Over a golden autumn weekend, Mary Heard and Liam Whitfield brought their loved ones together in Santa Barbara for a celebration that felt both intimate and extraordinary. Thoughtfully planned over two days, their wedding blended heartfelt traditions with personal touches, creating a tapestry of moments filled with joy, music, and the warmth of family and friends.
The weekend began on Friday, October 6, 2023, with a meaningful rehearsal at the historic El Montecito Presbyterian Church.
Surrounded by close family and friends, Mary and Liam took time to reflect and prepare, their excitement growing with every shared moment in this timeless setting.
The day began with calm preparation and expert coordination by Bliss Productions, ensuring every detail fell into place. At 9:00 AM, Dreamcatcher Artistry brought Mary and her bridal party’s vision to life with soft, elegant looks. By early afternoon, bouquets of blush and ivory from Bright Floral arrived, adding a delicate touch that beautifully reflected the serene tone of the celebration.
At 2:30 PM, Mary and Liam saw each other for the first time that day—a quiet, emotional moment filled with heartfelt smiles and tears of joy. John & Joseph Photography documented the couple’s connection, and their bridal party soon joined them for portraits that beautifully combined timeless elegance with personal flair.
At 4:00 PM, guests gathered in the historic church, their anticipation heightened by the elegant strains of a live string quartet. The processional began with “Canon in D,” as the bridal party made their way down the aisle with poise and purpose.
Then came a moment of quiet reverence as Mary, escorted by her mother Laura, entered to the timeless melody of “Jesu, Joy of Man’s Desiring.” Her presence, graceful and serene, drew a collective breath from the congregation.
Officiant John Trapp guided the ceremony, which featured a heartfelt congregational hymn, “All Glory Be to Christ,” beautifully accompanied by Grace VanLoh on the organ. The service reached an emotional peak with a duet of “How Deep the Father’s Love for Us,” performed by Grace and Matron of Honor Hope Phillips, leaving the room steeped in reflection and joy.
As Mary and Liam were pronounced husband and wife, the triumphant chords of “Wedding March” rang out, and they exited the church as newlyweds to the cheers of their loved ones.
Arriving at the Belmond El Encanto, guests were welcomed by the vibrant sounds of Mariachi Las Olas, setting a lively and joyful tone for the evening. The Channel Islands Room and Terrace, with its sweeping views, provided the perfect backdrop for a lively cocktail hour where signature drinks flowed freely and conversations brimmed with excitement and celebration.
At 6:30 PM, the couple made their grand entrance to the lively tune of “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” sparking cheers and applause from their guests. The bride’s brother Moody opened the evening with a heartfelt welcome, and Preston led a thoughtful prayer that set the stage for an unforgettable dinner service and a night to remember.
As the evening unfolded, guests made their way into the Riviera Ballroom, where the atmosphere was filled with anticipation for the first dance. Mary and Liam shared a tender moment to “I Wish I Was” by the Avett Brothers, with a personal touch—Liam’s brother Stanley and Mary’s brother Moody performed the song live, making it all the more memorable.
Soon, the dance floor buzzed with energy as family and friends gathered to celebrate, the music carrying the joy of the evening. The night reached a quiet yet profound peak with the couple’s private last dance to “A Sunday Kind of Love” by Etta James, an intimate pause that allowed them to savor the moment before the grand finale.
