Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church & Kimpton Canary Micro Covid-Friendly Wedding - Santa Barbara, Ca

Rachel and Joe’s love story started out so sweetly, their first date was a country concert, but Rachel didn’t realize it was a date until halfway through when she noticed all the other people there were couples and Joe was acting different towards Rachel than usual. They are both always up for an adventure, kayaking with otters or taking their dog, Docket, out on the town. As young lawyers, they work very hard but living in San Francisco means they can go out for a great meal and enjoy the city too. They decided to get married in Santa Barbara, where Joe when to UCSB, at the Saint Barbara Greek Orthodox Church then have their intimate reception at the beautiful rooftop deck of the Kimpton Canary Hotel. Due to Covid, they had services outside and everyone tested before they came and wore masks the whole services. Each family sat together and kept their distance, it was a very safe wedding and reception, all while keeping the vision of the wedding Rachel & Joe imagined.

Rachel knew Joe was her forever person when, even though they had just had a little tiff, he flew across the country to be with Rachel when Rachel’s mother had a stroke. He dropped everything and was there for Rachel and in that moment, she knew that would never change!

Joe asked Rachel if she wanted to go for a bike ride, and he got ALL DRESSED UP.

She said, "Why would I change, we’re going for a bike ride?” So, she stayed in her workout clothes and Air Force Ones.

They saw a cute golden retriever on their bike ride, named Snacks (a good omen!) and went set out to have a picnic at the beach.

Joe stealthily set up his iPhone to record him asking Rachel “Will you marry me?", while stumbling over his words.

Rachel said “YES!” and they rode back home to where both sets of their parents were waiting with chocolate covered strawberries and champagne!

Joe knew Rachel was his forever person when they woke up early to go kayaking in a river full of otters and she could hardly contain her excitement and how ecstatic she was. He smile and enthusiasm in that moment was something Joe will never forget.