"Rustic Romance" Shoot Sneak Peek

I was so lucky to work on a series of three stylized photoshoots with the amazing Top 5 HotList vendors. The first look-book comes out this Friday and I absolutely cannot wait to see it!  In the meantime, here is an awesome behind the scenes of the Rustic Romance shoot!

our TOP5 Professionals Behind the Scenes of "RUSTIC ROMANCE" a SoCal Style Shoot from our TOP5 hotlist on Vimeo.

Vendor Spotlight: Vantage Point Productions

I am really excited for my vendor spotlight on Vantage Point Productions.  Steve and I began our relationship on Twitter when we realized we were both Dodger fans!  How embarrassing are we!  Since then I have been following he and his wife's work and they are so inspiring (Laura is the creative director).  They easily convince any brides who are "anti-videography" that they definitely need it!  Vantage Point Productions has also been voted by the readers of EventDV Magazine one of the "Top 25 Studios in the World" five years in a row!  Which, in case you didn't know is a huge accomplishment for their industry!  In addition to his contributions to the industry, Steve is an amazing mentor to several other videographers in Orange County which I think is so awesome.  You must check out their website to see more of their work as well as their packages!  Check out two wonderful trailers below as well as their Q&A.  (PS. You know a videographer is great when you tear up during a six minute trailer of a bride and groom you do not even know!)
Twilight or Harry Potter? ......... Potter
Cat or Dog? ………. Chihuahuas
Mac or PC?  ……PC

Sweet or Salty?..... Salty

Beer or Wine?  …. Wino

Mountains or Beach.  ……….Mountains at  Beach

Neat or Messy? ………..The Neat shall inherit the Earth
What is the last book you read?.................... Sideways
Most embarrassing moment? ……………….Anwsering these questions
Favorite sports team? ……………Dodgers…Holly told me to say that
What was the last movie you went to see?   …………Super 8
Who would play you in a movie?................... Richard Gere, of course!
What is your favorite drink?  ………………..Any color of Martini
What is in your refrigerator right now? ………………..A deceased pig
What’s your favorite place to eat? ………………… Home
What TV reality show or game show would you go on? ……………any wedding related one
How many pairs of shoes do you own? …………I’m Metro….26
Where did you grow up? ……………….Grow up? What is that?
Where have you gone to school? …………Catholic  Girls School
What is your advice to people planning a wedding?..........hire a great wedding filmmaker
What is your best marriage advice? …………………Stay married
One of your favorite wedding moments? …………………Blaming the planner for a problem

In Honor of Alyssa Acuna and and Ben Stone

It was so fun to work with my NYC couple, Alyssa and Ben!  Ben has the most adorable English accent by the way.  Alyssa, Ben and I did their consultation via Skype which was a first for me!  I only got to see them twice before the wedding, but when I first met Alyssa in person I felt like we were already best friends!  All of the vendors were awesome which is no wonder why their wedding will be feature on Grace Ormonde's blog this year!

The Team: {Coordinator: Simply Sweet Weddings} - {Location: Waterfront Hilton} - {Photography: Focus Photography} - {Florist: Empora Flora Artistry} - {Entertainment: Aykut Events} - {Bakery: Tom Girl} - {Hair: Jill Guin} -  {Makeup: Lynn's Makeup Art} - {Linens: La Tavola} - {Videography: Alumiq Productions} -  {Lighting: Atmosphere Entertainment}


How to Give a Good Toast

After cocktail hour it is time for dinner and to listen to some toasts. As many people know public speaking is the number one fear people have, yes, even above death!  Martha Stewart Weddings gives a  great article for a guide to toasting!

Troy Grover Photography

Who Speaks?
At your reception, only the VIPs should stand up to speck. The time for your sorority sisters to all speak about the many memories they have with you from college is at the rehearsal dinner- that's your open-mic night. Because the reception is larger, and the company is more diverse, the longer, more personal speeches should be kept for the evening before.

The host (i.e. the bride's father or parents) is first up. This is to welcome to groom's family into theirs and thoughtfully acknowledge any guests who had to travel. Also, this address is to say a few touching words to the newlyweds.
Next comes the best man and the maid of honor to speak, in that order. Their words can be funnier, more nostalgic, and light-hearted.
After that one or two other people can approach the mic. If you have siblings or non-hosting stepparents who want to say something this is the time.

When to Speak?
There are limited opportunities to get guests' attention without interrupting the fun. Even though you might be drinking Champagne at the start of the cocktail hour, thats not the best time to make toasts. Its hard to ask people to be quiet when they just came from a quiet ceremony. They want to catch up with friends and you want to get the energy going so its important to match your timing to the style of your meal.

For Seated Dinner
The father of the bride should welcome everyone and give a brief toast as guest first sit down to dinner. According to Martha Stewart the rest of the speeches can come at the tail end of the main course, when everyone is almost finished eating, although I like to do the maid of honor and best men speeches after the guests receive their first course so the couple can visit tables during the entree! The groom and/or bride should step up after the cake cutting.

For a Buffet
The transition between cocktail hour and dinner is the ideal window for the host's welcome. Have others speak after the first dance and save the bride and groom for dessert time.

For a Cocktail Reception
There are no rules, so to speak, at this setup. A good strategy? Ask the host to say a few words at the very beginning, have the rest of the toasts follow his lead, and then get the party started.

How to Make It Memorable
Whether you decide to talk or not, use-or pass along- these helpful hints!

Don't Wing It
Its important to map out what you're going to say- the beginning, middle, nd end. If you have a plan you won't ramble, which will make you feel more confident.

Keep It Short and Sweet
Tell them to aim for three to five minuts tops. Any longer and guest get antsy.

Limit the Storytelling
Remember: Most of the room didn't go to high school with you or the groom. Only tell stories that will resonate and entertain everyone.

Talk About the Couple
For other speakers, it's fine to start with, "I've known Carrie since third grade," but make sure you weave in the groom, too. The day is about both of them.

How to Avoid Trouble
Emotions, alcohol, and a microphone can make an already nerve-racking speech go all kinds of wrong. Here's what to do if...

A Tipsy Toaster Is on the Verge of Sharing Too Much
First, encourage your speakers not to hit the bar until after their moment in the spotlight is over. If it's too late for that, have your coordinator or next toaster on the agenda inch closer to the speaker and reach for the mic. It's not seamless but it works.

Your Maid of Honor Is Absolutely Terrified to Talk
See if she might be more comfortable reading a pre-written poem! Or if the stage fright is too much for her, give something to say. She's your friend and when it comes down to it, no one will know the difference. If sentiment is what you're hoping for, you can always ask her to write you a letter.

Ali & Greg's Highlights by NR3 Video Productions

I absolutely loved working with Ali and Greg for their November wedding at The Mission Basilica and Marbella Country Club because not did Ali and go to LMU together but we were also in Alpha Phi together!  I absolutely adore this highlight video that NR3 Video Productions put together so I am so exited to share it....  Enjoy!

Vendor Spotlight: ifoto

I just recently met Brian and Rob from ifoto at the Association of Bridal Consultants Trendsetter Awards this past December.  They are new to the industry and really take the always popular photobooth to the next level!  Not only can guests record a video message for the bride and groom to see after the wedding, but they have capability to email or upload pictures to Facebook instantly!  Like many others, they print double copies, include a scrapbook and fun props.  Not to mention Brian and Rob are such genuine people which always makes working more pleasant!  Please check out their interview below as well as some pictures of the booth!
  • Cat or Dog? We are Dog guys!
  • Twilight or Harry Potter? Would neither work =) but if we have to choose it would be good ol' Harry
  • Mac or PC? Ideally Mac, but PC bound right now
  • Sweet or Salty? Sweet
  • Beer or Wine? Beer and Wine
  • Mountains or Beach? Mountains
  • Neat or Messy? Neat
  • What is the last book you read? Brian – “The Shack”, William Young / Rob – “Mans Search for Meaning”, Viktor Frankl
  • Most embarrassing moment?  Too many to share =P
  • Favorite sports team? LA Lakers and our Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim, Orange County
  • What was the last movie you went to see? Hangover II
  • Who would play you in a movie? Brian – Chris O’Donnell / Rob – Paul Giamatti (loved Sideways) LOL
  • What is your favorite drink? Brian- Single malt Whiskey / Rob – A Good Cabernet
  • What is in your refrigerator right now? Beer, Costco Chicken and condiments
  • Where is your favorite place to eat? Yoshi’s & Flemings
  • What TV reality show or game show would you go on? Brian – Housewives of OC / Rob - Wipeout
  • How many pairs of shoes do you own? No comment =)
  • Where did you grow up? Brian – Yorba Linda / Rob Sacramento & Anaheim
  • Where have you gone to school? Brian- Troy HS, CSUF / Rob Loara HS, Azusa Pacific Univ.
  • What is your advice to people planning a wedding? Hire a photo booth (haha)…Actually, Remember it is the Brides Day & consider the guests.
  • What is your best marriage advice? Never be to proud to say you’re sorry or you’re wrong
  • One of your favorite wedding moments? Professionally – Having the Mother of the Bride thank us for being a hi-light to the wedding.
  • Anything else we should know? We are all about creating a fun / interactive / and complete customer experience for all our Customers – The Host – The Guests – and the Planner! We are really trying to show everyone that our enthusiasm is infectious!
          

Wedding Trends of 2011

I cannot believe 2011 is over and 2012 is here!! It was such an amazing year and I was so lucky to work with so many wonderful people. Now that we are on 2012, let's look back some of the trends from 2011!

The "It" Hors D'oeuvres

  • Bite-size fish tacos
  • Mini gourmet mac-and-cheese
  • Fries in cones
Most Popular Outdoor Venues

Rooftops
Feather Love Photography
Fields and Meadows
Huey Bui Photography
Fun Wedding Cake Colors
  • Pink
  • Orange
  • Purple
  • Blue
Flower of the Year

The Peony
Newest Photo Op

Instead of a conventional photo booth, have a whimsical backdrop for guests to get in front of!
5 Candy-Station Alternatives
1. Fried-to-order doughnuts
2. Shots of infused vodka or tequila
3. Ice creams and sorbets
4. Scotches (single malts and blended)
5. Crisps- blueberry, peach, rhubarb, strawberry
Comeback of the year
The grooms cake! This is such a great surprise for your man to get something special just for him. It's all about his interests like his favorite car, a fishing hole, or a golf course.
Delicious Catering Trend
Food trucks. These have become popular not only on the streets but also in the wedding world. They can vary from Korean BBQ to Indian curries, to burgers! You can park it outside after the wedding offering a late-night snack.
After looking at the different trends from 2011 I cannot wait to see what 2012 rings in!

Vendor Spotlight: Flawless Faces Inc.

Can I just say I love love love Carina Lindgren and her Flawless Faces team?  They are honestly everything you could ever want in a hair and make up team.  In addition to doing "Flawless" wedding hair and make up, Carina has a studio where she can do facials and other treatments since she is a licensed esthetician.  Check out their website for a full list of services they offer.  Not to mention, Carina and two of her girls have done my hair and make up twice and I honestly have never felt so confident....cheesy I know.  But seriously, please check them out!

  • Cat or Dog? Cat
  • Twilight or Harry Potter? Twilight
  • Mac or PC? Mac
  • Sweet or Salty? Salty
  • Beer or Wine? Wine
  • Mountains or Beach? Beach
  • Neat or Messy? Neat
  • What is the last book you read? The Secret
  • Most embarrassing moment? Any moment when you’re arguing with someone and realize you’re wrong
  • Favorite sports team? Not into sports teams, I like watching Equestrian
  • What was the last movie you went to see? It’s been a while, Alice in Wonderland with Johnny Depp
  • What is your favorite drink? Hazelnut coffee, ½ hot chocolate
  • What is in your refrigerator right now? Spinach, Kale, Banana, water, white wine, hemp seeds
  • What is your favorite place to eat? Anywhere Italian!
  • What TV reality show or game show would you go on? I would go on a make-over show and do makeovers on people
  • How many pairs of shoes do you own?  I own probably 46 pairs of shoes
  • Where did you grow up? Thousand Oaks
  • Where have you gone to school? Thousand Oaks High, Moorpark College, Orange Coast College, Empire Makeup Academy, Bellflower Adult Night school (Esthetician's license), & International Dermal Institute, Orange, CA and Santa Rosa, CA
  • What is your advice to people planning a wedding? hire a wedding planner!  There are so many details that you are not aware of when starting to plan, and brides get super overwhelmed and don't enjoy the process as the wedding gets closer.
  • What is your best marriage advice? Don't settle.  Marry the person you cannot live without and who is a positive influence in your life.
  • One of your favorite wedding moments? My favorite wedding moments is always the Father/Daughter dance.  I always cry.  OR when the groom sees his bride walking down the aisle.

12 Clever Ways to Cut Costs!

  No matter what your budget is for your wedding, there are always ways to lower how much you spend on your big day. This article from Bridal Guide gives some clear cut ways to save some money for other things like your honeymoon!

1. The Guest List
Keeping your guest list trim is so important. But if you;re worried that you;ll offend people by not inviting them, stop now. Of course you wouldn't ;eave out your nearest and dearest family and friends , so just think of all those people who would probably be flattered to be invited but not bothered if they aren't. Your best bet is to make some rules. That is, first cousins, but not second, Spouses and live-in or serious partners, but not dates. Your boss, but not your whole office. These are some great ways to make sure your wedding stays a good size.

2. The Dessert Table
Unless you're having a dessert reception, don't go overboard on sweets. Wedding cake is so spectacular that offering a dessert buffet, a crepes suzette station and mini ice cream cones is just excessive.

3. The Flowers
The first time you gazed upon your reception site you saw veritable fields of flowers, right? It's no surprise though that piles and piles of blooms can ratchet up your costs quickly. You don't need to fill every corner of your venue with flowers for your wedding to be pretty. Work with your florist to use the freshest, most in-season blooms to their advantage, then fill the rest with budget-friendly candles or greenery. The look will still be beautiful! If you adore flowers, check out botanical gardens in your area and you'll have a bounteous backdrop of blooms at your disposal.

Troy Grover Photography

4. Cocktail Hour
Don't overload guests with everything from sushi bars to hors d'oeuvres to pasta and carving stations. Keep it short and sweet. This ensures that you'll need less food. Hand pass hors d'ouvres instead of having stations. Stick with just enough food to keep guests from getting too tipsy too early.
Troy Grover Photography
5. The Drinks
Feel free to skip the champagne toast and use whatever wint you have on the table. Create a bar you can afford, whether that means offering only beer, wine, water and soft drinks; a signature cocktail and wine with dinner; or less expensive liquors for mixed drinks. Keep your drinks simple.
6. The 5- Course Meal
I know you're worried about guests going home hungry. This concern has led many couples to go down the path of offering too much-up to seven courses-end up paying too much for it. Eliminate one course and just serve an appetizer and entree. Or instead of offering chicken, steak, or salmon entrees, assemble a plate that combines a few grilled shrimp, and medallions of beef, and an array of vegetables. You can save up to 40% or more!
Troy Grover Photogaphy
7. The Cake
A five-tier tower covered with sugar-paste flowers, butterflies and bows? The more elaborate the design, the higher the cost. Consider serving a smaller tiered display cake ad supplementing with a sheet cake that is brought out after the official cake cutting. Or do less-pricey cupcakes in your wedding colors.
Final Touch Bakery

8. The Invitations
Engraved and letterpress invitations are costly. Choosing an unusual color, paper or design may also raise your costs. If you're a DIY-er, design and make your own invitations by hand or on a high quality computer. Or find an amazing invitation designer like Jen Simpson to get inexpensive but beautiful invitations!
Jen Simpson Design

9. Transportation
White limos cost more than black or silver ones, so cross white ones off your list. If you do hire a limousins, don't have the car that took you to the ceremony wait for you all day. Book another to come for you later.
10. The Venue
You've found out the price per person at your chosen venue and it is just too high. You can always negotiate. But some brides are shy or they think that is tacky. But in a touch economic situation, vendors expect it. Be honest about your budget and see what they can do to help. Even if you don't get a price reduction, you may get some extras thrown in, And, if you're flexible with days of the week like a Friday or Sunday, times of days or seasons, you can get a much better deal. Remember: Vendors want your business as much as you want a nice wedding.
11. Rehearsal Dinner
Your rehearsal dinner doesn't have to be a mini wedding and be at an expensive restaurant. If you can have it in the home of someone willing to host. Sometimes people will do this as a gift! Do something casual, like a barbecue or picnic. As your wedding caterer if he or she is willing to cater in a private ome for a lower fee as part of your package.
12. The Impressions
It isn't your job to dazzle your friends. Just remember to take care of them. Be sure they have little amenities in their rooms and that older guests don't have far to walk. Take care not to have an uncomfortable time gap between ceremony and reception. A sweet and inexpensive gift you can give is milk and cookies at the end of the night because it always makes people feel loved!

Vendor Spotlight: Luminaire Images

I'm so excited to highlight my friends Molly and Matt from Luminaire Images!  They are such a fun husband and wife team and make their clients feel so comfortable in front of the camera! See their interview below to get to know them a little bit better and be sure to check out their website!
  • Cat or Dog? Both! I have had the pleasure of owning both cats AND dogs! Currently I get my “pet fix” via my pet rabbit Butters, and by volunteering as a photographer once a month at the OC Humane Society, which gives the shelter pets more exposure and good publicity photos.
  • Twilight or Harry Potter? Harry Potter. Who doesn’t love that Luna Lovegood?! I just photographed a Harry Potter-themed holiday party this past weekend too. That was totally fun, I wore a Hogwarts sweater, scarf, & tie and everything!
  • Mac or PC? Mac all the way, baby.
  • Sweet or Salty? Both, but I think my “sweet tooth” is bigger than my “salty tooth”!
  • Beer or Wine? I enjoy both. Beer in the summer, and wine any ol’ time.
  • Mountains or Beach? What a question to ask someone who lives five minutes from the Pacific Ocean!
  • Neat or Messy? Neat. Unless it’s my desk. For the life of me, I cannot seem to keep my desk tidy for more than ten minutes.
  • What is the last book you read? The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman. It’s cute in the same way early Tim Burton movies are “cute.”
  • Most embarrassing moment? I have to confess that I am a little embarrassed that I just admitted to recently reading a Young Adult novel. Even if it was by Neil Gaiman.
  • Favorite sports team? The only sports I typically watch are international soccer tournaments. I love watching Brazil play for their technique, and African nations for their amazing speed. I also cheer the home team (U.S.), of course!
  • What was the last movie you went to see? Hugo. It had a lot of references to film history which I really enjoyed. I’m a total cinephile.
  • Who would play you in a movie? I have been told that there is a resemblance between Rachel McAdams (Morning Glory) and myself, but if resemblance wasn’t relevant, then I have no idea. I’ve never thought about that!
  • What is your favorite drink? My favorite “adult beverage” right now is vanilla vodka with ginger ale. So delicious. You have to try it. I also like tea--I have a cuppa every morning.
  • What is in your refrigerator right now? Fixin’s for food...what else!
  • What’s your favorite place to eat? I loooooove sushi. My favorite local sushi joint right now is Matsu, on Beach Blvd & Talbert in Huntington Beach. Best sushi of all time that I have EVER eaten was at Morimoto Restaurant in Napa, CA.
  • What TV reality show or game show would you go on? I am not much of a fan of reality TV or game shows, but I think it would be awesome to participate in an episode of “Globe Trekker” or something like that. I love traveling, destination weddings are among some of our favorite events to photograph.
  • How many pairs of shoes do you own? I think I only own maybe fifteen pairs or so, which I don’t think is THAT many. My husband Matt, who only owns like...four pairs of shoes, gives me such grief for it! I have a penchant for sneakers and comfy slip-ons.
  • Where did you grow up? All over Southern California, but mostly the Huntington Beach area.
  • Where have you gone to school? I attended Chapman University, where I studied filmmaking. Much of what I learned in that major I have since applied to photography as well, such as production development and execution, and image composition.
  • One of your favorite wedding moments? One wedding I photographed this past year was that of a bride who believed she was past “marrying age” and would never find anyone, and a groom who uses crutches due to a severe genetic arthritis disability and believed he’d never find anyone either. I think nothing short of “magic” can describe their connection and how in love they are. We arranged for a “First Look” (when they are “revealed” to each other before the ceremony on the wedding day), and the reactions in the photos really sum up their beautiful, inspiring relationship.
  • What is your advice to people planning a wedding? I highly recommend making a list that prioritizes everything involved in your wedding planning, and then hiring professionals in the order of that list. So, if the top three most important aspects of your wedding to you are, for example, your venue, your planner, and your photographer, then secure those three things first. Using this method, if your budget starts to really pinch by the time you reach the bottom of the list, it doesn’t matter so much because everything at the bottom was never very important to you anyway.
  • What is your best marriage advice? I am a fan of the Three C’s: Crystal Clear Communication! Tell your partner how you feel when you’re angry, sad, affectionate, etc. Do NOT wait, and do NOT leave your partner guessing, because if he or she happens to guess wrong then you’ll have an even bigger problem on your hands!
  • Anything else we should know? Yes! Now through January 30th, we’re happy to offer anyone looking for a wedding photography services a 10% rate reduction if they mention that they found us through this interview! You can e-mail us to tell us about your big day and any inspirations you have for your photography.

In Honor of Adam Kholgy and Stephanie Peterson

It was so great to finally work at the beautiful Rancho Las Lomas. I was also lucky enough to work with some of my favorite vendors like photographer Scott Nelson and the always amazing caterers, 24 Carrots. Enjoy some of my favorite pictures from the special day below!


The Team: {Coordinator: Simply Sweet Weddings} - {Location: Rancho Las Lomas} - {Photography: Scott Nelson} - {Florist: The Twisted Fig Fine Florals} - {Caterer: 24 Carrots} - {Ceremony Music: Denny White} - {DJ: Peter Gutierrez} - {Bakery: Great Dane Bakery} - {Makeup: Makeup by Berit}

How to Welcome the Out of Towners

At most weddings there are relatives and friends who travel from around the country and sometimes the world to see their loved ones get married. I think it is so important to make them feel welcome and a little extra special for making the effort to come out and see you get married! Here's some tips from The Bridal Guide on how to give your guests from far away a warm welcome to your wedding.

MG Events via All Things Lovely

Sometimes out-of-town guests make matters tricky because there are rooms to block, transportation to book, directions to give, and gift bags to stuff. But as the host you have to make sure things go flawlessly and they enjoy themselves!

Start Early
I cannot stress this enough! Procrastination is the worst possibly thing for a wedding. Of course you have to send save-the-date cards. You can be super creative with these and its best to make them a little special because it will make guests excited for your big day! These cards is the best way to let guest know they'll need to plan ahead. It's most considerate to send these out six to eight months before the big day. Keep the information you provide simple. Include your names, the wedding date and place, and a wedding website URL, if you have one, and hotel information.

Martha Stewart Weddings

Block Rooms Strategically
When choosing a hotel to recommend to guests, always keep in mind proximity, price and special features. A location near both the ceremony and reception will make it easier for guests to get around. It should be affordable, clean, and nicely decorated, and it should offer amenities like a restaurant, and a bar and airport shuttle service. You might even want to give options and recommend different locations at different price points.
Guests will appreciate it if you block rooms at a discounted rate. Contracts for a block vary from hotel to hotel so it's important that you go over all the details.
Give Guidance
Guests will be on their own to book airfare and other transportation. But do consider working with a travel agent to find good deals and packages for them. You might be charged a fee of about $15 to $30 per guest for coordinating out-of-towners' flights. Even though guests should manage their own transportation from the airport to the hotel, provide them with the name and phone number of a taxi service and any details about hotel-provided transportation. Also, you'll want to give guests some ideas of what to do, whether its sights to see or restaurants to eat at. Post this information on your website!
Consider a Shuttle
If you have room in your budget, hire a bus to shuttle guests from the hotel to the wedding and back. It provides a designated driver-plus, party buses can be fun. Have flip-flops for tired feet, bottled water, mints and aspirin on the bus. guest will seriously appreciate how thoughtful you are.
Don't Overdo It
It's customary to invite everyone coming from far away to the rehearsal dinner-and sometimes even to a next-day brunch- if financially feasible. If not, suggest guests to meet at a nearby hot spot for cocktails or take a tour of the town. Take good care of your guests but don't fee; guilty if you can't afford to wine and dine them all weekend long.
Gift Giving
Guests will appreciate a little basket, like the one above, of treats to help them feel welcome! Be creative and fun with it. Here are some ideas and suggestions.
Comfort and Care
Bottled water, fruit, and other convenient snaks should satisfy their just-arrived cravings; throw in some bubble bath and soft slippers too!
City-Centric
Marrying in a big city? Provide bus or rail tokens, a map, a guidebook and some locally made treats!
Beachy Keen
For a beach wedding, fill a sand pail with flip-flops, sunscreen and a gift card for ice cream on the boardwalk.
Morning Glory
A bagel, juice, pain reliever and the newspaper will make the morning-after enjoyable.

Vendor Spotlight: Jen Simpson Design

Your invitations are one of the first things guests will see of your wedding! So you want them to look the best you can. Jen Simpson and her husband Luke of Jen Simpson Design create the most beautiful invites ever! Luke is the printer and maker of the invitations while she designs them and takes care of the customer contracts. Their invitations are so unique and every single one is special.

  • Cat or Dog?  Cat
  • Twilight or Harry Potter? Harry Potter
  • Mac or PC? Mac
  • Sweet or Salty? Salty
  • Beer or Wine? Beer
  • Mountains or Beach? Beach
  • Neat or Messy? Messy
  • What is the last book you read? Ummm…..haha we havn’t read a book in forever!
  • Most embarrassing moment? We have had a few… :)
  • Favorite sports team? Ohio State
  • What was the last movie you went to see? Harry Potter
  • Who would play you in a movie?  Jen: Anna Torv- the girl from fringe Luke: Tom Cruise from the 90’s
  • What is your favorite drink? JEN: Vodka Cranberry LUKE: Dirty Martini
  • What is in your refrigerator right now? Leftovers
  • What is your favorite place to eat? Sonny’s Italian Restaurant
  • What TV reality show or game show would you go on? Amazing Race
  • How many pairs of shoes do you own?  Around 15
  • Where did you grow up? Ohio
  • Where have you gone to school? Bowling Green State University
  • What is your advice to people planning a wedding? JEN: Keep calm and carry on :) LUKE: Use a lot of paper decorations :)
  • What is your best marriage advice? JEN: Give and compromise LUKE: Talk with your spouse enough that you can anticipate their wants and needs.
  • One of your favorite wedding moments? JEN: when we hand over invitations to a bride and get to see their faces glow with excitement! LUKE: At our wedding when we entered the reception to the Simpson’s theme song!
  • Anything else we should know? We have a cat named Rolland who is basically our kid. We love him dearly, and he is very spoiled!  


15 Ways to Show Mom Some Love

It's every mom's dream to see their son or daughter marry their soul mate. Generally, mothers play a big role in the wedding planning and they out their heart and soul into the special occasion. Here are some ways to say thank you to the woman who dedicated her life to you.

Jim Kennedy Photography

1. Have her join you and Dad for your walk down the aisle.
2. Present her with a photo album of snapshots of the two of you-with a placeholder for a wedding-day picture.
3. Have a piece of lace from her wedding sewn into your gown.
4. Hit her up for "something borrowed," like a piece of her jewelry.
5. Display her wedding portrait on the escort-card table (place it with photos of other family brides).
6. Ask her to light a candle or to give a reading at the ceremony.
7. Have breakfast with her on the big day. You'll sneak in a few moments of calm before the craziness begins.
8. Treat her to a pre-wedding hair-and-makeup session with you and your girls.
9. Order er a monogrammed handkerchief especially for the wedding (She's going to need it!).
10. Tuck her fave bloom into your bouquet; give it to her when you reach the altar.
11. Have your guy make a toast in her honor.
12. Spend your wedding eve watching rom-coms with her at her house.
13. Mail her a letter telling her how much you appreciate her; time it to arrive while you're on your honeymoon.
14. Having a destination bash? Surprise her with a massage at the spa or with a hotel upgrade to a luxe suite.
15. Start a new tradition; the mother daughter dance.

Easy RSVP Tracking

There is nothing more frustrating than when a guest sends back a RSVP card without their name on it! And believe me this happens. Here is a great idea to ensure you know who is sending and RSVP even when they forget to write their name and all you need is a blacklight ink and pen.

 What you do is write your guest's initials or name on the RSVP card in blacklight pen o when a un-named card comes back to you, you just whip out your blacklight pen and identify! And you can give them a hard time for forgetting :)

And these pens are super inexpensive! Go here to buy this handy tool.

How to Tie a Bow Tie

Most often, Bow Ties will come pre-tied from the tux shop. However, if you want to take your look to the next step, we dare you to go for the real thing! Of course, a tutorial on the process of bow-tying may be needed...and looking at these instructions, it looks like you may need a bit of practice! Take a look at the following steps and you'll be well on your way!

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In Honor of Kelly Browne & Matt Roberts

I had such a great time working with Kelly and Matt!  My friend Constance, another fellow planner (www.constancecurtis.com) is friends with Matt and referred them to me because I am on the Hilton's preferred list.  I was so glad she connected us because both Kelly and Matt along with there bridal party and family were just as nice as can be!  Then throw in Sarah and Derek from Frenzel Photographers and KC Campbell from VOC DJs and you've got a party!  I hope you enjoy some of the gorgeous pictures Sarah and Derek captured below....I cannot wait to work with them again!


The Team: {Coordinator: Simply Sweet Weddings} - {Location- Waterfront Hilton} - {Photography: Frenzel Photography} - {Florist: Commerce Flowers} - {Videography: Keepsake Videographer} - {Entertainment: VOX DJs}  - {Bakery: Rossmoor Pastries} - {Photobooth: Fab Photo}  - {Beauty: Bella Blush}

How to Create a Signature Cocktail

Signature cocktails are a growing trend in the wedding industry, and a fun way to personalize your wedding! Cocktail hour is the first chance your guests have to mix and mingle while you’re our having fun with your wedding photos; and nothing is better than not having to wait in line at the bar! Also, it is a bonus for the budget-conscious: You can save on the drink tab by offering wine, beer, champagne, and just the signature cocktail, rather than a full bar.

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When designing your signature drink, here are some factors to consider:
  •       What are your favorite liquors and non-alcoholic ingredients in mixed drinks?
  •        Are there any liquor types and/or ingredients that you absolutely do not want?
  •        What types of cocktails do you two enjoy drinking together?
  •     Would you like the drink to match or complement your color scheme? 
  •     Does your wedding have an overall theme (Hollywood Glamour, Country Simple, etc.)
  •     Consider giving your family history (Origin, Culture, etc.) a role.
  •     Consider the culture of your hometown. (Perhaps your hometown is known for a specific fruit or vegetable).
  •     Peruse restaurant menus or current food magazines for flavor trends.
  •     Let a destination be your inspiration (Location, Honeymoon, where you met, etc.)

When it comes to deciding on the name of your drink, oftentimes, it could be a combination of the couples’ names or something that relates to an interesting story about the couple (how they met, where they met, etc.).
If interested, you can even contact Wedding Cocktail Design.com. Their mixologists will assist you in formulating the perfect signature drink! Their packages include everything from Initial consultation to go over ideas, all the way to the creation of a non-alcoholic version for those guests who do not drink.

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If you chose to formulate your own drink, remember, before you dive into making improvisational drinks for your guests, purchase a variety of flavors you think will go together and start mixing and testing. Eventually, you will be able to find the perfect combination of ingredients and concoct a palatably pleasing drink for you and the rest of the guests. 

Vendor Spotlight: Ryan Weeger Photography

Ryan Weeger is such a talented photographer! He's young and so much fun. His creativity is unbelievable and he has so much passion for what he does.  Not to mention we went to high school together and were in the same Biology class!  We were both the dorky kids....but I must say, I think we have both blossomed quite well, haha :) Oh, and he skateboarded to the most recent time we just had coffee...that's pretty rad in my book!  Get a little glimpse into his fun personality, and enjoy some eye candy of his fabulous work.

·     Cat or Dog? I suppose I’m a bit of both, although we don’t have any pets we definitely have some food mooching kitties in our neighborhood. They guard our place when we’re out :)
·     Twilight or Harry Potter? Gotta say neither on this one. I’m definitely into the drama/comedy type movies, I like real like stuff!
·     Mac or PC? Most definitely Mac based, that warm glow of the apple on my macbook lid just keeps me coming back.
·     Sweet or Salty? Both! Have you even tried those sweet and salty granola bars? So good. I am all about mixing it up, food included.
·     Beer or Wine?  I am definitely into my beers, but no snobbiness from me, I’m an equal opportunity beer lover. My favorites drafts will always be craft IPA’s, I love the hoppy stuff. And wine? Sarah and I were married at a winery in Temecula and honeymooned in Sonoma, so we are definitely into wine as well.
·     Mountains or Beach? I’m definitely a mountains/cold weather guy. I do love the beach as well but there is nothing like crisp cold air and the solitude the mountains bring.
·     Neat or Messy? Clean cut and pretty darn neat. I like my stuff in order, no surprises!
·     What is the last book you read? The Internet is a Playground by David Thorne. If you are into ultra dry and pretty crass humor, you truly can’t go wrong or stop laughing with this stuff.
·     Most embarrassing moment? These happen a lot; I’m always pushing the limits to see what I can get away with, whether it be photographing a wedding or racing my bike. I am pretty competitive and the one embarrassing thing that stands out to me is quitting a bike race. It was really hot, and tough, and I gave in. It won’t happen again I promise that much.
·     Favorite sports team? I grew up in Huntington Beach and still live here. My favorite sports teams are definitely the Angels and the Chargers. I can’t wait till football season starts up again!
·     What was the last movie you went to see? I saw Crazy, Stupid, Love with my wife recently, it was AWESOME. 
·     Who would play you in a movie? Tough one, but I’d have to go with Matt Damon. Mostly for the fact that I love every movie he plays a role in.  
·     What is your favorite drink?  Definitely an Ice Cold Pliny the Elder Double IPA. I know it’s kind of a weird name for a beer, but don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
·     What is in your refrigerator right now? A bunch of good beers, lots of fruit, veggies galore, sandwich ingredients and of course some eggs and bacon. We love cooking from home so we are usually pretty well stocked.
·     What is your favorite place to eat? I am definitely a huge fan of Beachwood BBQ in Seal Beach. For some local good stuff Sarah and I frequent the Secret Spot in Huntington Beach.
·     What TV reality show or game show would you go on? I am not a big reality show guy, but I would definitely accept an invite to the Shark Tank, I have some good ideas ;) I leave the game shows to my wife Sarah, she was on Wipeout and made it into the top 6!
·     How many pairs of shoes do you own? I keep it pretty simple, Flip Flops mostly when I’m not in my working weddings in my dress kicks.
·     Where did you grow up? Huntington Beach born and raised.
·     Where have you gone to school? I went to High School at Marina in Huntington Beach. I spent 3 years at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo and 1 year taking photo classes at Orange Coast College.
·     What is your advice to people planning a wedding? Develop a relationship or connection with each of your wedding day vendors. It is such an intimate and special day in your lives and you want to be able to connect and get along with everyone involved with your wedding day, whether its your florist or photographer. Getting to know each vendor creates a great relationship from the beginning.
·     What is your best marriage advice? Stay true to yourself and put your spouse first. And don’t neglect those awesome date nights and spur of the moment trips and fun things you did before you were married! Now you can do that stuff all the time :)
·     One of your favorite wedding moments? I love the moment when either the bride or groom show their emotion, and when they can’t hold it back and get misty or shed some tears of happiness. Thats the best.
·     Anything else we should know? What I really love the most about photographing weddings is the connection with the couples I work with, and the relationship we develop before the wedding through their special day and afterwards. I live for the moment when a couple gets their images and is moved and emotions flow. That is when I am humbled and all the hard work has paid off, it truly is the best feeling.

  

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