Joyce Perlman and Randy Lutge some of our MacCallum House regular Mendocino wedding photographers will see this Mendocino bridal couple from “the ask” on the MacHouse East Lawn last summer 2019… to “the I do” — to be sealed at the MacHouse this coming summer 2020!
Check out this sweet story of Mendocino romance from Joyce…
“We had a sweet run in a while back at the MacHouse. This past summer and Randy saw a dog with a sign on him and realized the guy was about to propose. Randy had a camera and shot a few images from a far then went to talk with them. The bride just wrote me that they will be securing the MacHouse for their wedding this summer! We would love to shoot their wedding. What a romantic Mendocino story.”
Congratulations Tara & Wayne! MacCallum House is honored to be your forever in love storybook setting. Cheers to Mendocino romance <3
In this day and age, many people don’t get to go on vacations as much as they once did. Therefore, when you are able to travel, your vacation time is precious — and you want to make sure that your accommodations reflect that. The benefit of waiting to travel is that you’ll have more lodging options to choose from than you would if you traveled more frequently. When looking at hotels and inns, you’ll want to make sure that what you choose offers not only a place to stay, but a place to enjoy. This becomes a bit more challenging when you’re traveling with your entire family, rather than traveling by yourself or as a couple. But there’s a reason why we travel with our families nonetheless — as 37% of families report that vacations make them happy, vacations together are ultimately the activities that make families the happiest
Nonetheless, there are different considerations to keep in mind when traveling with a family, or even just with a large group. The typical hotels and inns might not work for a large family. Even the most luxurious accommodations don’t always offer the types of space that accommodate an entire family, at least not comfortably. After all, even luxury hotels are often ultimately still just hotels — with hotel-sized rooms. However, some hotels and inns are made with families in mind, which means that they offer cottage-sized accommodations that work perfectly for an entire family. With that being said, some are still hesitant to try out accommodations that differ from the typical hotels and inns, even if they are luxurious. With that being said, we’re looking into why you may want to give larger accommodations — perhaps even cottage rentals! — a try, in a location like Mendocino, California.
1. Space
When we consider the typical hotel-style accommodations, regardless of the furnishings there is only so much space allowed. They are typically made to accommodate two to four people, maximum, with one bathroom and no kitchen or living room area. A cottage, on the other hand, is meant to create a small, compact house. Therefore, if you’re traveling with a family, they’re really perfect, and much more suitable than a hotel room. They’ll include separate bedrooms — usually two to three — which gives you the type of privacy that you need, as well as a living space and often a small kitchen. Therefore, everyone is more comfortable — and your family will be able to enjoy their time together more without any petty conflicts.
2. Convenience
Having more space not only makes your family more comfortable, but it also makes life much more convenient. Having multiple bathrooms means that less time will be spent getting ready for the day, never mind all the potential fighting you can avoid. For that matter, if you rent a luxury cottage, you won’t be missing out on the luxuries you love about high end hotels and inns. This is a major reason why many people avoid the typical vocational rental accommodations and something that you can avoid if you rent the right cottage. Another convenience added through cottage rentals is that they often provide small kitchens. Even if you don’t plan to cook in your cottage, having the ability to do so in a pinch is quite beneficial. For that matter, some grounds offer staff services, which will not only clean the cottage during your time, but even prepare food in your kitchen.
3. Comfort
Think about how comfortable you’ll feel if you’re able to relax in a larger bed, with more space — and imagine how much better it will be to enjoy the beach or the beautiful views from a cottage. With luxurious accommodations in a cottage, versus a hotel or inn, you’ll be able to enjoy your home away from home, rather than a simple room. This will be especially enjoyable if you find yourself visiting theme parks or zoos throughout the day — or even taking a day trip to bigger cities!
Vacations are important to Americans. Travel within the United States grew by nearly 2% in 2017, with a total of 2.25 billion vacations. In this country, 96% of workers report that vacation time is a priority. Of couples who take pleasure trips together, 71% report that improved emotional intimacy is a major reason for traveling alone as a pair. On vacation, 42% of tourists say they feel more romantic. Each year, approximately 1.4 million just-married couples take honeymoon trips; the typical honeymoon is seven to nine days long. For tourists with kids in tow, 71% report that being able to cook was a deciding factor in choosing accommodations. Of families who travel together, 37% state that vacations increase their happiness, which makes travel the number one activity for family happiness.
MacCallum House: A Luxury Boutique Bed and Breakfast in Mendocino
Luxurious accommodations are a priority for many tourists. If you’re looking for Mendocino accommodations that could serve as the perfect wedding venue, the ideal romantic getaway, or the most charming boutique hotel for a family vacation, look no further than MacCallum House in the center of Mendocino, California. MacCallum House is a Victorian home with beautiful gardens, a fine restaurant that uses local organic products, gourmet breakfasts, 24-hour desk service, wine tours, and amazing ocean views. It also offers special indulgences such as fresh flowers in your room, local wine with our own chocolate truffles and other decadent desserts, and a basket of spa items. MacCallum House welcomes families and pets.
MacCallum House Accommodations
Stay in one of six special rooms in our Main House, one of seven pet-friendly cottages, the Barn with its stone fireplaces, hot tubs, and saunas, Village Rooms and Suites with its spectacular ocean views, or a Village Vacation Home, ideal for families and reunions.
MacCallum House offers luxury, natural beauty, history, and romance for travelers who wish to experience all that Mendocino has to offer. If you’re planning a destination wedding, a special couple’s vacation, or a memorable family gathering, we’re here to meet your needs. Call for more information or to book a stay.
Seventy-one percent of couples — more than seven in ten — say that talking and connecting are the most important reasons for taking a vacation together, and no vacation is as significant as your honeymoon!
While you could spend time and money booking a Mendocino wedding venue and a honeymoon destination, what if we told you that you can get both at the same time at MacCallum House?
Wedding Venue and Honeymoon Destination – all in one at MacCallum House in Mendocino
Our multi-tiered three property boutique hotel provides the perfect solution for both your wedding venue and guest accommodation, not to mention an excellent place to spend your honeymoon. Our historic main property gives you the perfect place to host your wedding reception while providing an intimate and cozy atmosphere with accommodations of all styles.
1. One Property. Many Rooms.
Both you and your guests will have plenty of room to get comfortable and enjoy when you book MacCallum House for your wedding. For those who are directly involved in the wedding party, bridesmaids, groomsmen, family… having everyone on site can simplify wedding preparations, especially if you’re also using the space as your wedding venue. You won’t have to worry about getting everyone to the location on time either, as everyone will be right there and ready to go!
2. A Romantic Atmosphere
MacCallum House provides an intimate, romantic, and unique atmosphere. Perfect for a special wedding venue and a honeymoon destination, as well! After the wedding and reception, both you and your partner won’t have to worry about catching a plane or packing your bags, instead, you can head back to your luxury cottage and get cozy by the fire while the waves crash.
3. Wedding Ceremonies
For couples seeking a unique wedding experience, you can MacCallum House will arrange the whole thing — on our East Lawn or out at a bluff-top site overlooking the Pacific. We do it all for you! This allows you to take some of the hassles out of booking and arranging, as everything will be taken care of at the same time!
4. Unforgettable Honeymoon
Mendocino sets the scene for intimacy, privacy, and unmatchable dramatic, natural beauty. Once Mendocino wows your guests, stay a while longer for the full wind-down. If you host your wedding in the same location as your honeymoon, you get to immediately jump right into relaxation. Once your guests depart, stay and enjoy the special place where you just gathered together in celebration and love. No hassles of booking another flight or hotel. Relax and start your honeymoon melt as soon as you leave the reception!
Planning a wedding can be incredibly stressful — which is why many couples choose to hire a wedding coordinator to handle all the details. In fact, many wedding venues will actually have an in-house wedding coordinator on staff to ensure their brides and grooms are able to achieve the wedding of their dreams without too many hiccups. But what are the qualities that make a great in-house wedding coordinator? Here’s what you should look for when meeting with the coordinator your venue recommends.
Organizational Skills
Wedding planning requires high-end organizational skills to create a memorable event. The in-house wedding coordinator that you work with should have excellent organizational know-how. They should be able to follow up on the products and services provided by vendors without any prompting from the bride and groom.
The wedding coordinator should keep track of the payment schedule for all vendors and ensure all vendors are on the same page for the big day. Wedding coordinators also act as liaisons between the couple and their venue, as well as the couple and their vendors, which means in-house wedding coordinators need to be on top of all the details and keep everyone informed of any adjustments that need to be made.
Immense Creativity
Brides may get some of their wedding ideas from social media and previous events they’ve attended. It’s up to the highly creative in-house wedding coordinator to turn those visions into reality and ensure the ultimate dream wedding is achieved.
If Mendocino is one of the areas you have in mind for your wedding, your coordinator may even draw inspiration from the beautiful surroundings and translate that into the overall design concept. Mendocino wedding venues are amazing, and working with a creative wedding coordinator will turn the venue into a unique place. Creativity will give you a perfect wedding venue that you did not imagine.
Roughly 96% of American workers say vacation time is important to them. Thus, the coordinator should get a venue that will give you and your guests a fantastic getaway even after the wedding. Look for a venue with an in-house wedding coordinator in a place that’s akin to paradise.
Stellar Communication
Communication is one of the most important qualities for a wedding coordinator to possess. They need to be communicating with you during every step that they make to ensure that you in agreement Not only should they communicate with you, but also with the vendors. Miscommunications can cause last-minute stresses and even contract breaches. To avoid emotional break-downs and unforeseen mishaps, your coordinator will need to keep everyone informed and make it their mission to over-communicate.
Impeccable Networking
Wedding planning is a field that relies on an extensive network of professionals working together to achieve a common goal. The in-house wedding coordinator should have contacts of vendors, decorators, caterers, florists, musicians, and more. This will guarantee to receive high-quality products and services. If your coordinator is already familiar with the majority of your vendors, your big day is more likely to go off without a hitch.
Good at Problem Solving
Wedding planning comes with its fair share of problems, even when coordinators are highly experienced. This means that regardless of the excellent plan, something may go wrong. Consequently, you need to have an in-house wedding coordinator who is good at problem-solving.
You don’t need to be stressed on your wedding week. In-house wedding planning plays an integral part in having your dream wedding. Work with an in-house wedding coordinator who has the qualities discussed above — and a venue that can accommodate your every wish.
Vacations offer the perfect opportunity for couples to grow closer, and families, too! In fact, 42% of travelers say they feel more connected while on vacation. While luxury hotels can offer extravagant accommodations, historic properties and cottage rentals are gradually rising in popularity among couples and families looking for a cozy and unique experience. MacCallum House is a Mendocino getaway with all the options!
If you’re in search of a luxuriously intimate vacation destination, look no further! Here are four reasons to choose cozy cottages and a charming history over traditional hotel destinations.
1. Unique & Personal Space
Even the most luxurious hotel rooms can be lacking in character. A stark hotel room can feel artificial and cold, not the most conducive to a cozy and romantic stay. On the other hand, the Mendocino Victorian home that is MacCallum House, as well as our cozy cottages, offer a homey feel that immediately makes you feel welcome and comfortable. Our inviting feel is aimed to allow you to unwind more easily, and to make the most out of your sweet Mendocino getaway.
2. Incredibly Scenic
MacCallum House may be located in the heart of the Mendocino Village, but it is still just a moment’s walk away from the Mendocino Headlands and the crashing Pacific Ocean. We are a central scenic option right on the coast. Many of our rooms boast gorgeous views, hot tubs, and even private yards for your pup. Whether you choose to enjoy a quiet night soaking out under the stars or exploring the moonlit cliffs, you will still be just a jaunt away from the best restaurants, galleries, and shopping. Central and scenic are hard to beat. The perfect option to enjoy all Mendocino has to offer — paradise just out your door.
3. A True Experience
The 1882 MacCallum House main property is a home filled with great history. Built as a honeymoon gift for 20 year old Daisy MacCallum by her parents, Daisy lived in the home until the age of 94. Her family were among the founders of Mendocino Village, and Daisy herself traveled as far as Egypt in the early 1900’s, but chose Mendocino as her forever home, as she called it “the most beautiful place on God’s green earth.” Getaway to Mendocino and experience a richness of history and beauty!
4. Your Room. Your Choice.
Our rooms have an incredible variety. MacCallum House has accommodation at three distinct properties in the Village of Mendocino — MacCallum House Historic Main Property, MacCallum House Suites, and Oceansong West Albion Street. Our variety of rooms, from cottages to suites to classic Victorian, means that you can find the perfect space for your Mendocino getaway. Hot tub, view, yard, full home, claw foot tub, sauna, you name it! And, if you like, your next visit can be an entirely new experience in a completely different space. Options like this make it easy for you to plan future a getaway of any kind, romantic, family, work, you name it. At MacCallum House in Mendocino, there is something for every occasion and taste!
Choosing a wedding venue is almost as important as choosing your wedding partner? Just kidding 🙂 … if you keep the right considerations in mind, keep a positive outlook, and give yourself enough time, you should be able to find a reception venue you truly love – just like a mate.
Here are some elements you’ll want to think about when booking your dream wedding venue. Mendocino’s MacCallum House wins them all!
1. Location – Location – Location
First, determine whether you’ll stay local for your wedding or if you want a destination wedding. Statistics show that every year, about 1.4 million U.S. newlyweds travel for their honeymoon — but traveling isn’t just for couples who have already tied the knot.
When you are considering a destination wedding, make sure you find a location like MacCallum House that will take care of all the details for you. A full service venue will take care of ceremony, reception, coordination, auxiliary events, you name it. Also consider what the area has to offer! Located in the heart of the Mendocino Village, MacCallum House offers easy walking to tons of shops, restaurants, galleries, nature walks, and more! You and your guests need never get back in the car all weekend.
2. Size Matters
Gauge your guest count to help decide the style of wedding you will have and type of venue. Having a good ballpark guest count in mind will also help determine a realistic budget. The number of guests is a significant factor to choosing the right venue and flow of your celebration. Make sure your destination venue can accommodate your party with sufficient tables, seating, dance floor, etc.
3. Get that Date
If you are flexible on your date at the outset, this may help you find the wedding reception of your dreams. If the date is particular, look early and with vigor. Once you have booked your venue, your date is set. Immediately you should move on getting your vendors lined up with deposits down for your date. Remember, this is not flexible now — this will be your date for anniversaries to come! The good news is, once venue and vendors are locked in, you can usually cool your heals until about 6 months out.
4. Your Wedding – Your Style
Choose a wedding venue that speaks to you. You might know in your gut, or your heart, or just with your sixth style sense, but whatever it is, you will have the chance to put your special touch on the space for your day. Your wedding day decor should be as simple, ornate, bright, goth, unique as you.
Maybe you wish to incorporate favorite colors and flowers, or you love vintage design, or maybe you’re more modern. Whatever your style, choose a venue that speaks to you and then augment the existing space with your individual inspiration. Both of you should stay true to your style as a couple, despite the fantastic designs that you have see online. And remember, you chose your venue for a reason, highlight it’s special charms!
Selecting your wedding venue is an important milestone and eventual memory in your lives together. Finding the perfect wedding venue and reception is possible! Perhaps MacCallum House is your perfect wedding venue… we would love to host your love <3
A destination wedding is a wedding that is held in a location other than your hometown. Sometimes, the wedding reception and the honeymoon are even celebrated at the same venue! Destination weddings are slowly and steadily gaining major traction in the wedding planning world, especially because they allow you to celebrate your wedding in luxurious locations.
Destination weddings give you the opportunity to hold a romantic ceremony, enjoy beautiful views, and make lasting memories with your friends, family, and loved ones. If you have just decided to get married, these reasons may persuade you to choose a destination wedding.
1. They Are Simple to Plan
A destination wedding is usually a much simpler affair, especially in terms of wedding planning. This may seem ironic, seeing as planning a long distance event could be quite a challenge, but a destination wedding is easier to plan than a close-to-home wedding. This is because most wedding venues have an in-house wedding coordinator and planner who handles most of the planning work.
Of course, the bride and groom have the final say on all matters, but it makes more sense to lay back and let the professionals plan a beautiful wedding for you.
2. They are Cozy
Picture this. You are reclining and enjoying a beautiful vista with a glass of wine in your hands. You have just gotten your nails done. Your friends and family are hanging out all weekend, laughing, smiling, and getting to know eachother better. Everyone is happy. You have had them checked into one of the finest luxury hotels, and everyone is comfortable with the accommodations.
This could be your wedding. Having an inclusive destination wedding makes for a better experience since you can relax and enjoy yourself at your chosen location.
3. It Helps You Avoid Uncomfortable Stressful Situations
Having a destination wedding will imply having a smaller guest list. Because of this, you will have to invite only the people you really love for your wedding. Close-to-home weddings are often disrupted or even ruined when past family issues come to surface. This is why you should only invite people you want to have at your destination wedding — travel means you can be picky!
4. It Gives You a Magical Honeymoon
Often, the bride and groom have their honeymoon right where the wedding has taken place. Studies show that most newlyweds have honeymoons that last seven to nine days. This means that you will have the whole nine days’ worth of a beautiful honeymoon without the added traveling, and this will make it feel like a real vacation relaxation. Finding a gorgeous place you love and staying put also makes for beautiful wedding and honeymoon pictures, all in one, and who doesn’t love those?
5. It is the Perfect Reunion Opportunity
Traditional weddings can be quite hectic; you are on the run, meeting and greeting long-time friends, but unable to stay and chat because of all other finishing touches you need to make. However, a destination wedding usually falls on vacation time. Ideally, you’ll have arrived a few days prior to the wedding itself, thus, allowing lots of time to land, relax, and catch up with family and friends as they arrive. By the time your wedding day actually arrives, you’ll be fully present and ready for the big moments!
6. It Makes for an Easier Decision-Making Process
Traditional weddings can be difficult to plan. You may be forced to choose between each of your hometowns, church affiliations, club grounds, the list goes on. With a destination wedding, you mutually select a venue that is ideal for both of you, and at the same time, these venues come with complete wedding packages that simplify the whole process.
This helps you make faster decisions, let the professionals handle your wedding. Remember, it is always you who calls the shots on the details that matter.
Bottom Line
A destination wedding could be the moment you and your partner were waiting for to celebrate and share your love in a romantic and unique setting. The day you tie the knot is probably the most important in your relationship thus far. A special destination sets the scene for an elegant and intimate affair, set apart in your and your guests’ memories as special and sweet.
It will also give you an excuse to come back for five-, ten-, thirty-year anniversaries. If this doesn’t convince you to pick up the phone and call your dream destination hotel, what will?
Mendocino is home to incredible state parks and views, but during the first two weekends in November, it’s also the home of the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast. For fans of fresh mushrooms, epicurean cooking, and gourmet food, the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast is an event you don’t want to miss.
The Annual Wild Mushroom Feast begins November 1 and ends November 10, but you don’t want to miss the Annual Wild Mushroom and Winemaker Dinner at MacCallum House on November 8.
What can I expect at the Annual Wild Mushroom and Winemaker Dinner?
The 19th annual MacCallum House Restaurant Wild Mushroom and Winemaker Dinner is one of the Mushroom Feast Mendocino’s inaugural events. It takes place on Friday, November 8, and is an annual tradition.
Chef Alan Kantor brings out the best of the local Mendocino mushrooms in a five-course seasonal menu complete with expertly paired Graziano wine. To get an idea of the five-course seasonal menu that will be offered, here is the menu from the 2018 Annual Wild Mushroom and Winemaker Dinner.
That said, if you’re looking for luxurious hotels to stay in during your time exploring the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast in Mendocino, MacCallum House is a great choice, especially during this time of year.
What’s there to explore during the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast?
The Annual Wild Mushroom Feast may be a feast, but it’s also a great time to explore the nature of Mendocino. While you’re visiting, you can take a tour with a mushroom expert and find some delectable Mendocino mushrooms for yourself and your family.
You can reserve a seat at one of the Mendocino winemaker and mushroom pairing dinners to learn just how to match your gourmet mushrooms with your favorite beverage. You can visit the annual Homebrew Festival, taste mushroom dishes at the Mushroom Cook-off in Willits, or take a foraging expedition. There’s something to do for the entire family.
Ready to book your Mendocino accommodations?
Approximately 71% of travelers with kids said that access to cooking their own meals was one of the main reasons why chose a vacation rental. But when you’re visiting during the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast, you’ll want a professional cooking your meals.
If you’re looking for Mendocino hotels and inns for the Annual Wild Mushroom Feast, MacCallum House is the hotel for you. For more information about the Annual Wild Mushroom and Winemaker Dinner on November 8, or to learn more about our luxurious accommodations, contact MacCallum House today.
96% of workers state that regular vacations are important to them. After all, taking a much needed vacation gives individuals working that nine to five grind some much needed time to unwind and enjoy their families away from all those stressful distractions.
However, sometimes your four-legged friend needs to tag along too. Pet owners can also benefit from bringing their dog on their vacation with their families. It’s cheaper than a kennel, and you don’t have to worry about your pup feeling left out.
If you’re planning on bringing your dog with you on your next vacation, continue reading to learn how to select the best canine and human friendly destination, as well as how to enhance their experience.
Selecting your mode of travel and destination
International destinations may not be a great idea
Try not to pick something too far that you’ll have to book a flight. Flights have been shown to promote your canine friend’s stress and anxiety. Not only is your animal in a new place bustling with new people, sights, and smells, the turbulence during the flight alone can put them in a state of distress. They also may not be able to ride with you if they are not an emotional support animal. However, this depends on the flight’s rules and regulations regarding pets.
But, you want this to be a relaxing vacation for the both of you, so save the international trip for some other time.
Road trips are optimal but plan ahead
Road trips, on the other hand, can be an enjoyable experience. However, if you are traveling more than four hours, plan ahead and find the best rest stops so your dog can stretch his legs and use the bathroom. This will also help prevent motion sickness, which can happen if your dog is in the backseat for too long. Some rest stops are even equipped with dog parks, so search the internet ahead of time to enhance your pet’s traveling experience.
Cottages: the ultimate pet-owner getaway
While some luxury hotels claim they are pet friendly, they are still quite small and may have plenty of restrictions on the dogs they allow.
If you crave something with ample space for your family and your pet, consider accommodation with a yard. This way, when it’s time to explore the city you’re in, you can play a quick game of fetch to wear your pet out. He’ll fall asleep and not even notice your absence.
Take your dog out to explore too
However, don’t plan on leaving them there the entire time. Search for a restaurant with a patio and take them out to lunch. Or find a nearby trail and take them for a walk. Dogs love to explore too!
Conclusion: Pet friendly cottages offer the best accommodations for you and your pet
Working a full-time job has its stressful moments. And everyone deserves a well earned vacation. Even your dog. If you do plan on having him tag along, make sure you abide by some of these guidelines. Though your first instinct may be to book a pet-friendly hotel, they don’t allow the freedom most pet friendly cottages do. You want your dog to feel relaxed, and not caged in, cottages, shorter road trips, and avoiding flights are all viable solutions.
