Weddings at San Ysidro Ranch

{Photos Courtesy of San Ysidro Ranch}

Nestled in the hills of the beautifully sleepy California town of Montecito, overlooking the Santa Ynez Mountains, just outside of Santa Barbara, sits a ranch style hotel known for its quiet privacy, celebrity sightings, and oh-so romantic weddings.  A perfect location for a destination wedding in California, the San Ysidro Ranch is within close proximity to Los Angeles and thus has become a landmark for celebrity weddings and honeymoon hideaways.

A 500-acre property that feels as comfortable as your own home, San Ysidro Ranch was originally put on the map as the spot where John F. Kennedy and wife Jackie O. honeymooned and now modern-day newlyweds can do the same – and stay in the very same suite, renamed the Kennedy Cottage.

{Photos: Jose Villa}

But more recently the boutique property is known for celebrity weddings like that of Victoria’s Secret model Lily Aldridge and Kings of Leon band member Caleb Followill.  It’s also the rumored spot of Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin’s nuptials.  Celebrity wedding planner Mindy Weiss has seen her share of high profile weddings at San Ysidro Ranch as well.  Mindy planned Hilary Duff and Mike Comrie’s destination wedding there back in 2010.

A hotel best suited for intimate weddings, it’s no wonder celebs love San Ysidro Ranch, with plenty of options on which to wed.  My personal favorite – the garden setting is spectacular, complete with year-round ivy arches and lush floral hedges trimming the lawn.  The picturesque backdrop cannot be beat.

{Photos: Top: Jose Villa, Inset & Bottom Courtesy of San Ysidro Ranch}

The local lavender fields and organic local product make this property a standout both visually and for your palette.  Wedding and Events Coordinator Usha Atterbury tells us about the fine cuisine on property.  “Our Executive Chef uses the finest seasonal ingredients to create innovative California Cuisine, relying greatly upon the Ranch’s organic herb and vegetable garden for the freshest flavors to accompany his creations.  The Ranch’s exceptional blend of delicious food, stunning setting, and comfortable, understated elegance makes it a truly unique choice of venues.”

{Photos: Jose Villa}

If your event is very small in size, say an elopement of eight or less, say “I do” to the historic Old Adobe or the vintage wine cellar which you can fill with one long feasting table for twenty.  For slightly larger events, the Hydrangea Cottage is a popular spot to wed with its private patio, beautiful views, and six adjacent suites for your bridal party and getting ready time.

A destination wedding weekend at San Ysidro Ranch means good old-fashioned fun.  Think lawn games, snuggling by the fireplace in your cottage, and perhaps taking a stroll through the town peppered with boutiques and local fare.  When a loved one of mine wed here, what I remember most was the wonderful quiet time and the serene feeling on property that makes for a very calming wedding day with the smell of fresh wood fires burning in chimneys above.  You feel transported back to the golden era of California, as if Will Rodgers might be sleeping in the cottage next door.

Frequently named one of the World’s Best Hotels by Travel + Leisure, San Ysidro Ranch is known for its four-poster beds that have become perhaps iconic for this property and make for a perfectly romantic wedding night and honeymoon.

{Property Photos: San Ysidro Ranch}

When to Go: California has great year-round weather but summer months are the most popular for weddings.  Given that the property has less than 50 rooms and suites, book well in advance during peak season.

Travel Tip: Take your four-legged ring bearer with you!  This property is pet-friendly and will take extra special care of your furry friends with amenities and plenty of running around room.