Caroline and Matthew’s wedding at San Ysidro Ranch in California was a culmination of their love story that began almost eight years ago. “We met back in 2016 freshman year at Rhodes College studying for an organic chemistry exam,” Caroline reminisced. Their journey from studying together to taking engagement pictures at Rhodes in April 2024 made for memorable milestones leading to their wedding day.
Matthew’s proposal was set against the Dallas skyline in December 2022. “He proposed at a rooftop restaurant overlooking the city of Dallas,” Caroline shared, recalling the romantic moment that led to their engagement.
Choosing California for their wedding was an easy decision for the couple, given their love for travel and the memories they created on their first trip together. “We love to travel and California was our first trip together. We drove along Highway 1 and loved the cool climate in California in late spring. Montecito was our favorite stop,” Caroline explained. San Ysidro Ranch, with its quaint town charm, rolling hills, and vibrant flowers, was the perfect venue. “San Ysidro Ranch was our first venue to visit. As we drove through the lavender, we knew at that moment nothing would surpass this stunning property,” Caroline added.
The wedding day was meticulously planned and offered various settings throughout the day. “We started the evening with cocktails in the beautiful manicured gardens, then moved to an intimate dinner under the growing roses and twinkle lights at the Stonehouse, and then progressed to the indoor-outdoor Veranda for dancing with the band,” Caroline detailed.
The theme of the wedding was a blend of natural beauty, lush gardens, and an intimate, historic setting. “The intimate garden setting is reminiscent of the English countryside, one of my favorite destinations that we included in the honeymoon,” Caroline said. The gothic-style architecture of the church also held sentimental value, reminding the couple of Rhodes College where they first met.
Decor elements played a significant role in bringing the Smiths’ vision to life. “It was important to be surrounded by the classic English garden feel which even included staying overnight in their charming cottages,” Caroline mentioned. The wedding invitation suite also featured flowers named after some of the cottages.
One of Caroline’s favorite moments from the ceremony was walking down the aisle of the church church, seeing Matthew waiting at the altar. “Walking down the aisle, surrounded by family and friends, but most importantly seeing Matthew waiting patiently at the altar alongside my sister and Matthew’s brother,” she fondly recalled. “I loved how the flower girl, attendants, and ring bearer took their roles with great pride. The ring bearer was walking heel to toe down the aisle, and the flower girl made sure her petals met the ground,” Caroline shared.
The reception was equally magical. “Dinner was a fabulous and magical experience! The Stonehouse was framed by twinkle lights, growing rose vines while overlooking the Pacific Ocean,” Caroline described. The locally harvested herbs, fruits, and vegetables added a special touch to the outstanding dinner.
The send-off was equally memorable, with family and friends tossing flower petals under the arched canopy of sycamore trees.
Congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Smith! It was a pleasure to have been a part of your wedding weekend and we wish you a lifetime of love and happiness!
