Real Wedding Shenanigans: Charlene & Calvin

Charlene and Calvin's dreamy wedding took place outdoors on a warm day at Calamigos Ranch. In addition to the multitude of unique elements, that created an enchanting experience, the couple had a custom floral arch built for their ceremony. Their color palette was infused with shades of gray, rose gold and blush. Enhancing the receptions tablescape, bundles of flowers and lanterns were centered on each table. As the sun was setting, the bride and groom's family and friends gave heartwarming speeches. Evoking a magical ambience, this sweet and intimate day was absolutely breathtaking!  

Photos by Jenny Smith

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Calamigos Ranch
Cake: Jennifer Park
Florist: Little Thistle Design
Photographer: Jenny Smith
Videographer: Buckley Videography
Rentals: Arcadia Rentals
DJ/Lighting: Vox DJs
Hair/Makeup: Kelly Zhang

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Onita & Paritosh

Starting off their day at the Adamson House, Onita and Paritosh were joined by family and friends as they said "I Do". Following the breathtaking ceremony on the Fountain Lawn, guests were welcomed to the courtyard for light appetizers and drinks. While ambient music played, all enjoyed a delicious dinner that was platted on the Oak Tree Lawn. We had an amazing time celebrating the newlywed couple and wish Onita and Paritosh all the best!

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Adamson House
Cake: Shirin Bakery
Caterer: Whoa Nelly
Bar: Sunseris
Coffee Cart: Coffee Cart Los Angeles
Florist: Flower Couture by Stephanie
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Guest Transportation: Riz Transportation
Rentals/Lighting: MTB Event Rentals
DJ: Vox DJs
Hair/Makeup: Kelly Zhang
Band: Hedgehog Swing

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Stephanie & Tony

Stephanie and Tony celebrated their love in a customized semi-circle curve at the Bel-Air Bay Club. Accenting the ceremony decor, ivory petals lined the way to a beautifully wrapped floral arch. After declaring their love for one another, cocktail hour began on the patio. Creating a magical ambience for the guests, Los Angeles musicians from the Cattus Quartet played a timeless ensemble that trickled on throughout the night. Unique details for the reception included a slideshow of the bride and groom as well as their monogram on the walls and dance floor. This formal affair was complete with Photo Booth pictures, and of course, a delicious cake. Congratulations again Stephanie and Tony, we wish you both the best!

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Bel-Air Bay Club
Cake: Vanilla Bake Shop
Florist: City Flowers
Photographer: Kristina Adams Photography
Videography: Yours Truly Media
Rentals/Photo Booth/Lighting: Bliss Entertainment Event Group
DJ: Vox DJs
Hair: Hello Darling Hair
Makeup: Beauty Lounge LA
Ceremony Quarter: Cattus Quartet
Cocktail/Reception Pianist: Pianist on Call
Butterfly Supplier: Cloverlawn Butterflies

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Julie & Daniel

On the day of their nuptials, Julie & Daniel wed in an outdoor ceremony with amphitheater seating. After the beautiful exchange of vows, hand written signage, welcomed guests to light appetizers and drinks. Woodsy decorations enhanced the venues warmth and charm, as did the rustic glower centerpieces with vibrant blooms. Picked out by the bride and groom, this stylish reception and delicious cuisine were absolutely divine. Cheers to Julie and Daniel and their amazing future together!

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Point Vicente Interpretive Center
Caterer: Lucille's
Bar: BevMo
Cake: Polly Ann Bakery
Service Staff: Night & Day Productions
Florist: Massey's House of Flowers
Photographer: Ivan Chen Photography
Transportation: Riz Transportation
DJ/Photo Booth/Lights: Micheal Angelo Music
Makeup: Lepique Beauty
Rentals: MTB Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Emily & Daniel

Fitting for this couple, Emily & Daniel were married in an outdoor ceremony at MountainGate Country Club. During the cocktail hour, guests sipped on the signature cocktails and tasted the delicious selection of prepared hors d'oeuvres. Table finishings for the reception were made up of lantern centerpieces, acrylic table numbers, succulent napkin treatments, and gold votives. The sweetheart table was placed under a beautiful chuppah, draped with ivory linens and clusters of greenery. Unforgettable memories made together, we were so happy to have been included on Emily and Daniel's special day!

Photos by M.Hart Photography

Video by Light Up

Photos by So Smitten Special Events & MountainGate Country Club

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Bar/Caterer: MountainGate Country Club
Cake: Jaqki's Cake Creations
Challah: The Bagel Factory
Florist: Flower Couture by Stephanie
Photographer: M. Hart Photography
Videographer: Light Up
DJ/Lighting/Photo Booth: DJ Jack Farmer
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Leigh & Chris

Family and friends joined Leigh & Chris, as they wed on this sunny day in Malibu. The couple was married under a wood arbor with eucalyptus garland, overlooking a gorgeous water view. From saying "I Do" above the water, to taking their bridal party photos on the beach, this day was absolutely breathtaking. The outdoor reception featured an intimate setting, as floral garland decorated the tables and candles surrounded the mixed centerpieces. Dining on small bites before dinner, guests enjoyed a variety of dishes including Prosciutto de Parma wrapped with Melon and drizzled with Fig Syrup and Truffle Ristto Fritters. Simply magical, we were so happy to have been a part of Leigh & Chris' big day!

Photos by Taylor Cole Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Wedding Venue: Malibu Property
Caterer/Bar/Service: Made by Meg
Cake: Whole Foods
Florist/Decor: Carol Lazaro
Band: L'avventure
Party Rentals: Premiere Rentals
Photographer: Taylor Cole Photography
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Guest Transportation: Malibu Limousine

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Alejandra & Bernardo

Surrounded by those near and dear to them, Alejandra and Bernardo committed their love to one another in a romantic ceremony, underneath a heart-shaped arch. In an outdoor setting, the venues catering team designed a unique menu for the couple, including some of their most divine dishes. Knowing they wanted to treat their guests to a personalized day, the bride and groom had every detail covered from specialized menus to personalized party favors. This heartfelt day was truly amazing and we send our best to Alejandra and Bernanrdo! 

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: The Grand Long Beach
Cake: Rossmoor Pastries
Ceremony Musicians: Seaside Strings
Videographer: Sergio Anthony Films
DJ: Geo Beltran

Real Inspiration: Wedding Planning Tips

When planning your wedding, there are many things to consider that include everything from shopping for the dream dress to executing the wedding shenanigans. That and so much more can begin to overwhelm many couples and even cloud the importance of the big day. To help eliminate those worries, we have complied some ideas that will help you and your partner hold that same dreamy day you both envisioned while saving money and staying in the moment! 

Photo by Whimsie Photographie

Wedding Planning Tips:

1. Opt for heavy tray-passed appetizers instead of a full seated dinner for a meet-and-mingle, cocktail party-style reception.
2. Find a venue/space that is so naturally beautiful or already has a lot of character to cut down on the amount of flowers and decor you may need.
3. Double the photo booth photos as the party favors for guests.
4. Opt for a beer and wine-only bar instead of a full premium bar.
5. Find a used wedding dress online (it's probably only been worn once!).
6. Have a friend or family member get ordained online and be your officiant (and hope they don't charge you a fee for performing your ceremony!). 
7. Use Uber/Lyft for day-of transportation.
8. Get a small one or two-tier cake for the cake cutting ceremony, and have the rest of the cake in sheets in the kitchen ready to be cut and served. Or opt for mini desserts instead of cake.
9. Use an email invitation service like Paperless Post for your save-the-dates.
10. Stay at an Air BnB instead of a hotel the night of the wedding.
11. Hire a wedding planner to guide you through the process, help you make good decisions with your money, and get you discounts with vendors! ;)

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Kat & Bryan

Following a church ceremony, family and friends met Kat & Bryan at Villa del Sol d'Oro for the reception. Beautiful signage welcomed guests to the private villa, where they then dined to some appetizers and beverages made by Santa Anita Gardens Catering. With extravagant floral bouquets, this couple's color palette was infused with gold accents. A dream setting, their four-tiered cake was delightful, creating a whimsical explosion of flavors. Capturing these precious moments, Kat & Bryan hired a Photo Booth company and made sure that guests took home their pictures as memorabilia and a token of the day. Congratulations again to Kat and Bryan, love is in the air!

Photos by Alyssa Marie

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: St. Dominic Catholic Church
Reception Venue/Caterer: Villa del Sol d'Oro by Santa Anita Gardens Catering
Cake: Susie Cakes
Florist: Violettes Flowers
Photographer: Alyssa Marie Photography
Videographer: ScenEmotion
Bar: BevMo
Dj/Lighting: DJ Moejoe
Photo Booth: Photo Booth Geeks
Hair/Makeup: Bright Crystal Weddings

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Tiffany & Tyler

Castle Green's lavish grounds, created the ideal setting for Tiffany and Tyler's wedding day. Centered around an exquisite magnolia tree, friends and family of the couple, gathered together for the romantic ceremony. Following the services, a cocktail party included hors d'oeuvres and signature drinks. Shades of gold were featured throughout, enhancing the venues natural beauty. A memorable day for all, we wish Tiffany and Tyler all the best!

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Castle Green
Caterer/Rentals/Bartenders: Castle Catering
Cake: King's Hawaiian
Bar Drinks: The Bottle Shop
Florist: Vave Studios
Photographer: Shane Karns, Inc
DJ/Photo Booth/Lighting: Vox DJs

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Stephanie & Matthew

Stephanie and Matthew were married in Pacific Palisades, Ca at the Bel-Air Bay Club. On beautifully manicured lawns, this outdoor ceremony created a lovely setting. Rose petals lined the pathway for the stunning bride to meet her handsome husband-to-be. Guests mingled over cocktails and enjoyed gorgeous views from the patio. The dining space consisted of clear votives and pillars in hurricanes on a bed of greenery. Accenting the tablescape, greenery hung from the chandelier. Guests savored on innovative dishes, as well as, a dessert and cappuccino bar. Unforgettable memories made together, the wedding of Stephanie and Matthew was absolutely wonderful!

Photos by Miki & Sonja Photography

Video by Shutter and Sound Films

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Bel-Air Bay Club
Cake: Fantasy Frostings
Florist: The Bloemist
Photographer: Miki & Sonja Photography
Videographer: Shutter and Sound Films
Guest Transportation/Valet: Quality Parking
Band/Guitarist: Jukebox Productions
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Lights/Draping: Stage Labs

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Kavita & Kiran

Kavita and Kiran were married at Hilton Universal on March 10, in Los Angeles, Ca. As ambient music played during the cocktail hour, guests enjoyed appetizers and the couple's signature drink, a Moscow Mule. Taking a step inside the reception hall, glass hurricanes vases were filled with tall leaf centerpieces, set on gold mirror trays. Accenting the tables, fern leaves were laid on each napkin and placed together with Burgundy chiffon ties, making for lovely decor. From the grand entrance to the fresh and flavorful cake, this wedding covered every detail imaginable. A magical day it was, we loved celebrating Kavita and Kiran's wedding together!

Photos by Anza Foto + Film

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Venue/Bar: Hilton Universal
Caterer: Diamond Palace
Cake: Porto's Bakery & Cafe
Horse: Enchanted Carriages
Photographer/Videographer: Anza Foto + Film
Photo Booth: Photobooth Geeks
Rentals: OC Events
DJ/Lighting/Dhol Player: Sound Nation
Hair/Makeup: Dolled Up by Lulu
Mandap Rental: Krushna Mandap

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Desiree & Aviram's Engagement Party

Breathtaking views and gorgeous greenery were just the start to this magical day. Desiree and Aviram celebrated their engagement party surrounded by family and friends at Mountain Gate Country Club. From the twinkle lights, to the delicate draping, each detail was exquisite. The color palette for this party was infused with dark reds, gold, and of course, some glitter! Complete with a rose petal flower dance, this engagement party was spectacular and we had so much fun celebrating with Desiree and Aviram!

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer/GIF Booth: Michael Farmer Photography
Venue/Caterer/Bar/Cake: Mountain Gate Country Club
Florist: The Bloemist
DJ/Lighting: DJ Arin
Cake: Hansen's Cake
Hair: Dry Bar Beverly Hills
Makeup: Sephora Beverly Hills
Challah: Delice Bakery

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Erica & Jesse

Tucked in Los Angeles, Ca, Erica and Jesse's wedding was held at the SmogShoppe. An intimate venue, their stylish ceremony featured a backdrop covered in an array of greenery, creating an incredible ambience. Enjoying the contemporary and vintage atmosphere, guests tasted delicious hors d'oeuvres and cocktails outdoors. Decorated with votives, the indoor reception was lovely and beautifully accented by a display, showcasing the couple's name. After heading to the dance floor for a song together, Erica and Jesse cut the cake to their mix-n-match display of cake and cupcakes. With a super-fun photo booth to top off the night, this day was simply divine!
 

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: SmogShoppe
Caterer/Bar: Little Nelly
Cake: Sweet Lady Jane
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Valet: White Label Valet
Photographer/Videographer: Mandee Johnson Photography
Rentals: MTB Event Rentals
MC/Band: Black Crystal Wolf Kids
Hair: Kurlfriend by Kat
Makeup: Meg O'Hare

Real Party Shenanigans: Amy's Birthday Party

As guests "Followed the Call of the Disco Ball," they were welcomed to Amy's beautiful backyard for an inviting disco-themed birthday party. Decor for this day included Gold and Silver sequin linens, gold mercury votives, and trivia print-outs that were laid out on the tables. From Berg Catering's assortment of appetizers to Amy's homemade Vanilla and Chocolate cake pops, guests were filled with delicious goodies. A groovy day indeed, this disco-themed party had all the trimmings and essentials for Amy's birthday! 

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Rentals: OC Events
Caterer: Berg Catering

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Adrienne and Byron

At the Ebell Club Long Beach, Adrienne and Byron's wedding was filled with live music and special moments. Playing on the piano in the Parlour, guests were welcomed into a beautiful setting with music by the Jazz Trio. Burgundy chiffon lined the aisles, staircases, and fountain. Candles were placed at the base of the fountains and on the outside staircases. Adrienne and Byron's guests enjoyed a delicious cuisine and drinks catered by Tres LA Catering, including a Moscow Mule, the couple's signature cocktail. From the Photo Booth fun to the three-tired cake, we loved every bit of this wedding!

Video by Michael Farmer Photography

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Ebell Club Long Beach
Caterer/Bar: Tres LA Catering
Cake: King's Hawaiian
Photographer: Photo Andiamo
Videographer/Photo Booth: Michael Farmer Photography
Rentals: OC Events
DJ/Jazz Band: JK Wedding Events

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Kara & Mark

Between gold chairs, a rug lined the aisle way in an outdoor ceremony for Kara and Mark's wedding day at Big Daddy's Antiques in Los Angeles California. From the ceremony to the reception, this setting was furnished with antique decor. A Macrame backdrop behind two navy, wingback chairs, were just the beginning to this couple's stunning sweetheart table. Their reception included rectangle tables decorated with mix-n-match chairs, rose gold mercury votive candles and breathtaking florals. Focusing on all details, the couple maintained a combination of colors including yellows, peach and navy. All of these colors and designs played a beautiful role in decorating this gorgeous venue!

Photos by Mary Costa Photography

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Big Daddy Antiques
Caterer: Summit Event Catering
Bar: Sunseri's
Cake/Dessert: Lark Cake Shop
Dessert: Coolhaus Ice Cream
Florist: The Bloemist
Photographer: Mary Costa Photography
Rentals: Archive Rentals
DJ: Blackbook Social Club
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
 

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Carla & Bob

Tucked inside Malibu Wine Country, this December wedding was fit with warm weather and luscious greens. Be-side the flagstone pathway, rows of white garden chairs were tied with green and silver ribbons. This outdoor ceremony was centered around an enchanting Gazebo draped with florals. Soft white uplighting hung above the reception, as guests found their Champagne glitter table numbers. A dreamy day it was, Carla and Bob's wedding was filled with magical touches!

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue/Caterer: Calamigos Ranch - Redwood Room
Cake/Dessert: Lark Cake Shop
Florist: Wisteria Lane
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/Band: JK Wedding Events
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Guest Transportation: Riz Transportation

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Amanda & Daniel

Amanda and Daniel's wedding at the Ebell Long Beach was filled with romance, tradition, and rituals. The beautifully tiled courtyard uniquely accented this ceremony. Vows under the chuppah symbolized the new home the couple was building together. Following the vows, the groom outlined his promises to his wife through the signing of the Ketubah, a historic tradition. After the courtyard ceremony, guests gathered in the Parlour for drinks and appetizers catered by Tres LA. The King's table, set with linen runners in Iridescent Crush Champagne and Shantung Ivory linen napkins, was beautifully lined for the bridal party, ready to enjoy the delicious cuisine. A gift to all as they departed, guests enjoyed Macaron party favors at the end of Amanda and Daniel's breathtaking day! 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Video by Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Ebell Long Beach
Caterer/Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Tres LA
Cake/Dessert: Katella Bakery
Florist: Vave Studios
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Hair/Makeup: Heather Roach
Guest Transportation: JTK Transportation

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Tamara & Alexander

White lanterns illuminated by candles with spiral topiaries, anchored the entrance of the First Presbyterian Church Santa Ana. Once the ceremony inside the church was concluded, guests were escorted to Tamara and Alexander's reception at the Estate on Second. The Irish Mule, the couple's signature cocktail was enjoyed by many of the guests. Silver-rimmed chargers on top of shantung linens held each guests spot as the meal was served. Centerpieces were combined with hurricane vases filled of candles and garland, in addition to silver votives placed throughout the tables. Diving into the hot chocolate bar, guests savoured the decadent cake prepared by Jay's Catering, cozied up near the fire pit. Tamara and Alexander's wedding combined traditional aspects with modern twists, creating the perfect vision for their wedding day!
 

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: First Presbyterian Church Santa Ana
Reception Venue: The Estate on Second
Caterer/Bar/Cake: Jay's Catering
Florist: Flower Couture
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ: Vox DJs
Hair: Jessica Minton Salon
Invitations: Minted