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As a wedding planner and floral designer based in Santa Barbara, I have had the pleasure of planning and designing many beautiful weddings at the Ritz Carlton Bacara. This iconic Santa Barbara resort is the perfect setting for a luxurious and unforgettable event.

I recently had the honor of planning and designing Matthew & Graeme’s wedding at the Bacara. Their ceremony was held on the resort’s stunning oceanfront lawn. The weather was perfect, and the views were simply breathtaking.

See Also: Matthew & Graeme’s Welcome Party

Creating a Dream Wedding Ceremony

For the ceremony, we created a custom half-circule stage adorned with a stunning multi-level floral installation. The carpeted aisle was lined with lush white roses, and the guests were seated under large custom wooden structures, with natural linen draping designed to mimic the movement of the ocean (and provide shade). 

One of the most striking features of the ceremony were the two large olive trees at the entrance of the aisle (that were created onsite), adding a dramatic entrance and sense of arrival. 

Wedding Cocktail Hour

Following their beautiful ceremony, Matthew and Graeme’s guests were invited to a sophisticated cocktail hour on the lawn. The lush greenery provided a stunning backdrop for the event, and the ample space allowed guests to mingle and enjoy the celebratory atmosphere. We brought in a custom navy blue bar, a custom built three-piece seating chart, velvet linens, and ghost chairs.  

And what’s a cocktail hour without a signature drink? Matthew and Graeme chose the classic French 75, a perfect choice for a celebratory occasion (featured on a beautiful custom bar menu). 

Bacara Wedding Reception

As the sun began to set, Matthew and Graeme’s guests were ushered into the transformed Rotunda Terrace for the wedding reception. This already beautiful space was elevated to new heights with a breathtaking design that perfectly captured the couple’s vision of modern elegance.

We spent hours installing lush greenery into the ceiling, intertwined with twinkle lights and modern pendants to create a lush, immersive experience.  The head table featured an overflowing garland of lush hydrangea and roses, sweeping to the floor. .

To add visual interest, we incorporated a mix of table styles. Some were draped in beautiful embroidered white linens, while others showcased the natural beauty of wood. Each table was adorned with lush white floral arrangements and elegant candlestick centerpieces, creating a romantic and sophisticated ambiance.

The white upholstered chairs added a touch of modern comfort, while navy blue velvet napkins and custom menus designed to resemble booklets provided sophisticated accents that tied the reception décor seamlessly to the cocktail hour.

 

A Dance Floor Fit for a Celebration

Just beyond the dining area, a dedicated space was created for dancing and merriment. A custom dance floor with a sleek marble look and the couple’s monogram took center stage, inviting guests to celebrate the night away. Intimate cocktail tables, each featuring a cordless lamp as its centerpiece, were scattered around the perimeter, creating cozy nooks for conversation and respite from the dance floor. Even the DJ booth received special attention, flanked by assembled olive trees that echoed the ceremony décor and brought the outdoors in.

The dance floor was further enhanced by the stunning overhead treatment. A navy velvet drape, reminiscent of the one used during the ceremony, cascaded from the ceiling, adding a touch of elegance and moodiness to the room. 

Dancing the Night Away: The After-Party

But the celebration didn’t stop there! Matthew and Graeme had one more surprise in store for their guests: a dazzling after-party. This more intimate setting was inspired by Studio 54, complete with a large wooden structure, disco balls, draping, and late night bites. 

Creating a Lasting Impression

Every detail of Matthew and Graeme’s Bacara wedding was carefully curated to create a luxurious and unforgettable experience for their guests. From the stunning ceremony on the oceanfront lawn to the sophisticated cocktail hour and the magical reception on the Rotunda Terrace, their wedding was a true celebration of love and commitment.

You May Also Like: A Classy Wedding at The Rosewood Miramar Resort

 

Planning, Florals, & Design: Tyler Speier

Venue, Catering, Dessert:  The Ritz Carlton Bacara

Specialty Rentals:  Theoni 

Rentals: The Tent Merchant

Specialty Linens: BBJ  Linen | LA TAVOLA, 

Photographer: Jenny Quicksall Photography

Videographer: Ashley & Jay Films

DJ/Band: Party Proper

Transportation: Santa Barbara Trolley Company

Lighting: Bella Vista Designs 

Stationary/Paper Goods: Sweet Zion Paperie 

Seating Chart/Welcome Sign/ Vow Books: K Designs

Officiate: Friend of Couple

Ceremony Writing: Vows and Speeches 

Tree Vendor: Jackson Shrub Supply

Drone Show: Drone Studios

IV Treatment: Restore