ABOUT US
We first noticed each other at a New Year’s Eve dinner in Malibu, from across the room, before ever saying a word. When we finally met, the conversation felt easy from the start, and not long after, we began dating and haven’t been apart since. Around that time, Los Angeles was burning and we both had to evacuate our homes, an early reminder of how quickly things can change and how important it is to hold onto what matters.
Since then, we’ve built a life together, in motion, from quiet stretches at home to exploring other cities and sharing adventures along the way. Somewhere in it all, we got engaged. It felt natural, certain, and right.
We met at a celebration for a new year, and have found every reason to celebrate since. We look forward to celebrating with you this November in Ojai.
WEEKEND SCHEDULE
Below is the schedule for the weekend, with time built in to relax and enjoy.
All events will take place at Hotel El Roblar.
Welcome Drinks
Friday, November 13
6:00 PM
Cocktails at La Cocina
Welcome Dinner
Friday, November 13
7:00 PM
Buffet Dinner at La Cocina
Wedding
Saturday, November 14
4:00 PM
Ceremony on The Lawn
*Attire is Bohemian Chic*
After I Do
Saturday, November 14
5:00 PM
Cocktails in the Bar outside The Mariposa Ballroom
Dinner & Dancing
Saturday, November 14
6:00 PM
Buffet Dinner in The Mariposa Ballroom
Followed by Dancing at La Cocina
Farewell Breakfast
Sunday, November 15
7:00 to 10:00 AM
Breakfast Buffet at La Cocina
TRAVEL & ACCOMMODATIONS
Whether you join us for the day or the whole weekend, we can’t wait to celebrate with you. We’ll be based at Hotel El Roblar, where everything will take place, and we’d love for everyone to stay onsite so we can actually spend time together in between, not just at the events.
Ojai is about 90 minutes from Los Angeles, an easy and scenic drive into the valley.
Airports
The closest airports are Santa Barbara (approximately 45 minutes away), Los Angeles (about 1.5–2 hours), and Burbank (about 1.5 hours).
Accommodations
A block of rooms has been reserved at Hotel El Roblar for our family and friends. Since everything will take place there, staying onsite makes the weekend easy and keeps everyone close.
You can book online using the code JAMESANDJO, or call 805-322-0525 and mention the James & Jo wedding to receive 20% off.
THINGS TO DO
Whether you choose to spend your time unwinding at Hotel El Roblar or want to explore a bit, Ojai is a small, laid-back town at the base of the Topatopa Mountains, best enjoyed slowly, on foot, by bike, or with no real plan at all.
Downtown is easy to wander, coffee in hand, with a mix of small, thoughtfully curated shops like Shop Summer Camp, deKor & Co, and Fig Curated Living, along with Bart’s Books, the open-air bookstore that’s become something of a local landmark.
Surrounded by citrus groves and trails, the area naturally lends itself to being outdoors, whether that means a hike along the Ventura River Preserve, biking the Ojai Valley Trail, or simply taking in the landscape.
You might visit the Ojai Olive Oil Company for a tasting among the groves, book a pottery class at Firestick Pottery, or go for a horseback ride with Ojai Valley Trail Riding Company. For something more unique, the Turtle Conservancy offers private tours of its protected land and desert tortoise preserve, which can be arranged through the concierge for hotel guests.
There are also a handful of wine tasting rooms in town, including The Ojai Vineyard Tasting Room and Majestic Oak Vineyard, with Casa Barranca a short drive away.
If you’re around at sunset, don’t miss Ojai’s “Pink Moment,” when the mountains glow in soft shades of pink and lavender.
QUESTIONS
Do I need to stay at Hotel El Roblar?
It’s preferred, as all of the weekend’s events will take place there and we’d love to have everyone together throughout the weekend. We’ve also arranged a 20% discount for our guests.
That said, you’re very welcome to stay elsewhere or simply join us for the wedding.
Is breakfast included for hotel guests?
Yes, a breakfast buffet at La Cocina is included with your stay, served daily from 7:00 to 10:00 AM. Our farewell breakfast on Sunday will take place there as well.
What time should I arrive for the ceremony?
We ask that you arrive 20-30 minutes before so we can begin on time at 4:00 PM. The ceremony will last about 30 minutes.
Where is the ceremony and reception taking place? Will they be held indoors or outdoors?
The ceremony will be held outdoors on The Lawn at Hotel El Roblar. We recommend bringing a jacket or wrap, as it may be cool. Shoes suitable for grass (think wedges, block heels, or flats) are also encouraged. The reception will follow indoors in The Mariposa Ballroom.
What is the dress code?
Bohemian Chic — think relaxed yet elevated. Flowy silhouettes, rich textures, and natural tones are always a good choice. For men, think tailored but easy — textured suits, relaxed tailoring, or a jacket with an open collar. Given the time of year, we recommend dressing in layers for the cooler evening.
Can I bring a plus-one?
We are only able to accommodate those listed on your invitation.
What will the weather be like?
Mid-November evenings in Ojai can be crisp, so we recommend bringing a warm layer.
Can you accommodate dietary restrictions?
Please let us know in advance so we can do our best to accommodate.
Who should I contact with questions?
Please email us at christyjoandlarryjames@gmail.com.
IN LIEU OF GIFTS
Your presence is truly the greatest gift. If you feel inclined, we would be grateful for a contribution to Friends of Malibu Urgent Care Center, an organization close to our hearts that helps ensure access to essential medical care for the Malibu community.
Friends is currently working to build a new state of the art urgent care facility, expanding access to critical services when they are needed most. Through June, all contributions will be matched dollar for dollar by the Herb Alpert Foundation, doubling the impact of your gift.
Thank you for being part of something meaningful.