Lana and Michael dreamt of having a destination wedding; after attending events in several gorgeous locations, namely Cabo San Lucas and Aruba, they imagined a low-key, intimate, barefoot on the beach type of day… However, when it came time to planning, they were surprised when they found they actually wanted something a bit more traditional — held in a church, with all of their friends and family in attendance.
Lana shares I realized that ever since I could begin to envision my own wedding, I was always drawn to gorgeous historic churches and missions. Their stories are so fascinating to me, and I’ve always loved the romantic feel of them. Additionally, I wanted to incorporate my beautiful Mexican culture in the wedding as well. As soon as we laid our eyes on El Presidio Chapel & Casa De La Guerra in Santa Barbara, we knew we had to run with it! Beijos Events came in to help them incorporate touches of Lana’s heritage, along with giving the day a traditional, yet laid-back California feeling.
Let’s see how their special day in Santa Barbara came together, in the photos by Megan Welker, shall we?
Cool, elegant, yet slightly relaxed with the natural paper + use of watercolor florals. This invitation suite is by Meghann Miniello.
Lana’s ‘maids donned Show Me Your Mumu gowns, and we’re quite fond of the subtle hue.
Hello dapper gents!! The men rocked navy blue suits from Macy’s.
We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that stunning Marchesa gown!! And the way it gracefully falls off her shoulders… Ooh la LOVE.
That blue + crimson combo!!
I don’t know whether having a traditional venue reminded me of going to Catholic school growing up, or going to church on Sundays with my parents and grandparents… but it just felt like home.
I would say it's a tie between my beautiful niece accidentally falling on the altar while twirling in her gown like a little princess (it was the cutest thing and the priest made a joke about it) and the Mariachi band parading us from the chapel to the reception.
The creamy white roses paired with the dark red ones, and peachy pink accents… How gorgeous is this bouquet by Bloom Babes?!
WHAT. A. CELEBRATION!
Processional: And I Love Her by The Beatles
Recessional: Brown Eyed Girl by Van Morrison
First Dance: All I Want is You by U2
We’re in absolute awe over this table seating chart! Simple, sophisticated, and utterly cool.
The darling table number flags are by Paper White Designs.
Want to achieve a similar look? Here are a few of our favorite picks:
Carousel
Carousel
Such a gorgeous spread for the sweetheart table!
I am lucky enough to have a very creative sister who loves to plan parties and she is amazing at what she does. She reminded me to just embrace the planning process. This is your time to be creative and have fun with it. Make it your own. Once you have done everything you can, remember to let go. Enjoy yourself. Be in the moment. Imperfections are what makes the party unique and fun!
Cheers to the two of you!
Want to take a deeper look into this Santa Barbara celebration? Check out this sweet video by Amari Productions.
photography: Megan Welker // venue name: El Presidio Chapel & Casa De La Guerra, Santa Barbara, California, USA // event design: Beijos Events // planning: Beijos Events // florals: Bloom Babes // wedding dress: Marchesa // bridesmaid dresses: Show Me Your Mumu // hair stylist: Hikari Murakami // makeup artist: Hikari Murakami // groom attire: Macy's // videography: Amari Productions // paper goods: Meghann Miniello // calligraphy: Blot & Dot // handmade details: Paper White Designs // cake: Beverly's Best Bakery // tabletop rentals: Otis & Pearl // furniture rentals: Letter and Grain // specialty rentals: Circa Rentals // music: AMS Productions
The details… and the chapel… and the Mariachi band… Wow!!