Just outside of West Salem, West Hills Vineyards offers a unique event space for weddings, family events, and community gatherings. At the heart of this picturesque venue is the Gulick family—Jim and Myrna Gulick, along with their daughters Jenny and Lisa—who purchased the historic property in 2020 and have carefully preserved its rich heritage while transforming it into a welcoming and versatile event space.
A Family with a Vision for Preservation
When the Gulick family first laid eyes on the property, they knew they had found something special. With a long history dating back to the mid-1800s, the land had passed through generations, its roots deeply entwined with Salem’s early pioneers. “Our family purchased this property in 2020, and it was quite the year for everyone,” Jenny shared, reflecting on the vineyard’s beginnings. “We were the first outside family to own it, and it came with so much history. It felt like a responsibility to preserve that.”
The centerpiece of this history is the Governor’s House, a farmhouse built in the 1850s from old-growth timber. The house was originally destined for demolition, but after learning about its past—thanks to research from the Salem Historical Society—the Gulicks decided to save it. “We didn’t even know it was the governor’s house until people started telling us,” Jenny said. “The more we learned, the more we realized how much this place meant to the local history.”
Photo Credit: Noel Emily Photography
The home has since been restored and even includes preserved elements like balloon-style construction and insulation made from newspapers dating back to the early 1900s. Jenny and her family continue to work closely with historians, and they’ve even applied to have the Governor’s House added to the Federal Historic Registry, ensuring its legacy for years to come.
A Space for Weddings and Celebrations
Beyond its historical significance, West Hills Vineyards is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after wedding and event spaces in the Salem area. With multiple unique venues on the property, it’s a place where the old meets the new, creating a charming atmosphere for any event.
One of the standout features is the chapel that the family added to the property, a space that blends perfectly with the historical ambiance of the vineyard. “We just knew we needed a chapel here,” Jenny explained. “It fit the property so well, and it gives couples a special place to get married or host other intimate events.” The chapel has already hosted weddings, memorial services, and even community events like Casino Night.
Photo Credits: Hot Tea Media and Noel Emily Photography
In addition to the indoor spaces, the outdoor event areas are a favorite for large gatherings. A 20,000-square-foot tented lawn, along with gazebos and pavilions, provides ample room for outdoor weddings, corporate events, and family reunions. “We designed it to be flexible and comfortable, while still honoring the land’s history,” Jenny said. The wide-open space allows for creative setups, from traditional wedding ceremonies to more casual events with outdoor games and fire pits.
For those looking for a more rustic feel, the tasting room—once a farm stand built in the 1930s—offers a cozy spot for gatherings. This space was originally used to sell apples and peaches grown by the farm’s original owners, and it still carries the charm of its past, complete with the original flower cooler used by the florist who lived on the property in the 1940s.
Photo Credits: Hot Tea Media and Noel Emily Photography
More Than a Venue: A Gathering Place for the Community
West Hills Vineyards isn’t just a venue for private events—it’s become a hub for the local community. The Gulick family is passionate about offering a space where people from West Salem and beyond can gather to celebrate, connect, and make memories. “We wanted this to be a place for the community, somewhere people can come together,” Jenny explained.
One of the traditions that the Gulicks have revived is the Holiday House, a festive event that brings local vendors, shoppers, and families together. The tradition was started by the previous owner of the property, a florist who loved decorating for the holidays. “She had Christmas trees everywhere and even sold ornaments out of her home,” Jenny said. “We’ve continued that tradition with our own Holiday House event, featuring local artisans, wine, and Christmas décor.”
The Holiday House is just one of many events the vineyard hosts each year. From intimate family gatherings to large corporate events, the Gulick family works closely with local vendors to make every event special. “We’ve built relationships with florists, caterers, and other local businesses to create something unique for each event,” Jenny said. “Our goal is to make sure that when people come here, they feel like they’re part of something special.”
Welcoming Guests for Any Occasion
Whether it’s a wedding, a family reunion, or a community celebration, West Hills Vineyards offers something for everyone. The Gulick family’s attention to detail, their respect for history, and their commitment to creating a welcoming space have made the vineyard a beloved destination in the Salem area.
“People tell us all the time how much they feel at home here,” Jenny said. “We’ve even had families who celebrated their wedding with us come back to host holiday gatherings or memorial services. It’s a place where people can come together for life’s big moments, and that’s what we always wanted.”
With its beautiful blend of history and modern convenience, West Hills Vineyards wedding and event space in Salem, Oregon is truly a place where memories are made. From the preserved Governor’s House to the newly built chapel, the Gulicks have created a space that honors the past while offering endless possibilities for the future.
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Sep. 9th, 2024