Real Wedding Shenanigans: Sara & Benjamin

Sara and Ben chose to celebrate their love for one another in a beautiful outdoor ceremony and reception at Highlands Spring Ranch and Inn. Tucked away in Cherry Valley, the property sat on hundreds of acres, full of natural beauty. Known for its olive trees and lavender fields, it was no surprise that Sara and Ben wanted to incorporate these aspects into their wedding decor. For Sara and Ben, this rustic-themed wedding was magical, and we loved every part of it! So Smitten provided full service planning, design and day-of coordination.

Photos by Michael Farmer of f/8 Studios Weddings

Wedding Planner: So Smitten Special Events
Ceremony / Reception Venue: Highland Springs Ranch and Inn
Cake/Dessert: Krispy Kreme
Florist: Gingersnap Florals
Photographer / Videographer: Michael Farmer of f/8 Studios Weddings
Photo Booth / Entertainment: The Booth and Bus Co.
Limo/Car: Uber

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: Peri & David

Peri and David celebrated their love together in a beautiful venue, the Loft on Pine. Adding personal touches to their big day, a custom copper arch was built for their ceremony creating the perfect backdrop with a flair. The day was catered by 24 Carrots, who devised a unique menu based on the couple's favorite choices. Smitten with the day, we are so excited for Peri & David's future together!

Real Wedding Shenanigans: Emily & Daniel

Fitting for this couple, Emily & Daniel were married in an outdoor ceremony at MountainGate Country Club. During the cocktail hour, guests sipped on the signature cocktails and tasted the delicious selection of prepared hors d'oeuvres. Table finishings for the reception were made up of lantern centerpieces, acrylic table numbers, succulent napkin treatments, and gold votives. The sweetheart table was placed under a beautiful chuppah, draped with ivory linens and clusters of greenery. Unforgettable memories made together, we were so happy to have been included on Emily and Daniel's special day!

Photos by M.Hart Photography

Video by Light Up

Photos by So Smitten Special Events & MountainGate Country Club

Day-of-Coordinator: So Smitten Special Events
Venue/Bar/Caterer: MountainGate Country Club
Cake: Jaqki's Cake Creations
Challah: The Bagel Factory
Florist: Flower Couture by Stephanie
Photographer: M. Hart Photography
Videographer: Light Up
DJ/Lighting/Photo Booth: DJ Jack Farmer
Hair/Makeup: Meg O'Hare Beauty

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! ;)