Kristin and Wade’s Santa Barbara Botanic Garden wedding was a day that felt relaxed, thoughtful, and full of heart. It really was the perfect mix of nature and good vibes. They tied the knot in September, when the light is golden, the gardens are lush, and Santa Barbara shows off a *little* extra.
The significance of a Santa Barbara Botanic Garden wedding
The couple chose the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden for their wedding day because it was also where Wade had proposed to Kristin! Their ceremony, on the small lawn overlooking the ocean in the distance, was at the very same spot the couple had gotten engaged the year prior. We also did their engagement photos at the same venue. The gardens really are so stunning, I can’t say I blame K+W for taking advantage of its beauty for their engagement and wedding events!
Founded in 1926, the Santa Barbara Botanic Garden is dedicated to celebrating and preserving California’s native plants, creating a space that feels deeply connected to the land. With over 65 acres of meadows, redwood groves, and canyon trails, it offers a blend of natural beauty and intentional conservation, which makes getting married here feel meaningful, not just beautiful.
A late summer wedding celebration
From the moment guests arrived, they were greeted by the calm serenity of Kristen and Wade’s chosen venue. Towering trees, winding paths, and native California plants created a backdrop that needed almost no embellishment. The couple leaned into the setting, keeping their design clean and intentional so the beauty of the garden could shine. The ceremony took place facing a grounded floral arrangement by Coco Rose Design at the altar, with a few white flowers that complemented the view rather than competing with it.
The ceremony itself was heartfelt and personal, filled with laughter and happy tears. The couple’s dog Echo, who wasn’t actually present at the wedding, still made a special appearance on Kristin’s embroidered handkerchief, which she showed the crowd before using it to dab her eyes. Guests were fully present, soaking in the views, the emotions, and the overall calm of the day.
Garden party with pizza, cookies, and ice cream
Everyone transitioned into celebration mode, with drinks flowing, conversations buzzing, and plenty of time to wander the grounds and take in the scenery. The reception felt more like a garden party, and Kristin and Wade wanted to maintain a relaxed feel for their celebration. Lucca Truck served up pizza (the guests could serve themselves however many slices they wanted), and in lieu of cake, the couple brought in McConnell’s ice cream and their favorite cookies, Zooies, for friends and family to indulge. We can vouch for the fabulousness of all Kristin and Wade’s dinner and dessert choices. 💛🌿
Sunset portraits were full of giggles and playful banter. These two are simply fun and so comfortable together. Kristin and Wade’s day was a beautiful reminder that sometimes the best celebrations don’t need over-the-top details that steal the show. Their Santa Barbara Botanic Garden wedding boasted a stunning setting, great people, and a couple who genuinely love being together.
Wedding planner: La Vie Events
Videography: Light Up Video
Florals: Coco Rose Design
Venue: Santa Barbara Botanic Garden
Catering: Lucca Truck
Hair + Makeup: Carlyle Weddings
Music + MC: Chris Fossek
Rentals: Ventura Rentals
