Real Wedding Shenanigans: Samantha & Brice

Sweetheart couple, Samantha and Brice, were looking for a wedding venue that encompassed all of their wishes. When taking a look at Calamigos Ranch, they knew this was where they would want to stand before family and friends and exchange their love for one another. Nestled in Malibu, Ca, the ceremony had touches of a traditional wedding and created a romantic ambiance. Attendees enjoyed signature drinks outdoors before being ushered into the dining space for dinner. Following the decadent food, more dancing, and laughter, guests could not get enough of this beautiful day! So Smitten provided full service planning, design and day-of coordination.

Photos by Lin and Jirsa Photography

Video by Yours Truly Media

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: Calamigos Ranch - Oak Room
Cake/Dessert: Baby Makes Cakes
Florist: GingerSnap Florals
Photographer: Lin and Jirsa Photography
Videographer: Yours Truly Media
DJ / Photo Booth / Lighting: Vox DJ's
Hair/Makeup: Design Visage
Party Rentals: MTB Event Rentals
Transportation: Riz Transportation

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Erin & Lucius

Beginning their wedding festivities, Erin and Lucius wed in a lovely ceremony with a reception in the Green Room. Inspired by modern elements, the decor for the day was combined with green and white stripped sofas, as well as accented details with acrylic designs. This romantic day was perfect for the bride and groom, who were so excited to have shared such a special time in their life with those closest to them. From the mesmerizing setup to the beautifully documented photos, this day was amazing throughout and we were so happy to have joined Erin and Lucius!

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Grass Room
Cake: SusieCakes 
Caterer/Bar: Little Nelly
Photo Booth: DJ Tempoe
Rentals: Premiere Party Rentals
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
Invitations: Minted

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: 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

smashing! cocktail: champagne mojito



This champagne mojito makes us think of a beautiful warm day complete with a slight breeze. Combine fresh mint, tangy lime, and a splash of bubbly for a sweet treat you and your guests will love.


Ingredients
Serves 12
3/4 cup sugar
3/4 cup water
1 1/2 cups packed mint leaves, plus 12 mint sprigs, for garnish
6 limes, cut into wedges
2 cups light rum
Cracked ice
3 cups Champagne or sparkling wine


Directions
In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and water and cook over high heat just until the sugar has dissolved. Let cool to room temperature.

In a large pitcher, combine the sugar syrup with the mint leaves and lime wedges and muddle well with a wooden spoon. Add the rum and stir well. Strain the drink into another pitcher.

Fill tall glasses with cracked ice and pour in the drink, filling them about two-thirds full. Top with Champagne, garnish with the mint sprigs and serve.



Recipe via. Images: 1/2/3.