Ashley & Ryan // Santa Barbara Courthouse Elopement
A little over four years ago, Ashley & Ryan met through a mutual friend and set up their first date; they planned to go on a hike at a gorgeous trail in Westlake. They hit it off quickly, and planned several more dates—getting to know each other better each time they met up for dinner or another hike. The rest is kind of history but it’s cute history so let’s keep talking about it.
Every year, on the anniversary of their first date, they’d re-do the hike they did on September 21st. On their third anniversary, Ryan proposed on that very hike! One year later, on their 4th anniversary, they got married at the Santa Barbara courthouse with just two witnesses (and those witnesses’ daughter,) a lovely officiant, and me! How convenient for Ryan that he only has to ever remember one anniversary… ;)
I met this beautiful couple for the first time about 15 minutes before their wedding ceremony, but quickly felt their warmth and kindness. Their energy & excitement to get married was tangible, and I immediately was so stoked to capture the day for them. As a duo, they are low-key, joyful, and completely effortlessly in love. Individually, I soon realized they were both wildly kind, incredibly sweet, and so down to earth.
Despite some unexpected construction at the courthouse, we found the perfect spot for their ceremony. I put Ashley’s veil on, completing her chic and simple bridal look, and suddenly felt like I was a maid of honor about to watch my bestie get married (despite knowing her for ~21 full minutes at the time). The couple exchanged rings and vows in a quick ceremony, as family watched on from across the country via Zoom, and their friend’s toddler waddled around and ate snacks. They sealed the deal with a kiss, took a few photos with their witnesses / guests, signed their marriage license, and were ready for portraits!
We spent a bit of time at the courthouse running around in the golden glow of sunset & getting to know each other better. We talked about how excited Ryan was to hopefully be a dad soon, how they knew they were meant to be, and how they landed on the idea of an intimate elopement in Santa Barbara. We laughed… a lot… and captured photos that I hope encapsulate the sheer romance and natural love between the two of them.
After finishing up at the courthouse, we headed to the beach to catch the last bits of sun. Stopping at a picturesque portion of the train tracks, we took a few extra portraits and then headed to the coast. We all took our shoes off and the new Mr. & Mrs. walked down the beach hand in hand. Between dodging waves and pausing while crowds walked by, we captured some of my favorite images EVER of the newlyweds. I rarely feel like SUCH a VIP to be a part of a couple’s big day.. but this evening was so wildly special and I am obsessed with how the photos came out! I think they really reflect the total calm, fun environment Ashley & Ryan created for themselves by planning a marriage celebration that completely matched their personalities and intentions.
Congratulations to the beautiful Kovises!!!!! Thanks for inviting me to tag along on your perfect day.
