Ritz-Carlton Bacara wedding

California and England; Hindu traditions and Southern charm. Emma and Zeke welcomed a true blending of their families and cultures when they tied the knot during their Ritz-Carlton Bacara wedding in Santa Barbara.

Loved ones traveled from all over the world to help this wonderful couple celebrate their union, including a welcome cruise aboard the Channel Cat. This iconic Santa Barbara catamaran is a favorite for pre-wedding celebrations! It departs from the Santa Barbara harbor and accommodates up to 150 guests (technically 149, if you want to be specific). With sea breezes and a laid-back vibe for mingling, guests can sip cocktails while enjoying views along the Santa Barbara county coastline. It was the ideal way for Emma and Zeke’s guests to unwind, connect, and kick off the wedding weekend.

Ritz-Carlton Santa Barbara wedding

Set along the Pacific coastline, The Ritz-Carlton Bacara is one of Santa Barbara’s most stunning coastal estates. The property manages to feel intimate despite its size (it’s a sprawling hotel with just over 350 guest rooms on 78 acres). Spanish-inspired architecture and lush gardens complement the serene bluff lawn; it’s an ideal setting for the ceremony with its impressive views of the ocean. The open-air, private event patio above the lobby and adjacent rotunda ballroom are my favorite spots for an alfresco dinner reception and a dance party into the night. Every corner of the resort offers lovely backdrops for a wedding day that feels chic and, joyful.

Wedding day details

The weekend felt like a true destination wedding experience. Guests were treated not only to Emma and Zeke’s heartfelt weekend celebration, but also to the beauty and relaxed elegance Santa Barbara is known for: golden light, ocean breezes, and coastal California charm.

Jessica of Onyx + Redwood joined Emma and Zeke’s coastal chic decor with the bright colors requested by the bride’s family to honor their Hindu heritage. The unique color palette was a perfect backdrop for the couple’s summer celebration, blending rich textiles and modern coastal details. Amy from Stella Bloom Designs delivered a lovely array of vibrant florals. The palette included shades of red, burgundy, orange, peach, and a touch of pink.

The Class kept the party going late into the night, transforming the Bacara’s rotunda ballroom into a packed dance floor.