ISYV Magazine: Weddings on Horseback

By K. Reka Badger

Not too happy about blowing a bundle on a lavish wedding? More attuned to the great outdoors than the stuffy interior of some rented hall? If you and your sweetie would rather ramble across a meadow than squeeze into a crowded room, consider the wide-open wonder of a wedding on horseback.

Here in the Santa Ynez Valley, land of cowdogs, cattle and a whole lot of horses, opportunities abound for creating a memorable ceremony that includes your favorite four-legged companions, as well as family and friends. Whether in a public park or private ranch, nuptials held astride (or beside) a pair of noble steeds are enhanced by the exhilarating atmosphere and bracing beauty of a natural setting.

To ensure a hitch-free event, both bride and groom should have a grasp of basic riding skills and be mounted on horses that are proven in situations marked by noise and distractions. As a safeguard, have attendants hold the horses during the ceremony, leaving the happy couple free to take their vows and, when the time comes, lean in for a post “I do” smooch.

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A shady tree or clearing works nicely for an alfresco “altar,” but for a more formal affair, set up an open-ended “horse chapel” large enough to accommodate two horses and a third, if the officiant will also sit tall in the saddle. Decorate beams and posts with ribbons, grapevines, crepe paper and anything else that supports the theme and colors of your equestrian wedding.

Be sure to advise guests of your outdoor plans, so they can don appropriate clothes and footwear. The couple of honor may want to wear a gown and tuxedo, but those in attendance will probably prefer the comfort of casual attire.

Brides might want to bend tradition by wearing a split skirt, Western-style blouse and cowgirl hat fitted with a veil, or maybe a flowy dress and princess hat. Grooms can dress up in showy duds with detailed embroidery and tooled silver, or make a perfectly respectable appearance in clean jeans and a nice shirt.

For ceremonies held some distance from the parking area, arrange to transport guests to the wedding site in a thematic conveyance, such as a horse-drawn carriage, buckboard or haywagon equipped with padded seats. Give each attendee a party favor filled with oats instead of rice so they can ceremonially toss the grain when it comes time to honor the new mister and missus.

Many area caterers have mastered the art of turning out a fine meal in the middle of nowhere, so feel free to hold your reception at the wedding site. Should you opt for a multicourse dinner under an elegant canopy or a Santa Maria-style barbecue under the stars, there’s a local chef with the talent to deliver the perfect repast.

Whether a Western epic, medieval fantasy or simple, heartfelt union, the horseback wedding offers economy, open air and a chance to show your individuality and sense of adventure. Share your passion for your sweetie and your four-legged friends, enjoy a scenic trail ride to the altar and after the final pronouncement, take a giddy gallop together across that wide-open meadow.