Real Wedding Shenanigans: Abby & Cory

A day filled with warm sand and ocean breezes, Dana Point Ocean Institute was the ideal private and intimate location for Abby and Cory. With a splendid scenic view and perfect backdrop, the couple gathered with family and friends to share their ceremony. Adding a special element, vintage rugs were placed in a zig-zag fashion leading up to the water. Carrying from the ceremony to the reception, natural tones of greenery were used to capture this beautiful day!  

 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Video by Michael Farmer Photography

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Dana Point Ocean Institue
Caterer/Bar: Erhart Catering
Cake/Desserts: Susie Cakes
Florist: Vintage Country Events
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ: California DJ
Musician: Brian Banks
Hair/Makeup: Paige Davenport
Rentals: Classic and Signature Rentals through Erhart Catering

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: Darci & James

A tranquil fountain, set the perfect background for Darci and James' wedding photoshoot. From the photos to the ceremony, Darci and James kept guests on the edge of their seat. Originally built as a toy factory in 1931, the couples venue, LA River Studios, transformed into a divine setting for both the ceremony and recpetion. Decor for this day was inspired by floral colours, creating a lovely scene. Maximising the toy factory's space, a stage was used for the couple to share their vows and later in the night sing as a duo. The day was breathtaking and topped off with a decadent donut bar, just delicious! 

Photos by Kelli Bee Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: LA River Studios
Photographer: Kelli Bee Photography

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Jessica & Michael

The wedding of Jessica and Michael held a both woodsy and elegant look to it. With gold accents throughout, the couple had guests mesmerized by each detail. The enchanted inspired wedding was complete with a rustic wedding arch. From the four tiered cake to the laid back roasting of s'mores, this wedding was magical all over. 

Video by Michael Farmer Photographer

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Pine Rose Creekside Weddings
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: Saddleback Grill
Videographer/Photo Booth: Michael Farmer Photography
Photographer: Whimsie Photographie
Cake: Niki's Custom Cakes
Florist: The Bloemist
DJ: Arrowhead DJ & Events

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: sarah & tony

An intimate ceremony space, nestled in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, Oviatt Penthouse was a must have for Sarah and Tony. A couple so in love, these two radiated joy and happiness all over. Accentuating the penthouse beauty, peach color tones lightened the staples of the reception. A breathtaking wedding for all to see!

Photography by Shelly Anderson

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Oviatt Penthouse
Hotel Accommodations: Los Angeles Athletic Club
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: LA Historic Park/Hop Li Seafood Restaurant
Caterer: Truly Yours Catering
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Truly Yours Catering
Cake/Dessert: Lark Cake Shop
Florist/Decor: The Flower Lab
Photographer: Shelly Anderson Photography
Videographer: Randy Witt Productions
DJ: Vox DJ's Inc.
Hair: Melissa Firestone
Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Lighting: Revagio Productions

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Kristin & Nick

Mount Palomar Winery was a beautiful, natural setting, for the wedding of Kristin and Nick. Decorated with rustic inspiration and vintage details, white flowers and ruby accents embellished the charm of the reception. Filling everyones sweet tooth, Kristin and Nick incorporated a "Sweets" display. On top of wooden barrels, this display featured desserts of all kinds, including a two-tiered cake from Love Cakes. An overall romantic setting was enjoyed by all throughout Kristin and Nick's enchanting day. 

Photos by Jodi B Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: Mount Palomar Winery
Rehearsal Dinner Venue: South Coast Winery
Caterer: Once Upon A Wedding
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Mount Palomar Winery
Cake/Dessert: Love Cakes
Florist: Lovely Stems Floral
Photographer: Jodi B Photography
Photo Booth: Pixster Photo Booths
Band: The Straytones (Crowd theory Entertainment)
Hair/Makeup: Makeup by Giovanissa
Decor: Rickety Swank Vintage Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Audris & Michael

Audris & Michael celebrated their love together on a joyous afternoon. The couple recited their vows under the canopy of majestic trees, surrounded by the love of family and friends. With music playing, guests dined on the delicious cuisine. Lighting the path as the evening came to an end, sparklers were held by guests, creating an arched send off for the bride and groom to walk through.

Photos by Kevin Lee Studio

Coordinator: So Smitten Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue/Caterer/Bar: Happy Trails Catering
Cake: Lark Cake Shop
Band: Lucky Devils Band
Photographer/Videographer: Kevin Lee Studio
Florist: Beauty and Bloom
Hair/Makeup: Echoumakeup

real wedding shenanigans: fran & michael

What's the best place to get married when you love wine? A vineyard of course! The Callaway Vineyard and Winery in Temecula, CA was the perfect landscape for this couple. The ceremony was performed with the sun setting over the vineyard as the backdrop. The bride and groom included a wine blending ceremony, combining two wines that represented each of them. They were driven around the property in a vintage automobile, enjoyed photos with the close friends and family in attendance, before heading to the Barrel room for dinner and dancing among casks of wine. The bride and groom were able to drink their custom blend from the ceremony with their meal. Of course there was plenty of wine to enjoy and the casks added a nice touch to the vintage decor. It was a beautiful day to celebrate a beautiful relationship.

Photos by Shaunte for So Smitten

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Full-Service Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue/Caterer: Callaway Vineyard & Winery in Temecula
Florist: Florals by Jenny
Cake/Desserts: Cakes to Celebrate
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/Photo Booth/Lighting/Draping/Band: Sterling Productions
Rentals: Madam Palooza
Hair/Makeup: Cristal Salo
Officiant: Pastor Bill Yaccino
Invitations/Decor: So Smitten Special Events
Antique Car: Haynes Chauffeuring

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: julian & viviana

The day began as Julian and Viviana tied the knot at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Hawthorne, Ca. After the vows and exchange of bands, the couple proceeded to start their adventure together at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Culver City, Ca. The room was filled with laughter and dancing when the two entered the reception. The dreamy, coastal-inspired venue, was accentuated with beachy vibes, neutral pinks and navy blues. From the bouquet toss, to the cutting of the cake, each moment was breathtaking and special to be a part of.

Photos by Michael Farmer

Full-Service Coordinator: So Smitten Events
Ceremony Venue: Saint Joseph Catholic Church
Reception Venue/Caterer: DoubleTree by Hilton
Hotel Accommodations: DoubleTree by Hilton
Cake/Dessert: Torrance Bakery
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/Lighting/FOG: DJ Tempoe
Mariachi: Mexico En America
Limo/Car: Hertz Rental

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