Ru's Farm Wedding in the Springtime – Healdsburg Wedding Photographer
Nestled in the heart of Healdsburg, Ru’s Farm offers a dreamy, picture-perfect backdrop for couples seeking an outdoor wedding in Sonoma County.
But this ain’t your average barn! While the name might conjure images of goats and tractors, Ru’s Farm is anything but your typical farm venue. Instead, it feels like stepping into a lush English garden, complete with stunning views of rolling hills and vineyards. It’s so so pretty!
If you’re thinking about having your wedding here, you need to meet my friend and wedding planner extraordinaire, Kellyne. In fact, I like to call her my best wedding friendor ;) because she planned my wedding!
Kellyne is the founder and lead planner at Hand&Heart Events. She’s a spectacular, seasoned wedding planner and was gracious enough to share her insights into what makes Ru’s Farm so unique. Not only that, she offers valuable tips on how couples can make the most of this one-of-a-kind outdoor venue.
Ready? Lessss go!
A Garden, Not a Farm
“When you walk into Ru’s Farm, it’s just magical,” Kellyne explains. From the moment guests arrive, they’re treated to a scenic walk through olive tree-lined paths, culminating in a grand English garden setting. The willow trees with string lights offer a magical ambiance for outdoor dinners, and the expansive lawn accommodates up to 150 guests for ceremonies with breathtaking vineyard views.
From there, you’ll discover grand willow trees strung with market lights—a natural setting for al fresco dinners. Just beyond lies an expansive lawn framed by vineyards, where ceremonies take place under the shade of a majestic oak tree.
And let’s not forget the barn! This isn’t your average barn; it’s polished and perfectly styled for weddings. Inside, you’ll find Edison bulb chandeliers, distinct spaces for dancing, cocktails, and late-night mingling, plus a full-service kitchen and catering area.
Pros and Perks
One of Ru’s Farm’s biggest advantages is its proximity to Healdsburg Square. “It’s just five minutes away, so guests can easily explore local hotels, restaurants, and even the Russian River for pre- or post-wedding activities,” Kellyne shares.
The venue itself also offers flexibility for getting ready. There’s an on-site Airbnb-style house with light-filled spaces ideal for hair, makeup, or even overnight stays. Couples often reserve it for themselves or as a thoughtful gift for family members. A smaller cottage nearby provides a cozy retreat for groomsmen, childcare, or a quiet space for nursing mothers.
A Few Things to Consider
While Ru’s Farm is undeniably beautiful, there are a couple of challenges to keep in mind.
First, there’s a strict 9 p.m. noise ordinance. “Music has to stop by 9, but guests can stay until 10,” Kellyne explains. “I always recommend planning an after-party in Healdsburg Square. Build that into your budget. And you’ll want shuttles to make it easy for everyone.”
Wind is another factor, especially in summer. “The wind can be tricky,” Kellyne notes. “It’s not just a light breeze—the wind has the potential to be big enough gusts to blow out candles and send menus flying. You’ll want to think about sturdy linens, stemless glassware, and weather-resistant décor to keep everything looking polished.”
Finally, timing is key. Summer weddings can get hot, so Kellyne suggests refreshing drink options like Aperol spritzes and plenty of self-serve water to keep guests comfortable. I’m tellin’ you. This girl knows her stuff!
Why a Wedding Planner is Essential for an Outdoor Wedding
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, Kellyne can’t stress enough how valuable a planner can be. “Venues are wonderful at showcasing their space, but they’re not always thinking about the big picture,” she explains. “A planner looks at everything—from where you’ll get ready to the flow of the day, to how the weather might affect things.”
At Ru’s Farm, that could mean creating a plan for wind, choosing the right ceremony start time to match the sunset, or ensuring your catering team has easy access to the kitchen. “Having someone to anticipate all those details lets you focus on enjoying your wedding day.”
Is Ru’s Farm Right for You?
For couples drawn to a mix of vineyard views, garden charm, and rustic elegance, Ru’s Farm is hard to beat. With thoughtful planning and a touch of flexibility for those outdoor elements, it’s a venue that delivers an unforgettable celebration in the heart of wine country.
Ready to start planning? Reach out to a trusted planner like Kellyne of Hand&Heart Events to make your vision a reality. Click here to contact her via her website. Follow her on Instagram or TikTok here.
I’m Lia with Oh Honestly Photography, and I love Ru’s Farm! This is one of my favorite venues in the area. I have experience photographing at this venue and working alongside the lovely Kellyne. If you want to get in touch with me about wedding photography, please send me a message here.
Venue: https://www.rusfarmweddings.com/
Wedding Planner: https://www.handheartevents.com/
Florals: https://thewildfleurco.com/
Catering: https://anaviv.com/
Band: https://decadesofficial.com/
HMUA: https://www.bridalmuah.com/
Rentals: https://www.encoreeventsrentals.com/services/
After Party: https://www.coyotesonoma.com/venue
