Intimate Wedding at San Ysidro Ranch and the Santa Barbara Courthouse

Katie and Ethan’s intimate wedding was full of love, warmth and gorgeous details. The couple were married in front of their closest friends and family at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse Sunken Gardens.

The ceremony was followed by beachfront cocktail hour at The Fess Parker and then dinner under the trees at San Ysidro Ranch, where the tables were set with gorgeous DIY succulent arrangements and spray painted antler centerpieces.

From the funky paper bridesmaids’ bouquets, to the succulent boutonnieres, to the homemade herb infused olive oil wedding favors, this wedding was full of handmade details created by the bride herself. I was so impressed with the amount of care Katie put into each and every detail, while still remaining so calm, laid back and fun on her wedding day. Katie’s Blush by Hayley Paige gown had just the right combination of sparkle and lace to go with the rustic chic vibe of the day; and the bridesmaids’ tulle skirt separates were so unique and made for great photos. Katie and Ethan made my dreams come true by giving me so much time for couple’s portraits in multiple locations (including the San Ysidro lavender fields at sunset, my personal fave). It also helps that these two are an insanely gorgeous couple; it felt like I was shooting an editorial half the time! One of my favorite parts of the day was when Katie’s dad surprised everyone by arranging an a capella group from UCSB to sing a few love songs during cocktail hour. I love shooting intimate weddings like this one because I get to see the newlyweds spend extended time interacting with each and every guest. Also the small guest list made it possible for everyone to ride on the trolley together betweens venues, which was so much fun!