If we could sum up this incredible wedding day into one word, it would be F.U.N.!! Sam and Courtney are full of life, and it’s so clear they have amazing friends and family who love to celebrate them! We had such an amazing time getting to know their friends and family, and we just about had to pick our jaws off the floor when we saw all of the details! They wanted a whimsical ceremony in the woods, which is exactly what it was! And they wanted a reception inspired by Pirates and Game of Thrones, and their vision perfectly came to life with the help of Jaime of Wild Heart Events!

Sam and Courtney met online thanks to OK Cupid, but at the time Court lived in LA and Sam lived 5 hours away. Sam lived in Death Valley, so while they initially liked talking with each other, it didn’t go too far. Then months and months later Sam contacted her and said “I’m in LA…I think…” He was actually in LA and they went on their first date. And then a second date. And then a third date. They share the same passion for life, and quickly fell in love with each other.  But Sam still lived in Joshua Tree, so they dated long distance. Long distance is difficult, but it’s even more difficult when you have limited cell service. Sam is such a champion, and we love his dedication to Court. While he lived in the desert, he only got 20 minutes of internet a day and had to walk to the payphone to call her. And he always called. He knew how valuable Courtney is, and he knew it was all worth it. He was persistent, and consistent, and he knew if there was any chance this would work out it was absolutely worth the fight! What a champion! After 6 months he moved to Venice with her, and the rest is a beautiful history!

Ceremony Location: Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History
Reception Location: Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Dress: Lovely Bridal by Rue De Seine Bridal
Ceremony Florals: Hogue & Co
Reception Florals: Stella Bloom Designs
Coordinator: Wild Heart Events
Cocktails: Simply Cocktails
Rentals: The Tent Merchant
Catering: Pure Joy Catering
DJ: Darla Bea
Lighting: Bella Vista
Photo Booth: Wittybooth
Linen: La Tavola