Kestrel Park Engagement Session | Meagan and Nicholas | Santa Ynez, CA

Nestled in the rolling hills of Santa Ynez, CA, somewhere between Santa Barbara and Solvang, Kestrel Park is one of the most gorgeous locations I’ve ever had the privilege of photographing at. Meagan and Nicholas chose Greystone Mansion and Gardens as their wedding venue so I wanted their Engagement photos to feel consistent with the tone of their big day. With its pristine gardens and charming European feel, Kestrel Park was the perfect choice.

Shooting with Meagan and Nicholas was a photographer’s dream. These two clearly have so much fun together and Meagan seemed to have a permanent smile on her face through out our session. It was easy to capture candid moments of them because they were so natural together. The couple’s adorable Golden Doodle, Winston, even made an appearance in the photos along with Sycamore Allée. We all had a pretty good laugh when Winston started giving everyone kisses when it was his time for photos. He really loved the camera!

Meagan’s beautiful gown is by Fame and Partners. I always encourage my couples to dress a little more glamorous for their session to add a bit of romance to the tone of the shoot.

The 12 foot high Hornbeam Hedge leading to the garden helped create a dramatic frame with lots of beautiful negative space. I love how they pop from the image!

Perhaps one of my favorite elements of Kestrel Park is the stunning 17th century style Norman barn and Dovecote. It looks like they’ve been transported to a castle in Europe instead of a private estate in California. I half expected a unicorn to run out from the hedges at any moment…it was that magical. The lavender gardens really only added to fairytale feeling of it all.

For our second location, we ventured to the golden fields directly outside the property. I saw this breathtaking back lit oak tree and started running toward it to catch the last of the sun light before we lost it behind a hill. There’s always been something about ancient oak trees like this that make me feel so inspired. Meagan’s second gorgeous gown is from Lulu’s.

It’s days like this one that make me feel so grateful for what I get to do. I brought my two doggies, Grace and Dusty, along on the shoot as well and we had a special little dog party with Winston when our shoot was finished. It was truly one of the best days.

Meagan and Nick’s Wedding Planning by Stylish Details Events.

For more Engagement Sessions like this one, check out Lauren and Brad’s rustic romance photos.