blog

Lighting

Wed, 09 May 2012 12:00:00 -0400

If there is one thing you must factor into your wedding, it is lighting. If neglected, your wedding will be basic. I hate to be blunt, but someone has to tell you! You want to create a warm, inviting atmosphere for your reception, while highlighting the beautiful décor and detracting from anything else. These days, planners and brides are getting creative with how they add illumination to their ceremony and reception space. To compliment a ritzy ranch theme, try using antique lanterns or rustic chandeliers. For a more elegant affair, think candelabras or crystal chandeliers. With options to accommodate all budgets, additional lighting will take your wedding from nice to WOW.

This space would be just a barn if it were not for the string lights. Too high of a ceiling will make any space feel cold and lost. Whereas adding these string lights of varying bulbs and quantities creates warmth and intimacy. Plus, it's a budget friendly option!

This outdoor reception is a stunner because of these beautiful lanterns! You don't notice the simplicity of the tablescape because your eye goes directly to the lighting. With rose petals and simple candlesticks, these lanterns bring more than just illumination to this reception.

This bride opted for gobo lights to help add texture and décor to a stark, cement wall. Gobo lights can project any image onto any surface to compliment your room. By accenting the tables with tall, white centerpieces and warm candles, this room is transformed into a beautiful winter wonderland!

Balloons

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 14:00:00 -0400

Some may say they are tacky, others may think "prom," but I am here to prove to you that yes, you can use balloons as décor for your wedding! Although we sometimes forget, your wedding is a celebration of your love for one another. You want to capture the festivity of your marriage and what better way to set the tone than with balloons! In order to keep this affair elegant, use oversized balloons of a round shape rather than oval and classic colors such as silver or white. These photos will make you think twice about incorporating balloons into your wedding:

Allow the balloons to accent a beautiful feature of your venue or reception space. This Parisian wedding mirrored the gorgeous black and white tiled floor with corresponding oversized balloons on the ceiling. Simple white strings hang straight down to create a dramatic effect as guests enter. Why does everything always seem better in Paris...

If you don't think balloons are appropriate for your venue, you can include them in your photo session. This couple used simple white balloons which accents her dress against the lush green field. It's a fun prop that will allow you both to loosen up and create unique photos.

The balloons here create a colorful archway so the newlyweds can exit in style. Some venues will not allow sparklers or confetti, so this is a great alternative to get your guests involved! Plus, balloons are inexpensive so you focus your funds on the bigger things. Like shoes!

Bride Organization

Mon, 23 Apr 2012 16:30:00 -0400

You are going to vendor appointments, scouring through Pinterest and attending as many bridal shows as one can stand. How do you manage all of your wedding thoughts aside from everyday life? Today, brides are getting creative to manage the countless details leading up to the big day. Whether they use internet bookmarks, apps or an organizer, I suggest finding your best method before embarking on your next appointment! Best of all, most apps and organizers come with helpful tips and "do not forget" tasks to take advantage of! Because we all know we can't do it on our own...

This organizer, like many, has separated tabs for each category - music, flowers, invitations, etc. More so, it has a calendar so you can stay on top of things that will get lost in the shuffle such as "when to discuss budgets with the families" and "when to get your hair colored." I love the shopping lists such as "what you need for your reception" and "who you need to buy gifts for."

This wedding app is brilliant! The perks of paying $9.99 for an app (I know, unheard of these days) is that you can store photos that inspire you, prepare your master seating, count meal selections and locate vendors nearby you! It is like having a virtual event planner. Plus it will countdown the days to your wedding and sends you helpful reminders.

Oh Martha, how you never cease to amaze us! For those creativity blessed brides who will have many DIYs for their wedding, Martha Stewart uses this idea to give you peace of mind on your big day. Since you will be busy primping and prepping before your call time, this photo box idea will be sure the staff sets up your displays just as you imagined them to be!

Wedding Chairs

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 14:00:00 -0400

I remember the first time I pointed out a chiavari chair at an event, people around me thought I was crazy! Who looks at the chairs when you are at an event? Me! Having the wrong chair for your wedding will ruin everything (OK, not really.) But if you think about it, there will be an abundance of chairs needed for your reception, so try to make them attractive to compliment the room. From sashes to covers, here are a few options to make your seats stand out!

If your venue provides you with chairs, you're in luck! Not only do you avoid the cost to rent chairs, but you now have some money to jazz them up. By utilizing a simple sash, you can transform a standard chair into a standout chair! Look at these two gorgeous ways to tie your sashes.

You may want your chairs to be invisible to your grand tablescape you have created. Consider this table - with bright cloths and multiple rich tones in the centerpieces, this table needed a chair that would blend in, not stand out. Using clear chairs can also highlight your room by reflecting the LED lighting as in this ceremony photo.

If you had chair covers in mind, think outside of the box and try a textured cover. From sequins to ruffles, there are many options to dress your chair beyond white polyester. Be sure it complements the theme of your reception. This petal pink ruffled option is a perfect match to this romantic and garden inspired look.

Wedding Signs

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 16:30:00 -0400

It is impossible to read a wedding blog or magazine today without seeing customized signs incorporated into the big day festivities. From ceremonies to photo sessions, brides and event planners are finding any excuse to utilize signs! A sign has become more than just informational or directional - they can display quirky sayings, verses of love or even jokes! One of my favorites is "I do" to indicate where the ceremony will take place and "I did" to take you to the reception! Here are a few more that caught my eye:

If you have any mini bridal party attendants, ask them to carry an introduction sign for your big entrance! All of these signs can be DIY but why not trust our artistic friends at Etsy to help do the work? It helps if you can find little ones that are this enthusiastic and adorable to be bearing their signs!

Liven up your photo session with a sign or two. This will help everyone take a break from the mundane wedding poses. Lauren and Chris opted for chalkboard signs which give them the option to change up their message! Whether they are sweet or sassy, you will enjoy looking back on your photo albums one day.

Think beyond the menu card trend and have your food & beverages framed! This menu board has an ornate ivory frame to display the chow on hand for the evening. Soiree Andover created this piece and suggested this to replace menu cards as the greener option for 2012.

Bridal Party Fashion

Wed, 28 Mar 2012 15:30:00 -0400

There is bridal party fashion, and then there is bridal. party. fashion. If you are one for stepping outside of the box to find ways to truly stand apart from the rest, take a chance with your bridal party's attire. A gorgeous trend The Knot has presented is to set a theme for your bridal party, rather than one dress or color. Not only will your photos replicate an editorial photo shoot, your bridal party will be thrilled to stand out amongst the rest of the group.

Be sure to choose a theme that corresponds with what you have planned already - your venue décor, time of day, and season. I am fond of a romantic theme. With soft colors and silhouettes, this theme will complement a variety of tastes and body shapes. Monique Lhuillier has a stunning collection of bridesmaids' dresses that are the epitome of romantic due to their pastel hues and chiffon textures. More so, selecting the dresses from the same designer and collection will help keep the look cohesive.

Look to your own bridal gown for inspiration as to what your theme should be. If you would describe your dress as formal - think ball gown or mermaid - a glamorous theme would be an appropriate fit for your party. The women here have a variety of textures and shapes however they are able to complement the look by keeping the colors from the same family. It is evident this bride's dress set the tone for this group of glamorous ladies!

When considering your theme for the men, be careful not to get too creative. Men are less likely to be OK with spending money and time trying to coordinate their own look. Make it easy for them! Have the groom select a pant and neck tie color and allow them to accessorize the rest on their own. These groomsmen went for a classic theme by incorporating bow ties, suspenders and standard gray. Be sure it balances with what the women are wearing!

Polka Dots

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 15:00:00 -0400

No you are not seeing spots; this is the latest trend for nuptials this year - Polka Dots! Designers have transformed a somewhat passé print into a chic motif for 2012. To incorporate this trend into your wedding, look for prints with smaller dots and in one color as to avoid anything near tacky. Polka dots can be a nice option for a whimsical or romantic wedding dress when it is white on white. If wearing polka dots is not your taste, you can incorporate this pattern into your cake, favors or décor. See if these spotty ideas have you convinced to try it out this year:

Monique Lhuillier's Lina encompasses a subtle dot print with an asymmetrical neckline. The corset top and sheer overlay adds an elegant touch to this fashion forward dress. Regardless of any trend, this dress will stand out amongst the rest this year.

This monochromatic petal pink cake is a beautiful accent to any style wedding. By keeping the colors muted, the large dot accents look fresh and modern. This pattern is an easy and economical way to add a touch of flare to your wedding.

This invitation reveals a vintage, oversized polka dot theme. The colors are from within the same color family which keeps this invitation elegant, not childlike. Your invitation sets the tone for your wedding to come, so be sure you pick the right theme!

Baby's Breath

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 16:00:00 -0500

Take everything you used to know about baby's breath and forget it. Last week at Catersource, the emperor, Preston Bailey, gave his two cents on the event industry. Included in his sermon was a new floral trend many weddings have adopted - mass arrangements of baby's breath! Because of its affordability, neutral color and cloud-like texture, baby's breath has regained its congeniality in the bud department! Take a look at some beautiful ways to incorporate this once shunned flower into your big day!

A stunning winter wedding here felt warmer because of the immense baby's breath centerpieces. This bride was able to reach a greater altitude by arranging heaps of baby's breath on a simple pedestal. By adding a few strands of crystals, this wedding made everyone gasp as they entered the room. Including me!

I covet this dessert table and for once it's not because of the confectionary indulgences! The flowers and candles take this table to another level of amazement. Using baby's breath as a filler exudes a whimsical and romantic emotion. More so, it will compliment weddings throughout all seasons. Why are we just figuring this out now!

If you already established your centerpieces and dessert tablescape, you could incorporate baby's breath into your ceremony! Nothing makes for a more grand entrance (or fabulous pictures) than adding some décor to your ceremony aisle. Take some pressure off of your flower girls and try these short pedestal arrangements down the aisle. If these pedestals aren't your taste, you could use pastel painted buckets or antique glass vases. For such a small price to pay, you can transform your ceremony from aw to wow!

The Dress

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 16:00:00 -0500

As I scour through videos of Bridal Fashion Week, I can't help but notice a few trends that all 2012/2013 B2B should know. Let's be serious - it does not take a rocket scientist to figure out that Kate Middleton's Sarah Burton dress would spark a wave of lace and sleeve adorned gowns around the bridal markets. However take a look at some other unique yet gorgeous dresses the designers conjured up this year:

I am sure you are beginning to see peplum dresses throughout retail store fronts' Spring inspired looks. The overskirt silhouette aims to accentuate a tiny waist and give the allusion of an hour glass figure. GENIUS! So why wouldn't the wedding industry capitalize on this trend as well?! Isaac Mizrahi gives us a glamorous yet figure flattering, ivory masterpiece.

The Illusion neckline is your new best friend. Not only does it add sheer elegance to any dress, this delicate fabric can be a compromise to your super conservative MIL (Mother in Law) to be! With adornments from lace to beading, there are many styles to choose from. Amen to Claire Pettibone for combining elegance and sophistication in this to-die-for dress.

Take your wedding dress, and turn it inside out. The exposed horsehair (not really) under layer you see is back on the runway this year for its lightweight yet full-bodied look. Many brides found this option suitable for summer weddings, as it appears (and feels) airy and light, yet formal. Thank you to one of our founding mothers, Reem Acra, for this sweetheart gown which encompasses the inside out trend beautifully.

Cleanse

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 16:00:00 -0500

You are constantly prepping your hair, make up, nails, skin and body for the biggest day of your life. What if I told you there is a way to speed this process along to glowing skin, more energy and a flatter stomach! My secret weapon for brides in 2012 is the BluePrintCleanse. This raw, organic juice cleanse has been highly reviewed by everyone from Elle to Vogue, Bloomberg Businessweek to The Wall Street Journal! As a bride, you will find their "Bride to BPC" packages a gift from the wedding gods! As a devoted BPCer, I vow that this cleanse is easy and fun, especially when the results are physically visible!

Just like you have a planner for your wedding, now you have one for your cleanse! You lucky brides will be assigned a bridal concierge to guide you to the right cleanse package for you. All four packages offer discounts that I can't even get! Furthermore, you receive bridal rewards such as discounts and preferred rates at some of the best spas, hotels and more!

The BPC slogan, "we think, you drink," is what keeps me coming back for more. You will receive a pretty, blue box delivered to your doorstep, and this is when your journey begins! The bottles come clearly marked for drinking order. Since they do the thinking, all you have to do is drink! Be sure to schedule your cleanse during a slow week without parties, dinners, outings. This way you can focus and not be tempted by food!

There are three levels to choose from, based on your typical eating habits. The higher the level, the more vegetable juices you will drink. If you enjoy a burger and fries, and find it hard to incorporate vegetables and fruits on a daily basis, I would try level one, Renovation. If you frequent the gym, find salads delicious yet still eat meat, I would try the Foundation level - my go to! For the organic, whole fooders, your happy place is the Excavation level. All three levels will do the trick, just be honest when making your selection for a better experience and results!

The Groom

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 -0500

It is about time we started to show the Grooms some love! Let's face it, you know your bride will take the reins and will consult with her mom, friends and trusted blogs for insight on wedding planning. However, if it weren't for the grooms (and the shiny rock on her finger) this wedding wouldn't be happening! I agree that it is good to know your place when it comes to linens, flowers and color schemes questions. However, don't forget you do have some decisions to make. Let's start with your attire. Remember: there are no rules today when it comes to weddings, but we still want you to look good!

There are many factors to consider before you can select a tuxedo or suit. Location, time of day and season all play a vital role, much to your dismay. If you're booked at a hotel on a Saturday evening, a black tuxedo is most appropriate. Whereas a Saturday afternoon wedding in the summer would allow for a more casual look, such as a suit. Think, and of course consult with your bride before you decide!

There is always a debate whether to wear a bow or an ascot tie. Some men see a bow tie as outdated, resembling what their father's wore. Others see it as classic, and an essential piece to their tuxedo. Either way, be sure to wear what you are most comfortable in, and what matches! Would a bow tie be appropriate at your destination wedding? Maybe not. But if its a fun print, why not!

A shirt is no longer just a shirt when it comes to your wedding. After you have selected the tuxedo or suit, bow or ascot, then you can select your shirt. That is where Alexander West comes in! The New York based designer provides handsome details in his seven various tuxedo shirts. If you don't see anything that sparks your interest, you can custom make your shirt with him!

Accessories

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 11:00:00 -0500

I know that I enjoy accessories more than the garment most of the time. The same could be true for you and your wedding! From embellished bouquet holders to unique cake toppers, there are endless ways to let the true you shine through on your wedding day. Oh, and the groom too... Most brides are looking for a wow factor or simply something different from the last three wedding you attended. It's all in the details!

These champagne flutes will make your guests look twice. Bottomless classic flutes have frosted stems and are held in a simple vase. You can engrave the vase rather than the glasses for another twist. Fill the vase up with something to compliment your theme - sand, crystals or even ice!

There are endless options for your cake topper. Be sure to pick something that represents you and your groom. You could go as far as to order a cake topper to look like you and your groom! If that is too scary for you, I found his crystal topper to be eye catching! The options are endless!

Kick your floral up a notch with a beautiful bouquet holder. From Swarovski crystals to Birchwood, there is something for everyone and every budget. I found this silver holder classic and elegant. You can engrave it with your wedding date, your name & groom's name, or a special quote. Consider it a family heirloom or tradition that you both can start!

New Year's Eve

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 14:00:00 -0500

To have a New Year's Eve wedding or not to have a New Year's Eve wedding. Brides ask every year, and my answer remains the same - YES! Let's be serious, you know you never have exciting plans anyways, unless you consider a bottle of wine and Chinese food exciting? Do your guests a favor and grant them an excuse to dress up! Nothing about this holiday is ordinary - think silver and black, glamorous attire, a late ceremony, lots of sparkle and noise makers. This sounds like a great party to me!

Any excuse to use this website, I will take! Stoney Creek Wine Press is an easy to use website that allows you to customize your own wine labels. For NYE, why not make a label for mini champagne bottles! Whether these are your favors or just décor, these bottles will add a bubbly touch to your NYE wedding. FYI - most venues do not allow you to open these during the reception!

Less is never more, especially on NYE. The more your reception sparkles the better! This is your chance to have your bakery incorporate some disco dust (or edible glitter) into your confectionary pieces. How gorgeous are these monogrammed cake pops!

Let the countdown begin! Be sure to provide noise makers and hats and gather everyone on the dance floor to celebrate the ball drop. Ask your venue ahead of time if they can set up a projection screen to be on as the clock strikes midnight. You could incorporate the clock theme into your table design like this gorgeous gold creation!

Christmas Season

Fri, 18 Nov 2011 11:00:00 -0500

As much as we love to divulge in everything wedding each week, come November our focus switches from wedding bells to sleigh bells! Not to worry, I've decided to incorporate topics that can be used in your wedding or holiday planning. You're welcome! Just yesterday I was pulling images on Pinterest for Christmas dessert tables while recruiting my confectionary-friendly friends. All that you have learned for planning your wedding will translate into holiday planning! From gifts to centerpieces, let's get started so you won't be too far behind your "I am already done shopping" friends.
I found the gift for the person who has everything - allpopart.com! Rated as one of Oprah's favorite things - enough said - this team of artists offers a variety of styles to transform any picture of your choice into a one of a kind work of art! I personally adore the Black & White Couples Comic Strip and Warhol Pet Portraits!

Just as we learned how to design a candy bar for your wedding, you can use the same techniques for a holiday dessert table. Considering its winter, here is your chance to serve heartier desserts such as cookies and cakes and less on the candy. And don't think you have to stick with a red and green theme, check out this unexpected holiday color scheme!

Should you be a guest and not the hostess (lucky you) this is a great gift to bring that doubles as a treat! This DIY candy cane vase can be made with items found in your house. By simply applying double stick tape around a short cylinder vase and slipping each candy cane under a rubber band, you can create this gorgeous display. Cover up the rubber band with a ribbon and add roses and voila!

Shoes

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 14:30:00 -0500

This year, less is not more when choosing your bridal shoe. Just as you see in the pages of your gossip magazines (you remorsefully buy) you will see in weddings in 2012. From vibrant hues to spike embellishment, the options are growing outside of the white dyeable box. Your shoes should compliment you and your wedding, whether its beach casual or high glamour. As much as you want to push the envelope, never sacrifice comfort for style on this day!

As we discussed before, your something blue can be in your shoe. Or it can be pink, green, or glitter! Many brides are opting for shoes that are not found in the bridal aisle. Whatever hue you choose, be sure to keep your hem long enough as to not distract attention away from your dress!

Please, please, please do not wear sneakers to your wedding! There are many horizontal options for the balance deprived bride. From wedges to ballet flats, designers are offering something for everyone. Etsy, oh how I love thee, has a glass slipper inspired shoe adorned with a Swarovski crystal bow of your choice!

If bright colors and sequins aren't for you, here is your excuse to buy a fabulous designer shoe you wouldn't normally buy! These elegant pink Christian Louboutin heels are a beautiful accent to any wedding. They are also a perfect accent to any other moment in your life - grocery shopping, gardening, and vacuuming.... any excuse to wear Louboutin.

Winter Wedding

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 15:30:00 -0400

Whether we like it or not, winter is here! Let's make the best out of this October snow storm and discuss WINTER WEDDINGS! Living in New England, most brides know the risk of picking a wedding date between the months of November and March. However, I believe the chances of having a perfect summer day are just as good as having a beautiful winter day! Think: outside photos amongst snow covered trees, a silver and white theme and snowflake inspired décor! If you can enjoy the beauty winter can bring, here are some tips on creating a wonderful winter wedding:

For those beautiful outdoor photos with a snow covered landscape (should you be so lucky), you will need something to keep you warm! From fur to sheepskin, hooded capes to shawls, there are endless options for winter brides these days. If you don't see yourself wearing this piece again, ask your retailer if you can rent it for the day!

I am in love with any type of branches used in wedding décor. It is most appropriate for a winter wedding and in a beautiful white hue! Incorporate these in your centerpieces, amongst your ceremony seating or along your reception room perimeter to set a winter tone. You can use the branches alone or add crystals, lighting or flowers to dress them up!

Modify your menu to include an array of winter inspired provisions! Why not serve white hot chocolate or spiced wine as your guests arrive. Hors D'Oeuvres can include passed mini shots of your favorite seasonal soup! And for your finale, delight your guests with a late night treat such as churros!

Wedding Dress

Fri, 28 Oct 2011 15:30:00 -0400

There comes a time in a bride's hunt for the perfect dress where she will try on a gown that is just "too big," "too heavy" or "too fancy" but she loves it! Today, brides are fulfilling the best of both worlds by buying two dresses - a bridal gown for your ceremony and a wedding dress for your reception! Most brides will find their ceremony dress first - let's be serious, layers of tulle and sparkle have never been a problem for you. Therefore I thought it would be helpful to provide some tips on how to select your second dress:

Is it too short? Is it too young? These are the most FAQs when a bride is looking for her second dress. My answer is yes, be careful on length and necklines! This dress stood out to me because it is a great length, especially for you tall brides, with the perfect amount of flair!

I can't help but love this dress. The brilliant Sue Wong applied ostrich feathers and crystals to create the ultimate reception dress. The empire waist is flattering and comfortable so you will be able to boogie down! When else will you have a chance to wear something like this!

Some brides incorporate their heritage into their second dress. You can do this in its entirety by wearing a traditional garb or you could incorporate colors, beadwork or jewelry into a dress of your choice. This dress has beautiful beaded details with a traditional silhouette.

The Cake

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 17:15:00 -0400

The forecast for 2012 is romantic colors, minimal design and longer lengths. No, I am not talking about gowns, I am talking about cakes! The trends for wedding cakes are tracked as much as the garments during NY Fashion Week! From exotic flavors to higher altitudes, wedding cakes for 2012 are better than ever. It was a common discussion in 2011 among many B2B whether a wedding cake is necessary these days. Here I lend you my insight on why a wedding cake can serve more than just your final course.

Just like bell bottoms, neon and fringe, we often see old trends make a comeback. In 2012, expect to see a modern version of your mother's cake, minus the plastic columns! Taller and deeper sizes create a dramatic profile, so tone it down by keeping the details minimal.

Do you ever make that argument that a chocolate covered strawberry is good for you because its fruit? Well you can feel just as "guilt free" if you opt for a trendy exotic fruit flavored cake! From pomegranate to orange chocolate, not only will these flavors tickle your taste buds, they look good next to a sometimes boring white or brown cake.

Gone are the days of matching your bridesmaids to your flowers to your linens and beyond. Incorporate romantic colors of ivory, pale pink and cream. This will have you looking back at your wedding and NOT saying "what was I thinking?!"

Guest Book

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 11:30:00 -0400

A traditional piece that is often lost in the shuffle, the guest book is starting to make its return in unexpected ways. Traditionally, the wedding guests were considered witnesses of the nuptials and were required to sign the marriage document. As rules have changed, the guests now sign a book with well wishes and testimonials as a keepsake for the B&G. Recently I've seen a few guest book ideas that would make a lasting impression on your guests, and keep it from getting stored in the attic!

A great website called ipuzzle.com allows you to easily create your own guest book puzzle! By simply sending them a photo of your choice, they will hand cut a wooden puzzle in shapes that are large enough for a short note and signature. Post wedding, you can frame it for a keepsake! My suggestion would be to get a two sided frame so you can still read your guests messages.

Have you considered having a photo booth at your wedding? You can imagine as the night goes on, the pictures get better! Most companies can make you a book of the photos from the night or you can DIY! Have your guests add their photos next to their message in your guest book as a fun way to remember your big day! And props are a MUST!

I think the traditional guest book idea withered away because it typically gets put on a shelf hidden by other books (that you don't read!). A great way to keep your wedding memories alive is to have your guests sign a stone, seashell or anything you choose and house them in a large vase. I like using a silver or gold pen to give a subtle shimmer!

Destination: Santa Barbara

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 17:00:00 -0400

On my recent travels to the West Coast, I discovered a hidden gem. Well, it's not so hidden but for us Bostonians who rarely leave the city, it was a discovery! The Fess Parker's DoubleTree Resort in Santa Barbara is a 24 acre getaway located on the beach, encompassed by the Santa Ynez Mountains. It is more beautiful than I can describe in words - no wonder it has been rated one of the "best places for a wedding reception" on The Knot for over three years. Here are a few gems that make the Fess Parker a treasure:

Location, Location, Location! Santa Barbara not only boasts a "perfect climate" year round, it offers the best shopping, harbors, artists and vineyards! I frequented a few vineyards (or six) and the same night was back in Santa Barbara for dinner on State Street. The central location and nearby airport will allow your guests to extend their trip for some R&R!

(The Fess Parker sits between the ocean and the mountains.)

They offer a variety of locations for your ceremony and reception on site. I was most impressed with their Plaza del Sol and Upper Rotunda. With a 180 degree view of the ocean and mountains, you and your guests can enjoy the sun and stars in this open space. FYI - they suggest additional lighting and space heaters to keep everyone comfortable and this is an additional cost.

(I was able to catch a glimpse of the plaza just as they were setting up for a wedding. Check out that view!)

Although I did not meet a restaurant I did not like in Santa Barbara, I did find one that stood out amongst the rest. Brophy Brothers is located in the harbor with views of the Pacific and the surrounding mountains. Their award winning seafood and chowder will wow your guests! It is always a packed house however they do offer their clam bar on the first level for private parties of 30 or less, so choose your guests wisely!