Real Wedding Shenanigans: Jade & Conrad

This dreamy day began with a gorgeous ceremony at Wayfarer's Chapel, where Jade and Conrad expressed their love for one another. After the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, the couple walked down the aisle, beaming with joy and happiness. As the celebration continued, this luxurious affair moved to La Venta Inn. The event space, adorned with light pink and burgundy colored floral arrangments and candle lighting, evoked a romantic ambiance. With the exquisite dinner and delicious cake, the wedding of Jade and Conrad was beautiful inside and out.

Photos by Walter Wilson

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue: Wayfarers Chapel
Reception Venue: La Venta Inn
Caterer: New York and Food Company
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: New York and Food Company
Service Staff: New York and Food Company
Officiant: Wayfarers Chapel
Cake/Dessert: New York and Food Company
Florist: Stems Floral Design
Photographer: Walter Wilson
Videographer: YTM Studios
DJ: DJ Kreiger
Hair/Makeup: BeLoved
Party Rentals: One Call Event Rentals
Guest Transportation: California Excursions & Transportation, Inc.

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Jayme & Dane

Amidst the venues acres of vines, Jayme and Dane tied the knot on this summer night. Live music set the tone for guests to stand as Jayme made her way to the alter. Family and friends adorned this setup and arch display. Welcoming all to an outdoor reception with crafted cocktails and seasonally inspired dinner, Jayme and Dane created an unforgettable and unique day that was loved by all. Cheers Jayme and Dane to a fantastic future together! So Smitten provided day-of coordination.

Photos by Dana Grant Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Malibu Solstice Vineyard
Caterer: Rita’s Gourmet Catering
Bar: Yasmina’s Craft Bar
Cake/Desserts: Affogato Bar and Nick’s Butter Cake
Coffee Bar: Arrvo Coffee Bar
DJ: DART Collective
Design & Decor: Kelly Kling
Photographer: Dana Grant Photography
Videographer: John Kim
Hair/Makeup: Cindy ProStylist
Rentals/Lighting: A Rental Connection

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Lynn & Stefano

Lynn & Stefano's wedding day bliss began with a gorgeous outdoor ceremony at the Smog Shoppe in Los Angeles. A combination of greenery and eclectic ceremony seating created a beautiful ambiance for the exchange of vows. Following the ceremony, mixed drinks flowed as the preparation for dinner began. For the reception space, the couple chose a simple table design, as the Smog Shoppe's rustic wooden tables were the center of attention. Lynn & Stefano wanted to give each of their guests a gift and what better gift than a personalized bottle of limoncello. Dancing, laughter, and heartfelt speeches filled the rest of the night. To years of happily ever after, congratulations Lynn & Stefano!

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony Venue & Reception Venue: Smog Shoppe
Caterer: 24 Carrots
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: 24 Carrots
Service Staff: 24 Carrots
Cake/Dessert: Atticus Creamery & Pies
Florist: A Touch of Lavender
Photographer: Laura Ford Photos
Photo Booth: Pixster
Band: Jason Sulkin Music

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: Kim & Naylene

Meeting at the alter, Kim and Naylene glowed with happiness as they fulfilled their commitment to one another. With family and friends in attendance the two were absolutely smitten through the day. Each showed off their unique sense of style and together created a charming and romantic day. A special time with these two, we were so happy to have joined Kim and Naylene on their wedding day!

Photos by Rad + In Love

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Los Angeles River Center & Gardens
Caterer: Summit Event Catering
Cake: Lark Cake Shop
Florist: Shindig Chic
Photographer: Rad + In Love
Videographer: Fisheye Studio
Rentals: MTB Event Rentals
DJ/Lighting/Photo Booth/Live Music: Vox Djs
Hair/Makeup: Luong Lasting

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Rachel & Jeff

Rachel and Jeff were married at The Modern in Long Beach. The venue was full of new and eye-catching elements that enhanced the day. After the ceremony, friends and family mingled over signature cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, while Rachel and Jeff snuck away for some photos of the two of them. Following a night filled with dancing and laughter, Rachel and Jeff departed, beginning their newly wedded life together.

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Photographer: Michael Farmer Photography
DJ/ Photo Booth/ Lighting: Tempoe Entertainment DJ’s
Florist: Gingersnap Florals
Venue: The Modern
Caterer: 24 Carrots Catering & Events
Bar: Cocktail Concierge
Rentals: MTB Event Rentals
Cake: Lark Cake Shop
Hair/ Makeup: Meg O’Hare Beauty

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 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: 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: 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: 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: 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: 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

smitten: dandelion ranch

We can't get over the gorgeous lushness of Dandelion Ranch's arrangements.  Dare we say they are petal perfection?  The color and texture had us at hello.  Clover Chadwick and Fawn Fletcher are the ladies running the show here and we can't stop swooning over the long low bowls, which we think would be perfection for a wedding reception (or party, or bat mitzvah, or, well, you get the picture).  Clover and Fawn source their flowers every day from local growers as well as the myriad of succulents they grow out on the back patio of their studio space.  They also employ a number of green practices into their work including earth friendly floral foam, which gets them bonus points in our book.  Take a peek below at some of their gorgeous work.  We think it speaks for itself.


Dandelion Ranch, 4701 West Jefferson Boulevard, between Field and Vineyard Avenues, suite 3, East Culver City (323-640-1590 or dandelionranch.com).