Kestrel Park, Santa Ynez Engagement Session | Grace + Jason

Grace reached out to me during the summer about shooting her engagement photos with Jason. She grew up with a good friend of mine, and we realized we may have even met at that friend’s wedding last year! Such a small world. Since Jason currently lives in Memphis, TN for his residency, we were limited to when he would be in town to do the session.

When their top choice and original venue (Villa Del Sol d’Oro) was basically in the evacuation warning zone for the Bobcat Fire, we knew we had to change the session location, since we couldn’t reschedule. This turned out to be a bit of a silver lining when Kestrel Park was available for the session! I absolutely love Santa Ynez, and I would probably retire there if I could. The wineries, the rolling hills… farms! Oh, I just love the countryside, and Solvang is basically my favorite weekend getaway. In fact, I left hours early on their session date so I could spend some time for myself in Solvang. I had an affogato and aebleskiver. 10/10 I do recommend.

The bridal suite at the venue, and the venue kitty named Slinky, who followed us around the entire session.

Kestrel Park is a stunning wedding venue, and… well, I think they say it best on their own website:

“A warm welcome awaits you and your guests at Kestrel Park - a magnificent 100 acre property encompassing a 19th century style English country house, gardens and stables. Located amidst some of Santa Barbara's most beautiful countryside, the house and grounds offer the perfect setting for your wedding or special event.”

If that doesn’t sound like the dreamiest thing ever, you might need your ears checked. This venue did not let down, and I’m absolutely in love with Grace’s and Jason’s photos! These two were such a joy to work with—I basically couldn’t get them to stop laughing :)

Bouquet by Milieu Florals
Film scans by Goodman Film Lab