Photography by Jose Villa
Video by Isaac Hernandez
This wedding was truly a fairytale from start to finish. It took place on a warm and brilliantly sunny afternoon at an enchanted, old-world estate in Montecito, amidst a profusion of towering trees and an enchantingly landscaped, verdant property. Flowers and masses of vines cascaded over the ceremony structure, a vintage arbor, by the estate’s tennis court. The couple was surrounded by garden roses, peonies, ranunculus, hydrangea and a profusion of color and fragrance. A quartet played throughout the afternoon, ending with 'Here Comes the Sun' as the couple recessed. Cocktails took place by another old arbor in a citrus orchard, alongside an antique fountain and pond, as koi swam about and 1960’s music filled the air. Dinner was a sumptuous, multicourse, traditional family-style Italian feast. Opulent floral arrangements and dappled candlelight graced the charming wooden tables, draped in white linen runners. Overhead, a shade canopy was created with white linen drapes that allowed glimpses of the brilliant blue sky above. As night fell, the canopy glowed with twinkle lights, brilliant chocolate up-lighting and patterned texture. The entire estate was masterfully lit, creating an ethereal, magical glow that lasted all evening long. After dinner, guests were invited into a charming Italian pasticceria in a small, white cottage on the property which was brimming with elaborate, petite cakes, gorgeous hand painted cookies, Italian candy, an espresso bar, and a gelateria. Truly a sweet event that no one will soon forget!
"Working with Merryl and her team on our wedding was the best decision we could have made! Besides being extremely talented and creative, Merryl is thoughtful, approachable, kind and puts every ounce of herself into her work with grace and ease. Every detail was perfect; it was so beautiful."
—Erika Montesano