A Garden-Inspired Bohemian Wedding at San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, California

From the moment they got engaged, Michelle Li and Brian Yang wanted an outdoor garden ceremony. They eventually booked San Ysidro Ranch in Montecito, California. “The venue’s early history as a citrus farm inspired us to embrace Southern California's rich agriculture,” Michelle says. “Having our wedding in October also provided beautiful fall harvest colors.” The couple hinted at their theme through garden-inspired invitations. The day-of paper elements, such as menus and escort cards, followed the same design motif. Michelle and Brian's outdoor ceremony took place in a lush green garden with a breathtaking mountain backdrop. Michelle stunned in an A-line gown with added sheer sleeves paired with an organic white bouquet. After the vows, guests attended an elegant indoor reception, where the garden theme came to life with dramatic flower arrangements, green velvet tablecloths and fresh produce scattered throughout. “Every décor selection for the reception was chosen for the drama,” the bride says. 

Our favorite #MakeTradition Moment: “We both wanted to integrate certain Chinese wedding traditions into our wedding day. For instance, we performed groom ‘door games’ and a tea ceremony during the daytime. I wore a traditional Chinese gown (Qun Gua) at the start of my wedding day while I awaited Brian to ‘pick me up’ for the tea ceremony,” Michelle says. “I ended my day in the same outfit when I said my goodbyes.”