Erika and Mitchell wanted their Santa Barbara rehearsal dinner to be just as special as the big day itself, setting the tone for an unforgettable wedding weekend. They chose the incredible family-style service at The Lark, a beloved Santa Barbara staple in the heart of the Funk Zone. The Lark is known for its seasonal, locally-driven menu and warm, inviting atmosphere (and their fried chicken is my absolute favorite!).
The communal dining experience encouraged conversation, connection, and plenty of shared laughter. It really was the perfect way to bring loved ones together before the wedding day.
The Lark in Santa Barbara, California
The Lark is part of Acme Hospitality Group, which also includes the adjacent Santa Barbara Wine Collective and Pearl Social. As part of the larger wedding weekend celebration, the couple hosted additional events at Acme Hospitality’s locations, creating a cohesive and elevated experience for their guests. The patio and indoor dining room at Santa Barbara Wine Collective welcomed rehearsal dinner attendees with a design that felt intimate and thoughtfully-styled (because, of course, Erika herself is the designer!). The space was transformed with soft candlelight, velvet rust-hued linens that matched Erika’s dress from Kamperett, and rentals from Found Rental Co. and Table Method. The event exuded an effortlessly chic vibe that’s just so Santa Barbara.
The first night of a joyful weekend
As dinner service wrapped, heartfelt toasts were shared, glasses were raised, and the room filled with easy laughter and meaningful moments (including some tears from the bride). Erika and Mitch were intentional about giving their friends and family a true taste of Santa Barbara. They wanted their loved ones to experience its food, wine, and laid-back elegance. Kicking off the weekend at The Lark felt like the perfect introduction, blending relaxed luxury with a distinctly local feel. It was an evening that set the stage beautifully for the rest of the weekend’s events.
For more of Erika and Mitchell’s wedding weekend, check out their welcome reception on the Channel Cat in the Santa Barbara Harbor!
And without further ado, my favorite shots from their Santa Barbara rehearsal dinner at The Lark.
There’s more where that came from! You can see Erika and Mitchell’s welcome reception aboard the Channel Cat along the Santa Barbara Coast right over here. And I’m sorry, but have you SEEN their engagement photos?!
Finally, for their big finale, the wedding day at the Santa Barbara Courthouse!
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Planning + design: Array Creative Design
Venue: The Lark + Santa Barbara Wine Collective
Floral design: Breanna Jane Botanicals
Hair + makeup: Blushing Beauty
Erika’s dress: Kamperett
Stationery: Emily J. Snyder + Swell Press
Rentals: Table Method + Found Rental Co.
