"Beauty Begins the Moment You Decide to Be Yourself" SS26 Editor's Note
A note from our Editor
December 8, 2025
Every issue, I endeavor to create something that feels fresh, creative and full of heart. And in this lies the eternal question: what truly makes a wedding unique? As Coco Chanel says, it’s you. Your relationship, your culture, your family—even your fashion—all these beautiful muses tell the story of you.
This issue of California Wedding Day celebrates bold, personal choices—from fashion-forward accessories (page 62) like Lucite bangles and lily-adorned chokers to dreamy bridal gowns that blend vintage romance with modern details (page 50).
Led by the incredible team at Kristin Banta Events, we took on the challenge of designing a one-of-a-kind ceremony altar at Ojai’s newest venue, Topa Vista. Together with Orla Floral Studio, KBE created from scratch a diaphanous fabric structure that perfectly framed the Topatopa Mountains as dusk painted the skyline in a rose-colored palette (page 72).
If you’re looking for inspiration that feels authentically you, explore our curated selection of real weddings brimming with heartfelt details (pages 24, 26, 131). We also journeyed to Italy for a little bella vita—from the Amalfi Coast (page 20) to sun-soaked Tuscany (page 38). Plus, we share the latest trends in color palettes (page 32), heels (page 22) and catering (page 36).
Ultimately, I hope this issue reminds you that your love story is the most beautiful detail of all.
Here’s to the dream!
Lara Burnap
ig: @lara_irondiamond
