As a Santa Barbara wedding planner, designer, and florist, I find that private estates can offer lots of flexibility for site-specific design. Rachel and Zach’s wedding at a private estate in Carpinteria was designed to highlight the coastal landscape, utilizing natural textiles and organic textures to complement the Pacific Ocean views.

A Meadow Ceremony Overlooking the Ocean

The ceremony took place on a lawn overlooking the water. To avoid obstructing the horizon, we designed a low, lush meadow of textured blooms. This “grown-from-the-earth” floral installation framed the couple without competing with the natural scenery. We focused on varied floral shapes and heights to create depth within the organic design.

Open-Air Reception with Natural Elements

The reception was held in a custom open-air structure, allowing guests to remain connected to the coastal environment. The design prioritized raw materials and residential aesthetics:

• Lighting: We installed natural ceramic pendants to provide a warm, architectural glow.

• Tablescapes: Natural wood tables remained uncovered, paired with residential-style chairs. The place settings featured natural ceramic china and coordinating ceramic candle holders.

• Dance Floor: A custom painted tile dance floor served as a central focal point, drawing inspiration from classic California coastal architecture.

Designing for the California Coast

For a Santa Barbara private estate wedding, the goal is often to make the infrastructure feel as though it belongs to the property. By utilizing a “natural” look and feel—raw wood, ceramics, and meadow-style florals—we achieved a sophisticated aesthetic that felt integrated into the Carpinteria bluffs.

For more private estate wedding inspiration, check out this beautiful wedding in Beverly Hills.

Planning, Florals, & Design: Tyler Speier

Photographer: Ali Beck Photography

Specialty Rentals: Theoni Collection

Lighting: Bella Vista Designs

Rentals: The Tent Merchant

Catering: Catering Connection

DJ: Party Proper Productions

Hair + Makeup: Samara Beauty

Day-of Suite: K Designs

Transportation: Santa Barbara Air Bus

Bathroom:  Major Event Trailers