Weddings at San Ysidro Ranch

celebrity wedding 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.

San Ysidro Ranch wedding{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.

san ysidro ranch weddings{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.”

celebrity wedding photo san ysidro ranch{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.

weddings san ysidro ranchA 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.

san ysidro ranch cottagesan ysidro ranch suites 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.

jessica simpson wedding locationsanta barbara ranch wedding venues{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.

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1 thought on “Weddings at San Ysidro Ranch”

  1. Oh what a beautiful wedding! I bet San Ysidro Ranch was nothing less than fabulous and left a lasting impression on every single guest! This is at least the effect it had on me. My sister got married here and it was simply lovely! Intimate ceremony but classy all the way! I’ve been back to Santa Barbara since but of course I haven’t stayed at the ranch! Far out of my price range sadly, hopefully one day I’ll be able to go back! Since I’ve fallen in love with the South Coast Inn (www.santa-barbara-hotel.com). Elegant as well and close to a great bike path that on a sunny day, riding downtown is the best choice!

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