Santa Barbara is a popular destination for weddings and elopements alike. Whether you prefer the iconic architecture of the courthouse, or the picturesque beaches, or the local gardens and parks, Santa Barbara offers a wealth breathtaking beauty as a backdrop to your love. Best thing is,  the temperate costal climate means you can plan your wedding or elopement any month of the year! The weather is temperate, and every month offers different trees and flowers in bloom. My personal choice of month would be September. It is still warm, but not too hot, no June gloom and the days are still long enough to have a flexible timeline with cocktail hours and such.  That being said, here are some points to consider before you even set your wedding or elopement date in Santa Barbara California.

Summer is the most popular and in Santa Barbara  it sure is gorgeous! That coastal climate means the temperature never gets too hot or cold. The long days mean you can have a late night timeline, and include lots of activities. If you are banking on sunny skies, Santa Barbara is a great choice with our few days of precipitation per year. That said, that heat is kept at bay by what we locals refer to as ‘June gloom’ which has lasted the entire month of June, but does burn off by 12-1 most days.   Summer is host to a few iconic events that ensure local hotels are booked, crowds are maxed, and venue prices might be high. These events include UCSB graduation (around 1st week of June), Old Spanish Days (aka Fiesta in August), and the Summer Solstice parade. Looking ahead and avoiding those weekends may be a good idea for a large event, where if you are eloping you may want to enjoy the festivities!

Fall is Santa Barbara is the ideal combo of good weather and good length of days. It is extremely popular, and I love September weddings. One thing to note is that Santa Barbara is somewhat low on that Fall color/ seasons changing that many love in a fall wedding. Of course, we can get gorgeous trees but you have to hire a local photographer who knows where to take you to find that Fall color palate.

Spring turns Santa Barbara into a magical garden. Although your chance of rain goes up in Spring and Winter, so does your chance of gorgeous green grass and foliage around your venue. Santa Barbara foliage can get scrubby brown in a chapparal style into a dry late summer, which has its own appeal for sure! But if you want that green green backdrop then a spring wedding is for you!

Whatever month you choose, be sure to contact me, Barbara,  to be your photographer! As a Santa Barbara local, I know all the local beaches parks and venues and can help guide you to the right vendors and spaces and places for your ideal day.

Elope in Santa Barbara, what a great idea! The weather is supurb year round, which makes it great for planning. Join your beloved in wedded bliss in gorgeous Santa Barbara whether you choose to get married at the Santa Barbara Courthouse, or a beautiful beach location, you have so many options. But don’t forget to hire a local florist for a bouquet and boutonniere. The florals will add a touch of flair to a simple affair. They add a pop of color against a white dress or dark suit. They give you something to raise in your hand and fist pump and visually say ‘WE DID IT!’ Its also a way for you to add your personal touch to your day. Just because you are eloping doesn’t mean you have to be boring, simple can be elegant and florals put some memorable touches into the day.

These florals for by Jen at Twisted Twig.  I have photographed her arrangements on a few occasions and she truly does a lovely job. This bride was over the moon with how her boquet came out, and even though they eloped she got flowers for her girls too! It was a beautiful day and the floral touches just helped reflect that beauty.

To contact Jen visit their website or call her today!  714.414.6232