Nathalie, a native of Santa Barbara, married her college sweetheart, Rafael, in a romantic wedding that gave homage to the Spanish-Mexican heritage of the brides home town. With the help of Armando Martinez of Alegria by Design, these college sweethearts had the fiesta they had always dreamt of. Using a color palette of red and cream, Armando created classy event full of elegant decor. Don’t miss any of the gorgeous details Jake and Necia Photography captured of this romantic Latino wedding by visiting the full gallery here.
From Alegria by Design:The ceremony was held at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church near Nathalie’s family home in Montecito. After the ceremony, guests were serenaded by Mariachis in the church’s courtyard before heading to the reception in downtown Santa Barbara.
The historic El Paseo Mexican Restaurant was chosen for the reception. The El Paseo is adjacent to Casa De La Guerra where in 1836 the famous wedding reception was held for Alfred Robinson and Ana Maria Antonia de la Guerra. Their week long wedding celebration gave birth to Old Spanish Days or Fiestas, an annual city-wide celebration in Santa Barbara.
Nathalie and Rafael’s reception started with traditional Mexican Folklorico dancers in full costume, a very special surprise from the groom to his bride. The dinner feast continued with toasts given in English, Spanish and French. After dinner guests were treated to a dessert buffet of Mexican wedding cookies, Pastel de Nata, a Portuguese specialty, French macaroons, cinnamon churros, made-to-order Crepes and wedding cake. Dancing continued into the night.
