An Orange-and-Green Formal Wedding in California

Updated on February 2, 2022

Elizabeth and Matthew

For Elizabeth and Matthew the good things in life -- oranges, avocados, and true love -- can be found in Ojai. As a tribute to their SoCal alma mater, where they met, they designed their wedding around the school's colors, orange and green.

On the big day, guests were greeted with citrus cocktails, and Elizabeth walked down an aisle lined with foliage and oranges. The theme continued to the reception, where tables were decorated with arrangements of fiery flowers and even more oranges.

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The Invitation

Invitations, designed by Lisa "Ceci" Johnson at Ceci New York, featured fancy flourishes and a custom crest that includes "things important to us," says the bride. "Like horses, an orange tree, an anchor for Matt's love of sailing, and a toad -- our high school mascot."

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Save the Date

Booklets with letterpressed wood-grain paper covers were mailed to loved ones to spread the news.

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Bridal Party

The bride is flanked by her pals (in Vera Wang frocks), two of whom accessorized with cowboy boots.

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Bridesmaid Bouquets

Each of Elizabeth's nine bridesmaids carried a bouquet of tulips, gardenia foliage, rosemary, ranunculus, freesia, and oregano tied in orange ribbon.

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Groomsmen

Groomsmen, in J. Crew suits, Hermes ties, and Sperry Top-Sider for J. Crew loafers, kick back with cold beverages.

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The Boutonnieres

Rose hips, rose buds, Gomphrena 'Strawberry Fields,' and oregano added a bright pop to the men's lapels.

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The Location

The couple returned to the idyllic orange groves surrounding Thacher, their alma mater in Ojai, to exchange vows. They wanted to be reminded of the time they spent riding horses and snacking on fresh fruit in this very location.

To create "Thacher" the horse, florist and event designer Mindy Rice filled a life-size topiary frame with hay. The party animal "made his debut at the rehearsal dinner wearing New Mexican riding blankets," says Mindy, then showed up at the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception, each time sporting new attire.

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Ceremony Programs

The wedding program, held here by Elizabeth's brother, outlines the ceremony, gave a shout-out to the couple's parents and grandparents, and thanked the Thacher School.

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Ceremony Decor

A bustling arrangement in shades of tangerine, pink, and green adds a bright pop of color to the stone bridge leading to the ceremony site.

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Vows with a View

With its spectacular vista of the Ojai Valley, Thacher's Outdoor Chapel requires scant adornment. Simple touches, like a garland of fresh oranges and foliage draping from the podium, feel organic and natural.

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Just Married

The couple share a private moment. "We knew we had to get married at Thacher to bring everything full circle," says the bride.

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The Reception

Guests headed to Ojai Valley Inn & Spa for the wedding reception. Foliage, fruit, and leafy wreaths on the chandeliers transform the inn's ballroom into a lovely orchard.

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