February 18, 2019
Danni and Ben’s first romantic weekend trip was to Santa Barbara, where they stayed at the iconic Belmond El Encanto. It quickly became their favorite hotel to escape to, and throughout the time they were dating, they enjoyed many relaxing weekends in Santa Barbara.
Given its sentimental value, a proposal at Belmond El Encanto seemed perfect. During a weekend trip, Ben popped the question in their rose-petal decorated room, while a fire crackled in the fireplace.
Family and friends traveled largely from the east coast, and guests enjoyed a weekend full of celebrations! Danni and Ben’s intimate Santa Barbara Courthouse wedding ceremony was followed by a reception dinner at Smithy Kitchen + Bar the following evening.
Their letterpress wedding invitations from Sugar Paper were elegant and classic, and simple gold trim added an extra pop of sophistication.
On Friday, Danni, Ben, and their immediate families gathered at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse for the wedding ceremony. Danni looked gorgeous in her soft pink strapless gown — custom designed by L’ezu.
The Santa Barbara Courthouse wedding ceremony took place outdoors, where the historic building and sunken garden made a perfect backdrop.
After the wedding ceremony, we took family photos at the nearby Alice Keck Memorial Gardens.
The next evening, Danni and Ben held an intimate reception for close family and friends at Smithy Kitchen + Bar. A delicate color palette set the mood for their winter California wedding.
Bud vases and candles lined long farmhouse tables, while a fire crackled in the fireplace. What a romantic Santa Barbara wedding reception!
Cakes by Colin created this masterpiece of a cake, which featured a contemporary wave pattern and rose gold trim. It looked beautiful against the Spanish-inspired architecture that is quintessential to Santa Barbara.
Ceremony Venue: Santa Barbara Courthouse | Reception Venue: Smithy Kitchen + Bar | Planning: Event of the Season | Florist: Casa Blanca Event Design | Hair: Andi Scarbrough | Makeup: 805 Makeup | Cake: Cakes by Colin | Ice Cream Station: McConnell’s Fine Ice Creams | DJ: Good Mood | Custom Wedding Gowns: L’ezu Bridal Atelier | Bridal Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Groom’s Attire: Hugo Boss & Ted Baker | Rings: JK & Co. Jewelers | Invitations: Sugar Paper | Calligraphy: Lisa Holtzman Calligraphy | Linen Rentals: La Tavola Linen