real wedding shenanigans: stephanie & rosty

Stephanie and Rosty were married at the historical St. John’s Episcopal Cathedral on Saturday, September 3, 2016. St. John’s is located in the University Park area in downtown Los Angeles. Rosty proposed to Stephanie on June 25th of this year. We had a great time working with Stephanie and Rosty during this whirlwind of fast and furious planning. We cannot go without mentioning Stephanie’s mom, Annette who via long distance was unbelievably generous with her time and assistance in planning for her daughter and son-in-law’s wedding day.

If you have ever imagined having both your ceremony and your reception in a historic cathedral setting, this is the place. The interior of the cathedral is magnificent. Over ninety years old, St. John’s cathedral withholds so much beauty with its Italian Neo-Romanesque architecture displayed in intricate vibrant hued mosaics, ornate details, painted wood high-beamed ceilings, Italian marble columns, and a majestic altar. With love in the air, the bride’s father escorted his beautiful daughter down the aisle to meet her groom. The bride and groom’s family pastor conducted a lovely intimate ceremony among their closest family and friends. Guests included family that traveled from Russia here to the U.S. As a gift to their guests, the bride and groom had guitarist Kevin Enstrom perform a mini concert for all to enjoy after the bridal party recessional.

Pretty floral arrangements created by the Maid of Honor and bridesmaids in shades of white and peach were placed along the aisles, adorned the altar and entryway, adding to the surrounding décor of the cathedral. After the ceremony, guests were escorted to the patio for cocktail hour, Mexican-inspired small bites, refreshing sangria, watermelon aqua fresca (delicious!), music, and lawn games. From ceremony to reception, the transformation of the sanctuary was unreal. Guests were amazed at the dramatic change in appearance as they were welcomed back into the cathedral for the reception. We absolutely loved the overwhelming response of excitement from Stephanie and Rosty as they entered the transformed space for their grand entrance and first dance as husband and wife…priceless. We incorporated tablescapes of navy linens, white lace runners, tons of tea lights, silver bells, florals placed in gold dipped vases set in a candle lit cathedral, creating an incredibly unique vision for all to see. Special thanks to Deacon Fernando Valdez of St. John’s who was absolutely amazing to work with. We couldn’t have done it without you and your staff!

Guests relaxed and mingled while enjoying their made-to-order tacos, heart-warming speeches, and champagne toasts. The evening came to a close with cake cutting, and a quick wardrobe change to prepare for the grand exit. Family and friends gathered outside the bronze church doors for the grand exit with paper cones of fresh lavender for tossing. Luggage in hand, Stephanie and Rosty made their way through the human tunnel of flowing lavender and cheers as they made their grand departure. The groom whisked away his bride for a surprise trip. Destination: unknown. Off they rode into the sunset...happily ever after. 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Full Service Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: St. John's Episcopal Cathedral
Officiant: Pastor Harrison Sommer
Caterer: My TacoMan
Bar: National Bar Staffing
Alcohol:  BevMo
Fruit Platters: Whole Foods
Desserts: The French Confection Co.
Florist: Twigs and Thyme
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Guitarist: Kevin Enstrom
DJ/MC: DJ2A "Double A" Entertainment
Rentals: Parlani

peachy keen color scheme: glamping

Glamping is the new camping (duh) and we were thinking that what better an excuse to go glamping than for a bachelorette party!  Grab your gals, your cocktail shakers and booze, and your glitter streamers (because when is there an occation where they aren't appropriate, right?) and head outside, out west, or out back to cook s'mores, get tipsy, and stay up gossiping all night.  So fun!

p.s.  While researching for this post, we stumbled across this site.  How freaking awesome is this glamping resource?!

Images from top: 1/2/3

real wedding shenanigans: Private Event

So Smitten had the pleasure of coordinating a private wedding for a lovely couple held at their stunning Brentwood home. The setting couldn’t have been more splendid. On a warm summer night guests entered a spectacular secret garden with several pathways leading to shady corners, waterfalls, ivy archways, and vintage furniture surrounded by various foliage textures and colors. A custom wood covering was designed to convert the pool and jacuzzi to an amazing open space for the ceremony to be held. Rows of iron ornate garden chairs and lanterns aligned the aisle for the bride to greet her groom while musicians sang the couples love song. Classical music performed by a string trio played for the guests as butterflies were released during their vows. Farmhouse, wood rounds, and garden iron tables were brought in and placed in various locations throughout this unique indoor and outdoor setting. Tables were dressed with fine china and silver, tinted glassware, embroidered white linen, gold mercury votive candles and bright gorgeous roses in mason jars. Floral archways and lush table garland adorned the beautifully set tablescapes. Dark custom wood signage including Mr. & Mrs., table numbers, reserved seating, Here Comes the Bride, and a suite of directional signs popped against the lush green background. Afterwards, friends and family enjoyed photos, conversation, cocktails, tray passed hors d’oeuvres and music. Guests were seated for dinner under strings of market lights and stars. Special dance and musical performances were featured by well known artists in honor of the bride and groom. Dancing ensued while specialty desserts were served along with a s'mores bar, a popular campfire treat. The evening was outstanding. The most exquisite venue can sometimes be in our own backyard. Thank you to our bride and groom for the incredible honor in allowing us to transform your magical garden into the ideal venue for your dream wedding. It was truly a vision of romance and charm. Congratulations to the lovely bride and groom!

Photos by Marni Farmer & Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Photos by Birds of a Feather

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Private Residence
Caterer: Market Provisions
Desserts: B Sweet
Smore Bar: S'MORE PLAY
Florist: The Bloemist
String Trio: Seaside Strings
DJ/MC: Lee Dyson
Photographer: Birds of a Feather
Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Rentals/Lighting: Town & Country
Hair: Sarah Osterberg
Makeup: Judy Haft
Valet: Chuck's Parking Service, Inc. 

birthday party shenanigans: mariana's batzceneara & nancy's 80th birthday

So Smitten Events had the pleasure of planning an extravagant triple-birthday celebration held at the Palos Verdes Golf Course in picturesque Palos Verdes Peninsula. The guests of honor were Mariana, celebrating not only her Bat Mitzvah, but also her Quinceañera, and her grandmother Nancy, who was celebrating her 80th Birthday. Mariana’s combo milestone was quickly coined as a “Batceñeara!” Lavish, custom-designed “Batceñeara” & 80th Birthday invitations were created and hand addressed by So Smitten. The inspiration behind the design of the invitation suite was themed after the movie Breakfast at Tiffany’s, utilizing shades of Tiffany Blue, jet black, and silver foil, including black satin bows, and hand applied rhinestones for a touch of bling. Custom, handmade décor and signage included diamond studded frames for photos, printed table numbers, timeless quotes from Audrey Hepburn like, “Life is a party…Dress like it” and “Don’t be like the rest of them Darling” and various signage. For that extra added flair, specialty made 3-tiered, pearl chair drapes were designed to be hung on the backs of black wood chiavary chairs. The event was held on a gorgeous day attended by family and friends. Mariana’s Bat Mitzvah ceremony was held in the outdoor garden of the club under an archway of white florals, intertwined with crystal and pearls. After the ceremony, guests enjoyed conversation, tray passed hors d’oeuvres, cocktails and views of green fairways from the patio. Guests located their tables from the lovely display of diamond escort card holders with matching Tiffany Blue name cards. The celebration continued with 200 guests singing “Happy Birthday” to Grandma Nancy with a beautifully lit cake and surprise serenade by the Mariachis. Events continued with a slideshow honoring Nancy and Mariana, a traditional Quinceañera group waltz, and a special freestyle dance with Mariana and her friends. Tablescapes consisted of turquoise and black linens, pearl napkin rings, silver flatware, plate chargers, and mercury votives, bedazzled framed quotes and photos. Black chiavari chairs with pearl drapes complimented by crystal candelabras adorning white rose and hydrangea florals were placed on large round mirrors reflecting stunning accents throughout the space. An array of Mexican cuisine was served along with a plethora of sweet frosted Tiffany Blue glazed donuts, Mexican wedding cookies, and hand painted “M” sugar cookies. Young guests had a blast with their festive party favors given in Tiffany-esq gift bags filled with glow-in-the-dark neon glasses, neon flashing rings, black sun glasses and maracas. The photo booth was a hit where all guests posed with their fun party props in front of the trendy New York Tiffany & Co. backdrop. The night closed with the arrival of a 32-passenger shuttle bus to escort the teen guests equipped with blue soda pop and games as they made their way home. An amazing night of traditions, dancing, and birthday celebration was had by all. Feliz Cumpleaños Mariana and Grandma Nancy! 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Full Service Event Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Palos Verdes Golf Club
Officiant: Janet Liss
Cake/Desserts: Torrance Bakery
Florist: Green Leaf Designs
DJ/MC:  Michael Angelo Music
Mariachi: Mariachi Romanza
Photographer/Videographer/Photo Booth: Michael Farmer Photography
Shuttle: GTS Charter
Shuttle Chaperone: Angela Hernandez
Invitation Creation/Styling: So Smitten Special Events
Invitation Hand Addressing: Jill Herrera for So Smitten Special Events
Decor: Jill Herrera for So Smitten Special Events
Rentals: OC Events
Rentals: Royal Elegance Designs
Car: Classy Chassis

real wedding shenanigans: leslie & paul

Paul and Leslie hired So Smitten for full-service planning for their stunning wedding. The couple wanted to find an inspiring and unique venue, and landed on the Sherman Library and Gardens in Corona del Mar (Orange County). The venue boasts beautiful botanical gardens, a research library full of old books, and old Spanish-style buildings. Inspired by the venue, we wanted to incorporate themes of flowers/garden and old books, as well as add a touch of vintage glam inspired by the couple's favorite movie, Casa Blanca.

For the ceremony, the couple were hitched under a stunning arch draped in a lush garland of greenery and red and pink flowers. Adding that desired touch of glam were draped strands of crystals and pearls, along with a crystal chandelier.  In addition, So Smitten added a rustic table, vintage books and lanterns, and an old-fashioned microphone to complete the look. The couple wanted the ceremony to have a concert-like vibe, so they hired a solo guitarist/signer, who serenaded the crown during the processional, ceremony rituals, and recessional. The couple had two unique ceremony rituals. The first was a unity planting ceremony. Usually done with candles, the couple opted for succulents in accordance with the garden surroundings, and planted three in a special planter box. Two of the plants represented them individually, and the third represented them as a couple. In addition, there was a sand ceremony, which included Leslie's two children. All four participants poured multi-colored sand into a vessel to represent the blending of the new family.

Cocktail hour took place out on the lawn at golden hour, where guests enjoyed live music among the dahlias, a signature sangria cocktail, tray-passed appetizers, and lawn games like giant Jenga, croquet, and corn hole (provided by So Smitten).

At the reception, guests enjoyed a delicious duet of entrees, hilarious toasts, and a surprise choreographed dance performed by the bride and groom. So Smitten designed the tablescapes with champagne lace overlays, vintage books, vintage props like cameras and globes, brass candlesticks, gold mercury votives, custom wood and vinyl signs, and pearl strands. The design complemented the florist's beautiful centerpieces. The party continued with dancing, a fire pit, and a grand exit. The couple left in spectacular vintage fashion in a 1960s Rolls Royce. Congrats to the happy couple, and thank you for letting us be a part of your special day!

Photos and video by Michael Farmer Photography

Full Service Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: The Sherman Library & Gardens
Officiant: Pastor James Scheller
Caterer/Bar/Drinks: Pascal Catering
Cake/Dessert: Plumeria Cake Studio
Florist:  Florals by Jenny
Photographer/Videographer/Photo Booth: Michael Farmer Photography
Guitarist: TJ Brown
DJ: Michael Angelo Music
Decor Rentals: So Smitten Special Events
Choreography: So Smitten Special Events
Vintage Car: Classy Chassis

real wedding shenanigans: karla & gus

Karla and Gus were married at the Neighborhood Church, a gorgeous landmark site perched on the cliffs of Palos Verdes with epic Pacific Ocean views of the coastline clear to Malibu. Pristine vintage cars lined the paved driveway leading to the entrance of the church doors. An amazing means of classic transportation and photo opportunities for the newlyweds and bridal party as they exit in style and make their way to equally gorgeous locations along the coast for photos. Guests arrived at Michael’s Tuscany Room in San Pedro for cocktail hour and reception. Michael’s is a beautiful space exuding old world charm, exposed high beam ceilings, and a sweeping staircase perfect for a grand entrance. The bride and groom awaited on the second floor preparing for their grand entrance down the staircase to greet their family and friends. Our lovely couple relished in the few minutes of down time while we made sure they relaxed with drink in hand, giving them a chance to absorb the moment and of course a “selfie” with their wedding planners. The tablescape consisted of ivory and gold linens, ornate white lanterns with coral and pink floral arrangements, and gold mercury votives throughout, setting the romantic atmosphere for an evening of glowstick dancing and celebration for the happy couple. Salute! 

Photos by Buns Photography

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: The Neighborhood Church
Officiant: Church Minister
Reception Venue/Caterer: Michael's Tuscany Room
Cake: Polly Ann Bakery - San Pedro, CA
Florist: Flower Duet
DJ/MC/Lighting: VOX DJs
Photographer: Buns Photography
Photo Booth: Pure HD Photo Booth
Hair/Makeup: Leticia Reyes
Rentals: AC Chair Covers
Car: Father of the Groom
Hotel/Shuttle: Crowne Plaza LA Harbor
Invitation Styling/Hand Addressing: Jill Herrera for So Smitten Special Events  

real wedding shenanigans: alanna & david

Alanna and David were married at the Palos Verdes Golf Course situated on the stunning Palos Verdes Peninsula. Their ceremony was held in the outdoor wedding garden under a peoni, rose, and lily-adorned archway overlooking lush green fairways and ponds. Rose petals, mixed floral clusters, and hand made wooden signage 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 escort cards were CDs of the bride and groom’s favorite music. These cards were beautifully hand painted in shades of aqua and gold serving as a lovely musical keepsake for guests. The reception was held in the Spanish style clubhouse with panoramic views of the ocean and city hillsides. Illuminated LOVE and XOXO marquee letters accompanied by bright florals, and glowing gold-trimmed geo vases with navy candles were placed throughout the foyer. The dining space consisted of gorgeous inspirations of navy, aqua and gold. Detailed tablescapes of navy sequins linens, fine gold flatware, glass and gold accented plate chargers, aqua mercury votives, framed hand written love-inspired quotes, unique Brazilian agate table numbers, gold chiavari chairs, and farmhouse tables achieved an incredible chic setting complimented by eye-appealing backdrops of Palos Verdes. Guests savored the lavish array of food stations, delicious eats, wedding cake and signature ice cream sandwiches and soda float bar from Coolhaus Ice Cream Truck. After a memorable evening of celebration and dancing, the bride and groom’s guests gave them a stylish send off under a canopy of bright flickering sparklers as they were whisked away into the night in a beautiful vintage Rolls Royce. Congratulations Alanna and David!

Photos by Marianne Wilson Photography

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Full Service Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Wedding invitations and Custom Website: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Palos Verdes Golf Club
Officiant: Pastor Wayne Chaney
Cake: Torrance Bakery
Ice Cream Truck: Coolhaus
Florist: Green Leaf Designs
DJ/MC: Jev the DJ
Photographer: Marianne Wilson Photography
Photo Booth: DJ Tempoe
Table Rentals: Rustic Events
Party/Lighting Rentals: OC Events
Flatware Rental: Signature Party Rentals
Car: Classy Chassis
Hair: Cynthia Moultrie
Makeup: Jazzmene Ellison

real wedding shenanigans: kristen & mickey

Kristen and Mickey tied the knot amongst their dearest family, friends and nearby livestock at the Centennial Farms located at the OC Fair and Event Center. Guests made their way to the red Millennium Barn for an authentic down home celebration of cool libations, barbeque, music, and a backdrop of sounds from various animals on the farm. Tables were set with white and pink roses combined with white hydrangeas in wooden crates, burlap wrapped bottles with baby’s breath, tea lights in mason jars and flower seed favors. In lieu of serving traditional wedding cake for dessert, guests were treated to warm, toasty, sweet funnel cake, topped with fruit and whip cream compliments of Feeding Frenzy – Funnel Cake Truck. Delicious! Cheered on by their loved ones, the bride and groom formally departed in a newly-purchased-just-for-their-wedding, vintage white Buick Riviera draped in white crepe flowers, pom poms, and balloons with a “Just Married” sign to complete the look. Congrats Kristen and Mickey!

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of Coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Wedding Invitations: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony and Reception Venue: Millennium Barn at the OC Fair Grounds
Caterer/Bar: Spectra
Dessert: Feeding Frenzy - Funnel Cake Truck
Flowers: Diane Shrake Florist
Officiant: Robert Ladd
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/MC: Battleson Entertainment
Photo Booth: DJ Tempoe Entertainment
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals
Hair: Sarah Tevis and Jen Combs
Makeup: Mallorie Mason       

Video by Michael Farmer Photography

real wedding shenanigans: connie & jason

Connie and Jason were married in the breathtaking rustic garden setting of the Beverly Park at the Garland Hotel in North Hollywood. The happy couple pledged their love for one another surrounded by beautiful sycamore trees, pristine lush green landscape, and over 350 of their closest family and friends.  Their chic, black-tie North Hollywood gathering continued as they were escorted in a white vintage beauty to Le Foyer Grand Ballroom for the reception. Guests arrived to an amazing ballroom of opalescent lighting, shimmering chandelier, glazed white dance floor, and Disney-themed centerpieces with pink floral and decorative accents throughout. The grand entrance began with a choreographed bridal party waltz, and led into a whimsical, fog-induced dance routine performed by the bride and groom. What a magical introduction to the 3-course, sit-down dinner that took place along with games, photo booth fun, music and dancing. Congratulations Connie and Jason! 

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: The Garland Hotel
Reception Venue, Caterer: Le Foyer Grand Ballroom
Florist: Flower Couture By Stephanie
Cake: La Fleur Pastry
Officiant: Albert Hwu
Choreographer: Brynn Fehir
Reception DJ/MC: Ivan Kwan, MC
Photographer/Videographer: Justin Element Productions
Photo Booth: Element Photo Booth Company
Transportation: Byrd Limousine Service
Hair/Makeup: Luong Lasting

 

real wedding shenanigans: katie & joe

Katie and Joe were hitched at the majestic Adamson House in Malibu. The state park museum and gardens overlooked the Pacific Ocean, with a priceless view and unforgettable ambiance. This sweet ceremony took place under a gorgeous oak tree in the gardens. Guests then enjoyed signature cocktails, food trucks for dinner, and danced the night away under the stars with the ocean waves crashing in the background. 

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Adamson House
Caterers: Peaches Smokehouse and Lobsta Truck
Bar: BevMo!
Servers and bartenders: Night & Day Productions
Desserts: Sugar Babies Cupcakery
Florist: CJ Matsumoto and Sons
DJ: Michael Angelo Music
Photographer: Mary Costa Photography
Rentals: Smart Party Rents
Transportation: Riz Transportation Services and VIP Tours of California

real wedding shenanigans: eryn & mike

Eryn and Mike were married at a private rustic lot tucked away in the hills of Bell Canyon. On that rainy day, miraculously the sun peeked out and the rain stopped long enough to have the outdoor ceremony that our bride and groom’s hearts were set on. Surrounded by their family and friends, along with their dog Henry, all gathered under mists of rain to embrace Eryn and Mike as they exchanged their vows. The reception was held at the private residence and childhood home of the groom, set in a beautifully landscaped backyard under clear tents with strings of market lights and brightly colored yarn tassels. Guests enjoyed “Passion Fruit Habanero Diablo Pops with a Beer” specialty cocktails, tray-passed hor d’oeuvres, and catering from Diablo Taco. Hand potted succulents and mason jars filled with assorted florals placed on hand cut wood rounds with wooden and burlap accents came together perfectly, creating a warm rustic inspired atmosphere. Glasses were raised and toasts were made followed by a great night of music and dancing in the brisk night air. Cheers!

Photos by Jenn Emerling Weddings

Photos by Jill Herrera for So Smitten

Day-of coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Private Residence
Caterer: Diablo Taco
Bar Service: Liquid Catering
Cake/Desserts: Crave Dessert Co.
Officiant: Robert Gibson
DJ/MC: The Flashdance
Photographer: Jenn Emerling Weddings
Videographer: Sharkpig
Rentals: AAA Rents & Events
Transportation: Riz Transportation Services 

real wedding shenanigans: shannon & aric

Shannon and Aric held an intimate, family-only wedding ceremony at the gazeebo at Heisler Park in beautiful Laguna Beach. Two weeks later, the newlyweds hosted a rockin' reception at the Soka University Black Box Theatre. Shannon designed a vintage, jazz-themed fete inspired by peacock feathers, jewel tones, and New Orleans. As a jazz singer herself, the bride serenaded guests with a 17-piece big band backing her, creating an old school jazz club ambience. 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Day-of coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Gazebo at Heisler Park
Reception Venue: Soka University Black Box Theatre
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Caterer: Bon Appetit
Decor: Bride and family
Live music: Big Band 2k
Cake: Cinderella Cakes
Rentals: Atlas Party Rentals

smashing! cocktail: cupids kiss

Squee! Valentine's Day is just around the corner, and there's nothing we love more than days devoted to love. Why not stay home with your sweetie, curl up on the couch, and mix-up this sweet concoction? WARNING: Drinking Cupid's Kiss may lead to Valentine's Day shenanigans!

What are you doing for Valentine's Day?



Ingredients
1/2 oz. Chambord Raspberry Liqueur
1/2 oz. Godiva White Chocolate Liqueur
1/2 oz. Smirnoff Vanilla Twist

Instructions
Shake with ice and strain into a white chocolate rimmed martini glass.

Recipe via. Images: 1/2/3.

smashing! cocktail: spiked hot cocoa



For winter weddings, we LOVE the idea of a hot cocoa bar.  We went to a wedding once where there was a coffee and hot cocoa bar complete with different flavors of whipped cream, rock candy instead of sugar cubes, lots of little jars of spices for dusting, and peppermint sticks for guests to kick their drink up a notch.  It was fantastic!

Spiked Hot Cocoa

Ingredients
  • 5 ounces good quality dark chocolate, chopped into small pieces (140 g)
  • 4 cups homogenized milk (1 litre)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (10 ml)
  • 1/2 cup Kahlua or Amarula liqueur (125 ml)
  • 1/4 cup whipping (35%) cream, whipped for garnish (60 ml)
  • Cocoa powder or finely grated chocolate, for garnish
Directions
  1. Over medium heat, heat the chocolate and milk in a saucepan, stirring until chocolate has fully melted. Whisk until mixture is hot and frothy. Add liqueur and vanilla and continue to whisk until mixture is hot.
  2. Remove from heat, pour into mugs and top with whipped cream and dust with cocoa or garnish with grated chocolate. Make about 6 cups (1200 ml).

(recipe via; image credits: 1/2/3/4)

real wedding shenanigans: jade & derek

Derek and Jade were married at the beautiful Calamigos Ranch in Malibu, California. The winter wedding had a touch of glam with a whole lot of country. The ceremony took place at dusk, and guests snuggled together with warm blankets and drank warm apple cider. The couple's cute pug Chloe even made an appearance as one of the flowergirls. The reception featured fun choreographed dances, the rockin' live band, Tina Michelle and the Rhinestone Cowboys, and a delicious cake by Portos. Jade is a singer, and she and her friends serenaded the crowd with a mini concert. At the end of the evening, the venue cleared out while the happy couple shared one last dance before running through a throng of guests throwing rose petals as they made their grand exit.

Photos and video by Michael Farmer Photography

Day-of Coordination: So Smitten Special Events
Invitations and custom website: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue and Caterer: Calamigos Ranch
Reception Venue: The Redwood Room at Calamigos Ranch
Officiant: Pastor Jim Bullock
Cake/Dessert: Porto's - Glendale
Florist: Memory Made for You
Bar/Drinks: Coronado Brewing Company
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Band: Tina Michelle & The Rhinestone Cowboys
Hair/Make-Up: Maxima Makeup Artistry
Limo/Car: Rental SUV
Lighting: DIY Uplighting
Decor: Memory Made for You

real wedding shenanigans: karen & tana

Karen and Tana were married in a beautiful ceremony at the Inn of the Seventh Ray surrounded by thousands of twinkle lights, the greenery of Topanga Canyon, and the love and support of their friends and family. Their vows were romantic, moving, funny, and joyful, leaving not a dry eye in the house. The evening continued with a rockin' reception featuring a delicious farm-to-table dinner, a super-fun photo booth, coconut cream cake, dancing galore, and a sweet sparkler send-off. The theme and decor were inspired by the woodsy location and ambient lighting. Since it was a winter wedding, we threw in a touch of winter without getting too Christmas-y. We also included fun decor such as marquee lights, conversation starters, and cute chalkboard signs. We had a blast working with this lovely couple to create their dream wedding, and we wish them a lifetime of happiness!

Photos by Melanie Ruth for So Smitten Special Events

Full-service wedding planning: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony and reception venue: Inn of the Seventh Ray
Caterer: Inn of the Seventh Ray
Photography and videography: Blushing Bride Photo Video
Flowers: Acton Creative Flowers
Cake: Inn of the Seventh Ray
Paper goods and signage: So Smitten Special Events
Decor: So Smitten Special Events
Music: DJ Gino, Michael Angelo Music
Photo Booth: DJ Tempoe Entertainment
Hair and makeup: Monica Duldulao
Transportation: GTS Charter

real wedding shenanigans: dana & chris

Dana and Chris brought on So Smitten for day-of coordination for their beautiful Friday the 13th nuptials in San Juan Capistrano. The ceremony took place at Serra Chapel at Mission San Juan Capistrano, and the reception took place just down the street at Franciscan Gardens (run by 24 Carrots Catering and Events). We love Dana's neutral color palette, gorgeous dress from BHLDN, and her overall aesthetic! The evening featured romantic lighting, fun food stations (including tacos and sliders), a S'mores DIY bar, a caricature artists, and a ton of fun and dancing. And it was all captured by the wonderful Michael Farmer (disclosure: Marni's awesome husband) and Chelsey Coleman of Michael Farmer Photography. Congrats to the happy couple!

Coordinators: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Ceremony Venue: Serra Chapel, Mission San Juan Capistrano
Reception Venue: Franciscan Gardens, San Juan Capistrano
Caterer: 24 Carrots Catering and Events
Florist: Petals and Pop
Music: DJ Angelo, Michael Angelo Music
Vintage Rentals: Sundrop Vintage
Caricature Artist: Darci Herbold
Wedding Dress: BHLDN
Hair: Tomas Visca, Underground Salon
Makeup: Double Take Makeup Artistry