James and Tara:

Your Expert Planning Team

Tara and James Ybarra are a husband-and-wife wedding planning duo based in the heart of California Wine Country, known for their creativity, professionalism, and calm, reassuring presence. Together, they lead Ybarra Events, a full-service wedding planning and design company specializing in elegant, personalized celebrations across Napa, Sonoma, Lake County, and beyond.

With a reputation for exceptional service and seamless coordination, this dynamic duo combines artistry, experience, and heart to create unforgettable wedding experiences among the vineyards, rolling hills, and timeless charm of Northern California.

Tara’s Journey to Wedding Planning

From a young age, Tara Ybarra had a natural gift for design and organization. At just ten years old, she was rearranging rooms, sewing her own dresses, and transforming spaces with creativity and purpose; a clear sign she was destined to become a wedding planner and event designer.

Her professional journey began in 2002 as a photographer’s assistant, where she discovered her passion for capturing authentic love stories. As wedding photography evolved into the digital age, Tara explored her artistic side through pastry design, creating custom wedding cakes before finding her niche in floral design. Her fascination with the symbolism and beauty of flowers deepened her understanding of wedding aesthetics and it eventually led her to her true calling: wedding planning and coordination.

In 2013, with unwavering support from her husband James, Tara launched Ybarra Events. She brings more than two decades of creative experience to each event and holds certifications as a Certified Event Planner, Registered Minister, TIPS Certified professional, and CPR Certified coordinator, ensuring every celebration is not only beautiful but thoughtfully managed from start to finish.

James: The Ultimate Wedding Planning Partner

James Ybarra is the other half of the Ybarra Events powerhouse team. Known for his extraordinary attention to detail, calm under pressure, and natural charisma, James ensures every wedding runs smoothly behind the scenes. Clients often describe him as “a superhero in a suit," quick to solve problems, anticipate needs, and keep everyone smiling throughout the day.

His warm personality and impeccable professionalism make him a favorite among couples, families, and vendors alike. As Tara says, “James is not only an amazing husband and father; his work ethic, humor, and ability to keep things on track make him the best partner I could ask for, both in life and in business.”

A Dream Team for Your Wedding Day

Together, Tara and James offer the perfect balance of artistry and logistics with crafting weddings that are not only stunning, but also stress-free. Whether you’re planning an intimate vineyard elopement, a rustic barn wedding in Sonoma County, or a luxury Wine Country celebration, Ybarra Events ensures your vision comes to life effortlessly.

Their hands-on approach, local expertise, and genuine care make them the ideal choice for couples seeking a refined, heartfelt wedding experience in California’s Wine Country. With Ybarra Events, you’re in expert hands from the first consultation to your last dance under the stars.

Meet Heather

The Calm, Creative, and Fierce Force Behind the Perfect Wedding Day

Heather has always had a natural passion for planning and helping others. Her journey into the wedding industry began when she worked alongside a talented wedding photographer who also offered planning services. From that moment, Heather dove headfirst into the world of weddings,  organizing, coordinating, and creating joyful, stress-free experiences for couples. She quickly realized how much she loved transforming wedding dreams into reality.

When the economy shifted, Heather transitioned into the healthcare industry, becoming a Dialysis Nurse dedicated to saving lives every day. Although she excelled in her nursing career, her heart always belonged to weddings. When Ybarra Events had an opening, Heather eagerly joined the team, bringing her compassion, precision, and calm confidence to the world of California Wine Country weddings.

A Wedding Planner with Skill, Strength, and Heart

Heather is exactly the wedding planner every couple wants by their side. She’s responsive, detail-oriented, kind, and endlessly creative; the perfect mix of professionalism and personality. But don’t be fooled by her sweet smile, Heather also holds black belts in both Judo and Jiu-Jitsu, making her a literal powerhouse in heels! Whether it’s handling tricky timelines or keeping groomsmen on schedule, Heather gets things done with grace and quiet strength.

Her background in healthcare also gives her a unique edge in the wedding industry. With years of experience handling high-pressure situations and performing CPR daily, she brings a steady hand and reassuring presence to every event. Couples can rest easy knowing their celebration is in capable, calm, and caring hands.

Your Wine Country Wedding, Perfectly Planned

With Heather’s warm personality, love for checklists and timelines, and deep commitment to her couples, your wedding day will be as organized, joyful, and seamless as you’ve imagined. Whether she’s managing a romantic vineyard wedding, a rustic barn celebration, or an elegant Wine Country soirée, Heather ensures every detail is handled flawlessly, so you can relax and fully enjoy your day.

When you work with Ybarra Events, you’re not just hiring a wedding planner, you’re gaining a passionate team led by experts like Heather, who truly care about making your California Wine Country wedding unforgettable.