Ben and Kellianne’s Santa Barbara proposal at El Encanto was such a sweet one for me to photograph. Ben had actually been my intern for a couple of years while I worked in construction. With help from their siblings and months of such intentional planning, he proposed along the walking path by the Arbor Lily Pond, one of the most beautiful little corners of the property.
The way the golden light seeps through the spaces at this venue, the peaceful setting, and the way they soaked in the moment together, their proposal felt so joyful and full of heart. El Encanto is actually featured on my blog, ‘9 Stunning Southern California Wedding Venues You’ve Probably Never Heard Of‘, and I think you’ll come to see why!
El Encanto: The Perfect Location For a Santa Barbara Proposal
Ben planned the sweetest Santa Barbara proposal with help from their siblings, and I have to give him the biggest shoutout because he chose such a stunning location. We planned exactly where he and Kellianne should stand along the walking path. I wanted to ensure I captured the proposal from the best angles, with the Arbor Lily Pond and all of that gorgeous El Encanto greenery around them.
You could tell Kellianne was completely surprised the second Ben got down on one knee. Then he pointed over to their siblings, who had been hiding nearby, and she was shocked all over again. When he pointed over to me and she realized the whole thing had been photographed, her reaction was even sweeter.
Ben is such a kind and genuine soul. It made me so happy to see him step into this next chapter of his life. I felt so honored to capture this moment for him and Kellianne, especially with the sun setting so perfectly over El Encanto. After the proposal, he surprised her again by bringing out their dog for a few photos, which made the whole evening feel even sweeter!
Planning your own proposal at El Encanto? You can inquire with the venue about their proposal package, and I’d love to be there to photograph it!
Santa Barbara Engagement Photos at El Encanto
After Ben proposed, we took time for engagement photos all around El Encanto. Truly, this venue does not lack gorgeous backdrops! Their outfits were perfect for the setting and paired beautifully against all of the greenery, brick, and Santa Barbara light.
We started around the Arbor Lily Pond, which also happens to be one of El Encanto’s outdoor wedding spaces. We then walked through the arbor itself, the winding pathways, and a few of the quieter corners of the property. Just before heading to the zero-edge outdoor pool, Kellianne changed into a white dress. It felt so classic for the end of their session. The pool area was such a beautiful way to finish, with views overlooking the city and out toward the Channel Islands.
For engagement photos, I always make sure my couples have a lot of variety in their final gallery. I love capturing the sweet, candid moments, but I also make sure to include a few images with extra space above or around them in case they want to use them for engagement announcements, save the dates, or anything else from this season!
Why El Encanto Is Such a Beautiful Santa Barbara Proposal, Engagement, & Wedding Location
After photographing Ben and Kellianne’s Santa Barbara proposal here, I completely understand why El Encanto is such a special place. It sits up in the hills above the Pacific Ocean with views toward the city, coastline, and Channel Islands, but it still feels tucked away. The whole property has this peaceful garden feel, with Spanish Revival architecture, lush terraces, winding pathways, historic trees, and so many pretty corners for photos.
For proposals and engagement photos, I love that you can get so much variety without having to leave the property. The Arbor Lily Pond feel romantic and intimate, the gardens add so much softness, and the zero-edge outdoor pool gives you those beautiful Santa Barbara views.
El Encanto is also such a stunning wedding venue for couples who want something elegant yet relaxed in Santa Barbara. The property has both indoor and outdoor event spaces. This includes ballrooms, patios, terraces, lawns, the Arbor and Lily Pond, and even more intimate garden spaces. Whether you’re dreaming of a garden ceremony, a private dinner, or a full wedding weekend with guests staying onsite, it has that laid-back luxury feeling Santa Barbara does so well.
Sweet Words From Ben & Kellianne:
“Nicole did such an incredible job with our engagement photos! She worked with me to coordinate everything (timing, lighting, location) and truly helped make my vision come alive. After the proposal, Nicole did a great job making the 1-hour shoot so much fun! She had so many great poses and lighting tricks. Nicole also drove all the way up to Santa Barbara from Orange County to make sure the proposal was exactly where I wanted it. Following the proposal, my finance said “you need to book her for our wedding ASAP!” Once we saw the photos, we did!!!! I would highly recommend Nicole for any photos you may need!”
Planning a Santa Barbara Proposal or El Encanto Wedding?
Whether you’re planning a Santa Barbara proposal, engagement photos, or a wedding at El Encanto, this is such a beautiful place to celebrate any important season in your life. I would truly love any excuse to come back and photograph more love stories here!
If you’re looking for timeless, true-to-color photos with candid moments that still feel like you, I’d love to hear from you! You can learn more about me on my about page. If you think we’d work well together, you can get in touch with me on my contact page, or see more Southern California couples, weddings, and resources on the blog!
