On December 4th, Marina Cortbawi, Founder and Designer of Brooklyn-based atelier Merlette, hosted an intimate dinner to celebrate the launch of the brand’s first store at The Post in Montecito, California. The evening brought together a group of creative minds, entrepreneurs, and tastemakers from both the local Santa Barbara community and beyond.
Merlette's founder and creative director Marina Cortbawi hosted guests including Atherton Johnson, Founder and Editor of C Magazine Jenifer Smith Hale, Moon Juice founder Amanda Chantal Bacon, fashion director Lauren Preston, creative director Kate Foley, Could I Have That? founder Samantha Wennerstrom, and more. Attendees wore modern, elegant Merlette pieces selected from the Pre-Spring 2025 collection.
Slate Catering crafted a thoughtfully curated menu paying homage to the Spanish heritage of the property. Accompanied by Solminer Wine and signature cocktails from Ghia.
Place settings featured locally made organic Inez Olive Oil, and lush, naturalistic arrangements from EmmaRose Florals adorned the long tables.
The night ended with Lemon Myrtle Passionfruit Pavlova by Marina.
Guests departed with intricately embellished LUNE Mini Bags from the Pre-Spring 2025 collection, as well as wildcrafted Activist Manuka Honey. The gathering was a fitting tribute to the thoughtful luxury that defines Merlette and our new coastal home in Montecito—as well as the creation of a community space where style, sustainability, and sophistication intersect.
Photography by Emmy Pickett
