Intimate Wedding at El Presidio | Santa Barbara, CA
This wedding was probably one of the most unique days I've ever been a part of. It was my first trip to Santa Barbara and I truly cannot believe I had never visited this magical place before. There's something about California that just puts me in a mood, a good one. Between people riding their bikes around town and the endless vegetarian restaurant options, I see how people just fall into a simple life on the coast.
The day started at the Palihouse Santa Barbara. Tessa got ready with her sister, mom and best friend in the coziest hotel while sipping on champagne and coffee. We then walked the three blocks to their wedding venue, El Presidio which honestly deserves a whole blog post in itself. It preserves the site of the last of four military outposts built by the Spanish along the coast of Alta California. Two buildings of the original presidio have been restored, others have been reconstructed and archaeological excavations and additional reconstructions are continuing. The photos speak for themselves when I say this was such a unique place. Walking from building to building just felt like you were stepping back in time, breathing in the open air of the coastal breeze.
The ceremony was short and sweet, and their son stood up at the altar with them. Just an afternoon with the people who mean the most to them. After the ceremony, they enjoyed drinks on the lawn while the city of Santa Barbara continued to move around them. Tessa and her dad had a sweet first dance on the lawn before everyone took off for dinner.
The guests all made the short ten-minute drive to a popular restaurant (honestly I don't remember the name) but it looked good as hell. They reserved a few tables and ate and drank and laughed until the night was over.
What a day to be a part of. I love seeing more and more people stray away from traditions and truly making their wedding day true to them. Check out a few of my favorite photos from Tessa + Zak's wedding day. I'll be offering discounts to anyone who flies me back to Santa Barbara to shoot here (for real). 😋
