2025 EdibleWeddingsCentralCoast

Central Coast

SERVING SAN LUIS OBISPO, SANTA BARBARA AND VENTURA COUNTIES

What’s Inside

Photo by Trent Stevens of Jasper and Oak Event Capturing

Letter from the Editors

When we first started talking about doing a wedding issue, there was perhaps a bit of nostalgia, since our own weddings were all multiple years ago (aside from Rosminah, whose recent wedding is featured on page 58). But as we began to research new trends and meet newly engaged or newly married couples, it became something so much more.

The Central Coast is home to some of the most picturesque wedding venues—including beaches, vineyards, mountains and farms—and the vendors are top notch. Creating an eco-friendly wedding here is hardly a stretch. Even so, with so many wedding resources just giving a mere nod to sustainable options, it felt like the right time to be a little more deliberate.

WEDDINGS

CENTRAL COAST

PUBLISHERS

In this and future issues, we are dedicated to celebrating the artisans, growers and vendors who are crafting unforgettable wedding experiences that not only celebrate love but also honor our planet and local communities. Our mission is to empower couples to create beautiful, sustainable weddings that reflect their values and leave a positive impact.

We all hope that you are as inspired as we were by the brilliant ideas, recipes and weddings in these pages. May they help you create your own trends that demonstrate your love for each other, embrace a deep partnership with the Earth and advocate mindful consumption.

Cheers to the happy couple!

Edible San Luis Obispo

Edible Santa Barbara

Edible Ojai & Ventura County

DESIGNER

Cheryl Koehler

COPY EDITOR

Doug Adrianson

Gail Cayetano Classick, Edible San Luis Obispo

Krista Harris and Rosminah Brown, Edible Santa Barbara

Tami Chu, Edible Ojai & Ventura County

CONTRIBUTORS

Tony Bennett | Tami Chu

Gail Cayetano Classick | Je Clark

Elizabeth Cohn | Liz Dodder

Cate Furtado | Richard Fusillo

Krista Harris | Sarah Kathleen

Kristen Johansen | Amanda Joy

Maliysa Lou | Tina Loveridge

Matt + Jess | Ashley Morgan

Caitlyn Nylande

Talin Ohannessian Perez

Ashley Rae | Trent Stevens Wild Whim

CONTACT US

Edible San Luis Obispo info@edibleslo.com

Edible Santa Barbara info@ediblesantabarbara.com

Edible Ojai & Ventura County info@edibleventuracounty.com

ADVERTISE WITH US

San Luis Obispo County

info@edibleslo.com

Santa Barbara County ads@ediblesantabarbara.com

Ventura County ads@edibleventuracounty.com

Every e ort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If, however, an error comes to your attention, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us. Thank you.

No part of this publication may be used without written permission of the publisher.

© 2025. All rights reserved.

Edible Central Coast Weddings is published annually.

Kelley Williams

Unforgettable

Serve

Aged even more Aged

Made with care

Crafted in Spain

THE EXCELLENCE OF EUROPEAN D.O. CAVA AND JAMÓN CONSORCIOSERRANO

Crafted in Spain, perfected by time

In a world that often prioritizes speed over substance, there remains proof that good things, and excellent taste, take time. D.O. Cava and Jamón ConsorcioSerrano are two such treasures, each representing a unique blend of Spanish tradition and taste created with time and perfected over centuries.

Cava has earned its place among the world’s finest sparkling wines, yet it remains wonderfully versatile. Whether paired with a simple salad, a casual meal or a celebratory toast, Cava brings a touch of elegance to every occasion. What makes Cava de Guarda Superior unique is that it is produced using the traditional method where secondary fermentation occurs in the bottle.

This meticulous process, lasting a minimum of 18 months, is carefully overseen by the D.O. Cava regulatory body, ensuring that each bottle upholds the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Made from organic vineyards that are over 10 years old, Cava de Guarda Superior reveals its craftsmanship with every pour. As the delicate, harmonious bubbles rise to the surface, you can truly appreciate the time and care it took to perfect them!

Similarly, Jamón ConsorcioSerrano is more than just a drycured ham. This exquisite product is made using traditional curing

methods which takes a minimum of 12 months to deliver a delicate and rich flavor. Each production is upheld to the rigorous standards of the Consorcio del Jamón Serrano Español, which ensures that every piece of Jamón ConsorcioSerrano bearing the seal is of exceptional quality. Like Cava, Jamón ConsorcioSerrano is not merely an accompaniment to festive tables; it is a versatile delight that can elevate everyday meals with its complex flavors and delicate texture.

Both Cava and Jamón ConsorcioSerrano are perfect examples of how time-honored craftsmanship, underpinned by the European Union’s commitment to quality and tradition, creates products that are unmatched in their category. They are not just crafted in Spain; they are perfected by time, offering a taste of excellence that is both accessible and extraordinary. Whether enjoyed on a special occasion or as part of your daily life, Cava and Jamón ConsorcioSerrano bring the best of Europe to your table.

Learn more on our website

Sustainable Wedding Trends

As couples plan their dream weddings this year, sustainability is becoming a top priority. From intimate gatherings to eco-friendly decor, the focus is shifting toward meaningful celebrations that honor both love and the environment. Here are some of the key sustainable wedding trends to look out for in the coming year from local wedding professionals who have their finger on the pulse.

Locally Sourced Flowers

Sourcing seasonal, local blooms from eco-conscious farms is a great way to lower the carbon footprint of your wedding. The majority of cut flowers sold in the U.S. are imported from Central and South America, and their journey from field-to-vase is a long one. Because imported flowers come from places where labor laws are less favorable for workers and the use of agrochemicals is less regulated, sourcing locally is not just a choice that ensures the freshness and longevity of your flowers, it has a more positive socio-economic impact too. (See our story on page 26.)

—Courtney Mellblom, Owner and Founder Farmermaid Flowers

Most florists these days are skilled at working with more sustainable mechanics to ensure your flowers look their best. This might include avoiding floral foam, using natural ties instead of zip ties and opting for reusable vessels and props.

—Tracey Morris, Owner ella & louie flowers

Kelley Williams

Courtesy of Farmmaid Flowers

Micro-Weddings

Quality Over Quantity

Opt for quality over quantity with a micro-wedding. These continue to rise in popularity, with couples opting for smaller, more intimate celebrations. By inviting fewer guests, couples can focus on creating an unforgettable experience for their closest family and friends.

Smaller guest lists allow for: Personalized Touches

Custom gifts, handwritten notes and unique experiences tailored to each guest.

Higher-Quality Dining Experiences

A carefully curated menu with locally sourced ingredients.

More Meaningful Interactions

The opportunity to spend quality time with each attendee, making the day more special.

Environmentally Friendly Décor

Eco-conscious wedding decor is a major trend for 2025, as couples strive to minimize their environmental impact. Some key ways to achieve this include:

Sustainable Materials

Incorporating wood, bamboo and recycled elements into table settings, signage and invitations.

Waste Reduction

Opting for reusable decor, digital invitations and compostable dinnerware to cut down on waste.

—Karen Riselvato and Ruby Mellinger, Co-Owners  Ruby’s Rustic Weddings and Events

Jeff Clark Photography Matt + Jess

Consider packaging

It’s estimated that more than half of all products and gifts on the market are overpackaged. Givers often fall into the “more is better” mind-set, which heavily fuels this overpackaging trend. It’s time to rethink the excessive packaging. Instead, adding a heartfelt note, especially on a tiny gift, can make a world of a difference. It’s that touch that says “Hey, I thought of you”; “Only for you”; “Customized for you.” It can enhance the recipients’ positive evaluation of the gift.

—Miranda Yin, Marketing Professor Cal Poly San Luis Obispo

Waste Not

Donate | I think my favorite sustainable wedding trend is donating the florals to retirement homes or to hospice.

Use Vintage | Another favorite is tailoring your mom’s or grandmom's wedding dress to make a whole new dress for your wedding but leaving some of the vintage styling in place.

Recycled and Recycle | I am a big fan of paper, and I love the recycled paper invitations. Some of the paper that is being used is gorgeous and has a beautiful texture. You can find lots of invitation designs on Etsy.

—Madeline Link, Owner/Planner I Love You Maddly

Final Thoughts

As sustainability takes center stage in 2025, couples are embracing wedding trends that reflect their values and create unforgettable experiences. Whether opting for an intimate micro-wedding, incorporating eco-friendly decor or working closely with a planner to stay within budget, these thoughtful choices ensure a wedding day that is as responsible as it is magical.

Scan this code for a handly form for calculating your wedding's carbon footprint.

Tips for Working with a Wedding Professional

Hiring a wedding planner or coordinator can make the planning process smoother and ensure your vision comes to life. Here are some tips for working effectively with your planner:

Build a Strong Rapport

Communication is key. Choose a planner who understands your vision and respects your budget. Establishing a strong relationship will ensure that they can bring your dream wedding to life while keeping sustainability in mind.

Create and Stick to a Budget

Work with your planner to develop a realistic budget that aligns with your financial goals. A well-planned budget helps avoid unnecessary expenses and allows you to allocate funds toward the elements that matter most to you.

—Karen Riselvato and Ruby Mellinger, Co-Owners Ruby’s Rustic Weddings and Events

PrePlanning

The best thing couples can do, even before hiring a planner, is have some idea of their guest count. Everything they will need, from the venue size to the food, is based on how many people will be attending the celebration. If a couple is working within a budget, this is the area to cut.

—Madeline Link, Owner/Planner I Love You Maddly

Local Is Best

Work with wedding professionals that are local to the area where you are getting married. Not only will these vendors be more familiar with your venue and the local community, they can also significantly reduce the environmental impact from transportation and shipping.

—Karen Reed, Director, Weddings and Events La Lomita Ranch

Ashley Rae Studio

Greening the Wedding Checklist

So you are getting married. How do you start to plan your big event? A simple internet search for “Wedding Checklist” results in thousands of hits, especially if you specify “images.” And while those checklists are invaluable for setting up a timeline to make a wedding happen, there doesn’t often seem to be much consideration to keeping things eco-friendly. On average, a wedding produces about 400 pounds of trash and generates a carbon footprint that is roughly the same as five humans generate in an entire year. If just those statistics make you cringe, you are in the right place! Here are some ideas to help you reduce waste, lower the carbon footprint of your wedding and make it as sustainable as possible.

Planning Ahead

LOCATION | One of the biggest environmental costs of any wedding is travel. Before choosing a venue, consider picking a locale that is central to you and most of your guests.

SEASON | Deciding on a season is one step before picking a date. The season can determine what flowers and local foods are available and can really begin to add shape to the sustainability of the event.

PLANNER | If you’d like to use a wedding professional, one who is familiar with sustainable options and vendor connections can drastically reduce the research you might need to do on your own.

VENUE OR RENTALS | Look for locations that might include linens, cutlery, dishes and structure pieces like arches in order to reduce the number of single-use items you might need. Research venues that already have eco-friendly practices in place, especially for events. Keep it small! Fewer guests equals less waste.

INVITATIONS | Consider going completely paperless for Save-the-Date notifications, invitations, RSVPs and thank you cards. There are several digital options that can match your style and wedding theme in classy and elegant ways.

ELOPE | Consider eloping! An excellent way to reduce waste and environmental impact is to have a tiny elopement-style wedding.

Kelley Williams

Getting Closer

VENDORS | Pick vendors that have sustainable options, and who are also as local as possible to the event location. This will reduce travel and support the local economy.

WEDDING ATTIRE | There are a few options to reduce waste with single-use attire. Consider shopping vintage or pre-owned and customizing using a sewing expert. Alternately, wedding dresses, bridesmaid dresses and all tuxes can be rented, often for considerably less than new clothing items would cost. Another idea is to pick styles and clothing that can be worn again for other events or date nights. Think about skipping the garter. Create a different tradition for the groomsmen to enjoy.

PLANNING GIFTS | When deciding on gifts, favors and welcome bags, consider items that do not need single-use plastic and that can be practical. Some ideas include bamboo straws, totes with wedding logo, personalized seed packets or handmade lip balms. Wrap them in newspaper, fabric or biodegradable paper.

Ashley Rae Studio

Kelley Williams

Gennan Shippen

Wedding Day

DECOR | Consider using items that can be donated, composted or used in your home. Minimalism in decor can be a beautiful look. Flowers can be placed into small bud vases that can be sent home with guests and lighting can be rented so there is no waste.

GUEST PHOTOS | At the reception, instead of using disposable cameras, use QR codes to guide guests to a group photo collection app to share the images they take.

TABLE SETUPS | Repurpose bridesmaid bouquets for table centerpieces. Table numbers, name cards and seating charts can be made using seed paper that guests can take home and plant in pots or their gardens. When the herbs or flowers grow, the guests will be reminded of the wedding and the couple with a pollinator-friendly plant.

FLOWERS | Pick local flowers in season. (See page 26 for our story about florals.) Work with care facilities nearby to see about donating the flowers after the event. Another option is to use rented potted plants for the florals.

FOOD | Use local farm-to-table food. For the cake, go for a small cake for the couple to cut and cupcakes or sheet cakes for the guests. Work with a local food pantry or homeless shelter to donate any leftover food from the wedding. Have compost bins available to collect any food waste during the reception.

THE BAR | Use local wineries or distilleries. Offer paper or washable straws if requested. Recycle or compost them properly. Skip the cocktail napkins or offer compostable napkins with clearly marked containers to toss them.

Kelley Williams

Matt + Jess

Ashley Rae

Studio

Ashley Rae Studio

Richard Fusilo

The Wedding of Aliah & Chito

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ASHLEY RAE STUDIO

There’s sentimental value in getting married where you live. For partners Aliah Meza and Chito Ababon, they built their home and found community in San Luis Obispo, and wanted to share with their families the place they’ve quickly grown to love. That, along with creating a socially responsible wedding, were the qualifying factors of their big day. That meant supporting local businesses and lessening the wedding’s expected carbon footprint.

For Aliah, a marine biologist at a wildlife rehabilitation center, and Chito, a data analyst for a telecom and renewable energy company, environmental considerations and sustainability are a large part of their careers, and their everyday lives. The couple ensured their wedding decisions aligned with their daily considerations of eco-friendly efforts and intentions.

After securing picture-perfect venue Flying Caballos Ranch, the next vendor they booked was Field to Table Events, a catering business specializing in local, sustainable, seasonal cuisine. Field to Table collaborated with nearby farms and producers to create a menu that merged the couple’s Mexican and Filipino cultures. Copper & Crystal bar service followed that lead, crafting signature cocktails also influenced by regionality: a cucumber margarita inspired by Mexico, and a calamansi whiskey sour to honor Filipino heritage.

Aliah knew florals were very important to her aesthetic so turned to Idlewild Floral Co. to provide dried florals throughout the ceremony and reception, including ones adorning the ceremonial wedding arch. While the flowers looked beautiful on the big day, they were also made to last forever. Family members took flowers home, a tangible keepsake of the beauty of the day.

And for parting gifts, Aliah and Chito agreed that wedding favors had to be something personal to be used and enjoyed, instead of discarded into the trash bin. After a few trials and errors, the couple successfully hand-poured over 200 eucalyptus and lavender scented candles for their guests.

Vendors

Venue | Flying Caballos Ranch

Design & Planning | Scott Chedester of Loven Light Events

Bar/Drinks | Copper & Crystal

Catering | Field to Table Events

Dessert | Pardon My French

DJ/Emcee | Epic Entertainment

Florals | Idlewild Floral Co.

Photography/Videography | Ashley Rae Studio

Rentals | All About Events

Transportation | SLO Safe Ride

Bride’s Advice

“Make a list of must-haves to prioritize what is most important. Planning a wedding is a lot of work and can become overwhelming but having that list and sticking to it makes it easier to make decisions. This makes the big day go much smoother and leaves you with more space to enjoy the wedding.”

Brunch, the Day After

BY MALIYSA LOU | PHOTOGRAPHY BY RICHARD FUSILLO

The morning after the wedding calls for a breezy brunch, when the post-wedding glow is shining bright. Forgo the standard brunch buffet silver chafing dish setup. Instead, invite guests to share in one more bonding experience: lending a hand to get the spread on the tables. Here are a few brunch favorites from the repertoire of LouLou Cheese Girl. Dishes are easy to prepare and assemble as a group. Less complicated and stuffy, more opportunities for connection and stories shared.

About the Contributor: Maliysa Lou of LouLou Cheese Girl in San Luis Obispo County knows food, wine and cheese pairings. She shares this love and her knowledge through event coordination and styling, and crafting stunning grazing tables. Always the impeccable hostess, she is a firm believer that presentation is key and life moments should be celebrated. @louloucheesegirl

Rhonda’s Sunday

Frittata

Serves 8

8 slices bacon or links of breakfast sausage (omit for a vegetarian dish)

8 large eggs

⅓ cup heavy whipping cream

1 teaspoon salt, adjust to taste

1 teaspoon everything bagel seasoning

½ cup halved cherry tomatoes

½ cup diced bell pepper

½ cup diced onion

2 cups arugula

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 cup crumbled feta cheese

1 teaspoon fresh herbs (chives, thyme and/or rosemary), for garnish

Optional

Sour cream

Sriracha

Cook bacon or sausage in skillet over medium high heat until nicely rendered and crispy, about 6–8 minutes. Once crispy, remove from pan and place on paper-towel-lined plate, to drain excess fat. Once cooled, crumble or dice.

Preheat oven to 400°F. While heating, in medium bowl whisk eggs, cream, salt and everything seasoning, about 2–4 minutes, until a smooth, even texture is achieved. Add tomatoes, bell pepper, onion, arugula and reserved bacon crumbles or sausage. Mix gently.

Pour egg mixture into 12-inch ovensafe skillet that has been greased, redistributing vegetables if necessary to lie evenly in skillet. Sprinkle cheddar and feta cheese on top. Using a fork, distribute cheese evenly and lightly incorporate into egg mixture. Place skillet into preheated oven and bake for 15–17 minutes, until edges and center are set and top is golden. Internal temperature should reach 160°F.

Remove from oven. Sprinkle fresh herbs for garnish. Serve with sour cream and sriracha, if using.

Italian Summer Salad

Serves 8

1 teaspoon olive oil, plus more for drizzling

6 peaches, other stone fruit or in-season pears, pits removed and quartered

12 fresh basil leaves

4 cups mixed greens, such as arugula, spinach, kale and lettuce

2 (4-ounce) balls fresh burrata cheese

Pink sea salt

2 mandarin oranges

Pomegranate seeds from 1 small pomegranate

Honey

Balsamic glaze

In a medium skillet, add 1 teaspoon olive oil and heat to medium high. Add quartered peaches, or alternatively, use a grill to heat—try to achieve grill marks for presentation! Remove peaches from heat and set aside. Chop or tear basil leaves into small pieces. Set aside.

In large salad bowl or platter, add mixed greens. Top greens with balls of burrata. Drizzle olive oil over salad and burrata, followed by sprinkling of sea salt. Squeeze juice of 2 mandarin oranges over salad and burrata. Scatter peach slices over greens, followed by sprinkling of pomegranate seeds. Drizzle with honey and then balsamic glaze. When drizzling, hold high at an angle and pour slowly in crisscross fashion.

LouLou’s Grazing Board

When possible, please visit a small cheese shop. The cheese mongers will happily assist you—and possibly have you taste some delish varieties! They’re also likely to have accoutrements and charcuterie.

Cheese Suggestions

• Manchego

• English Cotswold

• Boursin

• Port Salut

• Camembert

Accoutrement Suggestions

• Italian green olives

• Jam

• Cornichons

• Assorted dried fruits (mango, mandarins, apricots and/or cranberries)

• Sliced fruit (strawberries, apples and/or oranges)

• Crackers

• Baguette slices

• Lavender, rosemary and/or assorted flowers, for garnish

Charcuterie Suggestions

• Smoked prosciutto

• Prosciutto

• Spicy salami

Slice all cheeses, except for soft cheese—this should be kept intact. Arrange on charcuterie board or platter. Place olives, jam and cornichons in ramekins, one per accoutrement. Arrange ramekins on board. Add dried fruits and sliced fruit to board. Fold charcuterie slices and layer on board. (Tip: Find salamifolding tutorials online to make them look fancy! My preferred style is the champagne flute method.) Add crackers and baguette slices in areas that need filling and place extras on the side in bowl. Garnish board with flowers. Present with cheese knives and preferred serving utensils.

Grandma’s Nebraska Crumble

Serves 8

For berry filling

1½ pounds fresh berries like blueberries, raspberries and blackberries

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons granulated sugar, or more to taste

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

Pinch fine sea salt

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For crumble topping

¾ cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup old-fashioned rolled oats

¼ cup granulated sugar

¼ cup brown sugar

¼ teaspoon fine sea salt

Dash cinnamon

½ cup butter, melted (1 stick)

Optional

Vanilla bean ice cream

Fresh whipped cream

Preheat oven to 375°F. While heating, prepare berry filling: In 9-inch pie dish, add berries, lemon juice, sugar, flour, sea salt and vanilla. Mix well until combined.

Make crumble topping: In medium bowl, combine flour, rolled oats, granulated sugar, brown sugar, sea salt and cinnamon. Mix well. Add melted butter and stir until butter has moistened all flour and topping is crumbly, using hands if necessary to incorporate. Add crumble topping over berry filling. Bake until juices thicken, topping turns golden and filling appears bubbly, 25–35 minutes.

Cool for 10 minutes. Serve with vanilla bean ice cream or fresh whipped cream.

Picking Perfect Florals

Flowers add a colorful, fragrant, festive touch to many weddings, but did you know that many of them are shipped in from distant countries? One of the best ways to weave sustainability into your big day is to seek out florists who highlight varieties that are local and seasonal. Consider booking early, though, as these specialty businesses can get booked up to six months in advance.

We asked three locally focused florists for advice about picking the best seasonal flowers for your wedding. Here are their best tips for flowers and foraging.

Our Florists

CAITLYN RYLANDER, FLEUR DE RYE, VENTURA

Seasonal Flowers

ELIZABETH COHN, FORAGE OJAI

Seasonal local wedding flowers are the perfect way to celebrate the region where you get married, support your local growers, have the heartiest product available for the day and possibly keep costs down if you’re interested in a little DIY.

The most important step is not to fight against the season and locale. Pick a wedding date that corresponds with when your favorite flowers are in bloom. Personally, spring is my favorite time of year to absolutely make it rain on my local growers.

Winter is a slower dormant time for smaller farms, but a much deserved break for these flower angels.

ASHLEY MORGAN, OJALA FLORAL, OJAI

The best way to choose wedding flowers seasonally is by selecting a florist whose aesthetic is based in seasonality and then letting them know that it’s of importance to you. There are some seasons (spring and summer specifically) where gardens and fields are overflowing with bounty. Fall can be fun for seasonality because of all the foliage/grasses available and winter in California is still technically a growing season although less so; you get a lot of dainty floral and textures.

I urge folks not to get caught up in specific varieties and focus more on the overall look/feeling which can be carried from season to season.

Note: Of course, flowers can be had out of season either through air transport or local hothousing. Some of the largest-scale growers are in South America, Europe, Africa, Japan and New Zealand. But local, outdoor field flowers have the lowest carbon footprint, always.

Fruit and veggies have become a huge trend in wedding design, which I believe is here to stay and offers up a whole other area to source from in terms of local growers.

Fleur de Rye

Seasonal Wedding Flower Selection Guide

Spring

March–May

These flowers typically have a lower carbon footprint when sourced locally since they’re naturally blooming and don’t require heated greenhouses.

If you love sweet peas, ranunculus, anemone, jasmine and poppies for an explosion of romantic, frilly color, this is your time!

Other local spring blooms often include tulips, lilacs, flowering branches, hellebores

Consider incorporating flowering fruit tree branches, which are often considered “waste” when orchards prune.

Fall

September–November

Focus on dahlias, chrysanthemums, amaranth, celosia and late-season garden roses. Incorporate dried elements like grasses, seedpods and changing foliage, which can often be ethically foraged or sourced from garden maintenance.

Summer

June–August

Summer offers the richest opportunity for low-impact flowers since most varieties are growing naturally outdoors. Peak local flower season brings dahlias, garden roses, zinnias, cosmos, larkspur and wildflowers.

For my Summer to Fall couples, pansies (swoon), marigold, amaranthus, and scabiosa have the prettiest fall tones and texture to go with any color palette.

Peak local flower season also brings dahlias, garden roses, zinnias, cosmos, larkspur and wildflowers.

Local flower farms are at their peak production, reducing transportation needs.

Winter

December–February

This season typically has the highest carbon footprint for fresh flowers due to heating and transportation needs.

Embrace evergreens, berried branches, hellebores and forced bulbs

Consider dried flowers from previous seasons and evergreen elements that can be sourced locally.

Foraging

If you want to try your hand at foraging, I would stick to mostly greenery instead of flowers for vase life practicality. Olive, peppertree, acacia, jasmine, honeysuckle and eucalyptus are pretty easy to find up and down the coast. I love to use invasive species like eucalyptus when it's requested by clients, or wild passion flower, ivy and dried grasses to do a little urban gardening favor and mitigate local fire risk.

Always use clean shears from tree to tree and bush to bush so as not to cross contaminate potential tree viruses and parasites. I bring a small bottle of rubbing alcohol and a towel with me when I’m out and have buckets of water ready to go to have everything rehydrated immediately.

FORAGED ELEMENTS FOR WEDDINGS

To use foraging for wedding florals takes knowledge of wild plants and careful balance of lawful gathering and ecological impact. This approach can not only reduce environmental impact but creates a unique, place-based event that connects to the local environment and season.

Ethical foraging (with proper permissions and knowledge) can include:

• Fallen branches with interesting lichen or moss

• Wild grasses and seedheads

• Changing autumn leaves

• Wild vines like grape or honeysuckle for garlands

• Pine cones and evergreen boughs

• Field flowers from permitted areas

A foraged wedding design might include a base layer of locally grown local flowers complemented by:

• Textural elements like grasses, branches, and vines to create organic shapes

• Seasonal wildflowers as accent pieces

• Natural elements like stones, feathers, or shells depending on location

• Locally gathered greenery to add volume and connection to the landscape

Important considerations

• Always obtain proper permissions for foraging

• Learn to identify plants properly to avoid toxic varieties

• Be mindful of wildlife habitats and never over-harvest

• Consider working with a florist who specializes in sustainable and foraged designs

• Plan for backup

SENTIMENTAL FORAGING

Foraging can be a great way to add in texture as an unexpected accent. One idea is to get permission to cut from someone’s garden, maybe a neighbor, friend or family member, which can also add special meaning and sentiment to the overall design. Jasmine, plumbago, smokebush, fruiting branches and Lady Banks rambling roses are some favorites.

When foraging in the wild, I go for varieties that will eventually turn to brush and be cleared for fire safety in the dryer months like mustard, grasses, and fennel.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS WHILE FORAGING

You should use care when thinking about transporting seeded varieties and grasses as you don’t want to introduce invasive species to virgin territory. (For example, pampas grass had a huge surge in popularity for a while but is now actually banned from some venue sites.) It’s also important to think about the health of bee populations when foraging. If you are thinking of cutting a bush that is one of the only flowering varieties in the area, I would think again.

General Tips

Give yourself plenty of time before the wedding events to put things together. Get flowers on a Thursday to have everything done by midday Friday to enjoy the rest of the weekend.

Don’t overthink it. Bud vases are the perfect vessels to keep things low key, but high impact and fun. Let the flowers shine; that's what they do best.

Fruits and vegg ies have become a huge trend in wedding design, which I believe is here to stay and offers up a whole other area to source from in terms of local growers.

Fleur de Rye

Fleur de Rye

Low Carbon Footprint Approaches

• Work with local flower farmers within 100 miles

• Choose flowers that are in peak season

• Avoid flowers that require extensive refrigeration or heated greenhouse growing

• Include hardy flowers that don’t require frequent water changes or complex preservation

• Consider potted plants that can be replanted after the wedding

Finding Flowers and Local Growers

To find your favorite growers near you, start visiting your local farmers markets. Make friends to develop and nurture that relationship so the flower planning with them will be a joyous breeze. Lots of them offer CSAs, or for your florist, wholesale. I definitely recommend following your favorite farms on Instagram so you can find out when they announce their return to the farmers markets.

Following the social media accounts of local growers in your area is a huge tool to know what is available and when. You can look back through wedding seasons in previous years to see which bounty farmers are posting from week to week.

Flower Farms Nearby

Along with the farms listed here, check out your local farmers markets for other local growers.

San Luis Obispo County

Campesina Flowers, Arroyo Grande

Colline Flower Farm, Paso Robles

Farmermaid Flowers, Arroyo Grande

SLO Creek Farms, San Luis Obispo

River Road Flower Farm, Templeton

Santa Barbara County

Heart Face Flower Farm, Santa Barbara

Rose Story Farm, Carpinteria

The Starter Farm, Santa Ynez

Ventura County

Grace Rose Farm, Somis/Thousand Oaks

Ibeths Flowers, Fillmore

McGrath Family Farm, Camarillo

Night Heron Farm, Ojai

Forage

Ojai

Signature Wedding Cocktails

Crafting flavors that represent both the couple and the region

Awedding’s signature cocktail isn’t just a drink—it’s a love story in a glass. It’s a chance to shake up tradition (literally), delight guests and show off a little personality. Choosing local spirits means fresher flavors, fewer carbon miles and a toast that actually supports the community. Plus, let’s be honest: Your guests will remember a creative, well-crafted cocktail way more than the color of the napkins. Whether it’s crisp and refreshing or smooth and bold, a locally inspired sip sets the mood, sparks conversation and makes your wedding feel uniquely you—one delicious, sustainable sip at a time. These three recipes use local ingredients from the 805 and give you a starting point to fall in love all over again. Bring in your favorite party guests and make all three for a tasting! Maybe one becomes your favorite new flavor, or maybe they inspire you to create your own. Cheers!

Alchemists’ Bees Knees

By Tony Bennett of The Alchemists’ Garden

Photography

by Sarah Kathleen

This classic cocktail focuses on using vodka as the base spirit in a balanced and refreshing way that surprises people every time. I incorporate fresh French lavender in the shaker tin to release the aroma in the cocktail during the build.

Makes 1 cocktail

2 ounces local vodka

1 ounce fresh-squeezed lemon juice

¾ ounce honey syrup (recipe below)

1–2 pieces of fresh lavender flower Flower, for garnish

Fill cocktail shaker with ice. Add vodka, lemon juice, honey syrup and fresh lavender. Fasten shaker lid and shake until the mixture is very cold, about 30 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with the flower.

Honey syrup

1 cup local honey

½ cup water

Mix honey and water in a mixing bowl on low speed or whisk briskly by hand. When incorporated and all one consistency, bottle and store in refrigerator up to 1 week.

Sparkling Wine Citrus Ginger Punch

By Krista Harris, co-publisher of Edible Santa Barbara | Photography by Steven

When you browse vintage cookbooks, you’ll often find page after page of punch recipes. It seems a giant punch bowl used to be the center of every party. And what could be more festive for a bridal shower or a wedding brunch? Punches were often made with bottled fruit juices and soda. For a fresher, more modern version, I’ve used fresh citrus, ginger and local sparkling wine. This type of recipe can be endlessly tinkered with and customized. Try using other types of fruit juices or add a fruit shrub. The punch can be spiked with vodka or your choice of local spirits. Or, for an alcohol-free version, substitute sparkling water for the sparkling

Makes 8–16 servings

1 (8-ounce) jar of fruit jelly (try apple, pomegranate or currant)

3 cups hot ginger tea, sweetened with honey if desired

2 cups freshly squeezed orange juice,

Juice of 1 lemon

12–16 ounces local sparkling wine, chilled

Slices of lemon, orange or lime and/or edible flowers, for garnish

Whisk the jelly into the hot ginger tea until it is dissolved and combined. Cool and chill in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight.

In a large bowl, combine the ginger tea mixture with the orange juice and lemon juice. Add the sparkling wine just before serving along with crushed ice, ice cubes or a large ice ring. Feel free to taste and add more sparkling wine if desired. Float citrus slices and/or edible flowers on top for garnish. Serve with a ladle into small decorative glasses. Any leftover punch can be frozen in ice cube trays and used to chill cold beverages.

Cali 75

By Ventura Spirits Staff

This hyperlocal cocktail can be riffed a million ways, or batched for a big wedding. This could also translate into really fun wedding favors or wedding party gifts with 200ml bottles of both Wilder Gin and Limoncello along with a split of whatever local bubbles are used at the wedding.

Makes 1 cocktail

¾ ounce Wilder Gin

½ ounce Ventura Spirits Limoncello*

½ ounce lemon juice

¼ ounce honey syrup (or simple syrup)

California Brut Lemon peel, for garnish

Add gin, limoncello, lemon juice and syrup to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake for 30 seconds. Strain into a coupe glass and top off with bubbles. Garnish with a fresh or candied lemon peel.

*Ventura Spirits’ seasonal Pixie-cello can be swapped in when available to expand on the seasonal and local theme.

• Gifts Galore — Extraordinary Picks for the Wedding Party and Beyond

• Celebration Meals in Paradise — Inside or on Our Patio, Engagement Toasts to Rehearsal Dinners

• Custom Wine Service, Cheese & Charcuterie Platters — Paired for Your Entire Celebration Experience the magic of all that Santa Margarita ranch and vineyard has to offer with a wedding weekend of adventure, history and iconic views.

That’s a Pretty Penny! Building a Strong Financial Foundation for Your Marriage

BY TALIN OHANNESSIAN PEREZ

WILL YOU MARRY ME? One of the most beautiful questions you’ll ever hear in your life. We finally found love! Beautiful, yet expensive.

Next thing you know you’re signing off on a venue, hiring a florist, finding your first home together, not to mention planning that much-needed honeymoon. These are wonderful tasks to get done on your wedding planning checklist, but there is often an awkward dance also happening. Namely, the topic of money.

Ensuring you set up a strong financial foundation is the most important aspect of creating your future together. Topics to seriously discuss with your partner include protection (including insurance coverage and potentially a prenup agreement); how you will handle savings, investing and any debts; and how you will deal with financial setbacks or emergencies. Discussing these might not feel romantic but taking a deep dive into each topic will help you succeed not only in your marriage, but in your future family and generations to come.

Protection isn’t always about keeping bad things away. I have found that it actually helps create more peace of mind, and in turn more freedom. Recognizing that this can be a tricky topic, perhaps plan to discuss all of this with sensitivity at a scheduled low-stress time.

The first two questions to ask your newly engaged selves are these: “Will we want a prenuptial legal agreement (prenup)?” And, “How will we protect our income?”

So, let’s talk prenups. A prenup is a financial contract that ensures assets are fairly divided if the relationship doesn’t work out. (Of course yours will, but just in case …) It can help clarify the responsibility of each of you and what you are starting off with. It can protect your businesses, inheritances and even specify who pays for what debts.

The next question is all about what it means to protect your income. Make sure you work together to ensure that you have enough health insurance to cover any medical bills and car and home insurance to cover your major possessions. What about if you can’t work for more than 90 days and are unable to do basic daily activities? Who pays the bills? Where’s the money, honey? Income protection is a key part of your financial dialogue.

Some other questions to ask might be: Are we investing? (In what? How much?) What is our savings plan? Will we have combined accounts or separate or some combination?

As you plan for your life together, remember that these money talks are the groundwork for a lifetime of shared goals and responsibilities. From protection to savings ideas, these are just the first few steps to building a strong financial foundation for your family. So, take a deep breath, take a mental snapshot of every possible moment you have in this season, communicate (a lot) and remember that planning together now can lead to a stronger and more blissful future.

Talin Ohannessian Perez went from chef to financial advisor. She started her career in advocating for financial literacy when she discovered that many, like herself, were living a Third World life in a First World country. She made a change and now works with chefs and others to teach smart money strategies.

Saving for Later

Weddings definitely have their fair share of expenses. But you don’t need to drain your savings to celebrate.

My husband and I did a more non-traditional wedding for both our families. Instead of having a grand Armenian wedding with over 300 people and a large elaborate venue, we ended up renting an outdoor location for only $2,000. With renting all the equipment, providing food, getting florals from Trader Joe’s, a tap truck with beer and wine and DIYing the setups, it only cost us $8,000 with 150 people celebrating with us. It also gave me a memory of a lifetime to be so involved in my wedding.

On trend right now is “mini-moons,” a shorter more affordable staycation. This short-term sacrifice will help you build your long-term vision as a new family. You can always plan to become globe trotters for your anniversary trips.

There are so many cost-saving opportunities when planning your wedding. The best tip is to figure out which pieces are most important to you and plan your budget around those.

A Toast to Local Bubbles

BY LIZ DODDER

When planning a wedding in the beautiful wine country of California’s Central Coast, incorporating local sparkling wine into your celebration is a perfect way to embrace the region’s vibrant wine culture. San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties boast an array of exceptional sparkling wines from over 200 local wineries!

Whether you want something Champagne-like, boutique and made in-house, or a fun pét-nat, choosing the right sparkling wine means considering the style, origin and pairing potential for your special day.

Sparkling wine is an excellent choice for weddings—not only for your wedding toast, but also to pair with your entire menu. It pairs beautifully with appetizers, seafood, poultry and vegetarian dishes, making it a natural fit for multi-course menus or buffet-style receptions.

Explore the Varieties and Styles

Central Coast sparkling wines come in a range of styles, from traditional brut to extra brut and even whimsical options like prosecco-style or pét-nat.

Many wineries in this region use classic methods of secondary fermentation in the bottle, such as Méthode Champenoise, to craft sparkling wines that rival those of more renowned regions.

A few wineries import prosecco from Italy or make their sparkling wine in that style: secondary fermentation in tanks instead of in the bottle, resulting in a crisper, fruitier profile with a reduced cost.

A large portion of wineries use the Méthode Ancestral and bottle their sparklers earlier, allowing carbon dioxide produced during the main fermentation to naturally carbonate the wine. These Pétillant Naturel (aka pét-nat) wines can be from nontraditional grapes, with fun flavors and softer bubbles.

When selecting a sparkling wine, think about your favorite wines:

• If you love dry, crisp white wines, you’ll love the classic brut or extra brut Champagne-style wines.

• If you love fruitier wines, you can look for prosecco-style or sparkling wine that is more affordable.

• If you’re an adventurous wine drinker, frequently choosing natural wine or more interesting and esoteric wines, try a pét-nat.

Focus on Local Terroir

San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara and Ventura counties each offer distinct characteristics in their sparkling wines, thanks to their diverse microclimates. San Luis Obispo’s Edna Valley is known for its cool coastal breezes and long growing seasons, producing sparkling wines with elegant acidity and minerality. Santa Barbara County, with its varied AVAs (American Viticultural Areas, or distinctive grape-growing regions), offers a range of styles, including fruit-forward sparkling wines from the Sta. Rita Hills or Santa Maria Valley. Ventura County, though lesser known, has boutique wineries crafting limited-edition sparkling wines with a personal touch. Choosing wines that reflect the local terroir not only supports regional winemakers but also brings a sense of place to your wedding.

Kelley Williams

Jeff Clark photography

Kristen

Johansen Fotografik

Customize Wedding Bubbles

Sparkling wine has long been a symbol of celebration, its bubbly effervescence associated with joy, new beginnings and shared toasts of happiness. To add a personal and memorable touch, choose a bottle from the year you met, or plan a fun bridal party outing to the local winery where you selected your bubbles. You can also match your wedding colors with a glitter-decorated bottle (try Riverbench for this) or add personalized labels—these can be DIY and also make great gifts. There are so many ways to make your champagne toast reflect your love story and your style.

Visit Wineries for Tastings

One of the best ways to choose sparkling wine for your wedding is to visit the wineries for tastings. Many local producers offer tasting experiences where you can sample their sparkling wines and learn about their winemaking process. By choosing local sparkling wine from California’s Central Coast, you can infuse your wedding with regional charm while treating your guests to exceptional wines crafted with care.

For a guide to sparkling wine tasting, scan the QR code or visit CaliCoastWineCountry.com.

Resources

Although, this list is by no means exhaustive, here are a few local sparkling wines to check out in each region of the Central Coast.

Paso Robles area

Four Lanterns Winery | FourLanternsWinery.com

Hoyt Family Vineyards | HoytFamilyVineyards.com

Metronome/Hayseed & Housdon | HayseedAndHousdon.com

Niner Wine Estates | NinerWine.com

Rava Winery | RavaWines.com

Treana/Hope Family Wines | HopeFamilyWines.com

San Luis Obispo area

Chamisal Vineyards | ChamisalVineyards.com

Laetitia Vineyards & Winery | LaetitiaWine.com

Stephen Ross Wine Cellars | StephenRossWine.com

Timbre Winery | TimbreWinery.com

Santa Maria/Santa Ynez Valleys

Fess Parker Winery/The Bubble Shack | FessParker.com

Flying Goat Cellars | FlyingGoatCellars.com

Future Perfect Wine | FuturePerfectWine.com

Presqu’ile Winery | PresquileWine.com

Riverbench Vineyard & Winery | Riverbench.com

Sanford Winery | SanfordWinery.com

Santa Barbara

Loubud Wines | LoubudWines.com

Margerum Wine Company | MargerumWines.com

Pali Wine Co. | PaliWineCo.com

Fess Parker & Riverbench tasting rooms, too!

Ventura area

Clos Des Amis | ClosDesAmis.com

Doctors Orders Wine | DrsOrdersWine.com

Four Brix Winery | FourBrixWine.com

Giessinger Winery | GiessingerWinery.com

Happy Accidents Wine Co. | HappyAccidents.co

Magnavino Cellars | MagnavinoCellars.com

Old Creek Ranch & Winery | OldCreekRanch.com

Strey Cellars | StreyCellars.com

Wildflower Winery | WildflowerWineryVentura.com

Jeff Clark photography | Kristen Johansen Fotografi k

The Wedding of Kristen and Steve

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

WILD WHIM

At an intimate ceremony atop East Camino Cielo, the bride wore hiking boots. The bridal bouquet by ella & louie flowers echoed the florals on the table at Lavender Oak Vineyard.

Kristen and Steve’s vineyard wedding was nothing short of enchanting, a true reflection of their personalities and the love they share. They met in 2020, during the height of Covid lockdowns, connecting on a dating app despite living an hour apart in Goleta and Camarillo. Their relationship grew through Zoom dinner dates and remote Netflix watch parties, blossoming into a shared life filled with hiking, beach runs, ocean swims and adventures across the Central Coast with their Wire Fox Terrier, Louie.

The couple envisioned a celebration that felt deeply personal while allowing time to reconnect with loved ones who traveled to the Santa Ynez Valley for their special day. To make the most of the occasion, they planned a week of activities in Santa Barbara, including sailing along the coastline and a painting class.

The festivities began on Thursday with an intimate ceremony atop East Camino Cielo with just family and a few close friends. With breathtaking mountaintop views as their backdrop, Kristen and Steve exchanged vows in a serene and stunning setting. On Saturday, they gathered with friends and family at Lavender Oak Vineyard in the Santa Ynez Valley for a vibrant celebration. Surrounded by colorful wildflowers, the couple held a brief second ceremony, complemented by floral arrangements from ella & louie flowers that perfectly captured their vision.

Dinner was a creative fusion of Southern and California flavors, a nod to Kristen’s Tennessee roots. Duo Catering crafted a menu that paired classic Southern dishes with a fresh California twist. Menus were letterpressed on seed paper, doubling as wedding favors that would bloom into flowers. The vineyard’s picturesque setting was enhanced by mismatched tableware, while custom napkins, menus and place cards featured charming illustrations of their dog Louie, courtesy of Big Little Lines. A decorated bicycle at the venue’s entrance and bike wheels dis-

A second ceremony a few days later was attended by a larger group in the vineyard setting enhanced with a meadow of flowers, mismatched tableware and the 805 Camera Bus photo booth.

playing place cards paid tribute to their love of cycling. Custom wooden table numbers and name cards, crafted by the couple using their own laser cutter, added another personal touch.

Kristen’s Hermione de Paula dress featured intricate embroidery with meaningful details: the state flowers of Tennessee and California, a bike, a cartoon of Louie, their initials and the wedding date. The Lucky Devils band kept the dance floor packed all night, learning songs meaningful to the couple for their processional, recessional and final dance. Guests also enjoyed the 805 Camera Bus photo booth, capturing joyful memories to take home. Wild Whim Photography documented every special moment, and the couple credits their incredible vendors, especially wedding planner Tonya Szele, for bringing their vision to life.

Vendors

Wedding planning | Tonya Szele

Venue | Lavender Oak

Florals | ella & louie

Photography | Wild Whim

Stationary | Big Little Lines Designs

Linens | BBJ LaTavola

Tableware | Otis and Pearl

Catering | Duo Catering

Rentals |  The Tent Merchant

Lighting | Bella Vista Designs

Entertainment | Lucky Devils

Dress | Hemione de Paula/Loho Bride

Reception dress | Sim Khai

Beauty | Samara Beauty

Photo Booth | 805 Camera Bus

The Wedding of Priya & Joseph

PHOTOGRAPHY BY TINA LOVERIDGE

Priya Vasudeva and Joseph McNamara met while attending medical school at Campbell University in North Carolina, both on their own quests to save the world. Together they are magnetically charming, and clearly enamored with each other. That deep love and charisma led them to a bright, joyful, dance-filled wedding at La Lomita Ranch in San Luis Obispo, designed and planned by Brooke Nicole Events.

While Indian wedding celebrations are known for rich tradition and grand displays of color, music and dance, the flair doesn’t mean that thoughtful, sustainable practices are thrown to the wind. La Lomita Ranch, a wedding venue located in the natural surroundings of Islay Hill in Edna Valley, is committed to promoting accountability toward ecological sustainability. The ranch, once home to famed Arabian horses, provided a safe setting for the traditional baraat, a wedding procession with Joseph on horseback. Vibrant florals highlighting Priya’s heritage and Indian culture, sourced and designed by Brooke Edelman, were repurposed and diverted post-event through local special event flower recycling association Floracycle, to senior living centers and nursing facilities.

Playful touches included bar menus highlighting the couple’s beloved pets through cocktail names and imagery. Various wardrobe changes and henna applications also delighted guests, who themselves came to the ceremony adorned in traditional lehengas and saris (women), and kurtas and sherwanis (men).

Vendors

Design & Planning | Brooke Nicole Events

Venue | La Lomita Ranch

Bar/Drinks | Copper & Crystal

Beauty | The Queen’s Bees

Catering | Field to Table Events

Dessert | Bri’s Sweet Retreat

DJ/Emcee | Epic Entertainment

Horse | White Horse Carriage

Florals | Brooke Edelman

Ice | Glacier Ice

Linen | BBJ La Tavola

Lighting | Kramer Events

Draping | Draping by Kim

Paper Goods & Signage | Lovelyfest

Photography/Videography | Tina Loveridge

Rentals | All About Events

Specialty Rentals | Avenue Twelve

Bride’s advice

“The act of planning a wedding is almost a microcosm of marriage as a whole. It requires— just like marriage—cooperation, communication, and sometimes compromise while remaining compassionate. There will be a thousand and one outside influences and opinions, but this is your special day and it should be a reflection of your love for one another and who you are as a couple. Our advice is to remain focused on your love for each other and let that guide your decision making!”

The Wedding of Rachel and Jonathan

PHOTOS BY MATT + JESS

MAKING IT WORK : “Though we always pictured a warm summer night, we definitely got more than we bargained for when temperatures soared to the high 90s on the day of,” says Rachel. “Last minute we threw out any dress code and told guests to wear whatever keeps them cool, which ended up making the day feel even more festive, with both men and women in bright, floral patterns that accentuated the relaxing vibe we were hoping to create.”

Sometimes the universe has a way of guiding people together. At least that is what it seems like to Rachel Ison and Jonathan Anderson. Way back in 2010, Jonathan sent a Facebook friend request to a friend of a friend of a friend (Rachel) who was going to be attending his university in Boston in the fall. After an awkward day together at the beach that summer, they parted ways and didn’t speak again for nearly two years.

One unseasonably warm April day in Boston, Jonathan’s fraternity was throwing a party for which he was dateless. Rachel reluctantly agreed to be his blind date as a favor for a friend (Jonathan’s frat brother) because she had a Great Gatsby party next door that she was already excited to attend. She put in about one peach/ strawberry margarita’s worth of time with Jonathan and then headed to her party. The true beginning of their relationship began at 2am that same night, when Jonathan called out to offer cookies just as Rachel started walking home. Jonathan was more appealing than the cookies, so this time it stuck!

Over a decade later, the couple created their dream wedding on another unseasonably warm June evening in Ojai. “From the beginning, we always envisioned [our wedding as] a warm summer night dinner party in the garden—unfussy, lively and plenty of good food and drink,” says Rachel. “As a couple, our favorite thing to do is cook for others and host dinner parties, so we really wanted this night to feel like an extension of us and our relationship.”

The menu of veggies, salad and chicken from Ojai Rôtie worked perfectly for the day and paired well with the couple’s favorite wine from a small winery in Oregon, Marigny Wines. The venue, a Provence-inspired private estate in Ojai, lent itself to creating that cozy backyard wedding atmosphere.

Vendors

Wedding Planner | White Sage Wedding & Events

Photography/Videography | Matt + Jess

Rentals | Ventura Rentals and Amigo Rentals

Food/Beverages | Ojai Rôtie

Bar/Drinks | Wandering Spirits Mobile Bar

Florals | Ojala Florals

Dessert | Roxanne Rosensteel

Lighting | In the Mix Events

Transportation | Jump on the School Bus

DJ/Sound | Dart Collective

Live Music | Eric Sullivan

Restrooms | Luxury Loos

Venue | Private estate in Ojai

Welcome Party | Old Creek Ranch & Winery

Favors | Char Man hot sauce

email ads@edibleventuracounty.com

The Wedding of Rosminah and Rob

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

JEFF CLARK PHOTOGRAPHY AND KRISTEN JOHANSEN FOTOGRAFIK

Advice from the bride: “First, it’s your wedding and as long as you’re paying for it, you can and should do whatever you want for it. And most personally: Have professional photographers there dedicated to documenting the event, even for what appears to be a simple elopement. These photos capture the moment forever and tell the stories that will become a foundation for all your memories.”

Edible Santa Barbara publishers Rosminah Brown and Rob Bilson knew long before their wedding day that they were meant to be together. Their commitment was already deeply rooted, and when the time came to formalize their vows, they chose a stay-at-home elopement to keep things simple, personal and meaningful.

The couple held their ceremony at Rosminah’s family home, a place steeped in memories. With her parents as the sole witnesses in attendance, every detail of their wedding was thoughtfully curated to reflect their shared history and values. Local businesses, run by friends, provided essential elements of the day, making the event a true reflection of their community.

Sustainability and flexibility were woven into the celebration, starting with the floral arrangements. Tracey Morris of ella & louie flowers designed an enchanting display using potted flowering plants— delicate peach blooms and climbing tendrils—that now continue to flourish in their garden. Rosminah’s bouquet, filled with locally sourced fresh flowers, mirrored a summer meadow, seamlessly tying into the elegant yet understated tablescape.

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed an exquisite luncheon catered by local cookbook author and Edible Santa Barbara contributor Pascale Beale. Finger sandwiches and a vibrant crudité platter reflected both the couple’s love for seasonal, locally sourced fare and their appreciation for the British tradition of small, refined bites—a nod to the years Rosminah and her parents spent in England.

Despite its intimate size, the wedding was rich with personal details and meaningful heirlooms. Rosminah’s vintage amber bracelet belonged to Rob’s mother, while their champagne coupes once graced the wedding of Rob’s parents. The vintage china used for the lunch was a treasured set Rob’s father brought back from Japan during his service in the Vietnam war. Small ceramic guardian dogs, once owned by Rosminah’s late uncle, posted along the steps, added a spiritual connection to those no longer present.

Their union was made official by a close friend, whose title was The Rev. Doctor of Space and Time, while their synchronized champagne sabering—a skill they had practiced in advance—added a celebratory flourish to the day. That evening, they shared a quiet, private dinner at Silvers Omakase, savoring the joy of their new chapter together.

Their wedding was a testament to the beauty of simplicity and the power of personal details. With the artistry of Jeff Clark and Kristen Johansen capturing every nuance, the day was preserved not only in memory but in images to share with those who couldn’t be there. Because, in the end, it’s the small, meaningful moments that make a wedding truly unforgettable.

Vendors

Venue | private home in Santa Barbara

Photography |  Jeff Clark and Kristen Johansen

Florals | ella & louie flowers

catering | Pascale Beale

Hair | Tiffany Tuason

Dress | borrowed, originally from Ana-Maria Bridal Boutique

Wedding rings | Tiffany & Co.

Cake | Lele Patisserie

Wedding dinner | Silvers Omakase

Details in small weddings have big impact. A pineapple was a special guest.

Add personal flourishes for fun and that extra 2-inch lift.

Rosminah’s parents, Carrie and Don, celebrate the nuptials.

A captured moment during the toast. As fate would have it, the father of the bride passed away unexpectably the next morning. “All these photos took on new meaning immediately,” says Rosminah. “We have his signature on the marriage license, and these photos capture his final day, dressed up, happy, and at peace. We can only hope to live our new chapter as well as my parents had.”

Traditions and rituals are equally important in an elopement.

The Wedding of Sophia and Garrett

PHOTOS BY AMANDA JOY

PHOTOGRAPHY

The couple stayed at The Capri Hotel, right across the street from the golf course. “Our room opened up to the large lawn area behind the pool and we used that space to do our first look and bridal party photos before the ceremony,” says Sophia.

Like so many couples in the 21st century, Sophia and Garrett met through a dating app.

After two years of dating, they re-created their memorable first date as a sentimental moment: picnicking at the same spot on the beach at Pierpont in Ventura; using the same blanket; wearing the same clothes; eating the same drinks and snacks. And that is when Garrett proposed!

Sophia knew that their June wedding would be in Ojai, where she grew up. Once they found their venue, Soule Park Golf Course, everything else fell into place. Sophia and Garrett wanted to have their own unique name instead of taking either of their surnames so they decided on Soule! Their wedding tagline was “Soule Mates,” and the neon sign they had made for the wedding now lives in their bedroom.

The couple was very conscious of using resources well. They used a wedding website for RSVPs to reduce paper waste and married close to home to save travel costs for themselves and guests. Flowers were in season locally and all specialized pieces, like the wedding arch, were borrowed or able to be used in their home later. “We supported all small businesses as our wedding vendors and really tried to keep the motto ‘less is more’ in mind while planning,” says Sophia.

“We truly had the best night of our lives and are so grateful to have experienced it in such a special place to us, with all of our favorite people,” she says. “As a final event to wrap up our wedding weekend we spent an afternoon at the Ojai Valley Inn and enjoyed the spa. We’re definitely looking forward to going back for anniversary celebrations!”

Vendors

Food/Beverage | Soule Park Golf Course & Zaidee’s Restaurant

DJ/Sound | Matt Nasby of Bouquet Sound

Photography | Amanda Joy Photography

Videography | John Treur

Florals | Yamaguchi Flowers

wedding Dress | Ever After Bridal hair and makeup | Rami Darwish

Photo Booth | Shutter Bus

Rentals | 3 Little Birds Event Planning

Cake, Desserts & Favors | Ex Voto Chocolates

Rehearsal Dinner | Ca Marco

Hotel & Wedding Party Prep Venue | The Capri Hotel

“Our arch for our ceremony was actually an old arch my dad had in his yard so he painted it and we decorated it for the wedding,” says Sophia. “Now he’s growing Bougainvillea on it in his yard in Ojai!”

At each place setting was a two-piece box of chocolates (his & hers) painted in the wedding color scheme of pink, orange and green. “It was really special to be able to make my own wedding desserts and favors after making them for so many people over the years at Ex Voto!” says Sophia. “Garrett and I each chose our personal favorite flavors, baklava caramel and raspberry dark chocolate ganache.”

Conquering the Kitchen Together

Cookbooks to build a strong culinary foundation—to sooth, seduce and nourish

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY

CATE FURTADO

So, the wedding’s over and you’re now focused on continuing to build your home—and life—together as a married couple. May we suggest starting with your cookbook library? A beautifully intimate way to create memorable meals side by side while deepening your culinary connection. Here are a few recommendations to kickstart your collection.

À Table: Recipes for Cooking and Eating the French Way

by Rebekah Peppler

The book for couples who dream of Parisian cafés and getaways, containing recipes that bring the charm of modern French dining into the home.

A Table Full of Love

by Skye McAlpine

Love is in the air and cooked into the pages of A Table Full of Love, a collection of recipes that celebrates the connection between food and emotions.

About the Contributor:

After a decade photographing weddings, Cate Furtado pivoted into food media and has built a career around recipe development, cookbooks and restaurants. Find her recipes and musings at notachefsf.substack.com and @notachefsf.

The Art of Friday Night Dinners

by Eleanor Steafel

There’s nothing sweeter than getting to the end of a long week and relaxing into the night with your partner—over a delicious home-cooked meal. Here are 100+ recipes to create a memorable dinnertime every Friday night.

The Art of Simple Food

by Alice Waters

For the couple who wander farmers markets together looking to polish their seasonal recipe repertoire.

Big Night

by Katherine Lewin

Organized by seasonal menus, this cookbook provides tips, tricks and recipes to make any event special, no matter the size. A fantastic gift for newlyweds who want to celebrate together and create unforgettable memories around the table.

Cook This Book

by Molly Baz

A book that breaks down cooking essentials, shows how to set up a kitchen and walks through recipes in a fun, approachable way.

Kindred Spirits by Stephanie

Wahler

For cocktail lovers, Kindred Spirits is packed full of drink recipes for two and creative date ideas to mix things up.

Table for Two by Bre Graham

A collection of playful and failsafe recipes designed around special moments for two, from uncomplicated breakfasts to over-the-top dinners.

The Lost Kitchen by

Erin French

A striking cookbook photographed and designed to appreciate farm-to-table dining and rustic charm, arranged seasonally.

The Newlywed Table by

Maria Zizka

For those just starting their culinary journey, the approachable recipes are designed to teach cooking as a team, creating meals that nourish bodies and relationships. The book is also filled with delicious ideas and tips from setting up a kitchen or setting tables to repurposing leftovers.

Papier Recipe Journal

A thoughtful keepsake to scribble down recipes discovered or created together, for food-loving couples who want to preserve these meaningful bites.

Jasper and Oak

Source Guide

BEVERAGE SERVICES

Block Party

Unleash the spirit of celebration with mobile bartending, bar services and cocktail catering. Blockpartybar.com | @block.party.bar

CATERING

Ojai Rôtie

Farmer-driven catering, including the beloved rotisserie chicken picnic options. ojairotie.com/catering | @ojairotie

Paradise Pantry

Gourmet sandwiches, platters and wines—served for rustic chic to elegant celebrations. In Ventura paradisepantry.com | @paradisepantrymarket

Seasons Catering

Ventura and Santa Barbara’s most trusted caterer, known for great quality, creativity and personalized service. seasonscateringca.com @ seasonscateringca

Thomas Hill Organics

Farm-to-table bistro for special events serving creative, organic cuisine. thomashillorganics.com @thomashillorganics

DESSERT

Negranti Creamery

Ice cream catering, served via vintage ice cream trucks and push carts. negranticreamery.com @negranticreamery

FLORAL

Forage Ojai

Sustainable wedding florals and artistic installations serving Ojai to Santa Inez. Daily bouquets and workshops available. Elizabeth Cohn Forageojai.com | @forageojai

Maria’s Little Garden

Visions brought to life through thoughtful, inspired florals. mariaslittlegarden.com | @ marias_littlegarden

WINES

Brecon Estate

Artisanal boutique winery producing world-class Paso Robles varietals. 7450 Vineyard Drive in Paso Robles breconestate.com | @breconestate

Flying H Wines

Single-estate wines cultivated in sustainable vineyards in the Monterey AVA. In Ventura flyinghwine.com

True Myth

Award winning Central Coast wines by winemaker Rob Takigawa. 5828 Orcutt Road San Luis Obispo truemythwinery.com @truemythwines

VENUES

Allegretto Vineyard Resort

Serene, European style venue set in the rolling hills of wine country.

2700 Buena Vista Drive in Paso Robles allegrettovineyardresort.com @allegrettovr

Big Sur River Inn

The consummate Big Sur setting nestled in the redwoods by the river.

46800 Highway One in Big Sur bigsurriverinn.com | @bigsurriverinn

Buttonwood Farm & Vineyard

Numerous options on the 107 acre property, from the vineyards to the sun-drenched mesa.

1500 Alamo Pintado Road in Solvang buttonwoodwinery.com | @buttonwoodwinery

Community Environmental Council

Incubating and innovating real-life environmental solutions that directly affect the Central Coast. In Santa Barbara cecsb.org | @cec_sb

Channel Islands Executive Charters

Chartered yachts, for a rare taste of unspoiled coastal California.

Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard channelislandsexecutivecharters.com @ciexecutivecharters

Eden Gardens

Luxury outdoor venue known for its lush garden event space.

3900 Eden Gardens Lane in Moorpark edengardensweddings.com @edengardensvenue

La Lomita Ranch

A venue full of Spanish charm and soothing refuge in the Edna Valley wine region.

1985 La Lomita Way in San Luis Obispo lalomitaranch.com @lalomitaranchweddings

Lavender Inn

Built in 1874, a tranquil, historic boutique inn with colorful gardens.

210 East Matilija Street in Ojai lavenderinn.com | @lavenderinn

Madonna Inn

The famous pink property renowned for its timeless whimsy. 100 Madonna Road in San Luis Obispo madonnainn.com/weddings-events @madonnainnevents

Ojai Mountain

Vineyard and Winery

Soak in stunning views and impeccable hospitality in the mountain vineyard locale. In Ojai ojaimountainestate.com/visit/special-occasions @ojaimountain

Roblar Winery & Vineyards

A luxurious escape with event options at both the winery and on the farm.

3010 Roblar Avenue in Santa Ynez roblarwinery.com | @roblarwinery

Santa Margarita Ranch + Vineyard

Set on a storied ranch with unparalleled views of mountains and vineyards.

22720 El Camino Real in Santa Margarita smrevents.com | @ smrv_events

Matt + Jess

PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEOGRAPHY

Jasper and Oak Event Capturing Retro-modern photo booth, elegant photography with unmatched attention to detail. cinematic highlight films and full documentaries. jasperoakevents@gmail.com (808)729-7207

Jasper-oak.com

MUSIC

DJ Darla Bea

Voted Winner of “Best Event

DJ in Santa Barbara” Award 9 Years in a Row (805) 895-3400

DJDarlaBea.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Bemiah & De Smeth

Start your marriage with clarity and peace of mind. Get help to review, draft and advise on a premarital agreement.

692 East Thompson Boulevard in Ventura 15 West Carrillo Street in Santa Barbara bamiehdesmeth.com @bamiehdesmeth

The Basics

Wedding terminology defined!

DECISONS, DECISONS

Attire: The clothing selected to be worn by the bride, groom and wedding party. Selections often include a wedding dress, tuxedos, bridesmaid dresses and specific clothing for the parents of the wedding couple. Can include setting a dress code for wedding guests. (For example, “Since the wedding will be on the beach, please wear casual attire with easily removable shoes.”)

Favors/Welcome Bags: Gifts that the couple give to their guests and wedding party. For wedding guests, typically these will be a small token of appreciation that is somehow significant to the couple—gift bags that include a favorite sweet treat, games or something related to the wedding’s theme; a product relating to the couple’s first date; an item that represents the locale; etc. For the wedding party, these gifts might be more substantial and meaningful—jewelry for the wedding; a bottle of spirits engraved with the date and couple’s names; personalized totes with thematic gifts, etc.

Hotel Blocks: Hotel rooms that are “blocked off” in bulk for incoming wedding guests. If a couple has a lot of guests coming from out of town, they will often work with a hotel near the wedding venue to provide rooms at a slightly lower rate.

Invitation Suite: A coordinated set of cards, stationery and envelopes sent to invited guests to share wedding information. At minimum, this includes the invitation card, an RSVP card and envelopes for both, and can also include details about travel, the reception and extra events. Couples will often order their thank you cards at the same time for cohesion. Note: To reduce waste, many couples are forgoing paper and creating e-vites and wedding websites.

Premarital Counseling: One to several sessions of couples therapy that takes place before the wedding intended to provide a safe space for the couple to discuss and align on key issues—finances, children, communication, conflict, etc.

Registry: A wish list made by the couple with stores or an online retail platform to help guests select wedding gifts. A link to

this list is often included in the wedding information sent to invited guests.

Save-the-Date: Cards or e-mail notifications sent out long before the wedding to let guests know that a date for the wedding has been set and invitations will eventually be arriving with more details.

Seating Chart: Seats assigned to guests by the couple for the reception. This helps to assure that each guest has a place to sit and helps caterers to better serve if food accommodations are needed.

Style and Decor: The overall look and feel of the wedding ceremony and reception. This might be a theme and the color palette, and may include decisions on rustic vs. classic, indoor vs. outdoor, buffet style vs. served meal, etc. This will inform all other decorations for the event.

Vows: Promises about marriage behavior made by the couple to each other during the wedding ceremony. These can be religious or secular, traditional or newly written.

KEY PEOPLE

Best man (or woman): The person (man, woman or non-binary) who is asked by the groom to stand in support of the groom before and during the wedding. This person is typically in charge of the bachelor party, keeping the rings safe during the ceremony, offering a toast at the wedding reception and, if requested, signing the marriage license as a witness.

Groomsmen/Bridesmaids: Most of the wedding party. Friends or family of the couple who have been invited to support the couple before and during the wedding. They often precede the bride down the aisle in the ceremony and participate in wedding photos. Their attire is often part of the theme or style of the wedding.

Flower girl/Ring bearer: A person who precedes the bride down the wedding aisle, often a child relative, who might carry the rings or scatter flower petals.

Maid of honor (unmarried)/Matron of honor (married): The person who is asked

by the bride to support her before and during the wedding. This person’s duties may include coordinating communication with the bridal party, dress shopping with the bride, planning the bachelorette party, holding the bride’s bouquet and fixing her dress during the ceremony and making a toast during the reception.

Officiant/Celebrant: A religious, civil or other legally ordained person who works with the couple to craft and lead the wedding ceremony and sign the marriage license and send it back to the county clerk’s office. The officiant might be a judge, civil servant, city clerk, notary, priest, rabbi, imam, pastor, minister or professional wedding celebrant. If the couple prefers that a friend or family member perform the ceremony, it is a fairly simple process to obtain legal ordination online.

Wedding party: All of the participants in the wedding ceremony. This includes the bride and groom, and can include the best man, maid of honor, groomsmen, bridesmaids, flower girl/boy and ring bearer.

VENDORS

Caterer: The person or company hired to provide food for the wedding reception. Contracts can be made to also provide food for the rehearsal dinner and the morning-after brunch, if desired. Caterers often provide food service and food cleanup as well.

DJ/Music: The DJ is the person or company hired to coordinate all music during the ceremony and reception. This includes guest arrival and seating, all procession walks, music during ceremony, recession walks, guests moving toward reception, couple introduction, dance music, dinner music, cake cutting, couple departing, etc.

Florals: All of the flowers used in the wedding ceremony and reception. These can include boutonnieres, corsages for the mothers, bouquets, flowers on an arch and along the aisle, table flowers, flowers on the cake or cake table, petals for the flower girl and more.

Hair and Makeup Trial: An appointment scheduled to create the look for the bride and bridesmaids after hiring a stylist for hair and makeup. This reduces the chance of surprises on the Day Of.

Photographer/Videographer/Shot List:

A professional photographer who specializes in weddings is often hired to capture the celebration and provide edited products for the couple after the wedding. They can help create a list of the shots that the couple wants to have. A videographer can be hired separately or as a package with the photographer.

Rentals: Items used in the wedding ceremony that can be rented for the event—tables, chairs, dishes, cutlery, linens, tents, dance floors, speakers, arches, lighting, tuxes and gowns, jewelry, bars, florals, card boxes, table numbers, wedding signs—basically anything that might not be used again.

Transportation: The means by which all participants in the wedding ceremony and reception travel from one place to another. Considerations might be transporting the wedding party or guests to and from the ceremony and/or reception and driving the couple away after the wedding.

Vendors: Any businesses hired to provide services or products for the wedding. Examples are florists, photographers, wedding planner, officiant or caterer.

Venue: The location of any part of the wedding. As many venues are all-inclusive, it can be helpful to make this selection before hiring vendors or reserving rentals.

Wedding Planner: A professional wedding specialist hired to help handle all of the details of the wedding planning and day of execution.

EVENTS

Bach Parties: The gathering of friends (and sometimes family) to celebrate the last day/s of the bride or groom being unmarried, most often planned by the Best Man and Maid of Honor. While traditionally these bachelor and bachelorette parties can be slightly raunchy and gender segregated, the trends are

Hiring a local caterer allows you to craft a menu that highlights the best of what’s available, like fresh seafood, vibrant vegetables or even locally made wines and spirits if you’re in a place like the Central Coast. Not only does this make your menu feel unique and tied to the location, but benefits your guests and our local economy.

—Tonya Szele, Tonya Szele Events

Amanda Joy Photography

shifting towards a classier celebration with no gender restrictions. Parties are typically held within a week before the wedding, but for more elaborate celebratory events, can be up to several weeks in advance.

Ceremony: The formal event that joins two people into a legal or religious binding contract. During the ceremony the couple symbolically exchange rings and vows in front of “witnesses” comprised of friends and family. It can be held in a church, a courthouse or any wedding venue.

Day of: The day of the wedding. This typically refers to any activities that need coordination before, during or immediately after the wedding.

Honeymoon/Mini Moon: The vacation newly married couples often take directly after the wedding. Many couples are choosing mini moons—shorter, more local trips—to save their money for other big purchases that help their future.

Morning-After or Post-Wedding Brunch: A relaxed gathering that allows guests to enjoy a leisurely meal together to send off the couple. Typically, this is hosted and financed by the couple.

Rehearsal Dinner: A meal shared by the wedding party and ceremony participants after practicing/rehearsing the ceremony the day before the wedding.

Wedding Reception: The party that takes place after the wedding ceremony is finished. This is often where a meal is offered for guests as well as cake, drinks and dancing. Traditions at the reception can include Cake Cutting, Bouquet Toss, Garter Toss, First Dance of Couple, Mother/Son Dance, Father/Daughter Dance and more.

LEGALESE

Marriage License: A legal permit proving eligibility to marry obtained prior to the wedding through the county in which the wedding takes place, signed by the couple, officiant and witness. It must be returned to the county for legal filing within 90 days of issue.

Prenuptial Agreement (aka Prenup): A legal contract drawn up before marriage to protect assets and determine legal liability for debts should the couple split up.

FOR THE PLANET

Carbon Footprint: An environmental measurement that indicates the amount of greenhouse gases (represented as CO2) that are produced as a direct or indirect result of wedding-related actions. A lower carbon footprint indicates a lesser environmental impact. Weddings, like most one-time events, typically have a very high carbon footprint. (See page XX for tips to lower the environmental impact of your wedding.)

Locally Sourced: Food, drink and/or flowers that are grown and processed within 100 miles of the wedding site.

Seasonality: The time of year in which something commonly occurs. Popular wedding seasons, flower availability and preferred food availability can be considered when selecting venues and food for a wedding.

Sustainable: An environmental term indicating the best use of resources to support health of the planet.

Vintage: Referring to antique or retro pieces that can be incorporated into a wedding. For example, heirloom jewelry, attire, decorations or music from a bygone eras.

The Hub is a newly remodeled sustainability-focused option for weddings, conveniently located in the heart of downtown Santa Barbara’s ARTS District. Offering customizable packages that meet your needs for preand post-ceremony, including rainy day options. Plus, each booking supports local environmental action.

Intimate, eco-friendly space ideal for your wedding reception Leave a lasting, positive impact. Book The Hub today.

www.envirohubsb.org * 805 730-0202 reserve@envirohubsb.org

With two unique event venues, Roblar is the ideal choice for your Santa Barbara Wine Country celebration.

Truly Farm to Fork Truly Vine to Glass Truly Yours...