Multicultural Santa Barbara Wedding with a Dog Ringbearer

Well call us weepy, but this Santa Barbara wedding has us out of control. Nomads at heart, Jen and Cory blended Chinese and Jewish traditions with evidence of their global travels in thoughtful sprinkles throughout their outdoor wedding. Extra points for a furry friend who was a very good ringbearer indeed. Kristen Victoria‘s photos encompass every detail from to the traditional tea ceremony to the teary-eyed couple during the toasts, and we know this is gonna start your Fri-yay off right.

From the photographer, Kristen Victoria: From the moment I began emailing with Jen and Cory, I knew working with them was going to be special. The first time we met in person was for a gilded sunrise session in Malibu to capture their engagement photos. Immediately, I clicked with their laid-back attitude; and during that golden hour, I journeyed through their diverse cultures and endless travels abroad. Their life was an adventure, and their wedding day would be no different. The pair would blend their eclectic style, insatiable wanderlust, and backgrounds—Chinese and Jewish—both of which they wanted to honor on the big day.

When the day finally came around, I was giddy and couldn’t wait to capture all that would unfold under the beautiful setting of Godric Grove in Elings Park, Santa Barbara. Amid the canopy of oak trees, wedged on a hilltop between the honeyed mountains and cerulean sea, Jen and Cory came together for the day they’d been planning for a year. The ceremony wouldn’t be complete with their dog, Yogi, who adopted them while they lived in Costa Rica. As the honorary ring bearer, he bounded down the aisle, and even greeted each bridesmaid after a brief cuddle session with the bride and groom.

The two stood under a gorgeous chuppah, adorned with rolling eucalyptus and bushels of alabaster florals; enveloped in flowing milky drapery. In front of them was a handmade rug Jen brought back from her bachelorette trip to Oaxaca, Mexico; where she befriended the family that created the piece and learned about the inner workings of textile making. From the boho bridal tent that was designed to exude a grounding, spiritual vibe to a traditional tea ceremony, Jen and Cory’s personal tastes, individual cultures and traditions were seamlessly fused in a stunning multicultural affair. Thoughtfully planned, the ceremony musicians were the groom’s father and godfather; the florals were done by Lori’s Flowers, a childhood friend of the groom’s family; and the signs and wedding cake were made from scratch by one of the bridesmaids.

The evening went on with heartfelt speeches from family and friends, bringing both Jen and Cory to tears in some of the most emotional photos I have ever captured. They wrapped up the night dancing under the stars surrounded by their loved ones.

Wedding Vendors:
Photography: Kristen Victoria Photography
Coordination: AMS Entertainment – Natalie Melton
Floral Design: Lori’s Flowers
Venue: Elings Park: Godric Grove
Dress: Shin Bu Bridal (custom made)
Ring: Mercurius
Hair and Makeup: Unveiled Makeup & Hair
Videography: Human Artwork – Ethan Sigmon
Event Rentals & Catering: Pure Joy Catering
DJ: AMS Events – Bridger Kessler