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: 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: 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: Valentina & Brandon

Valentina and Brandon created a chic and timeless day as they wed in Los Angeles. For their summer themed wedding, the couples color palette was mixed with magenta, yellow, orange and coral tones. Valentina’s bridesmaid’s all joined in the fun and choose a dress amongst the bride’s color palette. These colors were infused throughout the day in all of the details, including colored goblet glasses that added spunk and character to the existing setup. When it came time for dancing, glow sticks were handed out and the venues signature fountain lit up with changing colors. With this light show, music and churros, you could tell that Valentina and Brandon were having the time of their lives!

Photos by Victoria Gold Photography

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Venue: Grand Park LA
Bar: Sunseri’s
Food Truck #1: Kogi BBQ Taco Truck & Catering
Food Truck #2: The Habit
Dessert #1: Smore Play
Dessert #2: The Churro Man
Florist: Village Florist LA
Photographer: Victoria Gold Photography
Photo Booth: Get Dapper
Rentals/Lighting: MTB Event Rentals
Service Staff: Night and Day Productions
DJ: Vox DJs

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: 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: 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: 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: 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: Sarah & Eric

Behind the gated grounds of La Chureya Estates, this Spanish hacienda was an absolutely breathtaking location for the wedding of Sarah and Eric. With the enchanting garden surrounding the beautifully manicured lawn, the bride and grown recited their vows. One of our favourite details from this wedding was Sarah's bouquet. The gorgeous showstopper, featured green foliage, accented with an array of blue and purple flowers. Sarah and Eric were thrilled to have shared their magical wedding with family and friends and are looking forward to their married life together!

Photos by Jessica Miriam Photography

Photos by So Smitten Special Events

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony/Reception Venue: La Chureya Estate
Caterer: F10 Catering
Bar/Drinks/Bartenders: F10 Catering
Cake: F10 Catering
Florist: Kevin Reeder
Photographer: Jessica Miriam Photography
Videographer: Press Films and Media
DJ: Vox DJs
Party Rentals: Folklore Vintage Rentals
Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

Delovely D.I.Y.: Paper Chains

Don't let memories of pre-school construction paper and sticky paste deter you! We love the idea of a "grown-up" paper chain and think they're such a fun (and inexpensive!) way to apply color and texture to your wedding. Drape a few casually in the trees at an outdoor rehearsal dinner or reception, or hand them vertically en masse as a stunning backdrop for a dessert bar or photo booth wall. The possibilities are endless! We particularly like the idea of using double-sided scrapbook paper for an extra pop of color. Grab your bridesmaids and your glue sticks, whip up a few cocktails, and make it a party!

image credits: left/right
How about swapping in a paper chain in areas like these? Create a stunning paper backdrop for your beverage bar or perhaps recreate this ceiling focal point as a gorgeous "chandelier" over the head table at your reception with paper chains, poms, and paper lanterns.

Image credits: left/right