Tea & Tradition

By Lisa Duncan

“Can I get a ‘Viva la Fiesta!’? Viva!” rang out beneath the arches of historic Casa de la Guerra as Native Daughters of the Golden West welcomed guests to its Pre-Fiesta Tea. This year marked two remarkable milestones: the parlor’s 125th anniversary and 100 years of selecting a Saint Barbara, celebrating the women who’ve preserved our heritage for generations.

Co-presidents Heidi Stilwell and Lisa Osborn welcomed guests before introducing this year’s Saint Barbara, Julie Herrera Foley. A tenth-generation Californian, Julie traces her lineage to José Francisco Ortega, commander of the original Presidio, while her mother, Barbara Herrera, and sister Christine Herrera, the 2016 Saint Barbara, have all continued the family’s involvement. It was a fitting tribute to generations who have kept our city’s traditions alive.

Longtime member Jeanine Robles-Wright introduced dignitaries including Mayor Randy Rowse, City Councilman Oscar Gutierrez, El Presidente Colin Hayward, and Native Daughters leaders from across California.

The afternoon celebrated Fiesta through music and dance featuring 2026 Spirit Jenna Ramirez, Junior Spirit Penny Hernandez, Garcia Dance Studio, Rosal Ortega, Baile de California, and the Three Santa Barbara Sopranos: Anikka Abbott, Deborah Bertling, and Vivian Vega-Rangel.

After 125 years, it’s one of the traditions that keeps Santa Barbara’s history brewing.

Sightings 

Brad Pitt and girlfriend Ines de Ramon enjoyed a glamorous World Cup double date with Penélope Cruz and Javier Bardem at SoFi Stadium Friday, while the couple shared a rare passionate kiss that went viral… Prince Harry was all smiles at Scotty’s Summer Festival in Warwickshire on Saturday, spending time with military families, sharing that Meghan Markle and their children honor Princess Diana by baking her favorite lemon drizzle cake in their Montecito kitchen… Gigi Hadid spent the weekend sharing a “joy+jetlag” photo album with boyfriend Bradley Cooper, glimpses of her glittering Taylor Swift wedding look, and her dramatic return to the Balenciaga couture runway… 

From Richard and friends to all of you… Pip! Pip!