Real Wedding Shenanigans: Allie & Nick

Allie and Nick had an intimate wedding at Calamigos Ranch's chic property located in Malibu, California. The day embodied a rustic-themed atmosphere and reflected the couple's personalized style. Accenting the space, included unique decor, candles with vivid florals, and greenery. From exquisite dining to lots of dancing, this day was beautiful. Cheers to Allie and Nick! So Smitten provided day-of coordination.

Photos by FunLovinCamera Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer/Bar: Calamigos Ranch
Cake/Dessert: Sweet Arleen's
Florist: Mitsuko Floral
Photographer: FunLovinCamera Photography
DJ/Lighting: VOX DJ's
Hair/Makeup: Cheek to Cheek Artistry

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: Sara & Jeremy

Sara and Jeremy's vision for their day combined classic and modern elements. Marrying at the Smog Shoppe in Los Angeles, the couple chose to embellish the venue's natural beauty by using a color palette composed of gold, jewel tones, and fall colors. On the menu? Tacos from Koji BBQ Truck, which were the couples favorite, were enjoyed by all. Congratulations to Sara and Jeremy and their enchanting day together!

Photos by Alexander Photography

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: SmogShoppe
Caterer: Kogi BBQ Truck
Bart: The Whaling Club
Service Staff: Night and Day Productions
Florist: Salted Blooms
Valet: White Label Vallet
Photographer: Alexander Photography
Photo Booth: Flipbooth
Rentals: La Pinta Party Rentals

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: Christen & Brett

Christen and Brett’s family-filled weekend began with an outdoor ceremony on the Oak Tree Lawn at the Adamson House. Creating a romantic bouquet for the bride, Shindig Chic chose to use bright colors and blend many flowers together. These beautiful in-season blooms also created special arrangements that were loved by all.

As guests found their seats, they were stunned by all the detail that went into designing signage for the day. For dinner, the main course included chicken, waffles, and breakfast burritos. Guests paired this delicious cuisine with tableside mimosas could not have been happier! Between the honest exchange of vows, dinner, and photo booth fun, this day was filled with everything Christen and Brett dreamt of. Cheers to the couple as they embark on a life together as husband and wife!

Photos by Mary Costa Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Adamson House
Caterer: The Rooster Truck and Wings & Waffles
Bar: Sunseri’s
Florist: Shindig Chic
Photographer: Mary Costa Photography
Videographer: Amari Productions
Guest Transportation: Riz Transportation
Rentals: Premiere Party Rentals
Cake: Susie Cakes
Photo Both: Porty the Foto Booth Bus
Service Staff: Night & Day Productions

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: 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: Dawn & Brandon

The Ebell Club in Long Beach was an exquisite venue for the lovely celebration of Dawn and Brandon. Filled with architectural elements and unique decor, the two wanted an elegant wedding with some personalized touches to seal the deal. This stunning setting was completed with gold centerpieces and navy blues accents. Cheers to happily ever after for Dawn and Brandon!

Photos by Sloan Photographers

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Ebell Club Long Beach
Caterer/Bar/Bartenders: Tres LA Catering
Cake/Dessert: Sugar From the Heart
Florist: Shawna Beaty
Photographer: Sloan Photographers
DJ: So Cal Premier DJ Co
Rentals: MTB Events Rentals

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: Sarah & Kyle

Amid the beautiful outdoors, Sarah and Kyle's rustic and chic wedding was held at the Fullerton Arboretum. Creating this dreamy ambience, the bride and groom's color palette was infused with neutral tones and subtle shades of peach. From the breathtaking setting, to the stunning floral arrangements, this day was filled with style and personalized decor, which was absolutely perfect for this romantic couple!

Photos by Jason Berry Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Fullerton Aboretum
Rentals: Create a Party
Rentals: Rustic Parties
Florals: The Pink Daffodil
Photography: Jason Berry Photography

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: Kelsey & Caley

Kelsey and Caley tied the knot in Los Angeles at a beautiful venue called the Edison. Filled with all sorts of charm, this historical spot had guests loving what evoked a romantic ambience. Whether it was the ceremony or reception, the bride and groom embellished all of this unique decor with personalized details of their own. One of our favorite pieces included the rustic lamp accents that were used as centerpieces. From the speciality drinks, dinner, and dancing, this day was an absolute joy. Congratulations again to Kelsey and Caley! 

Photos by Michael Farmer Photography

Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Caterer: The Edison
Florist: Alicias's Flowers
Photographer/Photo Booth: Michael Farmer Photographer
Videographer: Living Locket Films
DJ: Casey Wixted
Band: Lyndsay & The All-Nighters

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