An Elegantly Wild Garden Celebration in Vibrant Hues at San Ysidro Ranch

By Kevin Harson2 February 2026

Vibrant corals and pinks mixed with peach and mustard tones. Fragrant herbs, flowering vines and citrus accents.

The style was elegantly wild, natural, and charming, fitting seamlessly with the aesthetic of San Ysidro Ranch and its beautiful gardens.

We went to The Rosewood Miramar for Mark’s birthday weekend. On Friday night, we visited San Ysidro Ranch (our wedding venue) for dinner. Andi had a few suspicions… but since it did not happen that night, she quickly stopped thinking about it. The next day was Mark’s birthday. What Andi thought was a lunch reservation turned into a proposal on the beach with a picnic to enjoy. Mark managed to pull off the biggest surprise!

Mira Zwillinger

AW Bridal

Enzo Custom Tuxedos

Award-winning cuisine and cocktails prepared using fresh vegetables, fruits, and herbs harvested from the chef’s organic garden—located on the property at San Ysidro Ranch.

The warmth and vibrancy of a summer garden citrus celebration inspire our wedding design. A refined palette of yellow, peach, orange, coral, and pink was chosen to complement the natural beauty of the rose garden at San Ysidro Ranch — blending muted tones with lively brights for a look that feels both elegant and joyful. The overall vision captures the essence of summer abundance, natural romance, and effortless California charm.

Ranch Meyer Lemon Sponge with Elderflower Buttercream and Fresh Berries Vanilla Buttercream Frosting. The wedding cake was made with lemons grown on the property at the Ranch and was a nod to the design’s citrus theme.

Ceremony Music: Processional: Pachelbel – Canon Bride’s entrance: Trumpet Voluntary – Jeremiah Clark Recessional: Marry You by Bruno Mars Readings: “Moment of Silence” Quote by Fred Rogers and Corinthians 13:4-8 Reception Songs: First Dance – Let’s Stay Together Al Green, Entrance song: Signed Sealed Delivered, Stevie Wonder. Father Daughter: What A Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong

Our friend, whom we met while traveling abroad on Semester at Sea, officiated our wedding. He played a special role in our story — he was the one who believed in us from the start and encouraged our connection. He even flew all the way from Mumbai, India, to marry us, and it meant so much to have him there along with our other Semester at Sea friends.

My florist surprised me with a single poppy in my bouquet — a heartfelt tribute to my grandfather, “Poppy,” who passed away. Poppies weren’t in season, but she found one just for me, which made it incredibly meaningful.

Our band was amazing — at one point, they handed us the mic (something they never do!) so our friends could sing a song they used to perform together growing up. The night ended with Georgia on My Mind, a song especially dear to my family since we’re from Georgia.