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

Real Wedding Shenanigans Clare & Andrew

Stunning Craftsman architecture and beautifully groomed grounds, were some of the reasons why Clare and Andrew chose to get married at the Women's Twentieth Century Club of Eagle Rock. Located in Eagle Rock, California, the couple transformed the outdoor space into a Greek theatre setup for their ceremony. Dried orange slices and baby's breath, were tied to the aisle chairs with a blue silk ribbon. From the ceremony to the reception, the color palette of orange and blue for the bride and groom continued throughout. Long rectangular tables were lined with greenery and accented with mini bottles of homemade bitters. Guests enjoyed an intimate ceremony and reception, followed by a delicious three-tiered cake!

Photos by Casey Brodley

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Wedding Venue: Women's Twentieth Century Club of Eagle Rock
Caterer: Homegirl Catering
Cake/Dessert: The Lark Cake Shop
Florist: The Bouqs
Photographer: Casey Brodley
DJ/Lighting: VIP DJ Entertainment
Hair/Makeup: Glendale Salon Spa
Rentals: Sir Michael's Party Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Sarah & Eric

Behind the gated grounds of La Chureya Estates, this Spanish hacienda was an absolutely breathtaking location for the wedding of Sarah and Eric. With the enchanting garden surrounding the beautifully manicured lawn, the bride and grown recited their vows. One of our favourite details from this wedding was Sarah's bouquet. The gorgeous showstopper, featured green foliage, accented with an array of blue and purple flowers. Sarah and Eric were thrilled to have shared their magical wedding with family and friends and are looking forward to their married life together!

Photos by Jessica Miriam Photography

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: La Chureya Estate
Caterer: F10 Catering
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: F10 Catering
Cake: F10 Catering
Florist: Kevin Reeder
Photographer: Jessica Miriam Photography
Videographer: Press Films and Media
DJ: Vox DJs
Party Rentals: Folklore Vintage Rentals
Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Lauren & Michael

Tucked away in the Malibu hillside, Lauren and Michael were showered with love on their wedding day. The couple said "I do" in an outdoor ceremony gathered by loved ones. Trees held dangling chandeliers, lighting the night that incorporated traditional Ukrainian elements with a modern twist. Calamigos Ranch was the perfect spot for Lauren and Michael's personal and intimate day.

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Calamigos Ranch - The Oaks
Rehearsal Lunch Venue: Westlake Village Inn - Wine Cellar
Cake/Dessert: Sweet Lady Jane Bakery
Florist: The English Garden Floral Design
Photographer: Jeff Newsom Photography
Videographer: Fisheye Studio
Photo Booth:VOX DJs
DJ/Lighting: VOX DJs

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Meagan & Adam

White flower petals lined the aisle way for Meagan and Adam's special day. The two shared their moment at the Mountain Gate Country Club, located in Los Angeles, California. Flowers decorating the canopy and delicate pink accents, enhanced the ceremony and reception's natural beauty. The day was a magical wedding setting that brought forth the love between Meagan and Adam. 

Photos by Lin and Jirsa

Coordinator: So Smitten Events
Venue: Mountain Gate Country Club
Ice Cream Sandwiches: Diddy Riese
Florist: The Bloemist
Photographer: Lin and Jirsa
Videographer: Theatre 10 Films
Band: Downbeat LA-Gold Standard
Hair: Drybar
Makeup: Glam Squad
Rentals: OC Events
Transportation: First Student Charter Bus Rental

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Kaleena & Mike

This summer evening, Kaleena and Mike celebrated their love for one another. It was a special ceremony. Flowered bouquets anchored the aisle way as loose petals lined the path. The two were married in a gorgeous setting located at Calamigos Equestrian. The day continued with an upbeat tempo from Mariachi Rey de America which had guests smiling through the night. A simply stunning romantic ceremony!

Photos by Ivan Flowers Photography

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Calamigos Equestrian
Cake/Desserts: Portos Bakery Burbank
Florist: Haru Florist
Photographer: Ivan Flowers Photography
DJ: Eddie Nunez
Mariachi: Mariachi Rey de America
Bride & Groom Transportation: Uber
Guest Transportation: American Transportation

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Katie & Ian

Located in the beautiful natural setting of The Ranch at Bandy Canyon, this was a whimsical wedding! These long dining tables were  laden with white flowers, purple accents and greenery, creating a rustic yet elegant look. As votives and tea lights lit the night, Katie and Ian had their first dance together. Under the lights, they tossed the bouquet, ate cake and kept on dancing! It was the perfect setting for Katie and Ian's big day.

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Photos by Half Full Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: The Ranch at Bandy Canyon
Cake: Cute Cakes Escondido
Florist: Kevin Reeder Florist
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Photographer: Half Full Photography
Transportation Shuttles: Highline Charter
Makeup: Blush by M Marie
Hair: Studio O

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Sarah & Alex

From the groom's survival kit to the reception games, Sarah and Alex checked off all the to do's. Continuing to keep the guest on their toes, Jason Sulkin Music had the guests dancing all night. Anyone could tell just how much thought was put into every detail. From the outdoor ceremony that started off with vows, to Sarah and Alex ending up in the pool with a big splash! It was truly a fun-filled day that they shared with their family and friends.

Photos by Michael Segal Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception/Venue/Caterer/Bar: Serves You Right
Florist: Sweet Pea's Custom Floral
Musicians: Jason Sulkin Music
Hair: Kristen Thomas
Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Photographer: Michael Segal Photography
Toliets: Luxury Flush LLC
Parking: Chuck's Parking Services
Security: Close Range International, Inc.
Rentals: Town & Country

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Sarah & Adam

In an asymmetrical design, fabric and flowers hung from the wood structure, where Sarah and Adam were married. As the two left the alter, guests showered them with rose petals, that dangled from the aisle way seats. With ambient music playing, guests wandered through the two-story outdoor space where corn hole and meat and cheese horderves were held. Of these unique touches, the couple used Jenga as a way for their guests to write down pieces of advice and memories to share for their future together. Sarah and Adam had so many creative ideas, including a Mr. and Mrs. mirror placed above their sweetheart table. From the horderves to the 4-tier vanilla lemon berry and red velvet cake, this wedding was sweet and special all over!

Photos by So Smitten 

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Calamigos Ranch
Officiant: Dream Day Weddings
Cake: Vanilla Bake Shop
Florist: Belle of the Ball Designs
Photographer: True Photography
DJ/Photo Booth/Lighting: Vox DJs
Musicians: Devvlov
Hair/Makeup: Cheek to Cheek Artistry
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Transportation: Riz Transportation

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Linh & Michi

Following their vows, Linh and Michi were radiant as they reached their reception. Arriving in Downtown Los Angeles at the Ocean Seafood Restaurant, the wedding party as they enjoyed their delectable cuisine. With the first reception a success, the bride, groom, and guests departed to Nature Friends Sierra Madre Lodge. Arriving at the rustic lodge, the newlyweds were beaming with happiness. This reception was intimate and private, exquisite from both the inside and outside. Soon after the cake cutting, guests said goodbye to the couple with a sparkler send off. The day was a heartwarming celebration of love for Linh and Michi. 

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

 Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Rehearsal Venue: Our Lady of Peace
Tea Ceremony: Gardena Tenrikyo Church
Reception Venue 1: Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Reception Venue 2: Nature Friends Sierra Madre Lodge
Rentals: LA Party Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Taylor & Mark

The historic Redondo Beach Library served as the perfect location for Taylor and Mark to exchange their vows. Under a flowered arch, and alongside friends and family, the couple said "I do"! With a "Bubbly Bar" lined up and ready to go, guests were able to meander amongst the gorgeous landscape. The vintage decor theme continued throughout the ceremony and reception. The day was jubilant for Taylor and Mark as they began their life as a newlywed couple! 

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Redondo Beach Library
Cake: King's Hawaiian
Flortist: FlorUnique
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Photographer: Joey Ikemoto Photography
Transportation Shuttles: Riz Transportation
Photo Booth: Capture POD
Videographer: All Because He Asked
Rentals: Quality Equipment Rentals
Makeup & Hair: The Heart of Makeup
Car Service: Classic Limos
 

real wedding shenanigans: vanessa & chris

It was a beautiful day in Malibu for a wedding. The cool breezes at Calamigos Ranch blended with the rich sunshine to celebrate Vanessa and Chris's nuptials. The ceremony was held outside while the bridal party entered to music played by a string quartet. The officiant was personal and humorous, and added special elements to the ceremony. The draping of flowers and greenery, along with small touches of traditional Chinese elements transformed a lovely space into the personal, intimate event the bride and groom always wanted. Guests loved the cootie catcher programs, and the Jenga "guest book". After a delicious dinner and dancing to a DJ who catered to guests of all ages, the bride and groom exited through a tunnel of glow sticks and cheers from friends and family.  

Images by Marni, Shaunté, & Sabrina for So Smitten

Partial Service/Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue/Caterer/Bar: Calamigos Ranch
Florist: The Bloemist
Cake: Lark Cake Shop
Photographer: Tauran Photography
DJ: Coastline Music
Hair/Makeup: Alicia Wu Hair & Makeup
Officiant: Rev. Roché Vermaak
String Quartet: Bravo Music
 

real wedding shenanigans: safura & bradley

Safura and Brad met at a BBQ in 2014, and on March 19, 2017, they were joined together in marriage. Family and friends flew from all over the country to celebrate the union of this beautiful couple at the Ebell in Long Beach, CA.
The festivities began with an Iranian Sofreh ceremony. Family and friends covered the bride and groom with a canopy, sprinkled them with sugar, to symbolize sweetness in their lives, while they said their vows sitting in front of a sofreh table full of items symbolizing many blessings for the couple. A traditional ceremony followed, with a scripture reading from one of the best men. 
The Ebell is a venue with great character and many, many places for great photos; including the women's restroom. Guests enjoyed old-fashioned cocktails and appetizers while the bride and groom made the most of the natural light in the building to get some great photos. One of the best parts about the Ebell, is that you can have the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception all in one classic, intimate space. The day combined, old & new, multiple cultural traditions, young & slightly less young, and the lives of two great people. 

photos by Marni and Shaunté for So Smitten
 

photos by Duane Peck Photography

 

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: The Ebell Club of Long Beach
Caterer/Bar: Tres LA
Florist: Magnolia's
Cake: Cake Monkey
Photographer: Duane Peck Photography
DJ: DJ Mike Damn!
Rentals: OC Events
Hair/Makeup: Meg Ohare beauty
Officiant: Mayra Gamez, Hamid Jafarian, & Susan Kavoosi
Pianist: Weinglass Music

real wedding shenanigans: sol & gabriel

Yes, you can have an elegant wedding AND include cultural elements. The beautiful Jonathan Club in Los Angeles, CA was the elegant reception location Sol and Gabriel were dreaming about. The vintage design paired beautifully with the bride's decor. However, guests partied the night away to a live, Latin band featuring Yari More. Who said that you can't pair a gourmet meal with Latin music at a country club? Not this couple! It was a beautiful night, and everyone celebrated their love. 

photos by Marni for So Smitten
 

photos by Karen Cohen Photography


Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Holy Angels Catholic Church
Reception Venue/Hotel Accommodations:  Jonathan Club
Caterer/Bar: Tres LA
Florist: Flowers by Sharen
Photographer: Karen Cohen Photography
Band: Yari More Latin Band
Rentals: OC Events
Hair/Makeup: Susy
Officiant: Father Stephen Washko
Pianist: Joe Soto
Harpist: Ernesto
Cantor: Bradley Franklin
 

real wedding shenanigans: emily & nathan

The rainy, Los Angeles skies paused for a day. And on March 4th, Emily and Nathan wed in an intimate, backyard, garden ceremony. It was the bride's dream to get married in her childhood home. And as we all know, dreams do come true. After the ceremony, guests dined in the living room, den, and dining rooms with personal touches like Italian seasoning blends selected by the bride and groom. The love between the bride and groom, and their friends and family, was felt far outside this lovely home.

Photos by Shaunté for So Smitten

Photos by Mary Costa

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Private home
Caterer: Peaches Truck
Florist: Bloominous
Photographer: Mary Costa
Videographer: Wandering Study
Rentals: Pico Party Rentals
Hair/Makeup: Haas & Co Hair Design
Cake: Erin McKenna's Bakery Los Angeles
Staffing: Night and Day

real wedding shenanigans: sarah & mina

It was a grand, gold evening at the Long Beach Hyatt Regency celebrating the nuptials of Sarah and Mina. Hundreds fought through the storms to party the night away. The elegance of the Regency ballroom was accentuated by the gold and ivory adornments throughout the room. The bride and groom were assured to get lots of photos on social media because they gave guests selfie sticks; and they made good use of them. There was even a surprise flash mob honoring Sarah and Mina. In his toast, the brother of the bride said, "It must be a special day, because on the day Sarah and Mina got married, the drought in Southern California ended." It was indeed, a special day.

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Archangel Michael
Reception Venue/Caterer/Hotel Accommodations: Long Beach Hyatt 
Florist: Flower Allie
Photographer/Videographer: Purdy Studios
DJ/Lighting/Chair Rentals: DJ Hetal
Hair/Makeup: Dolledupbylulu
Invitations: Out of the Box Creation
Limo/Car: SoCal Limo and Buses
Cake: Jeseca Creation
 

real wedding shenanigans: cynthia and darryl

Cynthia and Darryl had a traditional ceremony at St. Cornelius Catholic Church in Long Beach, CA. While the bridal party took sunset photos, guests headed to the Alexandria Ballrooms in Downtown Los Angeles. Alexandria ballrooms have an elegant, retro feel that lends itself well to each event's design elements. It's a great space with great character. The built-in bar was a great backdrop for cocktail hour. The room was transformed with elegant floral arrangements, simple, fresh, herb accents at each place setting, and blush uplighting. If you want to make a space uniquely yours, it is worth the money to have uplighting; it makes a great difference. 
The bride and groom purchased a custom wooden cake topper, that reflected their bubbly personalities. The food was delicious, and guests made it through the buffet line faster than we've ever seen (thanks to an awesome caterer and serving staff). The bride and groom stayed on the dance floor late into the night, partying with all their guests. There was so much love and joy, it flooded into the streets of Downtown.

Photos by Marni Farmer for So Smitten

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Location: St. Cornelius Catholic Church
Reception Venue: Alexandria Ballrooms
Caterer/Bartender: Jay's Catering
Cake: Krystin Occiano
Florist: California Petals
Photographer: Kimberly Daniels
Videographer: Spark Story
Photo Booth: Pixel Photo Booth
DJ: Vince Zambrano
Hair & Makeup: Kelly Zhang
Party Rentals: Imperial Party Rentals
Lighting: Impulse Event Lighting
Security: David Shield Security, Inc
Valet: City Center Parking
Set Up/Breakdown: Fresh Nest

 

real wedding shenanigans: hannah & peter

From the architecture to the open scenery, there was an overwhelming flow of emotions as Hannah and Peter exchanged “I do’s”. From the natural beauty at Wayfarers Chapel in Los Angeles to the reception at Redondo Beach Historic Library, the two kept with the theme of natural vintage for a timeless effect. Through the cake stand made of old books, to the table settings, every detail was so elegant and we were so happy to have encapsulated this couples love together.

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Events
Ceremony Venue: Wayfarers Chapel
Reception Venue: Redondo Beach Historic Library
Hotel Accommodations: Portofino Hotel & Marina
Caterer/Bar/Drinks/Bartenders/DJ: Spectrum 
Cake/Dessert: Spectrum/King's Hawaiian 
Florist: Magnolias Floral Design
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Invitations: Green Envelope
Limo/Car: Classy Chassis  

real wedding shenanigans: sean & danielle

Elegant and personalized just what Sean and Danielle dreamed of! From St. Monica Catholic Church to The Culver Hotel, the couple was surrounded by family, friends, and their adorable pup. The reception was bright and lightly lined with accents of gold, black and shades of pink.With a four tiered cake and music to keep the party going, Sean and Danielle and enjoyed their special day together.  

Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Events
Ceremony Venue: St. Monica Catholic Church
Reception Venue/Hotel Accommodations: The Culver Hotel
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Villa Blanca
Caterer/Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: The Culver Hotel 
Cake: Cake Studio
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/Lighting: Vox DJs
Hair/Makeup: The Beauty Affair
Party Rentals: Town & Country Events
 

real wedding shenanigans: eliza & d'artagan

It was a night under the lights as Eliza and D'Artagan were married. Friends and family of the couple came together for the ceremony at Our Lady of the Bright Mount Polish Parish followed by the reception at the Bel Air Bay Club. As the day wore down and the sun was setting, the couple celebrated their journey together!

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Events 
Ceremony Venue: Our Lady of the Bright Mount Polish Parish 
Reception Venue: Bel Air Bay Club
Wedding Night Accommodations: Huntley
Hotel Accommodations: Huntley, Double Tree Hilton Santa Monica, Best Western Santa Monica
Caterer/Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Bel Air Bay Club
Cake/Dessert: Bel Air Bay Club
Florist: Wisteria Lane
Photographer: Tommy Lu