I’ve been photographing weddings at the courthouse quite a bit in the last year, and I have no complaints! (I only wish I had a parking pass since I’m there so much!) I’ve become very familiar with all its nooks and crannies, what spots are best at what time of day, what shoes are best (I shot one wedding where the bride and mother of the groom wore Louboutins! Awesome, but not the best for muddy grass…), and I love visiting the tower view on a hot day, since it always has a friendly breeze.

It’s such a familiar sight to me now, but I’m always reminded of how special it is when people travel from around the world to have their wedding here. It really does have a Roman, Mediterranean look to it, and captures both natural beauty (flowering trees, vines, green grass all year) and architectural, high brow beauty, depending on what the couple is into.

Carissa & Carlo did it just right. Their closest family were invited for a beautiful, intimate ceremony, after which they ventured toward the beach for a cake cutting and dinner at Convivo Restaurant. From there, the newlyweds and I took a walk across the street to the grove of palm trees by the ocean for some urban-beach-town chic portraits. The bride in her dress with that fabulous bow, her simple free flowing hair, a bouquet of white plus the addition of her classic trench coat, and the groom’s classy, charcoal grey suit, all made for the most elegant couple!

Planning your own lovely courthouse wedding? Reach out asap, I’d love to hear from you!

Photography: Veils & Tails Photography
Hair & Makeup: Chi Beauty Artistry
Cake: Room for Cake
Dress: https://atelierdebbieco.com/
Restaurant: Convivo
Venue: Santa Barbara Courthouse