We've mentioned it to many of you, but it's worth noting again that this is not a formal event, nor is it your traditional, typical wedding by any means. We originally conceived of this as "dinner with a twist" at some wonderful coastal destination, the twist being we would at some point stand to say our vows witnessed by a very small gathering of family of friends. The small gathering part hasn't changed, but we've added a few extra touches to make the evening more special and memorable.
The ceremony, dinner and breakfast/brunch the following morning will be held at a beautiful estate in the heart of Montecito. The ceremony will begin Saturday late afternoon promptly at 4 p.m., with dinner at 5:30, so arriving at 3:30 would probably be a good time. The gathering will end at 10 p.m. We will send you all specific location information as we get closer to the date.
Traditionally this time of year in Santa Barbara the weather ranges from low 60's to 70's, characteristically getting cooler from the beginning to the end of the month, so being November 11, it's truly up for grabs. Pack a few different layering options for changing weather in this temperature range. As we get closer, we should have a better sense of what to expect and will update you. As for specific wedding attire, this is going to be a casual, 4 p.m. garden ceremony (weather permitting) and dinner. Ladies, pearls and high heels are not necessary, but dress in whatever party attire you like. Maybe bring a wrap just in case. For the men, khakis are okay, maybe even a Hawaiian shirt if you like (it's Santa Barbara after all) and no need for a blazer, but bring one or a light jacket if you like; again, it could be cooler in the evening as the sun starts to set. If you need more guidance, please just give us a call and we can talk it through.
Eighteen years in, there isn't much we need. Please, please do not feel obligated to buy a gift. We're just thankful you can travel for our special day, that's the best gift of all. But should you feel so inclined, we've put together a list of ideas on a Zola wedding registry page for gifts (and on crateandbarrel.com and target.com).: Click the Registry tab above or use this URL: https://www.zola.com/wedding/vinceandjohn/registry
Some of you are staying with us, we wish we could accommodate everyone. We have rented a private home in a quiet neighborhood in the hills of Montecito, and we will send you specific location and directions as we get closer to the date. Not that we have a rowdy crew, but the homeowner and neighborhood do have some semi-strict rules about noise and parking, so please pack your thoughtfulness and inside voice. There is a heated pool and hot tub, so bring a bathing suit if you like. Beyond that, we're looking forward to a restful, pleasant long weekend!
John and I are trekking by car from San Francisco and plan to arrive in Santa Barbara sometime Thursday, November 9, though we don't actually check in to the main house we've rented for the weekend until Friday mid-afternoon. If you're staying with us, please feel free to arrive at the house any time after 4:30 p.m. Friday (more specific information will be sent by email to our house guests as we get closer to the date). Also, Friday night we are planning to have dinner at a fantastic Lebanese restaurant in Santa Barbara called Zaytoon at 6:15 p.m., and we'd love to have you join us if you're available, so please keep that in mind as you're planning and let Vince know at vince.coronado@gmail.com if you can make it.
If you're not staying with us, there are so many options for every budget and preference in Santa Barbara / Montecito / Summerland and the surrounding areas. Please check the Travel tab for more information and please don't hesitate to reach out to us if you need help finding a place.
Please don't hesitate to reach out to either Vince or John if you have any questions. And keep our phone numbers handy so we can stay connected: Vince: 559-281-2986 John: 559-779-0835