Hannah + George
On a warm August evening in 2023, Hannah and George celebrated their love with an intimate gathering of 60 close friends and family, high above the bustling streets of downtown Santa Barbara. The venue? The whimsical and enchanting El Zapato House, an architectural masterpiece designed by the renowned Jeff Shelton. Known for its quirky charm and breathtaking views, El Zapato provided the perfect backdrop for a night filled with love, laughter, and California charm.
Venue: El Zapato House – A Whimsical Sanctuary in the Heart of Santa Barbara
El Zapato House, affectionately described as "where Dr. Seuss meets Gaudi," is a one-of-a-kind venue that embodies the creative spirit of Santa Barbara. Shaped like a shoe, this architectural gem features three outdoor patios, a private courtyard, and a stunning rooftop with panoramic views of the Santa Ynez mountains, the historic Mission, and the vibrant downtown area. Located just blocks from State Street, the beach, and the Funk Zone, El Zapato offers a unique blend of whimsy and elegance, making it an ideal setting for an intimate wedding.
On this particular August evening, the rooftop of El Zapato was transformed into a magical space where guests could take in the sweeping views of Santa Barbara as the sun set behind the mountains, casting a golden glow over the city. The cozy, charming venue provided an intimate atmosphere that allowed Hannah and George’s closest loved ones to fully immerse themselves in the joy of the occasion.
A Culinary Symphony Under the Stars
The evening’s culinary journey was a testament to the rich flavors and seasonal bounty of California. As the rooftop came alive with laughter and the clinking of glasses, guests indulged in a charcuterie station during the cocktail hour, a spread that invited them to savor the delights of artisanal cheeses, cured meats, and accompaniments.
When dinner was served, it was a family-style feast that mirrored the warmth and intimacy of the gathering:
Panzanella Salad: A vibrant medley of sourdough croutons, kale, fennel vinaigrette, and goat feta, each bite a celebration of freshness.
Grilled Polenta with Basil Ricotta and Strawberry Sofrito: A dish that danced between savory and sweet, capturing the essence of summer’s final days.
Red Oak Grilled Prime Tri-Tip: The centerpiece of the meal, served with BBQ pico de gallo and chimichurri, bringing the smoky allure of Santa Maria-style barbecue to the evening’s offerings.
Hot-Smoked Salmon with Dill Gremolata: Paired with a delicate shaved fennel salad, this dish was a symphony of smoky, bright flavors.
Grilled Peaches: Sweet, tender, and kissed by the grill, these peaches were a perfect echo of the season’s abundance.
Smoked Beets: Rich and earthy, these beets added depth and warmth to the table.
Roasted Carrots: A simple yet refined dish, full of comforting flavor.
As the night progressed and the city lights twinkled below, guests were treated to a late-night pizza service, adding a fun and casual element to the elegant evening.
The Art of the Atmosphere: Details that Defined the Day
The day was beautifully captured by Divine Day Photography, who skillfully documented not just the events, but the very essence of how the day felt. Every photograph reflects the intimate, organic atmosphere of the setting, the tender moments, and the love that enveloped the celebration. The attention to detail in each image is unparalleled, preserving the natural beauty and heartfelt emotions of Hannah and George’s wedding day.
Coastal Rose Events orchestrated the day with grace, ensuring every detail was flawlessly executed. Their thoughtful coordination allowed the celebration to unfold seamlessly, with each element contributing to the dreamy, effortless elegance of the occasion.
Music by Teresa Russell, a blues/rock triple threat, set the tone for the evening with her powerful vocals, emotionally charged guitar playing, and deeply personal songwriting. Her performance added an electric energy to the celebration, resonating with the joy and passion of the day.
The floral arrangements, crafted by the talented team at Events by Maxi, brought the vibe to life tables to life. The florals were thoughtfully arranged to create a garden-like ambiance, with smaller vases echoing the larger displays on the table. Citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits were nestled among the flowers, adding playful bursts of color that complemented the natural greenery and the bold, patterned backdrop of El Zapato House. The result was a harmonious, inviting atmosphere that perfectly captured the spirit of the day—a celebration of love, nature, and the beauty of life in full bloom.
A Night to Remember
Hannah and George’s wedding at El Zapato was a true celebration of love, set against the enchanting backdrop of one of Santa Barbara’s most unique venues. The combination of stunning views, whimsical architecture, and a menu crafted with care created an evening that their guests will remember for years to come.
We were honored to play a part in this beautiful evening, crafting a dining experience that reflected the couple’s love for one another and their shared appreciation for the elegance of the Central Coast. From the first taste of the Panzanella salad to the final slice of late-night pizza, every dish was a tribute to the art of celebration, woven seamlessly into the fabric of their story.
Get in Touch
If you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering in a setting as picturesque as El Zapato, let us help you bring that vision to life. With our commitment to fresh, local ingredients and a service that is both refined and heartfelt, we’ll create an experience that is as timeless as your love.
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