Sweet Santa Margarita Vows

Words by Sarah Padilla
Photos courtesy of Wildflowers Photography

Tyler and Haley’s relationship started much the same way their adventure as husband and wife did – dancing the night away at a wedding surrounded by their favorite people.

Currently living in Los Angeles, the couple chose Santa Margarita off the central California coast as the site of their September 2013 nuptials. Haley’s family owns a local winery, Indian Valley Vineyards, so she had spent time in the area since her teenage years. It was also a favorite rendezvous spot for the couple when they were living on opposite ends of the California coast. “It was a great excuse for us to spend even more time in the area on weekends doing wedding planning,” admits Haley.

The end result of their weekend planning sessions was a charming, rustic celebration, which perfectly encompassed the couple and many of their favorite things.

The simple ceremony, officiated by Tyler’s father, took place underneath a beautiful oak tree at the historic Santa Margarita Ranch and included Haley and Tyler reciting handwritten vows in front of 175 guests. “While we could sense and feel the overwhelming amount of love and support pouring from our closest family and friends, it was as if time froze and it was just the two of us standing there under the oak tree. That’s what we’ll both remember most,” recalls Haley.

Their guests, on the other hand, are likely to remember their ride on a historic steam engine to the rustic barn, which housed the reception. Or, they might recall the family-style dinner, in which guests shared passed dishes while cozied up at several large farm tables. Maybe they’ll remember sending the bride and groom off under a tunnel of glow sticks and joining them for a trolley ride to a local bar to continue the celebration.

Regardless of which memory stands out in their minds, it’s unlikely that anyone will forget the night this California couple became “Mr.” and “Mrs.”.

VENDORS: Photographer: Wildflowers Photography, Wedding Planner: Antonia Christianson Events, Ceremony/Reception Site: The Historic Santa Margarita Ranch, Gown Designer: Maggie Sottero, Florist: Adornments Flowers & Finery, Groom’s Clothing Designer: DKNY suit & Burberry tie, Groomsmens’ Clothing Designer: DKNY, Videographer: The Cana Family, Marquee “LOVE” Sign: Scott Coppersmith Designs, Caterer: Thomas Hill Organics, Ceremony Church Pews, Mantle & Assorted Furniture: Found Vintage Rentals, Dinner Plates & Utensils: Casa De Perrin, Chandeliers in the Barn: Bella Vista Designs Inc., Glassware and Dessert Plates: All About Events, Tables and Dining Chairs at Reception: Classic Party Rentals, Hair & Makeup: 10.11 Makeup, Cakes: Cake Cathedral, Band: AMS Entertainment, Ceremony Musician: Joe Firstman, Invitations and Save the Dates: Durels Design, Ceremony Programs (Flags): Lily Among Thorns Bride, Calligraphy & Signage: Nicole Miyuki Creative, Bride & Groom Signs: Pitbulls and Posies, Flower Girls’ Clothing & Accessories: Dress: Nordstrom and Headband: Cozette Couture, Ring Bearer Flag: Joyful Joyful, Cornhole Set & Bags: Style My Corn Toss, Welcome Bags: The Wedding Chicks.