–Author Unknown

Each of the events we host here at our Ranch is wonderful and unique in the love and joy they bring.

Weddings, especially, generate electric love. Excitement for the new is a scent aloft, wafting, intoxicating, and mingling with the sweet tang of orange blossoms in the ocean breeze.

But, what we find deserves special recognition are the hearts of an older, timeless love.

We’ve seen countless mothers pass beneath our weathered arches for these weddings.

The warm adobe brick floors act as silent witnesses to precious moments between mothers and their children, their babies, now grown. Our soft, white-washed walls offer support to these hearts, generous as the sun. Each, brimming over with the bittersweet taste of pride and a dash of heartache, another milestone reached. Willingly relinquishing bits of themselves with each step their children take further from them across thresholds, praying they did enough. Enough to guide, teach, cultivate strength and beauty, to prepare them for this new life.

If we can offer one grain of reassurance to these individuals of everlasting love, we’d remind them that though their children are grown, you never cease being their Mother, and you will always be with them.

“He didn’t realize that love as powerful as your mother’s for you leaves its own mark…to have been loved so deeply…will give us some protection forever.”

J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter, and the Sorcerer’s Stone

We here at Leo Carrillo Ranch commend all the Mothers out there for the endless amount of love you bring to us and the world.

We hope you feel Loved and Celebrated this Mother’s Day.

“Yours were the first eyes I looked into.
Yours were the first arms to hold me tight.
You were the first to show me never-ending love and compassion.
Forever . . . you are my mother
And I am blessed.”

–E.K. Mitchell

Thanks to Joe + Kathrina Photography for these incredible pictures!