I recently chatted with my friends at Brides about one of my favorite destination wedding locations. In the final print edition of the iconic magazine, they’ve rounded up a great list of locations from experts around the world who shares their faves (check it out here). I highlighted my love of the Santa Barbara and Montecito area. I always get excited when I’m asked about this part of the world. It’s one of my favorite places for a destination wedding. And with the opening of the brand new Montecito and Santa Barbara wedding venue, Rosewood Miramar Beach, your destination wedding choices just got even bigger and better.

This gorgeous new backdrop has so much to offer couples and groups. It’s dreamy! I’ve already produced and planned a handful of weddings here (and even just officiated my very first!). And with all that the region has to offer, there’s plenty to do both on and off property.

So what do you need to know?

Rosewood Miramar Beach comes with a lot of history on the California coast and it’s been reinvented by a team with impeccable taste. (I’ve been excited about this opening for years.) The prime location on the water is quintessential Santa Barbara and the property itself has everything couples could want. There’s a charming train that runs right through the center, they have a very Instagrammable pink and white striped car, two fabulous event lawns, a grand ballroom for 350 guests and the food is outstanding. They even have a beautiful bridal suite for the wedding party to get ready in. It’s great for photos, as are all the event spaces. Of course the hotel rooms are brand new too and wonderfully designed for a weekend away.

I think the Great Lawn is perfect for ceremonies. Then they have a secondary lawn site that’s ideal for rehearsal dinners outdoors. I suggest couples go inside for the reception. The Chandelier Ballroom provides plenty of privacy and allows for celebrations later into the evening.

And when you aren’t celebrating the big day, there’s lots to do near this Santa Barbara wedding venue. Biking along the beach, hiking to a waterfall, or visiting Meditation Mount in Ojai are great ways to spend the day. If you’re looking for a slightly different activity for your out-of-town guests, take the group to Lotusland. Enjoy a self-guided tour of these gorgeous botanical gardens and relax in the outdoors with total tranquility here. Then, head to brunch at Jeannine’s for the best pancakes in town.

To learn more about this Santa Barbara wedding venue and other hot spots around the globe, check out the full story in Brides Magazine and online here. You’ll see lots of idyllic destinations for weddings!

xoxo,

Mindy

Photo: Lauren and Abby Ross