Real Wedding Shenanigans: Michelle & John

Beginning their fairytale together, Michelle and John were married in a sacred ceremony at the Santa Monica Catholic Church. Following the mass and vows, all made their way to the Jonathan Beach Club. Surrounded by nature, this beach setting, the sound of crashing waves, and the sun shining down evoked a romantic expression of love between Michelle and John. Lively music, fun games, and over the top food, made for a beautiful wedding. To Michelle and John and many more beautiful memories, cheers!

Photos by Ali Rogers/Prana Lens

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Reception: St. Monica Catholic Church
Reception Venue/Caterer: The Jonathan Beach Club 
Cake: The Butter End
Florist (church): Westchester Florist
Florist (reception): With Love Floral Co.
Photographer: Ali Rogers/Prana Lens
Band: Jack's Cats
Hair (Bride: Dean Banowetz
Hair (Bridal party): Mona Maleki
Makeup: Brandy Moreno
Rentals: Town & Country

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Laura & Patrick

Celebrating their love story, the bride and groom wed, in a beautiful setting outdoors overlooking the ocean. Following the exchange of vows, Patrick kissed his bride, and down the aisle, they went as husband and wife. Bubble vases and vintage ottomans and sofas decorated the cocktail area, creating an enchanting atmosphere at the Terranea Resort. A magical day it was, we wish all of the best to Laura and Patrick! So Smitten provided partial planning, design and day-of coordination.

Photos by f/8 Studios

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Terranea Resort
Cake: Vanilla Bake Shop
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Photographer/Videographer: f/8 Studios
DJ: DJ A+
Hair/Makeup: The Bridal Glow
Party Rentals: MTB Event Rentals

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Suzy & Duc

Radiating so much joy, Suzy and Duc chose to add special touches to their day. Becoming the center of this celebration, the SmogShoppe in Los Angeles, perfectly highlighted the couples eclectic taste. Electric colored signage was added to the tablescape of bamboo leaves and votives, creating a beautiful ambiance that wowed guests. This dreamy day had all in awe, and we were so happy to have been a part of it.
Best wishes to Suzy and Duc on their journey in life together!

Photos by The Hendrys

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: SmogShoppe
Caterer: Four Seasons Catering
Bar: Value Bar Services
Cake/Dessert: Angel Maid Bakery
Florist: The Flower Lab
Valet: White Label Valet
Photographer: The Hendrys
Videographer: Matteo Bertoli Visuals
Neon Signs: Nights of Neon & Joe & Debra Delivery Services
DJ/Photo Booth/Lighting: Vox Media
Hair/Makeup: Kelli Shawn

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Angela & Jonathan

Angela and Jonathan chose to get married outside at the Bel-Air Bay Club. With outstanding views, the couple worked with WenFlorals, to create a gorgeous arrangement where the two stood and exchanged vows. Following the ceremony, guests enjoyed a mix of hors d'oeuvres and specialty drinks before heading into the reception. Laughter and tears filled the room, as the bride and grooms loved ones exchanged some great stories from the past. After the speeches and some dancing, it was time for another quick bite. Knowing their guests so well, Angela and Jonathan booked the In-N-Out truck for the ultimate late-night snack. A beautiful day this was, we wish Angela and Jonathan all the best!

Photos by Encor Studios

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Bel-Air Bay Club
Late Night Snack: In-N-Out
Cake: Fortune Bakery
Boba: Labobatory
Florist: WenFloral
Photographer/Photo Booth: Encor Studios
DJ/Lighting: DJ Alpha
Hair/Makeup: Beauty in Motion
Valet: Quality Parking Service

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Tory & Michael

Tory and Michael’s guests were in awe of their modern and chic day that took place at the Hudson Loft. Picture this: rose gold chairs lining the way, as the beautiful bride walked down the aisle to meet her soon-to-be husband in the most exquisite veil. This intimate ceremony was just the beginning of a picture-perfect day for Tory and Michael. When guests made their way into the reception area, floral chandeliers, custom table decor, and accents of darker colors made this space a jaw-dropper. To Tory and Michael, their future together, and a life filled with so much happiness, cheers!

Photos by Jenna Bechtholt Photography

Video by Shutter and Sound Films

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Hudson Loft
Caterer: Summit Event Catering
Bar: Sunseri’s
Cake: Susie Cakes
Desserts: Chunk-n-Chip and Milk Bar
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Photographer: Jenna Bechtholt Photography
Videographer: Shutter and Sound Films
Photo Booth: The Booth & Bus Co.
Magician: Rmax Goodwin
DJ: Vox DJ’s
Hair/Makeup: Cheek to Cheek
Transportation: Riz Transportation
Rentals: MTB Event Rentals, Archive Rentals, Nights of Neon and Trees by Steve

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Adrian & Amber

Adrian and Amber chose to celebrate their love the best way they knew how. The couple wanted to have their wedding be as reflective of them as it could. While the SmogShoppe provided a unique and earthly venue, Adrian and Amber chose to add elements that would match this esthetic while also showing off their personal style.

For the ceremony, the bride and groom used a mix of bench and couch seating. Including tasteful decor options, the couple used a four-tone color palette which was comprised of blacks, deep purple, grey, and succulent green. White pumpkins, and floral centerpieces that were made up of these colors created the most beautiful decorative adornments. When it came time for the dinner, guests could tell that the bride and groom truly knew what would taste best. Two stations with the yummiest foods included: tacos, chips, rice and beans, while the other featured Huntington sliders, mac and cheese, and french fries. Adrian and Amber’s dream day was heartfelt, filled with laughter and tons of amazing food!

Photos by Photography by Priscilla

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: SmogShoppe
Caterer/Bar: Huntington Catering
Cake: Cake Monkey Bakery
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Valet: White Label Valet
Photographer: Photography by Priscilla
Photo Booth: Party the Photo Booth Bus
DJ: Black Book Social Club
Hair/Makeup: Design Visage

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Selby & Dylan

Surrounded by family and friends, Selby and Dylan wed in the outdoors of Malibu. With an abundance of greenery and shades of soft yellow, this day was an absolute dream. The two partook in many traditional blessings that made the day that much more special for each. After being announced as the newly wedded couple, guests were treated to a bevy of hours d'ourves and cocktails. Following those tasty bites, heartfelt speeches made by the bride and grooms closest made all laugh and tear up. With a little dancing and a lot more signing, Selby, Dylan, and their guests enjoyed the rest of the night!

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Calamigos Ranch
Dessert: Carmela Ice Cream
Florist: Matriarch LA
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Videographer: CineStory Films
Shuttles: Riz Transportation
DJ'/Lighting: Vox DJ’s

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Edlin & alex

Triunfo Creek Vineyards, a private estate in Malibu, was the ideal location for Alex and Edlin as they said “I Do.” The couple had an outdoor ceremony under the majestic trees. Enjoying the venues beauty, guests dined on appetizers while listening to ambient music. For the reception decor, rustic wood tables were set in front of the vineyards farmhouse, creating a truly stunning backdrop for the evening. Following the delicious dinner with a three-tiered cake, all joined the married couple on the dance floor for some fun. With family and friends in attendance, this day was a dream come true!

Photos by Emily Magers Photography

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer: Emily Magers Photography
Photo Booth: The Booth & Bus Co.
Venue: Triunfo Creek Vineyard
Caterer: Command Performance
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Cocktail Concierge
Cake: The Butter End Cakery
Florist: Mr. B’s Flowers
DJ: Vox DJ’s
Hair/Makeup: Check to Cheek Artistry
Security: Sandman Security

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Ana & Chad

Los Verdes Golf Course provided a gorgeous photo location, where the special day of Anna and Chad was captured. Feeling nothing but happiness, the two were surrounded by family and friends as they recited their vows. Shades of green throughout the venue’s landscape and floral arrangements added sweet elegance, making this day unforgettable. Congratulations to Ana and Chad on their magical day together!

Photos by Chloe Atnip Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Los Verdes Golf Course
Cake/Desserts: Los Verdes Golf Course
Photographer: Chloe Atnip Photography
Florist: Flower Duet
Video: Robles Video Productions
DJ: Carcano DJ
Hair & Make Up: Golden Glow Beauty
Photo Booth: AMP Booths
Late Night Snack: The Churro Man

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Nicole & Tom

Nicole and Tom celebrated their wedding day at the Garland, a stunning venue in Hollywood. The two chose to add onto the venues natural beauty and fill the center of the tables from the reception with floral arrangements and votives. One of our favorite details from this day were the disposable cameras placed on each table, inviting guests to document their fun while saving those memories for the bride and groom. The happiness between these two radiated throughout the day and we wish them all the best!

Photos by Jenny Smith & Co

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer: Jenny Smith & Co
Videographer: 5 Star Productions
Venue: The Garland
Caterer: The Garland
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: The Garland
Cake: Hansen’s Cake
Florist: Vave Studios
DJ: Vox DJ’s
Invitations: Paperless Post

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Annabelle & Terry

Annabelle and Terry chose the vineyards of Triunfo Creek as the perfect ceremony backdrop. A chuppah with white dropping and floral arrangements, enhanced the space for the two as they exchanged their vows. Basing the color palette off of the venues beauty, Annabelle and Terry chose to use a natural color scheme for the rest of their details. The neutral tones and enchanting grounds created the most breathtaking ambience for all to enjoy!

Photos by Chloe Moore Photography

Day-of-Coordinator Concierge: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Triunfo Creek Vineyards
Caterer: Command Performance Catering
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Cocktail Concierge
Late Night Snack: In-n-Out Truck
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Photographer: Chloe Moore Photography
Videographer: Yours Truly Media
Rentals: MTB Event Rentals
Party Rentals: A Rental Connection
DJ/Photo Booth: Vox Djs
Cake: Lark Cake Shop
Ice Cream /Desserts: Mr. and Mrs. Creamery
Desserts: Emil's Patisserie & Cafe
Hair/Makeup: Nicol Artistry
Security: Sandman Security
Valet: SoCal Valet

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Caroline & Nathan

Caroline and Nate's chic wedding day began outdoors at Calamigos Ranch. This Malibu venue created an enchanting feeling as bride Caroline walked down the aisle to meet her groom. After reciting their vows to one another, these two were showered with love and laughter as all joined them for the reception. Smitten with this day and all of its beauty, we were so excited to have been a part of Caroline and Nate's special time together! 

Photos by Lex and the Lotus

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Calamigos Ranch
Cake: Delicious Artistry
Florist: Exotic Green Gardens
Photographer: Lex and the Lotus
Videographer: Theater 10 Films
Band: Atlantic String Ensemble
DJ/Lighting: Music by Bonnie & Co.
Hair/Makeup: Blushing Beauty

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Elisha & Colin

Walking into this dreamy day, Elisha and Colin were married at Sogno del Fiore, a private estate in Santa Ynez. With the scenery taking center stage, the bride and groom chose the perfect spot at the vineyard for their ceremony and reception. Delicious food, great music, and a romantic atmosphere, created the ideal setting for these two. Cheers to happily ever after!

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer/Videographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Venue: Sogno del Fiore
Caterer: Pure Joy Catering
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: Pure Joy Catering
Cake/Dessert: Solvang Bakery
Florist: Renae’s Bouquet
DJ: Modern Symphony
Hair/Makeup: Meg O’Hare Beauty
Party Rentals: Pure Joy Catering
Bathrooms: Major Event Trailers
Security: Triumph Protection Services

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Lizette & Sergio

Overlooking the Santa Monica Mountains, Lizette and Sergio celebrated their day at MountainGate Country Club. Highlighting the spectacular scenery, the couples florist created a lovely floral arch, outlining the perfect backdrop. While the two snuck off for some memorable photos, guests were treated to the sounds of Ocadima Strings, as the harpist played during the cocktail hour. Wowing their guests, the floral designs captured the effortless beauty of the property. It was a lovely day as all celebrated the wedding of Lizette and Sergio!

Photos by Hitched Photo

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Mountain Gate Country Club
Cake: Hansen’s Cakes
Florist: Flowers by Laurel
Photographer: Hitched Photo
Videographer: Atherton Media Group
DJ: Ultra Event Group
Harpist: Ocdamia Strings
Mariachi: Mariachi Divas
Photo Booth: Vox Djs

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Shermeen & Sean

Shermeen and Sean’s wedding day was extraordinary from the beginning. Tucked away in Woodland Hills, the couple chose to rent an air BNB for their venue. A lovely setting surrounded by luscious greenery and trees, this “Greenhouse & Gardens” wedding was absolutely breathtaking. The bride and groom shared heartfelt vows, and after their first kiss, they snuck away for some romantic photos of the two of them. Meeting back up with the rest of their guests, all dined on an exquisite dinner made by Spotted Hen Catering. Aside from the delicious meal, this reception tablescape included blue carousel water goblets and rose gold accents.  Following the spectacular dinner, all gathered as the bride and groom cut the cake and shared their first bite. Congratulations to Shermeen and Sean on this beautiful and intimate wedding day celebration!

Photos by Jenn & Pawel Photography

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Air BnB "Greenhouse & Gardens"
Caterer/Bar/Cake: Spotted Hen Catering
Rentals: MTB Rentals
Florist: Beautiful Savage Flowers
Photographer: Jenn & Pawel Photography
DJ: Tempoe Entertainment DJs
Hair/Makeup: Beautiful Crave by Jennifer May

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Itzel & Nestor

When planning the wedding for this couple's big day, they knew a venue overlooking the water was a must have! Finding their dream space, Itzel and Andrew chose to have an outdoor ceremony at the Bel-Air Bay Club. From the wooden arch, to the exchange of vows, every detail was flawless. With the happiest of emotions in the air, friends and family shared memories of the couple over light drinks and hors d'oeuvres. As the main course was on its way out, guests found their seats amongst beautifully decorated details, embellished with spectacular floral arrangements. This summer day could not have been more ideal for Itzel and Andrew's romantic wedding!

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Bel-Air Bay Club
Cake: Peregrina's Flowers
Florist: With Love Floral Co
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Videographer: Foolishly Rushing In
DJ/Photo Booth/Lighting: Vox DJs
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty
Ceremony String Quartet: Atlantic String Quartet
Valet: Quality Parking Service Inc. 

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 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: 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