European Style Wedding at Ritz-Carlton Bacara in Santa Barbara

Rachel and Orry’s marriage was a long time in the making, from a proposal on the beaches of Malibu after a 17-state road trip to their first dance to the classic Etta James song “At Last.” The couple’s dreamy wedding transported their family and friends to a European-inspired setting in Santa Barbara. Every detail, from the bride’s gown by Spanish design brand Yolancris to the florals and décor, was influenced by the beauty of the Mediterranean coast. The wedding design incorporated bold pinks, muted greens and accents of blue together with natural elements such as the rattan in the light fixtures and chairs. Although rain loomed on their big day (with torrential downpours, no less), Rachel and Orry were still able to tie the knot as planned, outside and atop a bluff overlooking the Pacific. The drizzle that began mid-ceremony didn’t put a damper on their exchange of vows, and fortunately, the downpour held off until after the cocktail hour. With the rain plan in place, dinner was served under a clear tent on Bacara’s terrace, among candles and lush flowers and enveloped by velvet drapes. “The tent created such a cozy, warm atmosphere, and the pictures in this space turned out beautiful,” says Rachel. “I think our favorite part of the day had to be our dinner, because it was just such a beautiful ambiance, and everyone really felt the love.” After the ceremony, Rachel switched her elegant lace bridal gown for a stylish fringed Hervé Léger number, and this dream of a night culminated in a joy-filled celebration on the dance floor.