I felt like the Goldilocks of wedding venues. We visited eight, three in Southern California and four in Northern California. This one didn’t have enough room, this one didn’t have a coordinator, we didn’t like the coordinator at this one, there wasn’t an easy way to park at that one, the bathrooms had a leak at this one, there were too many ducks and too much duck poo, etc. etc. etc.

We had specific criteria in mind.

- needed to accomodate up to 200 guests (we have big families!)

- outside ceremony area preferred

- lots of outdoor spots for photography

- easy parking for guests

- private venue (we didn’t want another wedding going on at the same time)

- a coordinator or point person that we got along with (after meeting some coordinators we did not like, this became even more important!)

One night, after returning from the Wild Animal Park, we stopped by a vineyard that had a rocking party going on. There were twinkle lights and tons of people and everyone looked so happy. Unfortunately, it was a private party so we couldn’t do any wine tasting, but the boy remembered it and immediately suggested the vineyard when we first started looking for venues.

It fit all of the criteria, and the added bonus was that their coordinator was so nice and accommodating. We felt immediately at ease with her, and it made the decision that much easier for us. I was also swayed because the boy loved it so much, and if you keep reading my posts, you’ll soon realize that this show is mainly being run by me. It’s very rare that he has an opinion!

So after 8 venue visits asking about chairs and kitchen space and parking attendants and changing rooms and set-up times…we made the big decision and put down a deposit for…

**Trumpets**

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So, not going to lie….amidst all of this planning joy and decorating fun, this last month of wedding planning has been super stressful. As much as I wish I had a fairy-tale planning experience with no complications, that’s just not the way it’s been lately. If I were more of a “venter,” I’d tell you all about it…but I do better with a good cup of tea, a hot bath, and a good night’s rest!

So I thought I’d take today’s blog to post something I had yet to show you: our engagement photos! I loved these photos, and our photographer, Dave Richards, was amazing. He made us feel so comfortable in front of the camera, and the photos turned out just fabulous. Here are a few of our favorites:

These photos were all taken in Manhattan Beach.

We had a blast rolling around in the sand! I can’t even tell you how long I was cleaning sand from my ears, though.

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I don’t have enough good things to say about the fabulous duo of Jan and Tey at Jan Garcia Photography. They’re in love. They’re sweet. And they’re exceptional at their art. What could be a more perfect package? Well, Alex and Brad might be!

Alex made such a stunning bride. And working with her every step of the way was total and utter fabulousness in overload for me! The Chapel at Lake Hills in south Orange County made the perfect backdrop for this clean, modern style wedding. It’s so full of natural beauty and charm, we hardly brought anything into it! Some chiffon draped down the aisle and we were done!

Alex was the first of their 3 girls to get married. It was such an emotional day for her family! Don’t worry- they still have a few more YEARS before they’ve gotta do it all over again!

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A treat, a treat… we’re all in for a treat! The new fabuloso and up-and-comer Wayne Toshikazu just sent me ooodles of wedding pictures from Caroline and Stephen’s big day last summer. Since they came at such a wonderful time, I couldn’t help but share their mexican fiesta styled wedding. SO fun!

First up, some getting ready and detail shots:

There is something soo beautifully organic about a light, flow-y dress. To top it off the detailing was incredible. It was perfect for their beach-side soiree!

This, above, is possibly my FAVORITE getting ready shot of all time. So candid. So amazing. SO CUTE!
And yeah, most of my clients are total knock outs!

Caroline’s gorgeous and simple mantilla-style veil was just the first of many nods to their heritage. I loved her hair- classic half up, loosely pinned with gorgeous flower detail. So lovely.

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[Jordyn and Drew's beautiful garden-inspired wedding from summer 2007. More pictures below!]

This is the classic debate when it comes to music and entertainment for a wedding: band versus DJ. Here are my thoughts, my biast opinion, from my experience and perspective.

A few years back I was, for the first time, planning a wedding with a couple from scratch and hunting for a live band for their reception. I called my mentor. She didn’t sugar coat anything. She voiced her concerns and my eyes have been opened ever since. There are just cons to a band. There are. I said it. Here’s my list:

1. Mic check. Okay, that’s an allusion to the emcee issue. Typically- and I have no idea as to why this is- a band has a lousy MC. Even if it’s the lead singer/front man/band leader… they just aren’t as good as a DJ may be. Now, this isn’t limited to all bands by any means, but in my experience I’ve yet to truly see different.

2. They drink. All of the members. And they put it on your tab. This is something that seems as though it just cannot be avoided. I remember last summer I worked an event with a large band- about 12 members- and when I got up after dinner and came back into the reception room I noticed that there were bottles and glasses surrounding these dudes. About 2 per person, I’d say. When you know the cost of the drinks they were having… it’s borderline offensive. That’s the way I took it. And though my mentor warned me- and I warned them right off the bat- it happens. I cannot be there to babysit the entire evening, though with bands I am tempted to sometimes, as long as your coordinator is aware, they’ll just have to do the best they can.

3. They take breaks. Often! Don’t forget- about once an hour they require a 15 minute break. Which is well deserved. But this also means that they pop in a CD of their choice during those 15 minutes. And most of the time, that’s not so great.

Now, my list of pros:

1. There is nothing- nothing- to get a crowd dancing like live music. A DJ just doesn’t drum up the same type of feel as people performing in front of you.

2. The good ones behave. Never forget that. But be aware- they cost you a pretty penny. Think of what someone should be paid for their talent and time, and then multiply that by the number of members they’ll be bringing. Yikes- it adds up quick! If you’ve got the wallet for it, it’s worth it! And if you don’t- do not, NOT compromise and hire a non-professional act. They could ruin your wedding. Remember how much authority and responsibility any musical act at your reception will hold. It’s a big portion of the evening and that is NOT what you want your guests taking home with them.

3. Interaction and entertainment. Most of the time, the band can work it out for your uncle to serenade you, your dad to play the guitar for a song, or you to perform a duet with your new husband. They can also learn that classical waltz song you’ve been dying to dance to. A live band is instant entertainment and will cover a multitude of wedding “sins” [like running late during dinner]. Really, you just can’t put a price tag on a good time, can you!

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Bonnie Tsang recently shot an awesome engagement photo session at Lee Carrillo State Beach and UCLA for Jennifer and Dan, who are UCLA alums who met surfing.  I love the resulting photos and think that they are so unique and full of personality, exactly what an engagement session should be!

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The second installation of a four or five or maybe six part series of what to do after “yes” and before “i do”!

Decadent tonal pink and gold fabulousness. More pictures from this classy table top ifya scroll down. :)

Hiring a Planner

Okay, so, since I’ve already touched on hiring vendors in one of my previous soapbox rants, I want to broaden the internet horizons a bit more and talk to you about wedding planners, coordinators, designers, and developing the vision for your big day [this all takes place in step 2].

What’s in a name?

Don’t be misled. A planner is not a designer and may not be a coordinator. So, what’s the diff?

A wedding coordinator is your basic essential. It’s like the bare bones that you need for a happy, stress-free wedding day. Many coordinators are planners as well, and offer higher packages that include planning help. “Coordinators”, in essence, are around to tie up loose ends and make sense of all of the plans you have put into place. They typically step in anywhere from a month to a week out from your wedding- but not more than that. A “site coordinator” is very, VERY different than an independent coordinator. Do not let yourself be led astray on this. Nearly EVERY site has an appointed contact- a “venue coordinator”. They are not a wedding coordinator- they are venue staff who are appointed, typically not as qualified, and not looking out for the best interest of YOU- the couple. It is a rarity, as well, that any venue coordinator will stay for the entirety of your wedding. A wedding coordinator will be there from dusk til dawn, should your wedding require it, with a happy smile on their face and a determined attitude in their heart.

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Lately I have been seeing some absolutely gorgeous engagement sessions, and today’s does not disappoint.  Amanda and Matt from Nistor Photography shot Susan and Brendan’s engagement sessions at the Getty Museum.  We knew Amanda had style (she is the author of the inspiring Vintage Glam blog) — but she also has some unbelievable talent.

It always helps when you have beautiful subjects:

Love this shot - so artsy!

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I recently came across the website of Mary Frances Photography and was immediately captivated by her photography and blog.  I like her use of textures and she seems to be a great up and coming (and affordable!) photographer in the SoCal area.  She is a recent graduate of Hallmark Institute of Photography and obviously loves what she does.  We’re happy to share a few images from a recent wedding she shot.

Shoe shots are always fascinating to me.  Not to mention a bride in funky shoes and socks.  Love it!

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Sometimes its the little things that make events memorable, and I’ve got a few exciting tricks up my sleeve for our big day!

When I first saw this awesome lotus-shaped origami napkin bonbonniere on Polka Dot Bride (via Dandi), I nearly died. The lotus goes perfectly with our Magic Carpet Ride theme, and its such a unique and beautiful way to fold the napkins! I also love the bonbonniere aspect. Surprising but true: I’m mostly Greek in heritage (did the red hair throw you off?), and want to work as many greek traditions in as possible into our wedding. The Greeks traditionally include 5 Jordan almonds in their Koufeta (wedding favors), to signify wishing the new husband & wife happiness, health, wealth, children & a long life. I thought it would be sweet to nestle 5 almonds in the heart of the lotus with a little note explaining the significance. For instructions on folding your own lotus napkins, go here.

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In Los Angeles, driving is a hazardous sport. For those who aren’t well trained at it (and often for those who are), disaster is lurking around every corner. Take it from us, who managed to total both of our cars within 2 days of each other, within 2 blocks of each other, last Christmas. Yep, it happened.

Roughly half of our wedding guests are out-of-towners, and we really didn’t want to subject them to unnecessary driving, especially given the mojito madness that we expect to ensue at our reception. We opted not to have our ceremony and reception in the same spot to allow us to realize our dream of marrying in nature, so that added yet another transportation hurdle to the game.

Even though our budget is super slim, we decided that shuttle service was a must-do for our guests’ safety and sanity. I can only imagine how late our wedding would start if we unleashed 50 midwesterners, New Yorkers and Europeans onto the mad streets of Hollywood to fend for themselves!

We checked into several options, but the one that won, hands down, was a no-brainer. Meet our double-deckered beauty, in all her glory!

(Topless Fun Tours? ‘Nuff said!)

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Today’s wedding is not only fabulous (and purple!) but it was shot by one of my favorite photographers in the world, Apertura, so I’m doubly excited to show it to you!

Julie and Roozbeh were married at the Los Verdes Golf Course in Palos Verdes, CA. Their event designer, Sonia Sharma, did an amazing job carrying their modern purple and chartreuse theme throughout the event and transforming the location into a wedding wonderland!

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