TINA MORSE & JERRY MOSS
TINA MORSE & JERRY MOSS
August 10, 2019 Santa Barbara, California
Five years ago, Tina Morse agreed to meet Jerome “Jerry” Moss, cofounder of A&M Records, for dinner. The couple had never previously met, but were both encouraged by mutual friends to get to know one another. “I knew he was an icon in the music industry, so I was struck by how warm, genuine, and humble he is,” she shares. He also admits he was quickly smitten: “She walked in and despite how beautiful she looked, I felt very comfortable with her. She was so sweet, and I knew I wanted to see her again.”
Though they had casually browsed engagement rings in the past, one evening Jerry knew it was time to propose after experiencing so much laughter, joy, and travel throughout their relationship. “I couldn’t imagine my life without her,” he confesses. They ultimately decided to custom design their rings together.
The venue for the summer nuptials was an easy decision: A gorgeous ranch nestled in Santa Barbara. “We love the rustic and naturally beautiful setting,” describes Tina. “The entire resort exudes the warmth, charm, and intimacy we wanted to share with our family and friends.”
Since the bride loves to plan events, often carefully handpicking details for family fêtes, she took the lead and focused on the overall look of the celebration. “I have studied design and have always been very creative and artistic,” she says. As self-described foodies, Jerry took delight in working with his bride on the dinner menu and wine-pairing selections. “He had never had a traditional wedding before, and he really enjoyed the process,” reveals Tina.
A rustic, elegant ceremony was planned outdoors on the lawn of the property, where a lush arch of roses and peonies in antique hues had been constructed, as well as a flower-strewn aisle. Making the day even more special for the bride and groom was that their children and grandchildren served as wedding-party members. “And to top things off, I had never known my father, but connected with him about a year before our wedding,” confides Tina of their special guest.
Bridesmaids donned rose-gold gowns that sparkled in the sunlight. “The dresses looked amazing in the natural environment and stood out amongst the greenery,” muses Tina. A harpist and violinist played the theme song to Somewhere in Time, which meant it was time for the bride to make her grand entrance, alongside her newly found father. She held a feminine bouquet that mimicked the soft design of the surrounding blooms. The bride was resplendent in an ivory Victorian-inspired long-sleeved lace gown with hints of metallic rose-colored thread and seed pearls, custom designed by Claire Pettibone.
A lovely service – which incorporated handwritten vows into the “I dos” – was performed by a favorite rabbi of the couple. At the conclusion of the Jewish ceremony, Jerry broke the glass per custom. “A friend scooped up the pieces and had the most beautiful Lucite sculpture made for us as a wonderful gift,” adds Tina. As the groom kissed his bride, “Ode to Joy” by Beethoven played, whilst white doves were released. Onlookers tossed rose petals and cheered as the new Mr. and Mrs. Moss recessed up the aisle to the waiting vintage Rolls-Royce.
Loved ones found their seats for the dinner service by way of copper-colored pocket watches placed on a bed of moss. The reception was decorated as beautifully as the ceremony, with rich, elegant Victorian elements, including plush velvet fabrics, tapestry chairs, and abundant floral arrangements featuring fresh fruit and foliage placed in silver-champagne urns atop meandering moss runners. For a whimsical touch, ceilings were artfully embellished to look like a rose vine had grown from the overhead beams and showcased fragrant florals as well as faux hummingbirds.
“With each tier, the cake grew considerably larger with more flowers, foliage, butterflies, and
magical elements.”
Before supper began, the newlyweds listened to touching speeches from family and friends. “Everyone glowed by the light of the tapered candlesticks and fairy lights,” reflects the bride of the intimate favorite memory. Before revelers hit the dance floor – to many songs chosen from artists that Jerry has worked with over the years – everyone enjoyed slices of the exquisite wedding cake. “With each tier, the cake grew considerably larger with more flowers, foliage, butterflies, and magical elements,” illustrates Tina of the gorgeous confection.
The couple’s only regret was that they wished they had carved out less time for photos. “In order to spend more time with our guests,” Jerry explains. But that didn’t affect the vibe of the celebration. The day was as dreamy as the couple could have ever imagined. Tina confirms, “The overall look, theme, and mood were all so beautiful and special to us.”