Milan & Charlie’s Santa Ynez Ranch wedding in October was all about heartfelt vows, happy tears, and a dance floor that didn’t quit, even though it was 95 degrees out.
The couple selected their venue in the Santa Ynez Valley, set against vineyards and pretty braggy about offering the most beautiful autumn light. The bride, Milan, put so much love and energy into the details and design, and their day was California magic.
What really made the day unforgettable were their people. Despite the heat wave that weekend, guests showed up ready to celebrate. The love for this couple was obvious, and their loved ones were clearly thrilled to witness them say “I do.”
The perfect fall color palette
It’s pretty well-established that matching bridesmaid dresses aren’t the only option anymore, and letting the wedding party select their own ensembles has become a common choice. Milan’s babes really got the memo in selecting their floor-length dresses in modern jewel tones. The resulting color palette beautifully complemented the refined and inviting design that Milan, a freelance event producer, spent months putting together.
Floral designer Still Carnations created sculptural arrangements with fresh and dried flowers, accented with fruits like grapes and white pomegranates. Blooms including dahlias and butterfly ranunculus in shades of crimson and blush were accented with astilbe, Queen Anne’s lace, and various grasses for lots of texture.
An emotional Santa Ynez Ranch wedding ceremony
Charlie made his ceremony entrance by walking down the aisle to Bruce Springsteen’s “Thunder Road” (so iconic!). The song really set the tone for a ceremony that felt both deeply emotional and effortlessly cool. The couple hadn’t done a first look and they were both so excited to finally see each other; the anticipation was palpable. When Charlie first saw Milan walking toward the ceremony in her Alexandra Grecco column gown (accessorized with a delicate tulle cape in lieu of a veil), he lost it in the best way. It was so sweet, and the kind of moment that makes everyone watching tear up right along with him (myself included!).
Even though the heat was intense (shoutout to the parasols and chilled rosé), the vibe never faltered. Milan and Charlie’s joy was infectious, radiating through every smile, laugh, and quiet glance.
Time to party
Dinner service concluded with some of the most heartfelt toasts. Milan and Charlie then cut into their petite, vintage-style cake from Solvang Bakery, while Field To Table served up nostalgic ice cream sandwiches that guests devoured with enthusiasm. Once the sun went down, guests filled the dance floor with electric energy and pure joy.
A damn good day, for two of the best people.
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For more Santa Ynez wedding goodness, head on over to this Foxen Canyon Ranch wedding!
Wedding planner: Heyday Weddings
Photography: Emily Loeppke
Florals: Still Carnations
Venue: Santa Ynez Ranch
Catering: Field To Table Events
Bar services: Bottles + Ice
Hair + makeup: Chi Beauty Artistry
Wedding dress: Alexandra Grecco
Stationery: Peppermint Press
DJ + MC: Sincere Sound Design
Rentals: Town and Country
Cake: The Solvang Bakery
Guest book phone: After the Tone
