From the very first conversation with Mariam and Isaac, I knew this wedding was going to be something truly special. This incredible couple had a clear and inspired vision: modern romance layered with meaningful details, unforgettable energy, and lots (and lots!) of candlelight. Designing and planning their day was such a joy from start to finish.
Their celebration began with a ceremony straight out of a Mediterranean dream. Mariam and Isaac exchanged vows at the iconic Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church, a space that made us all feel like we had been transported to Greece. They stood beneath a lush floral arch as they said their vows surrounded by the beauty and tradition of their faith.
After the ceremony, guests made their way to the Hilton Santa Barbara Beachfront Resort for an oceanfront cocktail hour with panoramic views and plenty of personality. Signature elements like a life-sized crossword puzzle, a “ring for a drink” seating chart, and beautifully curated mini frames featuring wedding photos of all their married guests created a warm, personal atmosphere that everyone loved.
For the reception, we wanted to make a statement with the design—and the venue’s unique rotunda space gave us the perfect canvas. We leaned into the circular shape of the room by centering a round dance floor beneath a custom truss, then built out concentric circles of tables around it. The layout created a visually stunning effect that made every seat feel connected to the action. Flowers by Cina brought the vision to life with lush, modern-romantic arrangements, layered with candlelight that made the room glow.
As guests took their seats, Zaffa drummers made a grand entrance to welcome the newlyweds—and from that moment on, the party never stopped. Isaac surprised Mariam with a fire-eating belly dancer (yes, you read that right!), and American Events Network kept the energy high and the dance floor full all night long. One of the most unforgettable moments? When the bride and groom jumped on stage with the band—Isaac on guitar and vocals, Mariam on drums—and played two full songs. Talk about a power couple!
The entire evening sparkled with love, joy, and a sense of celebration that was truly contagious. At the end of the night, Mariam and Isaac turned to me and said, “This was the best night of our lives.”
And truly, what could make a planner happier than that?
Creative Partners
Planning & Design: Caroline Leggio || Venue: Hilton Santa Barbara Resort || Photo & Content Creation: Ashley Rae Studio || Video: Two Fourteen Wedding Films || Floral Design: Flowers by Cina || Rentals: MTB Event Rentals, TMMPRO Rental, Ventura Rental, Bader Collective & BBJ LaTavola || BEauty: Team Hair & Makeup || Stationery: Sugared Fig Paperie & Bader Collective || Cake: Alessia Patisserie || Entertainment: American Events Network, Bruce Goldfish & Fushion Zaffa || Ice Cubes: The Art of Carving Ice || Transportation: SB Trolley Events
