If you’re ready to tie the knot and are looking for a city that is as stunning as it is versatile, Santa Barbara, known as The American Riviera®, should be at the top of your list. Santa Barbara’s breathtaking blend of mountains, ocean and Spanish-style architecture sets the scene for an effortlessly romantic day. Envision the peaceful movement of the sea, maintained by the silhouettes of the Channel Islands in the distance. A uniform panorama of red-tiled-roofs and white stucco buildings as far as the eye can see. The majestic Santa Ynez Mountains bathed in sunset hues of pink, purple and orange. No matter which direction you look in Santa Barbara, there’s always the perfect backdrop to capture the unforgettable moments of your wedding day.
One of the most appealing aspects of planning a wedding in Santa Barbara is its year-round idyllic weather. Unlike many destinations with a limited “wedding season,” Santa Barbara’s Mediterranean-like climate welcomes couples and their guests at any time of the year. Whether it’s a sublime summer afternoon or a sunny winter day, this big-city-with-a-small-town-feel offers the perfect setting for any outdoor ceremony.
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Santa Barbara’s architecture is a standout feature of the area, reflecting its rich Spanish heritage. The Spanish-Revival-style design, interspersed with vibrant gardens and courtyards, offer a picturesque and romantic atmosphere that adds a touch of timeless elegance to any wedding. From the historic Santa Barbara County Courthouse with its stunning Mural Room to the charming Old Mission Santa Barbara, hosting your nuptials in Santa Barbara makes for a destination wedding without even needing to pack your passport.
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Santa Barbara wedding venues with accommodations offer an even more enticing appeal, with a range of hotels that cater to various tastes and budgets. For luxury seekers, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara, sprawls over 78 acres with incredible ocean views, offering a blend of natural beauty and world-class amenities. Another gem is El Encanto, a Belmond Hotel, perched on the hills of the Riviera, providing an exclusive sanctuary with a mix of historic charm and modern opulence. For those seeking a scaled-back (yet just as magical) ceremony, the boutique Simpson House Inn, nestled in an acre of English-style gardens, offers a secluded, romantic retreat perfect for a smaller celebration.
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The culinary experiences in Santa Barbara are an integral part of the wedding festivities. With a focus on farm- (or sea) to-table dining and an abundance of fresh, local produce, the city’s restaurants and catering services offer a diverse range of options to suit every palate. The thriving local wine scene, featuring renowned vineyards and wineries, adds another layer of indulgence to the celebration.
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When it comes to activities for the wedding party and guests, Santa Barbara does not disappoint. From relaxing beach days and wine tours to exploring the charming downtown and engaging, Zen-filled outdoor adventures like hiking or kayaking, Santa Barbara has it all. Getting married in an all-encompassing vacation destination ensures that the weekend extends well beyond the ceremony and reception, allowing guests to create their own memorable experiences in The American Riviera®.
