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Places to Propose in Santa BarbaraBy Cori Lassahn
You love her. Really love her. The "will you marry me" speech is ready and the ring is in hand. The only problem is that you're not sure where to pop the question. It has to be perfect: done someplace beautiful, unique and imaginative. Fortunately, Santa Barbara has a plethora of locations that fit the bill. With a little bit of pre-planning and lots of love, you have the makings for a magnificent proposal. Now all you have to do is hope she says ... "Yes!"
Surreal Gardens LOTUSLANDTake your pick of magical spots on this unique 37-acre botanic garden. Sign up for one of the tours and let the docent know you will be proposing. Present the ring at the gazebo near the koi-filled pond in the Japanese Garden or try the fairytale setting of the Theatre, where gnome statues hide in the bushes. 969-9990. Tours are at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., Wednesday-Saturday, Mid-February through Mid-November. Pampered Luxury BACARA RESORT & SPACalm your nerves with a couples massage at the Spa, a swim in the infinity pool or a walk on the beach. Surprise her at the end of the day and arrange for the resort to deliver chocolate-covered strawberries, champagne and an engagement ring as you gaze at the ocean from the Miro lawn. 968-0100. Day-use for the spa and pool is included with the purchase of any 50-min spa treatment. Private Sail SUNSET KIDD CHARTERSBook a private charter on this 41-foot sailboat and pop the question as the sun sets on the Pacific Ocean. You can even request specific music to be played during your sail and order champagne from the on-board bar to celebrate. 962-8222. A private charter is available, operating year-round.
Emerald Waters GREEN HOUSE CAVE, CHANNEL ISLANDSSign-up for a one-day kayaking trip out to the Islands. Hire a private guide and let them know you would like to propose in the Green House Cave, where a sunspot creates a bejeweled emerald-glow. Just be sure to tie the ring onto your life vest so it doesn't go overboard if you do! Call Aquasports, (800) 773-2309, for more information. Bonfire In Paradise EL CAPITAN CANYON RESORTReserve one of the creek side "king cabins" at this rugged-yet-refined resort and enjoy the romance of a wood-burning stove, Jacuzzi bathtub and cozy down comforter. Bring marshmallows and casually propose as you make s'mores in the fire pit right outside the room. If you are more adventurous, hike the Safari trail to a grassy area overlooking the ocean and look into her eyes as you ask for her hand in marriage. (866) 352-2729. Rates range from $245 and up for a king cabin. Waterfall Bliss NOJOQUI FALLSTake a short walk along the tree-lined canyon trail tucked behind the mountains in Solvang. At the end, you will be treated to sights of a 165-foot waterfall spilling down a grassy cliff. The wooden bench at the viewing area is a good place to catch your breath before getting down on bended knee. 934-6123. Park is open 8 a.m. to sunset daily. Waterfall is best viewed in winter or spring. Vineyard Views FIRESTONE WINERYCall ahead and book the private picnic area on the terrace which overlooks the picturesque vineyards and oaks. Bring your own blanket or have the winery set-up a table for you. Say the words, that she's the one, while you slowly sip Syrah. 688-3940. Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Serene Mountaintop KNAPP'S CASTLEPropose to your princess at the ruins of this hilltop castle perched
atop the Santa Barbara mountains. With breathtaking views of Cachuma
Lake and the Santa Ynez Valley, it offers a dramatic background
to begin your "happily ever after." Located off East Camino Cielo
Road. Visit www.santabarbarahikes.com
for more information. Cori Lassahn is the owner of Avanté Events, a Santa Barbara wedding and event planning company offering everything from day-of coordination to full service planning. For package and pricing information, visit www.avanteevents.com or call 259-8559.
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