Santa Barbara Fairytale: A Wedding at Belmond El Encanto
Enchanting doesn't even begin to describe Merissa and Matt’s wedding at the Belmond El Encanto in Santa Barbara. Nestled amidst the rolling hills, this iconic venue provided the perfect backdrop for their romantic celebration, and the magic was palpable from the very first moment.
California Dreaming
As a Santa Barbara wedding photographer, I've had the privilege of capturing countless beautiful weddings, but Belmond El Encanto holds a special place in my heart. The venue exudes a timeless elegance, with its Spanish Colonial Revival architecture and meticulously landscaped gardens. Merissa and Matt took full advantage of this picturesque setting, opting for an outdoor ceremony in the lush courtyard of their private room. The lily pond, sparkling in the afternoon sun, added a touch of whimsy to the scene where we took couples portraits, while the breathtaking panoramic views of the Santa Barbara coastline left everyone speechless.
A Ceremony Filled with Love
The ceremony itself was a heartfelt affair, overflowing with love and laughter. Merissa, radiant in a classic lace gown, walked down the aisle towards a beaming Matt. Their vows were heartfelt and personal, filled with promises of forever and inside jokes that had the guests wiping away happy tears.
Golden Hour Glow
As the golden hour bathed the gardens in a warm, ethereal light, we stole Merissa and Matt away for some portraits. The sprawling lawns, vibrant flowers, and the iconic red-tiled roof of the Belmond El Encanto provided a picture-perfect backdrop for their love story.
Elegant Outdoor Reception
The festivities continued outside on the upper Channel Islands terrace where the couple had their intimate wedding reception. The terrace was transformed into a dreamy dining area filled with soft candlelight, delicate wild florals, and earth tone details.
As the night unfolded, heartfelt toasts were delivered by the maid of honor and best man, filled with funny stories and touching memories of the couple. Laughter filled the air as guests reminisced about their adventures with Merissa and Matt.
The evening culminated in a romantic first dance, followed by the reveal of a truly unique dessert display – a tower of glazed donuts in an array of flavors, replacing the traditional wedding cake. Guests delighted in this playful twist, perfectly reflecting the couples personalities.
The evening culminated in a romantic first dance under the stars, followed by the reveal of a truly unique dessert display – a towering pyramid of glazed donuts in an array of flavors, replacing the traditional wedding cake. Guests delighted in this playful twist, perfectly reflecting Stephanie and Michael's personalities.
A Night to Remember
Merissa and Matt's wedding at Belmond El Encanto was a true fairytale come to life. From the stunning scenery to the heartfelt ceremony and the joyous reception, every detail was meticulously planned and flawlessly executed. It was a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories, and I feel incredibly honored to have been a part of it.
Are you dreaming of a Santa Barbara wedding?
Belmond El Encanto is the perfect venue for couples seeking a romantic and elegant celebration. Contact their wedding specialist today to start planning your dream day!
Vendor Credits:
Photography: Jillian Rose Photography
Venue: Belmond El Encanto
Catering: Belmond El Encanto
Floral Design: Coco Rose
Planning: Amber Weir
Beauty: Team Hair and Make-up
Keywords: Santa Barbara Wedding Photographer, Belmond El Encanto Wedding, Santa Barbara Wedding Venues, California Wedding Photography