A Rustic Backyard Wedding With an Elegant Twist at a Private Residence in Santa Barbara, California

Megan Young (28 and an investment professional) and Brian Featherstun (28 and a lawyer) had their elegant, rustic wedding in the backyard of Megan's aunt and uncle's house, where countless family gatherings filled with happy memories had taken place—including their own engagement. "So much love had been put into the landscaping of the property over the years. We didn't have to do much other than bring in some rustic details to complement the vibe," Megan says. The mint and gray invitations gave guests a glimpse into the wedding day, which had tree designs draped with string lights that symbolized the tree where Megan and Brian got engaged. They played up neutral colors with pops of peach and pink throughout the outdoor space, which added bright accents to the natural setting seen through various details—from the floor-length bridesmaid dresses to the bridal bouquet filled with roses and ranunculus. Three long family-style wooden tables created an open environment where guests socialized and mingled, decorated with wooden boxes overflowing with colorful flowers. We love that Megan and Brian carried out the Southern tradition of "burying the bourbon," where they buried a bottle at the ceremony site and dug it up just before the reception dinner. "I don't think it's part of the tradition, but the good-luck bottle ultimately made its way around the long dinner tables throughout the evening," Megan says. See more of the details incorporated into this rustic wedding with elegant touches, below.