Marriage under the “Tuscan Sun”

On a perfect day at the luxurious SUNSTONE WINERY in the extraordinary SANTA YNEZ VALLEY, two beautiful souls tied the knot in a wedding filled with love and laughter. These two, who first met at a festival in Jamaica, bring a unique blend of personalities to their relationship. One, charmingly demure, and the other, delightfully gregarious—together, they create a balance that is nothing short of magic.

The sun shone brightly over the valley, casting a golden glow that matched the warmth of their love. The beauty of the setting and the evident joy shared between the couple was almost overwhelming. As the ceremony began, the soulful, sexy sound of a saxophone filled the air, creating a magical and heartfelt processional. The music added a touch of groove, setting a perfect tone for the day.

Their very personalized, custom marriage ceremony was an intimate celebration that reflected what they have found together…Private moments made more memorable by the remarkable beauty surrounding them. During the ceremony, a special wine ritual took place, symbolizing their unity and shared future. The wine, carefully chosen from Sunstone’s renowned selection, embodied the richness of the life they’ll build together. With laughter, happy tears, and heartfelt vows, they promised each other a lifetime of joy and adventure.

As the celebration unfolded, it was clear that this was not just the beginning of a marriage but the continuation of a love story that started under the Caribbean sun and has since bloomed into something truly beautiful. We at SANTA BARBARA CLASSIC WEDDINGS were enchanted by the expressions of love they shared in their Vows, and we’re forever grateful that PATRICE HANDLEY could once again bring such warmth to a marriage ceremony of deep meaning.

“Two Hearts Lost in Love”…

"PRETTY IN PINK" BRIDE

Not all brides wear white, and not all grooms opt for a suit, but one thing is certain—they all share the same joyous experience of getting married here in beautiful Santa Barbara! The Santa Barbara Courthouse is a beloved spot for weddings, offering several stunning locations that don't require reservations or fees, making it an ideal choice for couples looking for an effortless yet memorable ceremony.

At Santa Barbara Classic Weddings, we understand that every couple is unique, and we take pride in helping you find the perfect spot to say "I do." Just recently, we had the pleasure of assisting a delightful couple who wanted a "short & sweet" ceremony in an intimate setting. With our extensive knowledge of the Courthouse area, we knew exactly where to guide them. Their ceremony was everything they had hoped for—personal, heartfelt, and in a location that felt just right for their special day. Photo: @emilyhartroberts

Whether you're planning a grand celebration or a quiet elopement, we are here to make your wedding day one of the happiest moments of your lives. Santa Barbara offers a wide range of picturesque locations, from the iconic courthouse to secluded beaches and charming gardens. No matter your vision, we are dedicated to turning it into reality.

We believe that every couple deserves a wedding day that reflects their love and individuality. So, if you're looking for guidance on where to host your ceremony or need assistance with planning, don't hesitate to reach out. We're here to ensure your wedding day is everything you've dreamed of and more.

Let us help you create the perfect beginning to your forever!

ELOPEMENT AT LOTUSLAND IN MONTECITO

Under the golden sun of a perfect summer day in Montecito, Sharon and Andrew stood hand in hand in the world-famous Madame Ganna Walska Lotusland gardens.

Their travels had brought them many times to Santa Barbara where they eventually found the perfect place to be married, and surrounded by the lush beauty of Lotusland, their love was ready to be celebrated. It felt as though the universe had conspired to bring them together at one of the world’s most glorious places.

The exquisite gardens, a symphony of exotic plants and serene lily ponds, provided the perfect backdrop for their wedding. As they exchanged vows beneath a canopy of towering palm trees, it seemed like the clear water of the lily ponds shimmered.

After those vows that promised deep commitment, accented by their delightful humor, the couple moved through the gardens, their faces glowing with happiness. The scent of blooming flowers filled the air, dragonflies hovered over the ponds — every single moment was perfect. Photos: @carlyotnessphoto

Standing together in Lotusland, Sharon and Andrew knew they had found a timeless love in each other's hearts. The reflections in the water whispered promises of a future filled with joy and adventure, and the gardens of Lotusland bore witness to the beginning of their beautiful story.

We at Santa Barbara Classic weddings adore a true love story and strive to make the ceremony as light-hearted and happy as possible. We were so glad to receive these comments of appreciation: “We couldn't be happier with our ceremony and how easy it was to be ourselves with you …. that made it that much more memorable than we could ever have imagined. Thank you, thank you, thank you!”

"Made in Heaven"

No Language Barrier Here!

Couples from distant corners of the world converge upon the enchanting haven of Santa Barbara to bind their hearts in marriage. Picture this: a sophisticated bride hailing from the romantic city of Paris, and her dashing groom, a suave gentleman hailing from the vibrant city of Mexico City.

Their quest for the perfect setting led them to discover an idyllic Mexican-style hacienda nestled in the verdant foothills of the Santa Barbara — a place of captivating beauty. It was there, beneath the shady native oak trees, that their union was sanctified as the sun was setting.

Surrounded by their gracious and radiant families, the couple stood together as vows were made. There’s something tender in the eyes of mothers as they watch their children take the step into marriage, and it was a joy to see these two mothers hold each other’s hand. A charming brother translated many of the promises of forever love, and there were abundant cheers and tears.

Their families emanated an air of elegance that was as striking as it was welcoming. In fact, as the Marriage License was being signed, a circle formed, surrounding us with joyfulness and felicity. Glasses brimmed with champagne, poised to toast in jubilant celebration, heralding the commencement of the couple's intertwined journey. A lovely beginning!

Amidst this jubilation, the father of the bride, with an air of dignified exuberance, rang the tower bell, its chime cascading down the hills, announcing to the world the union of two souls destined to entwine their fates, blessed by love and adorned with cultural richness.

In this picturesque locale in Santa Barbara, an international match was “made in heaven,” and we here at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings feel blessed to have been such a honored part of their fabulous day!

LOVE BY THE SEA

Love by the Sea: A Simple Yet Beautiful Oceanside Marriage Ceremony.

On a pristine summer day with the sun casting its warm glow across the horizon, a loving family gathered on picturesque bluffs overlooking the grand Pacific Ocean. This stunning backdrop was the canvas for a heartfelt union of two souls deeply in love, and the anticipation of their growing family. Angelica and Robert, already blessed with their little treasure, Ava, anticipated the arrival of another bundle of joy. Both of them were so excited to express their vows and promises of unwavering love, support, and devotion.

Their marriage ceremony was a testament to love, unity, and the promise of a new chapter in their lives, with the natural beauty of the oceanside as their perfect adornment. It was nature itself that enhanced this sacred moment.

The ceremony began with the sound of seagulls in the distance and the gentle whisper of the ocean breeze. As their family gathered, Angelica, radiant in a flowing wedding gown, walked toward Robert, who stood beneath the open sky, with the vast ocean behind him…

Patrice Handley, their officiant from Santa Barbara Classic Weddings, spoke of how their love had grown with each passing day, and how their marriage would be the vessel that carried them into this new, exciting phase of life. Angelica and Robert declared their commitment to each other with tender Vows - exchanged with the soothing sounds of the sea as their background music.

A poem called “One Family” was read. It included the verse: “With the love that we share, we can handle whatever life may bring us.  We will always find love in each other’s’ laughter. We will always find comfort in each other’s’ strength. One family today, tomorrow and forever.”

An incredibly wonderful marriage day - full of the enduring beauty of love and family!

photography: @bycherryphotography

officiant: @santabarbaraclassicweddings

A WONDERFUL CHOICE FOR YOUR WEDDING!

Getting married on the grounds of the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse is an experience that weaves together the past and present, creating an enchanting tapestry of love and history. Nestled in the heart of Santa Barbara, California, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to Spanish Colonial Revival design, exuding timeless charm and elegance.

As couples exchange vows beneath the iconic Mural Room's intricate ceiling, they are surrounded by vibrant frescoes that depict scenes from Santa Barbara's history, adding a touch of cultural significance to their union. Another choice is to marry in the sun-dappled Sunken Gardens, adorned with blooming flowers and beautiful foliage. It provides an idyllic backdrop for both intimate ceremonies and grand celebrations. The romantic ambiance of the courthouse's Spanish-style arches, red-tiled roofs, and lush gardens sets the stage for a truly memorable occasion.

The courthouse not only serves as a stunning venue but also offers a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. The picturesque clock tower offers panoramic views of the city and ocean, allowing couples and their guests to bask in the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. The sensory symphony of bird songs and the gentle rustling of leaves infuse the air with a tranquil aura, making every moment a cherished memory.

Getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is an ode to the past, an embrace of the present, and a promise for the future. It's a chance to celebrate love amidst a living piece of history, where each corner holds a story and every wall whispers secrets of generations gone by. This amazing venue is not just a venue; it's a place where two souls embark on a journey together, and where the echoes of "I do" reverberate through time. We at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings always know that our couples have made a wonderful choice when they choose this amazing venue!

@KarenDphoto.com

MAKE HISTORY WITH YOUR WEDDING AT THE SANTA BARBARA HISTORICAL MUSEUM

Having a wedding at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum with mariachis playing would be an unforgettable experience! The museum, located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara, is a stunning venue with its Spanish-style architecture and lush gardens. The venue is a fantastic choice as it provides the convenience of having the marriage ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception all in one location. This eliminates the need for guests to travel between multiple venues, making it easier and more enjoyable for everyone involved. The seamless flow of events also ensures that the wedding day runs smoothly and efficiently, allowing the couple and their guests to fully enjoy the festivities without any unnecessary delays or interruptions.

To fully embrace the Spanish theme, the wedding could start with a ceremony in the museum's charming courtyard which features a beautiful fountain and a picturesque white arch — the perfect backdrop for exchanging vows. Another great option is the Adobe Courtyard that affords a wonderful area for guests to congregate and have refreshments before being seated for the ceremony. The bride and groom could also incorporate traditional Spanish wedding elements into their ceremony, such as the arras, a set of thirteen coins symbolizing good luck and prosperity for the newlyweds.

After the ceremony, guests could enjoy cocktails and appetizers in the museum's adjacent garden area, surrounded by olive trees and colorful flowers. The garden would also be a great spot for taking wedding photos, with its beautiful scenery and classic Spanish-style architecture.

For the reception, either the museum's inner courtyard or the Plaza del Mar room could be ideal spaces to host dinner and dancing. The room itself features exposed wooden beams and terra cotta tile floors, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. To further enhance the Spanish theme, the room could be decorated with colorful papel picado banners and floral arrangements in vibrant hues.

Of course, no Spanish-themed wedding would be complete without the music of a live mariachis. Mariachis playing traditional music would add a festive and lively touch to the reception. Often, a DJ will take over to get everyone up and dancing.

Overall, a wedding at the Santa Barbara Historical Museum with a Spanish theme and mariachis playing would be a truly magical experience. With its stunning venue, beautiful gardens, and traditional elements, it would be a celebration that guests would remember for years to come.       

https://www.sbhistorical.org/venue-rental/

THE GORGEOUS SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE - A PERFECT VENUE

Getting married is one of the most important moments in a person's life, and choosing the perfect venue for your special day is crucial. If you're looking for a beautiful and affordable location to tie the knot, then the Santa Barbara Courthouse might be just what you need!

The Santa Barbara Courthouse is a stunning Spanish-Moorish style building located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara. This historic landmark is surrounded by lush gardens and fountains, making it the perfect setting for a romantic and intimate wedding ceremony. Couples come from all over the world to marry there.

A great thing about the Santa Barbara Courthouse is the flexibility it offers. You can choose to have your ceremony indoors or outdoors, depending on your preferences and the weather. The beautiful sunken gardens are popular for outdoor ceremonies with several different spots to choose from, while the Mural Room is an amazing indoor option. You can even have a ceremony in the clocktower – overlooking the town!

“Love Under The Grande Arches”

One of the best things is a very affordable option for couples on a budget— having your ceremony in one of the gardens alongside the building, on Figueroa Street, where no fees are required. Although you can’t reserve a space, there are four lovely options and any one is great. Photos there are always gorgeous.

Santa Barbara Classic Weddings offers a variety of wedding packages to suit different needs and budgets. From a basic ceremony package to a more elaborate package, there's something for everyone.

Fees & Services are listed at SantaBarbaraClassicWeddings.com

And let's not forget about the amazing photo opportunities that the Santa Barbara Courthouse provides. The stunning architecture and beautiful gardens make for the perfect backdrop for your wedding photos.

Overall, getting married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a fantastic choice for couples who want a beautiful and affordable wedding ceremony in a historic and romantic setting. There are even plenty of restaurants within walking distance nearby.

With its flexibility and variety, it's no wonder that the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a popular choice for weddings in the area. So why not make your special day even more special by tying the knot at this beautiful venue?

The ‘Wedding Kiss’ in the Magnificent Mural Room

THE SANTA BARBARA COURTHOUSE "MURAL ROOM"

When I’ve received reviews since beginning to officiate ceremonies in 2008, it’s been like opening a gift and light beams start jumping out. A very sweet couple was recently married in one of Santa Barbara’s most iconic venues: The Mural Room at the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse.

They were the kind of people who are so clearly made for each other that there was a certain magic between them as they said their vows. That magic lit up the magnificent Mural Room as their lovely family and friends listened to their personalized marriage ceremony with huge smiles on their faces.

The couple had become very close to one another's families during the pandemic lockdown, and you could just tell those moms & dads were over the moon that the day had come to celebrate their kids becoming husband and wife. I think I'll have to write a poem about them!

I was so touched to read what they wrote about their experience with me:

“Patrice was an absolutely amazing officiant! We found her online and quickly set up a consultation. From the first phone call, Patrice was thoughtful, empathetic, and kind. We had several chats with her leading up to our wedding, where she really made an effort to get to know us.
On our actual wedding day, she was able to put together a ceremony that felt personal and poignant, because she had taken the time to really learn about us. She also provided a lot of guidance on poems, blessings, and readings that would be a nice touch at our ceremony. The ceremony itself was absolutely lovely and heartfelt, and we are so thrilled we found Patrice!”

"THE MARRIAGE TREE" at the Santa Barbara Courthouse Gardens

The Santa Barbara Courthouse is an historic building that resounds with past weddings going back nearly 100 years. It’s surrounded by lush gardens, and there’s a particular tree under which this darling couple was married — known as "The Marriage Tree” — a tree which is very symbolic because it is one very massive Coral tree with two trunks. One cannot escape the significance of two people holding hands beneath it…and making promises to be side by side as they step into the world of forever with their marriage vows.  

When couples are trying to decide where to marry in the gardens at the Santa Barbara Courthouse without having to pay the reservation fee, they often choose to have their ceremony alongside the building.

The Courthouse was built on a whole city block, and the areas around it are full of mature trees and beautiful foliage. “The Marriage Tree” is situated on the corner of Figueroa St x Santa Barbara St. The Courthouse allows no large groups or chairs there, so it’s the perfect location for an elopement.

Santa Barbara Classic Weddings offers a very special ceremony for people who choose to have an intimate wedding under “The Marriage Tree.” Couples often have their marriage ceremony under the tree then go all over the Courthouse grounds to take photos…including up in the Bell Tower, which overlooks the entire city.

It was wonderful to receive this review on the different wedding sites from a couple who married there…it’s such an honor to be a part of a marriage day!

“We wanted to take a moment to thank Patrice with Santa Barbara Classic Weddings from the bottom of our hearts for making our ceremony so special. We knew we wanted to get married in Santa Barbara but after talking to Patrice for the first time we felt so comforted and knew we were in the best hands to make our day as special as it could possibly be.

When working with Patrice, something you'll be able to detect right away is how genuine she is. We made it a point to really focus and listen to every word Patrice said during the ceremony and it was so beautifully written and was delivered with so much love too. All of our family, as it was a small family only wedding, was just so engaged with the entire ceremony.

We spoke over the phone with Patrice and exchanged emails many times before our big day, and she always made it seem like she had all the time in the world for us. She was always so encouraging too, and that gave us confidence too as we've never been married before!

She really helped make our day more amazing and memorable than we ever could have imagined. I don't think we knew before going into it how important the officiant is to the whole day, and we know we made the right choice!”

Romantic Elopement Under “The Marriage Tree”

Love & Kisses in Santa Barbara

How to begin?! Maybe with the groom meeting me at the outer Santa Barbara Courthouse gardens looking like James Bond himself? Some men can wear a tux like no other! While waiting for the bride to arrive he told me the name of the giant tree he had chosen to get married under - the Kaffirboom Coral. I shouldn't have been surprised since he is a local horticulturist and garden store owner who had dreamed of only marrying a girl who loves flora. So, of course, the bride glided around the corner holding a magnificent bouquet by Alexis Ireland - a combination of flowers only a lover of flora would have chosen. I've never seen a couple try so hard to wait for the final pronouncement for a kiss, but wait they did - a stupendous wedding kiss photographed by Brooke Daniels from Blink Aesthetics.

Writing the marriage ceremony for Alissa & Nat was such fun, especially after talking with them about their history together. I could hear the smile in their voices as they told me how they’d first met years ago, yet both had things to do before they found each other again. When destiny seems to have a hand in something like this, writing a romantic ceremony about “true love” is pure pleasure! I swear, they could star in their own movie!

Intimate elopements bring out the best in Santa Barbara’s wonderful wedding professionals. For instance, the wedding dress by Jayna at The Dress Bride was exquisite; and the bride was glowing in natural makeup by Shannon at Blush & Lashes. I'm so proud of my fellow pros. They jumped in to make this wedding as special as one with hundreds of guests. No wonder they are the artisans who attract couples from all over the world to our beautiful town!

Santa Barbara Courthouse Weddings

The “Sunken Gardens” at the Santa Barbara Courthouse is a meticulously groomed venue for small to large weddings. There are several locations within the gardens to choose from. For intimate ceremonies with a few guests (4- 25), the “Rotunda Lawn” is lovely. It is tucked in the corner with gorgeous tropical plantings that create an amazing background in photos. Another spot for intimate weddings is the “Fiesta Stage.” The photo you see is of a couple who chose to be off the beaten path and have their sweet ceremony at the top of the stage. The arched doorway behind them looks fantastic in photos, and off to the side is a space that’s perfect for a guitarist or harpist to sit and play. At Santa Barbara Classic Weddings we have a list of extraordinary local musicians who create a wonderful atmosphere at whatever location is chosen for a marriage ceremony. Another serene place for a small group is in the Redwoods Grove – along Santa Barbara Street. This area doesn’t require a fee. For a map and info on fees at the Courthouse, go to —https://www.countyofsb.org/parks/courthousewedding.sbc. Although the site says a fee is required for “exterior gardens,” there are many free spaces available. Although  they’re not reservable, we’ve rarely had two weddings wish to occupy the same free space on the same day.

For weddings on a grander scale, the “Sunken Garden” itself can accommodate many guests. Chairs are usually set up just below the main staircase. The backdrop of the Grand Arches is magnificent and is why many couples who are having  large weddings choose to marry there. As a Santa Barbara Wedding Officiant, I marry couples from all over the U.S and countless other countries because they have seen photos taken of our world-famous Courthouse. Please feel free to call us for help in deciding the best place for your ceremony…we love to help! One darling couple who married there left this sweet review:

“Patrice was everything that we were hoping for. Being new to California & unfamiliar with the Santa Barbara area, we were worried about finding an officiant that would be falsely personal or detached. Patrice was perfect! She spent the time to get to know us, our relationship, & our guests. She is unbelievably kind, but also provides a good balance of guidance as to how the ceremony can be structured, taking thoughtful consideration of what you're envisioning. She is entirely professional and fun - our guests all loved her. 100% recommend.” Julia B.

"SECRET SPOTS" FOR INTIMATE ELOPEMENTS

WHERE DREAMS COME TRUE — ORPET PARK by the EL ENCANTO — SANTA BARBARA

Intimate weddings are a very sweet way to begin married life. Elopements to Montecito, Santa Barbara, Ojai and the Santa Ynez Valley are becoming a popular option for couples who wish for a stress-free experience. This darling couple was thrilled to hear about a little "pocket park" — off the beaten track — just steps away from the Belmond El Encanto in Santa Barbara. Their ceremony was customized to reflect the vision of the future they share. The tender moments when they exchanged personal vows were completely private — not one other person was at the park. They were staying at the hotel and had noticed that other guests would constantly be walking by all the small grassy places where they had hoped to have a private ceremony. When we told them about the tiny park just below the hotel, they ventured down the hill and were surprised at its wonderful vibe. We felt like fairies were hiding in the trees! Because we’re local, we love to share our “inside” knowledge of the unique places for a marriage ceremony that are often overlooked — leading to one-of-a-kind weddings. On the afternoon of a perfect day, we met at the park where they had earlier scoped out the greatest place to have their ceremony — a shady spot nestled in the trees. The bride paid a special tribute to her grandmother by wearing the glittering pumps she had worn in the 50's — a lovely spiritual connection, for sure! And as a special aspect of this "secret space" that Santa Barbara Classic Weddings officiant, Patrice Handley, knew about: the couple could bring their little dog! Now they have their own hidden place to come back to in years to come that will always be special for them!

A Marriage Ceremony at the Historic Santa Barbara Courthouse Gardens - then off to the Countryside!

A marriage ceremony which begins in the gardens of the historic Santa Barbara Courthouse and progresses on to horse backcountry is just what this bride and groom dreamed about for a long. long time. The groom’s immigration from Ireland to the US was fraught with delays and difficulties, and it was touch and go up until the final week of the wedding date. The nervous bride and I had been in constant communication which had a special influence on the ceremony I wrote for them — when there’s plenty of time to get to know about a couple, I find that their marriage ceremony becomes deeply personal. I always hope for genuine moments to listen to the amazing “Love Story” of two people who have found each other among the billions of others on the planet. When this groom arrived — just days before the wedding day —I discovered something so interesting: There’s a certain something about a guy from Ireland who has that Irish wit and sensitivity that ended up making their ceremony one full of tears and lots of laughter. Their best friend read a wonderful poem, “Scaffolding” by Ireland’s beloved poet, Seamus Heaney. It seemed like Seamus wrote the poem especially for this couple since it was about the strength of TRUE LOVE and being there for each other no matter what — months and months of being apart only brought them closer and closer. After the marriage ceremony (one that those of us at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings will never forget), off they went to share a perfect wedding day with their family at their ranch. I'm pretty sure they were two of the happiest newlyweds in the world as they rode off into the sunset…together…finally!

MAGICAL FAIRYLAND - KESTREL PARK

Kestrel Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the valley in Santa Ynez. It’s a “park” in the way the British call the grounds of their historic manors and castles, and, indeed, this private venue has its own castle! Entering onto the property is like stepping into old England. Large stone “cottages,” sweeping lawns, massive trees and flower beds abound. Because this couple was looking for complete privacy and a unique venue, they came across the perfect location for their elopement. The moments began in the “Bride’s Cottage” where the bride actually walked down the winding staircase to begin a photo shoot right out of the movies. The amazing photographer, Shannon Yen, captured every single pose while the videographers moved around the scene like butterflies. It didn’t hurt that the bride wore a gown by Monique L’Huillier - who has to be one of the most celebrated wedding gown designers of the season. The bride’s silky gown was covered with flowers and butterflies and was absolutely exquisite! When the time came for the marriage ceremony, the crew and couple were quickly transported to another amazing place - an avenue of lush sycamore trees. As they walked down the lane, a flock of Purple Martins flew above…yes, like out of the movies! It seemed impossible for it to become even more ethereal, but the couple were so completely connected during their vows that I nearly cried. Their “love story” was one of such tenderness and understanding that I’m convinced they will have a marriage that will always be loving and enduring. How could it be better than to begin a shared life in a place where a castle from a fairytale exists!

Intimate Weddings at the Santa Barbara Courthouse gardens

Now that Covid restrictions are changing, many couples are choosing to come to town to marry at our historic Santa Barbara Courthouse. Our marriage ceremonies here are beautifully photographed by some of the best award-winning photographers in California…chiefly because the grounds of the Courthouse are so gorgeous! The building takes up a whole city block, so every side has lush foliage…tropical trees, perfectly maintained plants, specimen trees, redwoods…you name it! Often couples will have photos taken that show not only the verdant greenery but a backdrop of wrought-iron covered windows, elegant stone entrances to ornate wooden doorways, balconies with flowering plants trailing down. The groom in this photo came from Ireland and felt the vibe of the stonework just like at the ancient manors and castles in his country. It’s possible to reserve the inner “Sunken Gardens” of the Courthouse for a fee of $900 (as of May 2021) https://www.countyofsb.org/parks/feeschedule.sbc. But it is also possible to marry on the exterior gardens for free — if no chairs are needed. These exterior garden weddings are often intimate affairs…either elopements or small weddings with the bride and groom surrounded by their closest friends & family. Santa Barbara Classic Weddings offers ceremony packages that are appropriate for both elopements and small weddings, as well as for weddings with many guests. It’s really best to call Patrice Handley, wedding officiant at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings at (805)886-5930, to discuss all the options for a marriage ceremony at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, but a description of Services & Fees can be found on this website. For a lovely venue in the heart of Santa Barbara, a paradise between the mountains and the sea, you can’t go wrong. Especially when a personalized ceremony has been created just for you!

Note: much of the internet information about Courthouse weddings is out-of-date, so please call Patrice for current info.

Bride & Groom plus 2 on the way!

Ganna Walska Lotusland is a hidden gem tucked into acres and acres of Montecito, California. Exclusive elopements of up to 6 people are allowed, which means a remarkable experience of an intimate wedding in one of the world’s most renowned gardens. This adorable couple chose to say their vows surrounded by their family, who are all so excited that soon the couple will be the parents of twins. Because they are starting their married life in Santa Barbara as a little family, the Blessings were abundant…and all good wishes - especially by those of us at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings - are paving the way to true happiness!

Writing Your Own Vows

Happy Vows by Patrice Handley

Couples are often worried about writing their own vows. The pressure of saying just the “right thing” stresses them out. So instead of the vows, we at Santa Barbara Classic Weddings offer a fun and different approach: writing Love Notes.

Love Notes are simply the things they love the most about each other. They can be funny, sentimental, full of memories, deeply revealing — you name it! Whatever it said to each other on the day of the marriage is always personal and very intimate. Lots of tears, sweet smiles and often some serious laughter! 

The process is easy: we send examples of what other couples have said – for inspiration. That seems to stimulate everyone’s own comfort in writing what they actually want to say. After writing their Love Notes, each of the couple emails the words – separately. That way each of them hears it for the first time at their ceremony.

Couples have said numerous times that saying and hearing each other’s Love Notes was the best part of their wedding, so don’t be shy, start writing!

Elopements: The New 'Pandemic' Wedding Style in Santa Barbara

Elopements by Patrice Handley

Alma of Alma Erika Photography captures true love in this intimate elopement style wedding at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse in Santa Barbara, California.

ALL I EVER NEED IS YOU

Even though a big wedding reception isn’t possible here in Santa Barbara because of the pandemic, it’s still the perfect time to make the most of the marriage experience. Aracely and Jose Luis chose to make it especially beautiful by dressing in the traditional way: her in an exquisite wedding dress and he in a sleek black suit. Their elopement began with an intimate ceremony by myself, Patrice Handley of Santa Barbara Classic Weddings, at a private venue in the hills of Santa Barbara, followed by a photo session at the Santa Barbara County Courthouse. Alma of Alma Erika Photography is tremendously skilled at creating very romantic photos. And what shined through each photo is our splendid theme of elopements: “All I Ever Need Is You.” They didn’t let ideas of how a wedding “should” be get in the way of the true meaning of a marriage – the joining of two souls in the shared adventure of their lives. They chose LOVE; everything else got out of the way! 

Photo by Alma Erika Photography.

SILVER LININGS

As elopements have become the “new normal,” couples are discovering that focusing on creating a unique experience just for them is actually a relief.  The common practices of caring about the entertainment and needs of others fly out the window, not to say that there’s also a bit of comfort in knowing the enormous expense of a reception has been avoided. We all have been looking for the “silver linings” of Covid-19, and the joy of marrying the love of your life in a very meaningful way is certainly that.

LOVE AND LOVE ALONE

I gave Jose Luis & Aracely a vellum-covered Keepsake Booklet of their personalized ceremony — to share with their loved ones, and I listened as they promised to bring it out each Anniversary and say again their vows. As this lovely couple drove away, it was clear that obstacles can be overcome by letting LOVE, and LOVE alone, be the most important guiding factor!