Mar Monte Hotel Wedding | Santa Barbara, CA
We have been shooting back to back weddings for four weeks now, with three more to go, but this one is unique! Amanda and Lee both love the beach, especially the Santa Barbara area, so there was no question where their wedding would take place. After looking at a few beach-front venues they decided the historic Mar Monte Hotel was the perfect place for their wedding day.
Amanda shared with me all of the things she loved about the Mar Monte Hotel. During their engagement session she excitedly told me about the abundance of picturesque locations Mar Monte had to offer. She made sure I knew which ones were a must for her. I just loved how much thought she had put into her photos! She told me the only things that mattered to her were her flowers and her photos.
Like almost all of the buildings in Santa Barbara, this historic hotel has old world Spanish vibes mixed with modern touches. The classic tiled staircase was a must to showcase her gorgeous train. One of Amanda’s requests was photos in cafe Lido. We for sure made that happen, along with many more. They have the most portraits out of any wedding I’ve done!
There is so much packed into this blog. It is probably one of the biggest blogs I’ve shared. Amanda’s mom hadn’t seen the dress she picked to wear until she put it on. She did a big reveal for her brother who was her Dude of Honor, and her bridesmaids. She had a first look with her dad and then the family took a shot together and gathered in a family huddle. It was just the sweetest thing.
Once the family had a chance to wipe away their tears Amanda got ready to meet her groom and share private vows during their first look. If I had to pick my favorite part of a wedding day it would be the first look. They are just so special.
Amanda and Lee exchanged vows on the beach across the street from the Mar Monte Hotel. The weather could not have been more perfect. It wasn’t even windy!
After the ceremony, we took the most amazing sunset portraits then, Lee and Amanda shared a private dinner together in Costa Kitchen, the hotel’s cafe. The rest of the night was for dancing! The dancefloor was packed and the guests were there to party!
The energy and joy left me so thankful for the sweet couples that I get to call my own! Lee and Amanda have infectious smiles. If you think they seem happy in these images you should see how happy they are in real life. They are the cutest couple. They are totally obsessed with one another in the best way. You could just feel how ready they were to be husband and wife.
Amanda and Lee, I hope you’re enjoy this sneak peek into your wedding day! Enjoy your blog post!!
Thank you both for sharing your day with me!!!
See their engagement session here.
