There is no day quite like the Summer Solstice in Santa Barbara. For Abby and Zach’s wedding at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, we embraced the longest day of the year by leaning into maximum color, boundless energy, and the breathtaking backdrop of the Pacific Ocean.

An Oceanfront Ceremony & Custom Chuppah

The ceremony took place on The Bluff, where the deep blue of the ocean met bright and vibrant colors in the florals. We designed a custom chuppah that felt like a natural extension of the landscape, but with a custom scalloped fabric on top, making it feel crisp and clean.

Designing with Color: Summer Solstice Inspiration

For the reception, we wanted to bring that “Golden Hour” glow to the Rotunda Terrace. The design played with color, pattern, and texture to create bright and vibrant dinner party, bursting with elevated summer color:

• The Florals: Overflowing centerpieces featuring peonies, ranunculus, and garden roses in saturated summer hues.

• The Details: Patterned Linens, bright china, custom rounded menus painted to match the linens, a lush canopy of greenery overhead, and unique vases and decor on the head table.

• The Vibe: Joyful, bright, and curated to reflect the couple’s personalities.

The Ritz-Carlton Bacara Experience

A wedding at the Bacara is more than just an event; it’s a destination experience. From the Mediterranean architecture to the iconic cliffs, it provided the perfect canvas for a luxury wedding that felt both grand and intimate. Watching the sun set on the longest day of the year while the party kicked into high gear in the ballroom was a moment I won’t soon forget.

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“Abby and Zach’s wedding was a reminder that luxury doesn’t have to be muted. By embracing a bold, bright palette, we created a celebration that felt as warm and bright as the Summer Solstice itself.”

The Creative Team:

Planning, Florals, & Design: Tyler Speier

Venue: The Ritz Carlton Bacara

Specialty Rentals + Linens: Theoni Collection

Photographer: Ali Beck Photography

Content Creator: Q9 Creations 

Music: Ben Rose Music

Lighting: Bella Vista Designs

Wedding Invitations & Day-of Suite: K Designs

Hair & Makeup: Samara Beauty

Officiate/Rabbi: Rabbi Ron Segal

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Interested in planning a wedding at the Ritz Carlton Bacara? I’d love to help you bring your vision to life on the American Riviera – contact us here so we can start a conversation!