On the Ranch: Ralph Lauren Equestrian Style in Trend-Setting Wedding Design at TERI Campus of Life

Tucked inside the working stable at TERI Campus of Life in San Marcos, Michelle Garibay Events brings a restrained sense of luxury to a naturally rugged setting. “The inspiration was the stable, which is a beautiful combination of grace and elegance, and the earthiness that is equestrian life—dirt, wood and leather,” says Garibay. “As a horse owner myself, this combination is lovely and familiar for its simplicity.”

The invitation suite was inspired by a luxury, Ralph Lauren EQUESTRIAN style, focusing on warm tones and a masculine, PREPPY aesthetic.

–Kayla Ursillo, Papermade Studio

A stunning king’s table adorned with rich details is nestled among the horse stalls in the Harriet E. Pfleger Therapeutic Equestrian Center—which is home to TERI's therapy horses, such as social butterfly Willie, that are key players in the organization’s mission to support the special needs community. “An important thing to remember when choosing a non-traditional venue is that they have a main purpose and use,” explains Garibay. “So, they may not be pristine in every detail, but that is the draw to these types of spaces.”

The chairs were the first detail I selected. I loved how they reminded me of the OLD WEST formality and attire, and how they also BRIGHTENED up the space in general.

–Michelle Garibay, Michelle Garibay Events

Ruffled flowers, including butterfly ranunculus, lisianthus and sweet peas, arranged in wood compotes evoke a romantic aesthetic. “I wanted the florals to feel moody in their color while maintaining movement in the structure,” explains Kait Boisnard of French Girl Florals. “Whether through texture, color, or shape, each bloom was chosen because it spoke to another ingredient in the recipe.”

A display of Old-Fashioned cocktails garnished with an orange twist and a Luxardo cherry invites guests to be seated for dinner. “I love an interactive seating display,” says Garibay. “It becomes another element of anticipation to keep guests engaged; the event flow moves, and it builds excitement as we transition to dinner.” Just be sure to always include a non-alcoholic option, advises Melissa Duffey of Mixology by Melissa.

To cap off the night, a showstopping cake features a rough-edged fondant wrap dusted with cocoa powder to create the illusion of leather.

A wedding cake is not just about SWEETNESS on the tongue; it's about the sweetness in MEANING. It represents love, unity, celebration, identity and MEMORY all layered together—just like the cake itself.

–Laura Westhoven, Laura Marie Cakes