FAQs
Question
When should I book my accommodations?
Answer
August in Santa Barbara is one of the most popular months for tourism, and with our wedding falling during this peak season, we anticipate that hotels and flights will fill up quickly and rates will rise as the date approaches. To secure the best options and prices, we highly recommend booking your accommodations and travel as soon as possible. Early planning will not only help you save on costs but also ensure you have the perfect place to stay while celebrating with us. We can’t wait to welcome you to beautiful Santa Barbara!
Question
What city should I fly into?
Answer
For convenience, we recommend flying into Santa Barbara Airport (SBA), which is just a short drive from our wedding venue. It’s a smaller airport but offers great rates and easy access to Santa Barbara. However, please note that direct flights to SBA may be limited depending on your departure city. If you have more time to explore, you could consider flying into one of California’s many beautiful cities and enjoy a scenic trip up or down the coast. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is about a 2-hour drive from Santa Barbara (depending on traffic), and San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is roughly 5 hours away. Along the coastline, there are also other airports which might fit into your travel plans depending on your desired itinerary. If you’d like recommendations or advice on the best option for your trip, feel free to reach out to us - we’re happy to help! Safe travels, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Question
When is the RSVP deadline?
Answer
Please RSVP by June 23rd, 2025 so we can finalize our provided transportation details.
Question
How do I get to the Bengali Welcome Event?
Answer
There is onsite parking available for approximately 100 people, including vendors, volunteers, and guests. While you are welcome to drive and park at the venue, we highly recommend using a taxi or rideshare service if you plan to drink, so you can enjoy the celebration safely and responsibly. We want everyone to have a relaxed and memorable evening, so please plan your transportation accordingly.
Question
What time should we arrive to The Stow House for the Bengali Welcome Event?
Answer
Please arrive by 5pm to participate in our traditional Bengali grand entrances.
Question
What is the dress code for the Bengali Welcome Event?
Answer
This event is a White Party! We invite you to participate by wearing all white. The Stow House is a beautiful historical home located just outside of Santa Barbara in Goleta. The event takes place in the lawn, please consider the outdoor setting when choosing footwear.
Question
What Bengali traditions can we expect to experience?
Answer
When it comes to weddings, Bengalis have their own timeless and distinctive customs. Bengali weddings are typically celebrated across multiple days, but we are combining these traditions into one event so all of our guests can experience Raz's favorite parts of his families heritage. Baraat The most exciting event of the wedding day is the entry of the Baraat. According to the tradition, the groom usually travels in a well-decorated vehicle, escorted by his relatives and friends. When they arrive at the venue, the bride’s family and relatives welcome them with a shower of flowers. Groom's Entrance The groom's extended family enters with sweets, gifts, candles, and platters of henna. The groom and his friends and cousins enter dancing to the groom's chosen song. Bride's Entrance The bride's family enters with sweets, favors, and platters. The bride may enter with her parents and close family, or on a rickshaw or dohli (palanquin). Mala Bodol Mala Bodol is an interesting custom of exchanging garlands between the bride and groom. The bride’s brothers or friends lift her so that the groom finds it difficult to put the garland over the bride. Eventually, the couples exchange the garland, evoking fun and laughter among all, highlighting the celebratory atmosphere of the wedding. Mehendi Ceremony The Mehendi ceremony is a fun and colorful event that happens before a Muslim wedding. During the event, a henna dye is used to draw beautiful patterns on the bride’s hands and feet. The ceremony isn’t just about applying henna. It’s also a lively celebration with music and dancing.
Question
What will be served at the Bengali welcome event?
Answer
Our Bengali Welcome event is a shorter gathering, and we’ll be serving lighter Bengali-inspired fare and refreshing beverages to set the tone for an afternoon of celebration and cultural charm. The menu will include a mix of flavors, with options for those who are new to Indian cuisine and looking to try something approachable yet delicious. While the offerings will reflect the vibrant and rich culinary traditions of Bengal, this will not be a full dinner service. We recommend planning a reservation before or after the event if you’d like to enjoy a complete meal, as this gathering is focused on mingling, enjoying light bites, and celebrating together. We can’t wait to share this special afternoon with you!
Question
How do I get to the Wedding Day venue?
Answer
To ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment, shuttles are 100% required to access our wedding venue at Rincon Creek Ranch. The ranch is located in the mountains where service is limited, and as it is private property, taxi and rideshare services will not be permitted to enter. We will be providing transportation to and from the venue for all guests. All attendees will be required to sign up for a shuttle time. For guests arriving earlier, they will have the opportunity to enjoy welcome refreshments as they take in the scenery of the ranch. We will share the pickup locations, schedule, and other details as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work to create a seamless and safe experience.
Question
What is the dress code for Wedding Day?
Answer
Garden formal is the desired attire. This means bright colors and summery dresses for ladies and a suit for men. Just a few miles inland from Carpinteria, Rincon Creek Ranch is a hidden gem. Sprawling across a lush meadow nestled between the mountains, the ranch follows the curves of a sparkling stream. Please consider the outdoor setting when choosing footwear. Guests will experience natural terrain as they move throughout the venue, we encourage everyone to embrace comfort and leave the stilettos at home!
Question
What is the weather like in Santa Barbara in August?
Answer
August in Santa Barbara is typically beautiful, with sunny days and comfortable temperatures that are perfect for outdoor events. Daytime highs usually range in the mid-70s to low 80s, making it ideal for enjoying the coastal breeze and stunning scenery. However, our venue, Rincon Creek Ranch, is located a bit more inland, so it tends to be slightly warmer than the coastal areas. That being said, the ranch is surrounded by plenty of trees, providing natural shade and helping to keep everyone cool during the celebration. As the evening approaches, temperatures will likely dip into the 60s or even the high 50s, so we recommend bringing a light jacket or wrap to stay cozy once the sun sets.
Question
Is there traffic In Santa Barbara?
Answer
Like many popular destinations, Santa Barbara does experience some traffic, especially around peak times and due to ongoing construction in certain areas, which may cause slight delays. To ensure everyone arrives on time for our wedding events, our shuttles will be scheduled earlier to account for any potential delays. For our Bengali Welcome Event, where transportation is not provided, we encourage guests to plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel. It’s always better to arrive a little early so you can relax and enjoy the evening!
Question
What is the schedule for Wedding Day?
Answer
Here’s the timeline for our special day so you know what to expect: 3:30 PM – Ceremony: Join us as we exchange vows in the beautiful setting of the Rincon Creek Ranch Meadow. 4:15 PM – Cocktail Hour: Sip on refreshing drinks, enjoy light bites, and mingle with family and friends. 5:15 PM – Reception: Celebrate with us over a delicious dinner, heartfelt toasts, and plenty of dancing! 10:00 PM – Event Ends: The evening concludes, and shuttles will take guests back to their pickup locations.
Question
Can I take pictures?
Answer
We’ve asked a professional photographer to capture this special moment so that you can sit back, relax and enjoy it with us. Our beautiful images will be available after the wedding. Please turn off your cameras and devices until after the ceremony. We want to see your lovely faces!