Photography based in San Luis Obispo.
Words + Photography by Tina Loveridge of Loveridge Photography
What were some of the highlights of your experiences at the venue?
The setting of the rolling hills of Edna Valley along with iconic trees is perfect for a very "San Luis Obispo/Central Coast" feel. Beside a really awesome barn and the location, probably the biggest highlight is working with Brandon and Jim, the owners of Spreafico Farms. They do whatever they can to make their couples and vendors have a great experience and are super easy going. They're always adding features to the venue and thinking about what would make it better.
Tell us about the venue in general?
In Edna Valley. I don't know their exact capacity, but I'm thinking around 150. You can have the reception outside the barn and leave the inside for dancing and cocktails, or if your wedding is smaller, you can do the whole reception inside. We sadly haven't had much rain in the last couple of years, so it's actually a pretty safe bet you can get married outside year round (and the central coast is known for having really temperate weather year-round). Brandon would be a good person to ask about capacity: bspreafico@yahoo.com
What made the venue a great backdrop and setting for photos?
There is a diversity of photo ops. Beautiful trees, the barn, fields, and rollings hills.
Favorite existing design elements of the venue?
Spreafico Farms is a favorite. I love that it used to be a working barn and it shows, but has perfect spots for the bar, dancing, catering, etc. I love that the barn couple work for a more modern feel as well as a couple that wants it to be more "country."
One of the central features of the property is the barn. White washed walls with high-beam ceilings laced in decorative lights and newly paved concrete flooring with plenty of room for a dance floor… it will literally make you want to get up and do a barnyard boogie, whether you know how to or not. Additionally, the owners just recently designed and built a bridal dream cottage, furnished with Spanish inspired interiors for pre-wedding maintenance and photographs.
Did you do anything in the surrounding area while you were there? Any great restaurants?
Edna Valley wineries (Baileyana has a bocce ball court and picnic area), Chamisal and Claiborne & Churchill, and Kynsi are personal favorites. San Luis Obispo is not too far away with restaurants like Novos, Luna Red, Blue, and Sidecar. The other direction is Arroyo Grande with Ember and The Spoon Trade.
The central coast is an outdoor playground for surfing, hiking, SUP, and kayaking. There's also about 100 frozen yogurt shops (slight exaggeration, but there are a lot).
Brandon and Jim are amazing!!
Any inside tips?
Allow time for sunset photos. The hills turn golden and makes for beautiful portraits.
If you have a bigger bridal party, get ready together at an airbnb/rental in the area. The bridal suite can be small if there are multiple women getting ready, but it makes for a great place to hide before the ceremony.
At times, when it comes to formal events and weddings, we often get lost in our own heads about what is truly important in life. It’s not the material possessions, over-the-top glitz and glamour, or who is wearing the most expensive dress or suit, but most simply, it’s about friends, family and gathering over food. Spreafico Farms has this feeling down to a science. This truly special location serves as a safe and comfortable place where people gather together to share life, make memories and give love to one another, and that is exactly why people speak of it the way they do.
Credits
Venue: Spreafico Farms in SLO | Photographer: Tina Loveridge of Loveridge Photography | Caterer: Gary Vierra of Phil's Catering | Bartender: Gary Vierra of Phil's Catering | Mini Bar: Aunt CRISSY | Dessert: Jennifer of Bello Mundo Café | DJ: Danny of "Just Country" Band | Officiant: Rick Comstock of aVow Ceremonies | Florist: Erin McClellan of Sprigs Floral Design | Rentals: Gary Vierra of Got You Covered / Phil's Catering | Shuttle: Kody Nelson of SLO SafeRide | Hair: Samantha Silva (Friend) & Kaylee Marrott (Sister) of Samantha Silva (Friend) & Kaylee Marrott (Sister) | Makeup: Courtney Rossi of Courtney Rossi Artistry | Day-of Coordinator: Lisa Ahlgren of Planimation Events
