Falling for Ivy Cove

Ivy Cove’s event at Paraíso Montecito is the gift that keeps on giving 

By Eva Grunburg

Photography Jacqueline Pilar

Rather than struggling with the question of “What do I get for the person who has everything?” this holiday season, Ivy Cove has posed an entirely new dilemma: “What do I get from the brand that has everything?” The Montecito-based collection of exquisite leather goods and lifestyle items was on full display at last week’s event at Paraíso Montecito, satisfying (and possibly complicating) the mental holiday shopping lists of all in attendance.

Ivy Cove Founder Ivy Moliver

Last Wednesday’s event took place in Villa Magnolia at Paraíso, a dreamy collection of villas and vacation rentals in Montecito. As the “crown jewel” of Paraíso, Villa Magnolia is a stunning four-bedroom hacienda-inspired space that served as the perfect catalyst for the chic soiree and its elevated window shopping. 

Those lucky enough to be part of the 70+ LA-and-SB-based influencers, actors, models, and community pillars in attendance reveled in an evening of mingling, grazing, and browsing. After guests' cars were valeted, they were greeted with a warm welcome in the courtyard by Ivy Cove’s Ojai Wine Bottle Carrier Bag with a delicate arrangement of sunflowers sprouting from its sturdy canvas, a lovely clue as to what would blossom during the evening. 

As guests perused the villa further, they were met with even more delightful surprises: an East West tote atop the stairs, a Marlow Duffle Bag lounging in the master suite, and a Mesa Travel Bag awaiting cosmetic touch-ups in the restroom. Each bag, though beautifully overflowing, was packed with just the essentials–Emma Rose Floral-designed arrangements. These stunning additions acted as more than a product showcase–they were meticulously crafted sculptural elements, showcasing the range (and utility!) of Ivy Cove’s collection. 

In addition to the tasteful showcase of Ivy Cove’s signature leather bags, the brand’s equally well made, yet perhaps lesser-known lifestyle goods were on display. From the Goleta Sandal, to small leather goods like the Juno Belt and the On Deck Mini Wallet, to even the Lodi Dog Leash, the event encapsulated the consistent quality of Ivy Cove’s wide-ranging collection. 

When they weren’t browsing, guests could mingle, snack, and sip around the various indulgences offered around the property. The glorious grazing table by Good Company, expertly crafted spritzes by Jorge Baez, and custom cookies by Poppy Bakes were intricate touches that reflected the thoughtful intention behind Ivy Cove as a brand.

While the night had to come to an end, Ivy Cove brought a new meaning to the term “goodie bag”–each guest was able to take home their very own East West Tote. Even more special, custom gold or silver foiling by Angela of Truly Madly Ink made each guest’s bag unique to them with the addition of a calligraphic name or initials, a touch that encapsulates Ivy Cove’s timeless style and understated elegance.  

Reflecting on the idyllic evening in the hills of Montecito, Ivy Cove has captured the characteristically elevated, breezy lifestyle, and instilled it in their charming event and expertly curated collection. Though my holiday shopping list did not come out unscathed from the event, it’s a welcome challenge I’m confident Ivy Cove will be able to help with.