If you’re dreaming of an Italian-inspired Montecito Country Club wedding with a ton of personality, Yara and Alec’s day might just be your new obsession. Set against the backdrop of Santa Barbara’s coastline, Montecito Club offers a stunning blend of Mediterranean architecture and modern luxury. It was a perfect choice for this couple’s vibrant, joy-filled celebration.
DESIGN INSPIRATION FROM ITALY
From the start, Yara and Alec knew they wanted their wedding to feel lively, elegant, and full of color. They felt inspired by their own upbringings on the California coast (Yara is originally from Palos Verdes, and Alec grew up in Laguna Beach). Their wedding planner, Alison Rose, helped them design a day of bold florals, citrus details, and a palette that leaned into sunny orange, deep coral, and sage green. The design was driven by the couple’s own trip to Lake Como, Italy AND the Spanish-style architecture of the venue itself. Yara described the couple’s love of the Italian summer aesthetic as their biggest inspiration.
THE FASHION
Yara stunned in a modern Ines di Santo gown with romantic detailing, while Alec looked effortlessly classic in a tailored tux from The Grotto. Alec’s ensemble was also special because of the custom inner lining: a photo collage of him with his family at Philadelphia Eagles games over the years!
The dress code was “colorful black tie,” but the wedding party stunned in all black. Yara’s bridesmaids were able to select their own dresses to maximize personalization and comfort.
PERSONALIZED MOMENTS
The non-denominational ceremony was officiated by a good friend of the couple. Yara and Alec said their vows overlooking the Pacific Ocean in the distance, with the sun finally making an appearance just as the couple made it official. Alec’s Jewish background was reflected in the stomping of the glass at the end of the ceremony. Guests then enjoyed refreshing Aperol spritzes and espresso martinis at the couple’s Italian-inspired cocktail hour.
The real magic happened at the reception. As a nod to Yara’s Lebanese heritage, the night kicked off with a high-energy Zaffa: traditional Lebanese wedding dancers who paraded into the reception with drums, cheers, and a lot of dancing. It was electric, high-energy way to welcome guests to the celebration.
If you’re planning a Montecito Country Club wedding and want it to feel like the best dinner party you’ve ever been to (with a side of tradition and a splash of spritz), Yara and Alec’s day is proof you can do just that!
For more Montecito Country Club wedding ideas, check out Sanika and Zach’s spring wedding!
Wedding planner: Alison Rose Events
Photography: Anna Delores
Venue: Montecito Club
Floral design: The Flora Club
Hair styling: Anthology Bridal
Makeup: Sarah Faubert Artistry
Content creation: Amore by Freddie
DJ + MC: Dart Collective
Lebanese Zaffa: Fusion Zaffa
Rentals: Found Rental Co + The Tent Merchant
Linens: Luxe Linen
Cake: Frances Baking Co
