For over sixteen years, Weddings By The Sea has helped hundreds of inspired couples plan their dream wedding at many of Santa Barbara’s most magical locations along the California coast. The company’s Santa Barbara wedding packages cater to elopements and intimate groups. The team has created all-inclusive, destination packages for elopements and micro weddings in California on the beach, in the city’s lush gardens, or at the historical courthouse.

Weddings By The Sea believes that weddings are about uniting two hearts into one, and that this milestone should be filled with ease and grace. By keeping a clear focus on your wishes, they are able to deliver a personalized, meaningful experience, and take the stress out of the wedding planning process! They support marriage equality and embrace the modern multicultural society that is in California.

With Weddings By The Sea, everything is taken care of from finding an officiant, photographer, and wedding planner to your florals, signage, and event set up. So all brides and grooms have to do is sit back and enjoy this time with their significant other.

As Creative Director and Wedding Planner at Weddings by the Sea, Catherine Forester has years of experience in the entertainment industry and has seen it all in terms of Santa Barbara weddings. SBWS caught up with her to find out a little bit more about her favorite wedding moments and what’s currently trending in the world of weddings. Plus, she gave us a sneak peek at one of her most-loved weddings to date - check it out below!

Q - What is your favorite location to work? What is the style that makes this location special for couples?

A - The Santa Barbara Courthouse is one of my favorite locations. The architecture is stunning and the ambiance is always dreamy; classic Santa Barbara. Even a simple ceremony set up with chairs and minimal decor works well and looks amazing at this venue. Additionally, there are so many great options for photography both outside and inside the building. The opportunity for memorable wedding day photos is endless.

Q - What is your #1 top piece of advice you give to couples before they hire you?

A - I always recommend that couples give some thought as to what they really want their wedding day to be. I believe that the relationship between the couple and the planner has to work both ways to be successful. Both parties should feel comfortable with each other. When this happens, the the planning process and the wedding day flows smoothly.

Q - What is trending with your couples?

A - Color is back in style! Couples are choosing interesting combinations for their flowers and bridal party attire. It's so fun to work with different styles and color choices. I'm also getting requests for floral arches, broken arches, and babies breath.

Q - What are 2 things you wish couples would do for every wedding?

A - #1 Hire professionals to take care of all the work on the big day.
#2 Take time to savor the moment and enjoy their wedding day.

Q - To date, what wedding have you done that has made the top of your favorite list, and why?

A - One of my favorite weddings was at the Santa Barbara Courthouse on a rainy day in December. What I loved about this wedding was how the couple embraced the day. Despite the wet rainy weather, it was a joyful day. They had a wonderful time and you can see love in their photos.

Photography by Bexx Photography