The A-List - 805 Weddings Magazine

Transcription

premier Issue
Hottest
Honeymoon
Hangout
Great Bouquets
Beautiful Baubles
2008 edition
Display until December 31, 2008
The
A-List:
805’s Best
Resources
5 Fabulous
Real Weddings
Celebrate in
Style
Precious Prong
The Purity Collection
™
Exclusively in Platinum 999
WWW.DEJAUN.COM
Precious Prong
The Purity Collection
™
Exclusively in Platinum 999
WWW.DEJAUN.COM
Nathanson’s Photography
(
a moment
to cherish
HERZOG WINE CELLARS
A wedding is a special event
that you and your family will remember for the rest of their lives.
-]ÊÜÞÊÌÊVÃiÊ>ÊV>ÌÊ>ÃÊiÀ>LiÊ>ÃÊÌiÊiÌ¶ Herzog Wine Cellars
specializes in small to medium sized weddings >`ÊvviÀÃÊ>ÊÛiÕiÊÌ>ÌÊÃÊLÌÊÌ>ÌiÊ
>`Êii}>Ì°Ê*i>ÃiÊV>ÊÌÊÃVi`ÕiÊ>Ê>««ÌiÌÊÌÊViÊÛiÜÊÕÀÊv>VÌÞÊ>`ÊiÞÊ
>Ê«ÀÛ>ÌiÊÌÕÀÊ>`ÊÌ>ÃÌ}°Ê7iÊÜÕ`ÊÛiÊÌiÊV>ViÊÌÊÃÌÊ`ÜÊÜÌÊÞÕÊÌÊVÕÃÌâiÊ
>Ê«>V>}iÊ>`ÊiÕÊÌ>ÌÊÜÊÜÀÊLiÃÌÊvÀÊÞÕÊ>`ÊÞÕÀÊ}ÕiÃÌÃ°
Ê
3201 Camino Del Sol, Oxnard CA 93030
(805) 983-1560
www.herzogwinecellars.com
Offering
UÊ "ÃÌiÊÜi``}ÊVÀ`>ÌÊvÀÊÌiÊ
`>ÞÊvÊÞÕÀÊiÛiÌ
UÊ ÌÊÃìÊ>`ÊÕÌÃìÊÛiÕiÊÃ«>Vi
UÊ "ÃÌiÊV>ÌiÀ}ÊÌÀÕ}ÊÕÀÊÀiÃÌ>ÕÀ>Ì]Ê
/iÀÀ>Ê-ÕÀ
UÊ >À}iÊÛ>ÀiÌÞÊvÊÜiÃÊ>Û>>Li
Contents
805 Weddings | 2008 Edition
Real Weddings
76 | Jasmine & MichAEl Rothbard
Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara
82 | Carrie & Andrew purcelL
Oak Savanna Vineyard, Santa Ynez Valley
88 | rachel & Charles loftin
Treasure Hill Ranch, Hidden Valley
92 | Brittany & ryan Kirby
Bacara Resort & Spa, Santa Barbara
96 | Shawn strub & mike kellogg
jose villa
Adamson House, Malibu
Contents
805 Weddings | 2008 Edition
Fashion & Beauty
24 | bedazzled
Beautiful baubles for the bride.
26 | elegant Trimmings
Finishing touches for a beautiful you.
28 | power of pink
Enhance the romance with the universal color of love.
30 | all the groom’s men
Give your best buds what they really want.
32 | This one’s for the ladies
Elizabeth Messina
Say thanks to your dearest friends in 805 style.
60 | favorite bridal gowns
Elegant sheath and mermaid-style gowns make our short list.
104 | california couture
Scott Corridan’s new White Chocolate Label wedding dresses
are inspired by—and made in—Southern California.
76
Planning
34 | finds
Sweets, trims, favors, and more to add a personal touch
to your big day.
44 | nuptial nests
Linger longer at these luxurious lodgings.
50 | sweet love
Flowers lend romance to these gorgeous wedding cakes.
the english garden
54 | by invitation only
Couture invitations serve as the prelude to a letter-perfect
wedding celebration.
100 | the perfect clutch
Great bouquets to lead you down the aisle in style.
Travel/Honeymoon
100
110 | travel
Resources and tips for honeymoons and guest lodgings.
113 | riviera nayarit
24
Finding paradise in a mostly undiscovered part of Mexico.
In Every Issue
14 | editor’s note
64 | point of view
I Was a Male Bridesmaid: Surviving the uncharted
waters of modern manhood.
120 | the a-list
Select wedding resources to help make your dream
day come true.
136 | the getaway
12 | 805 weddings 2008 EDITION
60
p6
ame r i can f u sion
su ki 7 su shi • robata
chapter 8 steakhouse
receptions
•
events
•
818.483.1789
www.678dine.com
catering
EDITOR’S NOTE
Dreaming of Your
Wedding Day
I
f you’ve picked up this magazine then chances are you’ve begun
the planning stage of your wedding. Congratulations—to you
and to us. To you because you’re embarking on one of life’s most
dreamlike journeys. The time leading up to when you walk down
the aisle will fly by just as sure as how it now feels endless.
As for us, we’re patting ourselves on the back because we finally
completed this project, which was no easy task. Getting all this
information in between the covers of 805 Weddings was quite an
adventure because some of the best wedding sites, florists, and
other resources are located right here. And because we live in one
of the best and most scenic places in the world to have a ceremony,
we wanted to make this guide as complete as possible.
Having said all that, please remember that despite what you
may have been told, planning a wedding is not nearly as taxing
as you think. Big or small, indoor or outdoor, grand or intimate,
your wedding will be a wonderful experience for you and your
guests because the day is about good times and not about stress.
So use the local and regional resources in the pages ahead to help
check off nearly every item of your “To Do” list. And remember
that as the details of your wedding come together, make some
time to focus on you.
As I looked over the issue one last time before going to print,
I noticed that we’ve covered just about everything except for one
issue: the weather. That, I’m afraid, is all in Mother Nature’s
hands. But again, thankfully we live in Southern California. So
create the canvas that you want. Find your own style. Dream your
own dream.
Lynne Andujar
Editor in Chief and Associate Publisher
PREMIER ISSUE
Hottest
Honeymoon
Hangout
Great Bouquets
Beautiful Baubles
The
A-List:
805’s Best
Resources
5 Fabulous
Real Weddings
CELEBRATE IN
STYLE
on the cover: Fabulous flowers
are the cornerstone of any stylish
wedding celebration, and this garden
rose bouquet by Tricia Fountaine
is no exception. The talented team
of Ryan and Carrie Phillips of Ryan
Phillips Photography shot the image
for the cover of our premier issue.
Every Event is a Big Event
at Classic Party Rentals.
Whether it is a grand ballroom
or a backyard wedding
celebration, Classic Party
Rentals is focused on providing
everything you need. As the
nation’s leading full-service
event rental company, we’ve
got you covered from
tent top to tabletop. With
a nationwide network of party
specialists, there’s no place we
can’t be. And no event is too
Zpvs!Qbsuz!jt!Pvs!Qbttjpo/
large or small for us to help
make it a success.
At Classic, your party is our passion.
Learn More About Our Services and Products
ClassicPartyRentals.com
El Segundo 310.535.3660
Santa Barbara 805.566.3566
EDITOR IN CHIEF
ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER
Lynne Andujar
edit@805weddingsmag.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nicola Augustson
PHOTO EDITOR
Gary Moss
photo@805weddingsmag.com
COPY EDITOR
Mallory McCreary
RESEARCH EDITOR
Tory Davis
CONTRIBUTORS
Tory Davis, Anthony Head,
Mallory McCreary, Laura Samuel Meyn,
Mary Walbridge, Leslie A. Westbrook,
Jemma Wildermuth
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Brannigan, Elizabeth Messina,
Katie Moos, Gary Moss, Jose Villa
CONTRIBUTING DESIGNER
Sophie Patenaude
ASSISTANT TO THE EDITOR IN CHIEF
Carmen Leiva
© 2008 3Digit Media, LLC. All rights reserved.
805 Weddings content may not be used or reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, including
photocopy, without the express written permission of
the publisher. 805 Weddings is not responsible for loss
of or damage to unsolicited manuscripts, unsolicited
artwork, or any other unsolicited material. Unsolicited
material will not be returned. 3Digit Media, LLC,
and its affiliates, contributors, writers, editors, and
publisher accept no responsibility for errors or
omissions with information and/or advertisements
contained herein. 3Digit Media’s liability in the
event of an error is limited to a printed correction.
3Digit Media does not assume liability for products
or services advertised herein and assumes no
responsibility for claims made by the advertisers.
Readers wishing to submit their wedding
for consideration for publishing may go to
www.805weddingsmag.com for details.
Printed in the U.S.A.
Please recycle this magazine when you are finished.
805 weddings 2008 EDITION
2008 EDITION 805 weddings | 17
Mj_`miM`hjmd`n
PUBLISHER
Carla J. Blanco
carla@3digitmedia.com
805-413-1141
ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES
Ingrid C’deBaca
Wedding cake bakers and event rentals
ingrid@805living.com
818-597-9220
Marjorie Fagan
Health and beauty, floral, and photographers
mef214@earthlink.net
805-300-7570
Jennifer S. Vogelbach
Fine jewelry, bridal gowns, and invitations
vogelbach@sbcglobal.net
818-427-3496
PUBLISHER’S REPRESENTATIVES
John McCarthy & Associates
Maria McCarthy
Travel, leisure, and hospitality
maria@805living.com
818-991-7564
ADVERTISING DESIGN & PRODUCTION
Sophie Patenaude
sophie@805living.com
CIRCULATION & ACCOUNTING
Lori Kantor
lori@805living.com
DISTRIBUTION
Ed Savage
805 WEDDINGS
3717 E. Thousand Oaks Blvd.
Westlake Village, CA 91362
ADVERTISING QUERIES
805-413-1141
www.805weddingsmag.com
805 Weddings is a property of 3Digit Media, LLC.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Carla J. Blanco
PRESIDENT
Lynne Andujar
© 2008 3Digit Media, LLC. All rights reserved
^pnojh\g]phnh\_`ndhkg`)
pidlp`bdaonajmamdì_n'a\hdgt!tjp)
®
qdndopnjigdi`\okdsojmd`)^jh
805 weddings 2008 EDITION
JAMAICA
ANTIGUA
:]dS
S T. L U C I A
BAHAMAS
is all you need
If marriages are made in heaven, then honeymooning at Sandals
is like heaven on earth – because no other resorts in the world
are so completely dedicated two people in love. Our whitesand beaches are swept each morning in anticipation of your
arrival. Every possible land and water sport – even scuba diving
and golf N – is included for your enjoyment. We’ve recruited
great chefs from around the world to prepare scintillating
menus for your dining pleasure. And best of all, everything
is included so you need only think of each other. You can
even choose a lavish suite with an obliging personal butler.
And for the ultimate in pampering, step into a Red Lane ®
Spa,* exclusively at Sandals. You only have one honeymoon,
so choose Sandals because happily ever after begins here.
SAY “I DO” WITH ONE OF OUR EXCLUSIVE
PRESTON BAILEY WEDDINGMOONS® PACKAGES.
RIVIERA VACATIONS
1-888-844-0700
THE
Luxury Included
®
™
VA C AT I O N
Golf not available in Antigua or the Bahamas. *Spa services additional.
N
805 weddings contributors
Jose Villa
Elizabeth Messina
Anthony head
Westlake
Village-based
photographer
MICHAEL BRANNIGAN is a partner in David
Michael Photography (www.davidmichaelphoto.com) which specializes in shooting
high-end weddings. The team shot Marcia
Cross’ wedding, and over the years has
photographed more than 10,000 couples
tying the knot. In this issue are Brannigan’s
images of the Loftin wedding (Real Weddings,
page 88). His work has appeared in People,
The Bride & Bloom, and Hello!, among many
other magazines.
Finding memorable attendant gifts just got a
little easier, thanks to the shopping-savvy of
freelance writer TORY DAVIS (Finds, pages
30 and 32). Her work has appeared in Bon
Appétit and Western Interiors & Design.
ANTHONY HEAD (“I Was a Male Bridesmaid,”
page 64; Real Weddings, page 74; “Nuptial
Nests,” page 44; and a profile on honeymoonhotspot Riviera Nayarit, page 113) has been
wedded for almost four years. His wife, Michele,
is a good sport who happily puts up with his
writing career. (Even though he told her he was
a CIA agent, and didn’t divulge the truth until
after the wedding ceremony. And then he punctuated the declaration with, “Ha! You’re stuck
with me now!”) Head has written for such publications as Robb Report, Shape, and Luxury
Golf & Travel. So it’s not been all that bad.
Freelance writer MALLORY McCREARY—who
designed the logo, save-the-date cards, invitations, programs, gift bags, cake, and menu
for her own wedding—knows firsthand how
important the smallest of details can be. In
Finds, page 42, she profiles some companies
that offer their own ideas for little details that
can make a big impact on your wedding day.
Los Angeles-based photographer ELIZABETH
MESSINA (Real Weddings, page 74; and
“California Couture,” page 104) describes
Katie Moos
herself as a “an artist and mother who loves to
bring a little more sweetness and beauty into
the world.” She has photographed weddings
near and far, and counts celebrities such as
Brooke Shields and Tori Spelling among her
clients. Her work has appeared in numerous
magazines, including Town & Country, Elegant
Bride, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, and
Brides. To see more of her photography visit
www.elizabethmessinaweddings.com.
LAURA SAMUEL MEYN (Finds, page 34
and “Sweet Love,” page 50) indulged her
sweet tooth by rounding up some of Southern
California’s best edible wedding favors and
welcome gifts for the guests—and fantasizing about the flavors she would have chosen
had she been involved in planning her own
wedding nearly nine years ago (she did little
more than request a tiramisu-flavored wedding cake, show up, and thank her parents
profusely). Meyn is a freelance food writer and
a regular contributor to 805 Living.
Camarillo-based photographer KATIE MOOS
(Real Weddings, page 96) says, “When I was a
kid I would look at my grandmother’s wedding
album and think about what it was like to be at
her wedding ... now I am fortunate enough to
capture those pictures for future generations.”
Her work has appeared in InStyle Weddings,
Wedding Dresses magazine, Your Wedding
Day, Wedding Celebrations, and Santa
Barbara Magazine, among others, and will be
in the next issue of The Knot. To see more of
her photography visit www.katiemoos.com.
805 Weddings and 805 Living photo editor
GARY MOSS had a hand in selecting all of
the gorgeous images used in this debut issue.
Plus, he shot our story on wedding invitations
(page 54). Moss’ images have appeared in Bon
Appétit, Wine Enthusiast, and Town & Country,
among many others. To see more of his work
visit www.garymossphotography.com.
MichAEl Brannigan
Fine-art wedding photographer JOSE
VILLA (Real Weddings, pages 82 and
92) is based in Solvang, and he shoots
weddings all over the world. His work has
appeared in Martha Stewart Weddings,
InStyle Weddings, The Knot, Modern Bride,
Brides, Grace Ormonde Wedding Style, and
many more. To see more of his work visit
www.josevillaphoto.com.
Westlake Village-based personal shopper
and television costume supervisor MARY
WALBRIDGE went undercover as a brideto-be to choose the best spring wedding
gowns from boutiques all over Southern
California (see “Favorite Bridal Gowns,”
page 60). Walbridge was nominated for an
Emmy for her work on Will & Grace (which
included Grace’s on-screen wedding); her
more recent work has included the ABC
show Big Shots. In her personal shopping
business, Walbridge often dresses clients for
special occasions; for more information visit
www.yourownpersonalshopper.com.
LESLIE A. WESTBROOK (Finds, page 40) is a
writer based in Summerland; her favorite topics are travel (including honeymoon destinations), design, and people. In fact, her recent
work for Modern Bride magazine has included
assignments on honeymoon destinations in
Thailand, Carmel Valley, and Aspen, Colorado.
Her articles have appeared in numerous publications, including Traditional Home, Sunset,
Westways, and the San Francisco Chronicle.
Westbrook edited the recently released book
The Happy Couple (www.askdrbradley.com),
a guide for successful marriages.
Additional photography provided by
Captured Images by Dee, Jennifer S. Rau
Photography, Mi Belle, Michelle Warren
Photography, Ryan Phillips Photography,
and Susan Dean Photography.
STYLE | FOR THE BRIDE
Bedazzled
beautiful baubles for the bride.
clockwise from top left: Penny Preville 18-karat
pave diamond open-scroll earrings ($6,160) from
Polacheck’s Jewelers; www.polachecks.com. |
Erica Courtney platinum and diamond “Jesse”
ring ($25,000) from Malibu Rock Star; 310-4567374 or www.ericacourtney.com. | Kwiat plati
num and diamond necklace from the Brocade
Collection ($55,850) from Dejaun Jewelers;
www.dejaun.com. | Spiral pearl earrings
($5,200) from Silverhorn; www.silverhorn.com. |
Doron Isaak “Stone Canyon” 3-carat emerald-cut
diamond mounted in platinum setting encrusted
with 260 diamonds (price on request; ring can
be customized to any size stone) from Moyen
& Co. Jewellers; www.moyenco.com. | “Rosina”
by ArtCarved round engagement ring ($1,099
not including center stone) and wedding band
($825) from Athena & Co. Jewelers; www.
athenacojewelers.com. | Tiffany “Novo” solitaire
(price on request) from Tiffany; www.tiffany.com. |
Single Stone’s hand-crafted platinum eternity
bands from the Vintage Inspired Collection
(starting at $1,200); www.singlestone.com.
STYLE | FOR THE BRIDE
Elegant Trimmings
Finishing touches for a beautiful you.
from left to right: Vintage cameos (prices
vary) available at The Agoura Antique Mart,
28863 Agoura Road, Agoura Hills, 818706-8366. | Seven Sisters Jewelry doublestrand necklace made with Swarovski pearls
and sterling oval clasp ($125) available
at Central Coast Wedding Center, 749
Higuera St., San Luis Obispo, 805-5434936 or www.sevensistersjewelry.com. |
Maria Elena Swarovski crystal silk handbag
($650) available at Renée Strauss For
The Bride, 8692 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills,
310-657-1700; or www.mariaelenaheadpieces.
com | “Muse” white satin slingback ($275) from
Kate Spade, 866-999-5283 or www.katespade.
com | “Pomposo” white satin pump ($325)
available at Stuart Weitzman, 437 N. Rodeo
Drive, Beverly Hills, 310-860-9600. | “Karolina”
white satin pump ($255) from Kate Spade,
866-999-5283 or www.katespade.com. |
Bobbi Brown’s new limited-edition
bridal kit ($75) available at
Nordstrom Topanga Plaza,
21725 Victory Blvd., Canoga
Park, 818-884-7900. | Lisa
Simon “Wedding Day”
radiance facial mask ($83)
available at Beautyhabit, 2991
E. Thousand Oaks
Blvd., Thousand Oaks,
805-496-1011 or www.
beautyhabit.com. |
Creative Scentualization’s
“Joy” eau de parfum from
the “What Comes from
Within” collection ($95)
available at Beautyhabit,
2991 E. Thousand Oaks
Blvd., Thousand Oaks,
805-496-1011 or
www.beautyhabit.com.
cameo: COPYRIGHT ISTOCKPHOTO.COM/Angelo Marcantonio
By jemma wildermuth
STYLE | For the Groom
Power of Pink
from top: Philippi sleek leather and stainless
steel “Giorgio” shoe horn ($38) available at
French Marketplace, 1145 Lindero Canyon
Road, Westlake Village, 818-879-1190; or
www.philippi-design.de. | “Orchid” woven
silk men’s tie ($100) available at Thomas
Pink at Westfield Century City, 10250 Santa
Monica Blvd., Los Angeles, 310-843-0014
or www.thomaspink.com. | Pink cymbidium
orchid boutonniere by Luna Gardens,
9062 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles, 310-2812565 or www.lunagardens.com. | Baume &
Mercier “Classima Executives” chronograph
stainless steel automatic watch with alligator
strap ($2,895) available at Polacheck’s
Jewelers at The Lakes, 2200 E. Thousand
Oaks Blvd., Thousand Oaks, 805-230-0035
or www.polachecks.com. | Denisonboston
zinc alloy cufflinks ($65) available at www.
denisonboston.com. | Giorgio Armani’s
timeless scent “Attitude Pour Homme” ($55)
available at Saks Fifth Avenue, 1001 State St.,
Santa Barbara, 805-884-9997 or www.
saksfifthavenue.com. | Goldman 18-karat
white gold and platinum wedding band
($889) available at Athena & Co. Jewelers
at The Simi Valley Town Center, 1555 Simi
Town Center Way, Simi Valley, 805-5203858 or www.athenacojewelers.com.
boutonniere Photograph by Jennifer S. Rau
Enhance the romance with the universal color of love.
2008 EDITION 805 weddings | *
FINDS | gifts
All the Groom’s Men
Give your best buds what they really want.
By Tory Davis
These guys are the real deal. They’ve stuck by you, helped you improve your game, and
given wise counsel in trying times. Once you get hitched some things will change, but
this won’t: how much they mean to you. Show them some love with the gifts here—more
meaningful than the usual, inebriated “I love you, man!”
For the Best Man
Tune In. Everyone knows Sirius radio is
the way to go. The sleek new “Stiletto 2”
($349) combines satellite radio, your own
MP3 music library, and the ability to connect
to Internet radio from any accessible Wi-Fi
network. It also has replay to rewind live
radio, a personalized sports ticker, and
optional accessories for connecting in your
car or office. Available at Costco, 2660 Park
Center Drive, Simi Valley, 805-578-3301; or at
Best Buy, 390 N. Moorpark Road, Thousand
Oaks, 805-494-8370; or 2300 N. Rose Ave.,
Oxnard, 805-278-9555; or at www.sirius.com.
Shade Up. Sometimes you’re just too cool for
school. Enter Prada’s newest sunglasses for
spring in acetate with a sophisticated L-shaped
metal trim on the temple joint ($385). Available
at 9026-Eyes, 2859 Agoura Road, Westlake
Village, 805-557-2700; or at www.prada.com.
For Groomsmen
Field of Dreams. This time it’s personal: Get
each guy ballpark cufflinks from his favorite
team. These hand-numbered squares of
baseball history are made from salvaged
seats from Yankee Stadium, Dodger Stadium,
Wrigley Field, and others, with bright sterling
silver swivel backing ($150-230 per set).
Available at www.redenvelope.com.
Spacing Out. The original Fisher Space Pen is
awesome: It writes upside down, underwater,
and in outer space. It’s guaranteed to last a
lifetime without running out of ink, and can
be hand-engraved. The Millennium model
with a chrome and black-titanium finish
($130) is cosmically elegant. Available at
Magellan’s, 110 W. Sola St., Santa Barbara,
805-568-5400; or at www.fisherpen.com.
Retro Sleek. Philippi designed this thoroughly
modern “Yap” stainless steel backgammon
game ($160) with old-school style and
panache. The magnetic pieces make it
the perfect choice for taking on the road
to enjoy with cigars, fine Scotch, and old
friends. Available at French Marketplace,
1145 Lindero Canyon Road, Westlake Village,
818-879-1190; or www.philippi-design.de.
FINDS | gifts
This One’s for
the Ladies
Say thanks to your dearest friends in 805 style.
By Tory Davis
Your gals have licked a zillion envelopes, held your hand,
dried your tears, talked you through the jitters, and agreed
to wear the dress you chose … this friendship is love in
action. On your day, show them how much they mean to you
with these thoughtful gifts.
Sweet Luxuries. Pamper your peeps with Mor
Cosmetics’ “Dolce Marshmallow Bath Soak”
($22) and “Soap Boxette Trio” ($25), which
both come in pretty pink packaging. Available
at Beauty Collection at The Commons at
Calabasas, 4732 Commons Way, Calabasas,
818-225-9424; or at www.morcosmetics.com.
Classic Beauty. If it fits your budget (or the
bridal party is small), why not give your maids
the best gift of all: their dress! Try this timeless
design from David’s Bridal: style 20325 in
truffle, made of crinkle chiffon ($170). Available
at David’s Bridal, 2330 N. Rose Ave., Oxnard,
805-278-2811 or www.davidsbridal.com.
Rock On. The 1-GB iPod Shuffle ($79) holds up to
12 continuous hours of music. Add the super-chic
Swarovski crystal-studded chicBuds earphones with
retractable cord ($46) and you’ve got the perfect
gift. iPod available at The Apple Store at The Oaks
Shopping Center, 432 W. Hillcrest Drive, Thousand
Oaks, 805-497-7660 or www.apple.com.
chicBuds are available at www.chicbuds.com.
Scents in the City. Bond No. 9 New York’s
“Chinatown” candle ($78) effuses a bouquet
of scents—patchouli, peach blossom, peony,
gardenia, tuberose, and cardamom—for 60
hours. Available at Beauty Collection at The
Commons at Calabasas, 4732 Commons
Way, Calabasas, 818-225-9424.
Cuddle Up. These cute and comfy jammies
from P.J. Salvage are the perfect postwedding loungewear. The “Donut” print has
sweet treats dancing all over the cozy cotton
flannel set ($71). Available at Nordstrom,
17 W. Canon Perdido St., Santa Barbara,
805-564-8770; or www.pjsalvage.com.
A Thousand Words. Put a picture of you and
your best friends on each side of these pretty
cosmetic bags with a personal note. Toss
in a sassy lip gloss and some wedding-day
essentials and you’ve got a gift that’ll warm her
heart each time she sees it. Bagettes creates
the 4x7-inch heavyweight satin bags with nylon
liner ($23, or $26 with a custom note on the
zipper pull). Available at www.bagettes.com.
finds | favors
exotic truffles
Though Jessica Foster launched her Santa Barbarabased company, Jessica Foster Confections (805-637-6985
or www.jessicafosterconfections.com), less than five years ago,
she’s already noticed a trend: For weddings favors, her
White Chocolate Meyer Lemon truffles are hands-down
the most popular flavor. But clients can select from more
than two-dozen varieties of handmade truffles—including
Dark Chocolate Chai and Milk Chocolate Madras Curry.
Truffles come in personalized handmade bags that
hold two pieces, or boxes of two or four pieces ($5.50,
$4, and $8 respectively). “I absolutely love weddings,”
says Foster. “You really get to know the client and create
something that fits perfectly in their vision.” Delivery
is complimentary for large orders from Carpinteria to
Goleta. Brides take note: These truffles are handmade
without preservatives and need to be kept cool—so they
work best for indoor or cooler-weather celebrations.
A Tasteful Welcome
These treats unique to Southern California make delicious wedding favors—or
welcome gifts to leave at the hotel for out-of-towners.
by laura samuel meyn
hg
Santa Barbara Chocolate Co. (805-477-7682 or www.
santabarbarachocolate.com) is best known for its wholesale
chocolates—which can, by the way, be used to created a
chocolate buffet at a wedding—but they also offer their
chocolates packaged as favors for brides and other party
hosts (celebrity party planner Colin Cowie is a client).
Chocolates come in six-piece boxes ($5.50 to $8 each,
depending on the number ordered) that can be topped
with personalized labels; a variety of box and ribbon color
choices is available to coordinate with the wedding. Among
the many chocolates are nut-studded California Clusters,
Mint Chocolate Truffles (which taste like a gourmet take on
Andes Mints), and Dark Chocolate Truffles that chocoholics
will savor. “We have made many wedding favors for local
brides,” says chocolatier and company co-founder Jason
Vishnefske. “The peanut butter truffle slightly edges out the
others.” For couples who want to keep things “green,” try
the 100-percent-organic Peruvian chocolate medallions.
»
bottom photo: gerard bello
chic chocolates
br ida l con su l ti ng & e v ent d e s i g n
Innovative.
Stylish.
Delightful.
Day Of / Month Of / Complete Coordination
818.548.5297
OccasionToRemember.com
finds | favors
cookies on demand
With guests arriving from all ends of the earth, wouldn’t
it be sweet if you baked cookies and left them at the hotel
as a delicious welcome for those who’ve traveled so far?
But if there’s one thing a busy bride needs to know how to
do, it’s delegate—so dial in your cookie delivery list to the
Santa Barbara-based HotCookie.com (805-564-2397 or www.
hotcookie.com) and let owner Christina Gumpert take care of
the rest. You can choose from six homey varieties (how about
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip or Oatmeal Raisin?) to have
hand-delivered to hotels in the area, or shipped to locales
further afield. For an especially warm welcome, try the onedozen gift box for each room ($22.50), or work with Gumpert
to create unique wedding favors for the reception—single
cookies packaged in mini cellophane gift bags ($2.50 each),
tied with raffia in your choice of colors. Why cookies?
Gumpert’s motto says it all: “Because you can’t eat flowers.”
Tip:
When it comes to favors and gifts, taste is
important—but why not pick a treat that has
personal significance for you as well? Include a
card with your favor or guest box that explains
the meaning—whether it’s that you like to support
local businesses or because you dined on truffles
on your first date—to add a more personal touch.
tony toffee
Upscale toffee gorgeously packaged is the specialty of
the Silverlake-based Valerie Confections (888-706-1408
or www.valerieconfections.com). Co-owner Stan Weightman Jr.
recommends the company’s two-piece box ($7 each) as
wedding favors, and the six-piece box ($20 each) as welcome
gifts. “They’re all handmade in small batches using the
best ingredients: Plugra butter, organic nuts, and Valrhona
chocolate,” he says. “Instead of being a bark, as most toffees
are, we enrobe each piece by hand, sealing the toffee, and
thus preserving its freshness.” The flavors—among them
Almond Fleur de Sel Toffee and Hazelnut Toffee—will keep
foodies intrigued. And the dizzying packaging options—your
choice of box size and color, ribbon color, personalization,
and even a fortune insert inside each box—will delight detailoriented brides. The toffee doesn’t need to be refrigerated,
but it does need to be stored in a cool environment, so this is
a good choice for indoor events, or to leave at the hotel. 
Listed prices are approximate and will vary depending upon the size and scope of your
order. Personalization, tax, and shipping are usually extra, although complimentary
hand-delivery is available from some companies to nearby locations.
FINDS | gifts
Both traditional and
contemporary brides
will find an array
of page templates
and color choices in
Pixtorie’s photo albums.
Memories
Made Easy
Formal photos are a must, of course—bride and groom,
wedding party, family—but wouldn’t it be great to have
something more than a photo to capture the spirit of your
special day? Camarillo-based Pixtorie creates beautifully
designed virtual and real-world wedding scrapbooks
complete with the ribbons and embellishments that make
a scrapbook so fun. Upload your photos, choose from
a variety of theme and color layouts, and enter custom
or pre-designed captions and text. Or create a group
scrapbook that others (bridesmaids, family, wedding
guests) can add to. Online albums are free; archival-quality
scrapbooks start at just under $100 for wedding albums
(available in late February) and can be recreated for as
many people as request it. For more information call
805-484-9888 or 877-749-8674 or visit www.pixtorie.com.
Design idea:
Vary the style but
keep the colors in
the same family for
your page templates,
as shown here, for a
unique but still unified
wedding scrapbook.
~Mallory McCreary
Recipe Swap
Maybe you’re marrying into a family of gourmets
and want them to share the wealth (of recipes).
Or you need a fresh idea for attendant gifts: a
cookbook of your wedding menu, perhaps? Or
you’re searching for an appetizers-only cookbook,
or vegetarian one-dish meals, or a book of all-white
foods … whatever your bent, you can customcreate your own culinary keepsake with TasteBook.
One person—or twenty—can create a TasteBook
account, upload a favorite recipe (with pictures
and notes) or choose from more than 25,000
Epicurious.com recipes, and order as many printed
copies of the book as needed for $35 (100 recipes
max). Nana’s caramel cake recipe deserves to be
published, don’t you think? For more information
call 888-827-8311 or visit www.tastebook.com.
~Mallory McCreary
tastebook images: kelly kalhoefer/jupiterimages
Beautifully bound and
incredibly customizable, a
TasteBook is a great idea
for a wedding shower. Each
guest can submit a recipe (in
advance) for the book, then
bring a kitchen item used to
make the dish for the bride
to open at the shower.
ADVERTISEMENT
AD V ER T ISEMEN T
We make bridal bouquets
that are hard to toss away.
From bridal bouquets to boutonnières to banquets, Greenwich Floral Design joins
beautifully uncommon materials with unexpected floral treatments.
We’ll work with you to develop a memorable floral concept for every aspect of
your nuptial celebrations. Every detail will be fresh and quite lovely to
behold—just like the bride herself. For a free consultation, please
give us a call.
805.427.3399
www.greenwichfloral.com
Custom Arrangements • Weddings • Events • Weekly Office Delivery Service
FINDS | details
Design idea:
Layer several embellishments
in different tints of the same
hue (as shown on the boxes
at left) to make a strong color
statement. Or for favors and
gifts that really stand out, pick
a contrasting, instead of coordinating, color from a color
wheel (available at arts and
crafts stores). That pop of red
against lime green details will
really make an impression.
Label me
Impressed
Labels from
MyWeddingLabels.com
come in many colors and
designs to tie in perfectly
with your wedding theme.
Looking for a unique wedding favor? Don’t beat your head against a wall in search of
a never-before-seen find, simply personalize it with a label or tag from My Wedding
Labels. “Orders make good conversation around here,” says founder Jeanne
Williamson. “We guess that ‘Sweets to End the Sweetest Day’ is for candies, and ‘A
Whole Lotto Love’ is attached to a lottery ticket. But what accompanies ‘Romance
is the fuel that keeps love burning hot’? The more creative a couple gets, the more
personal the result.” Elegant styles ranging from traditional to contemporary will
satisfy even the most design-conscious bride; add a photo for a more personal touch.
Labels cost $9 per sheet; the number of labels per sheet varies based on the size and
shape chosen. For more information visit www.myweddinglabels.com.
~Mallory McCreary
A Barrel of Fun
At $9,000 a barrel, a private-label wedding wine from
Artiste Winery, located in historic downtown Santa Ynez,
could be the ultimate memento of your auspicious occasion.
Winemaker Bion Rice (his parents own Sunstone Winery, a
superb location for a wedding and/or reception in the Santa
Ynez Valley) teaches the bride and groom how to blend their
own vino. The private seminar includes wine sampling—
friends, family, or wedding party members welcome—and
covers the origins, history, and traditional use of each varietal.
The couple then creates their wine and a unique label made
from a painting they make together (using wine as paint), a
photograph, or any special image or symbolic design. It’s
worth joining Artiste’s wine club: The price is discounted to
$7,200 for a custom barrel, which equals 24 cases of wine.
Serve your special vintage at your wedding reception, send
each guest home with a bottle, or, best of all, cellar bottles for
your golden anniversary. Châteaux Lovebirds, anyone? For
more information call 805-686-2626 or go to www.artiste.com.
~Leslie A. Westbrook
{ front label }
{ back label }
FINDS | details
Sealed with a
(Wax) Kiss
An unbroken wax seal on correspondence used
to mean that no prying eyes had seen the contents;
today’s faux wax seals ensure the recipient knows
there’s something special inside—like your save-thedate, shower, party, and wedding invitations. Wax Works
makes custom hand-stampers (from $45) and faux wax
sticks ($1.50 each) in 26 colors (including white, pearl,
ivory, copper, gold, and silver). If stamping proves too
time-consuming (what with everything else involved in
planning your big day), order sheets of prestamped
peel-and-stick seals. (Costs vary from 38 cents to $1.45
per seal, based on size of seal and quantity ordered.)
Popular stock designs include initials, wedding bells,
hearts, champagne flutes, and flowers, but Wax Works is
happy to create a personal design just for you. For more
information call 800-317-7270 or visit www.waxseals.com.
~Mallory McCreary
Custom wax
seals add an
elegant, textural
embellishment to
wedding items, from
invites to favors.
~Mallory McCreary
the trim’s the thing
Using ribbons and bows—
in your invitations, favors,
bouquet, programs, even
on your wedding cake—is
a great way to create a
consistent theme, according
to Madelyn Pietrucha, owner
of Creative Touch Ribbon
Distributor. “Satin ribbons
printed with the bride and
groom’s names and their
wedding date can be added
to wedding or shower favors
to add a personal touch,”
she says. Pietrucha carries
brand-name Offray, Berwick,
and Lion ribbons in solids,
sheers, satins, and metallics.
For more information call
609-492-9092 or visit
www.ribbonlady.com.
Ralph Lauren, Christian Dior,
and Vera Wang rely on M&J
Trimming in Manhattan’s
garment district for unusual
ribbons, trims, buttons, and
rhinestone embellishments.
Though M&J has craft ideas
for wedding-related items
on their Web site, these
European laces, sew-on
jewels, Swarovski crystals,
and exotic beads are luxe
enough for your wedding
dress (and at wholesale
prices, too). For more
information call
800-965-8746 or
visit www.mjtrim.com
~Mallory McCreary
Color, texture, and
style: The right ribbon
can add whimsy
or sophistication
to everything from
programs to pew
decorations to
bridesmaids’ bouquets.
photos: GARY MOSS; Invitations with wax seals by Sugarcube Press (www.sugarcubepress.com);
Invitations with postage stamp by Ceci New York (www.cecinewyork.com).
Postage Portrait
Wedding invitations are instantly recognizable in the mailbox: thick envelopes,
beautifully calligraphed, nearly all sporting the same attractive, but expected,
“love” stamp. Why not add a personal touch and stand out from the crowd with
PhotoStamps? Think of the possibilities: a casual pic of you and your sweetie for the
save-the-date card, a romantic shot for the invitation, and the perfect wedding portrait
for your thank-you notes Or find an image that ties in with your wedding theme.
Simply upload a photo and choose the postage amount; your personalized stamps will
arrive in the mail soon after. Sheets of 20 41-cent stamps range from $14.99 to $18.99,
depending on the quantity ordered. For more information visit www.photostamps.com.
FINDS | UNIQUE VENUES
Nuptial
Nests
Linger longer at these luxurious lodgings.
peter vitale
by anthony head
Opulent elegance is the theme at the Presidential Suite:
palatial for two, and grand enough to share with family
and friends for pre- or post-wedding celebrations.
Presidential suite
Four Seasons hotel
Westl ake Vill age
I
t’s not necessary to have attained the country’s highest office in order
to enjoy a stay in the Presidential Suite. The luxurious and warm
accommodations, plus the exceptional Four Seasons service, make a
stay here fall somewhere between stately and utterly splendid.
The views from this seventh-floor suite show off the surrounding
landscaped courtyard and brindle-colored Santa Monica foothills.
Inside the 2,525-square-foot accommodations, cherrywood floors,
mahogany furnishings, hand-embroidered draperies, and crystal
chandeliers provide a refined, handsome ambiance. The mahoganypaneled living room features handmade woolen rugs and a fireplace
accented with an onyx hearth. Additional amenities include a
private bar, 42-inch high-definition plasma screen television, CD
and DVD players, and in-room movies.
The suite’s dining area has elegant hand-painted silk wall
coverings; and while you could use the adjacent kitchen to cook prewedding goodies, there’s no need to bother because a Four Seasons
chef can also prepare a private dinner or send up gourmet snacks.
The bedroom features a four-poster mahogany king-size bed with
upholstered canopy, a high-definition plasma television, and a large
walk-in closet. The master bathroom has a whirlpool tub, steam shower,
private sauna, marble vanity, and a 12-inch flat-screen television.
The hotel offers indoor and outdoor settings for intimate parties
and grand soirees of up to 1,000 guests, plus an assigned wedding
specialist, on-site catering (including an in-house kosher kitchen),
and recommendations for floral designers. For more information call
818-575-3000 or visit www.fourseasons.com/westlakevillage.
»
Sherman Oaks Canoga Park Thousand Oaks Westlake Village
Visit us at www.dejaun.com
Casa Elar
Ojai Valley Inn & spa
O JAI
T
he lavish Ojai Valley Inn
& Spa is simply one of
California’s most breathtaking locations for a wedding.
The resort features beautiful
outdoor courtyards, lush lawns,
herb gardens, and a dedicated
wedding staff to help put together
a memorable ceremony any time
of the year.
Casa Elar is the inn’s 10,147square-foot estate home that overlooks the seventh fairway on the
18-hole championship golf course.
This Tuscan-style villa boasts spectacular views of the Ojai Valley
and the Topa Topa Mountains. It’s
perfect for a wedding party that
wants the comforts of throwing a
wedding at home matched with
the services and conveniences of a
deluxe hotel.
The residence has a magnificent rotunda entryway and a dozen
fireplaces. There’s also a living
room, library, and a dining room
with seating for 12. Each of the
four bedroom suites has a private
terrace, and the home includes a
hair salon and a massage room to
make preparations on the big day
simple and stress-free.
Outside, there’s a swimming
pool and spa plus an outdoor pizza
oven—just in case the bridal party
gets hungry before the big show.
Hotel services, like twice-daily
housekeeping, are offered at the
guest’s request.
Casa Elar can accommodate up
to 100 guests for a ceremony and/or
reception and provides on-site catering. For more information call 888-6978780 or visit www.ojairesort.com.
»
Casa Elar boasts a pool, an outdoor pizza oven,
private terraces—even a massage room. The only
drawback? At some point, you’ll have to leave.
susan dean
Warner cottage
San Ysidro Ranch
m o n t e c i to
J
ust knowing that John and Jacqueline Kennedy honeymooned
at San Ysidro Ranch is enough for some couples to consider
booking this classic Montecito destination. But knowing that
today’s guests can indulge in even more magnificent surroundings
than the Kennedys adds extra appeal.
The Warner Cottage is the crown jewel of the Ranch—a 2,200square-foot, single-level home appointed with antiques and draped
in rich fabrics inspired by a European country estate. It’s also
furnished with state-of-the-art amenities, including such high-tech
goodies as flat-screen televisions, DVD players, and a Wi-Fi home
entertainment system.
Both master bedroom suites open up to furnished patios that
provide wonderful views of the Pacific Ocean and the Montecito
foothills. Inside, the rooms have fireplaces and private bathrooms
with steam showers, oversized tubs, and radiant-heated floors. The
private fenced yard features an outdoor rain shower, a heated swimming pool, and a hot tub.
The San Ysidro Ranch is a site for old-world romance and modern
comforts for intimate weddings in classic California style.
The Ranch offers catering and wedding coordination for events
of up to 50 guests. For more information call 805-565-1700 or visit
www.sanysidroranch.com. 
Memories
of the stellar
setting and the
comfortable
elegance of
the Warner
Cottage will last
long past your
wedding day.
Flowers lend
romance to
these gorgeous
wedding cakes.
Opposite page: Morning Star Creations (805785-0566 or www.morningstarcakes.com) made
this vanilla cake with Bavarian cream filling
and ollalieberry filling—using berries grown in
Cambria. Photograph by Michelle Warren Photography
(www.michellewarrenphotography.com). | This page,
clockwise from top left: Decadence Wedding Cakes
(805-686-2860 or www.decadenceweddingcakes.
com) baked this classic vanilla genoise cake,
filled it with lemon Bavarian cream and lemon
curd, and frosted it with an Italian meringue buttercream. Photograph by Michelle Warren Photography
(www.michellewarrenphotography.com) | Layers Cake
Design Studio (818-784-3918) thrills chocoholics
and purists alike. First, a layer of chocolate cake
with chocolate chip truffle and chocolate mousse
filling; then a layer of butter cake with French
cream, white chocolate chips, and fresh raspberry
puree—all frosted in ivory icing and wrapped
with a band of chocolate brown fondant with a
design inspired by the ocean’s waves. Then Fiore
Designs (818-980-6410 or www.fioredesigns.
com) trimmed the cake with gorgeous Safari
and champagne roses. Photograph by Ryan Phillips
Photography (www.ryanphillips.com). | Morning Star
Creations (805-785-0566 or www.morningstarcakes.com) stacked up a tower of dark chocolate chunk, carrot, and lemon cupcakes—each
topped with vanilla frosting. A six-inch cake tops
the presentation, crowned with fresh flowers and
decorated with a ribbon and the couple’s monogram. Photograph by Michelle Warren Photography
(www.michellewarrenphotography.com).
Clockwise from top left: Deborah James of
Bella Vita Events (818-874-0776 or www.
bellavitaevents.com) carried the wedding color
theme through to this dramatic layer cake
by LaStarr & Co. (805-642-2814 or www.
lastarrcakes.com). Frosted in cream-colored
French buttercream with accents of Tiffany
blue, the cake includes gum-paste roses that
cascade down the top tier. Layers of French
vanilla cake with apricot puree and apricot
mousse alternate with layers of chocolate cake
with Bavarian cream. Photograph by Captured
Moments by Dee (www.capturedmomentsbydee.com). |
This feminine cake from Rosebud Cakes (310657-6207 or www.rosebudcakes.com) is topped
with a bow and adorned with pink flowers—
both decorations are handmade from gum
paste—and it’s decorated with a textured
design in buttercream. The inside can contain
any of a number of combinations of cakes—
such as chocolate, lemon, or hazelnut—and
fillings like white chocolate Bavarian cream
or whipped cream with chocolate ganache.
Photograph by Jennifer S. Rau Photography (www.
jsrphotography.com). | Cake Divas (310-287-2609
or www.cakedivas.com) made this four-tier
chocolate marble cake with old-fashioned
fudge filling and buttercream frosting and
embellished it with delicate scrollwork.
Hidden Garden Floral Design (818-832-4009
or www.hiddengardenflowers.com) adorned
it with pink roses. Photograph by Mi Belle (www.
mibelleinc.com).
Learn the Lingo
Brush up on these wedding cake terms
and you’ll be talking the talk in no time.
Buttercream: A traditional cake frosting
that’s creamy and soft and can be colored
or flavored in any number of ways. It’s made
with plenty of butter—so it’s a good choice
for an indoor or cool-weather celebration.
Curd: Lemon juice is the most common
flavoring for this pudding-like fruit spread
that’s enriched with egg yolks and butter
and used as a cake filling. It can also be
made with orange juice or lime juice.
Dacquoise: A cake of nut-flavored meringue
usually filled with buttercream or sweetened
whipped cream.
Fondant: This smooth candy icing is rolled
out in sheets and draped over cake layers
for a smooth, flawless appearance; it can
be colored and flavored to suit any taste.
Fondant is an ideal choice for outdoor celebrations, as it doesn’t need to be refrigerated; it does have a chewy texture, however.
Ganache: This luscious combination of
melted chocolate and cream can be used
as a cake filling or icing (it’s poured over
cake layers when still warm), but the latter
use should be limited to indoor or coolweather celebrations, as ganache can melt
at warmer temperatures.
Genoise: Similar to sponge cake, this
versatile cake (said to be named after the
Italian city of Genoa) is used in petits fours
and wedding cakes, among other desserts;
some renditions are flavored with cocoa.
Gum paste: It sounds unappetizing, but
this is also called “sugar paste.” Either way,
it’s made of gelatin, cornstarch, and sugar
and is used to create edible decorations.
Reportedly, gum-paste decorations will last
for many years as a keepsake from your
wedding cake.
Italian or Swiss meringue: This soft meringue, which can be used as a frosting, is
made from a gently cooked mixture of sugar
and egg whites; the resulting frosting can be
spread or piped. Italian or Swiss meringue
is often enriched with butter for a meringue
buttercream frosting.
Marzipan: This almond paste can be used
in a filling or frosting, but it’s probably best
known for being molded into flowers and
fruits—often brightly colored—which make
whimsical garnishes for wedding cakes and
other confections.
Mousse: Whether chocolate or fruit-flavored,
this fluffy dessert is made from whipped
cream or beaten egg whites, and often
gelatin, too. It makes a light-textured filling
for wedding cakes.
Royal icing: Royal icing is the “glue” that
holds gingerbread houses together. This
mix of confectioners’ sugar and egg whites,
which can be tinted with food coloring,
hardens as it dries; wedding cake bakers
often use it to pipe on decorations. 
For additional cake resources, turn to page 121.
Bringing People Together in Style
Bavarian cream: This rich custard combined
with whipped cream and gelatin is often
used as a wedding cake filling.
AnnMarie
e v e n ts b y
event production · planning · direction
818.400.6211
www.eventsbyannmarie.com
~Laura Samuel Meyn
gary moss
Couture invitations serve as the prelude to a
letter-perfect wedding celebration.
opposite: Invitations and place
cards for Margot and James’
wedding are embellished
with hand calligraphy and
floating freshwater pearls.
From Soolip, 310-360-0545
or www.soolip.com.
right: Amanda and Eric’s
invitations from the Wiley
Valentine Foster Collection are
adorned with graphic flourishes
and printed on European
cotton/linen-blend paper. Wiley
Valentine, 949-764-9338 or
www.wileyvalentine.com.
left: Olivia and Alexander’s
sophisticated invite gets
dressed up with an embossed
and foil-stamped flower border.
The suite also includes table
number cards, place cards,
and personal stationery. From
Encore Studios; available at The
Invitation Spot, 805-777-8898
or www.invitationspot.com; and
at BaileyGirl, 805-517-1985
or www.kbaileygirl.com.
gary moss
»
Sharon and Ken’s invitation
suite features the bride’s favorite
flower—the orchid—also used in
the floral arrangements at their
elegant beach wedding. From
Emily Rose Papers, 805-582-2232
or www.emilyrosepapers.com.
Sugarcube Press created these
thank-you and save-the-date
cards to accompany a winecountry wedding invitation.
Sugarcube Press, 805-340-5862
or www.sugarcubepress.com.
Sienna and Charles’ “Vintage
Vineyard” invitation and savethe-date postcard for their Santa
Ynez wine-country wedding is
from Lazaro Design, 805-861-8409
or www.lazaro-design.com.
»
gary moss
clockwise from top: Lauren Beth
and Robert’s “We’re tying the
knot!” playful polka dot invitation
suite includes a matching menu,
as well as escort and table cards
printed on coaster-style rounds.
From Ceci New York, 212-9890695 or www.cecinewyork.com.
NOW PLAYING EVERYWHERE!
BRUCE BARRIOS
�� 12 TIME WINNER! ��
BEST D.J. IN VENTURA COUNTY
"Brides will change their wedding
date to get Bruce!"
- Patrick Ward,
Wedgewood Wedding & Banquets
"Bruce keeps every guest entertained and
part of the action - you will be sorry if you
don’t hire Bruce."
- Jennifer Musitano, Moorpark Country Club
"We have not done a TV show without
Bruce in 15 years. He always gives 110%"
- George Schlatter Productions
"He makes every evening a
great party, even my staff wants to
dance when Bruce is the D.J."
- Robert Lopez, Topa Tower Club
"From Frank Sinatra’s 80th Birthday,
Mohammad Ali’s 60th and the opening
ceremonies for the 55th Presidential
Inauguration in D.C. Bruce always
brings the energy to the event."
- Dale Peters, Capistrano’s Restaurant
at Mandalay Beach Resort
"For the ultimate party experience,
Bruce is your DJ! He is the Master in
making the most memorable events."
- Marcia Santilli, The Pierpont Inn
"Bruce is energizing and can motivate
any group to dance"
- Maureen Doyle, Four Points Sheraton
"Prepared, motivating, versatile but most of all
committed to making every event the best!"
- Patrick Anderson Photography
"For the past 15 years, Bruce far exceeds
any other Southern Californian DJ"
- Chef Luis Ludwig, Z-Golf Corp.
For Booking Info.:
805-658-7565
djbrucebarrios@aol.com
top: Sung Hee and Adam Jared’s
letterpress invitation suite for their
Mexico wedding was inspired
by the tropical destination. From
Ceci New York, 212-989-0695
or www.cecinewyork.com.
bottom: Mango hibiscus invitation
with die-cut pockets holds a
suite of cards that announces
the details for Anna Lynn and
Raymond’s wedding festivities.
From Encore Studios; available
at The Invitation Spot, 805-7778898 or www.invitationspot.com;
and at BaileyGirl, 805-517-1985
or www.kbaileygirl.com.
Additional Design Studios and
Invitation Resources:
Fla-de-Dahs
30941 W. Agoura Road
Westlake Village, 818-597-9375
www.fla-de-dahs.com
Lehr & Black
8921 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles, 310-278-8182
www.lehrandblack.com
Letter Perfect Stationery
1227 Coast Village Road
Santa Barbara, 805-969-7998
www.letterperfectstationery.com
Parchment
960 S. Westlake Blvd.
www.parchmentshop.com
Personalized Invitations & Printing
The Art of Paper
19654 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, 818-708-3352
gary moss
The Stationery Collection
1470 E. Valley Road
Montecito, 805-969-3414
www.stationerycollection.com
VERA WANG BOUTIQUE
ALVINA VALENTA
ANNE BARGE
CARMELA SUTERA
CAROLINA HERRERA
ELIANA BEN-ZEEV
ELIZABETH FILLMORE
HENRY ROTH
JENNY LEE
LAZARO
MELISSA SWEET
MICHELLE ROTH
REEM ACRA
RE
REVA MIVASAGAR
WATTERS & WATTERS
VINEYARD
AND MORE....
15 WEST FIGUEROA ST. SANTA BARBARA 805.730.7300 SANTABARBARABRIDAL.COM
ST YLE | THE DRESS
FAVORITE
BRIDAL
GOWNS
Though each bride should
choose her wedding dress
based on her preferences
and style, our favorite picks
from this season’s bridal
collections lean more
toward elegant sheath and
mermaid-style gowns versus
big ball or princess-style
gowns. Sophisticated AND
ALLURING cinched waists with
a wide belt or contrasting
color sash—as shown on
our cover—graced many
designers’ runways and
made our short list.
by Mary walbridge
clockwise from top left: Monique
Lhuillier ivory strapless silk organza
gown with pleated tulip bodice
($3,960) available at Monique Lhuillier,
Melrose Place Salon, 8485 Melrose
Place, Los Angeles, 323-655-1088;
www.moniquelhuillier.com. | Badgley
Mischka “The Tory” Italian silk satin
gown with chiffon ruching and
beaded bodice ($5,930) available
at Badgley Mischka, 8667 Sunset
Blvd., West Hollywood, 310-248-3750;
www.badgleymishka.com. | Carolina
Herrera strapless lace dress with
detachable skirt ($5,500) available at
The Bridal Suite at Saks Fifth Avenue,
9600 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills,
310-887-5509. | Cymbeline Paris
“Bambou” taffeta gown ($2,760)
available at Lili Bridals, 18663 Ventura
Blvd., Tarzana, 818-774-9700.
ST YLE | THE DRESS
clockwise from top left: Amsale sheath
gown made of Alençon lace with scalloped
V-neckline and bias-flared hem ($4,500)
available at The Bridal Suite at Saks Fifth
Avenue, 9600 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills,
310-887-5509. | Reem Acra “Soft” silk
chiffon gown with hand-draped Empire top
and crystal embroidery ($4,600) available
at Santa Barbara Bridal, 15 W. Figueroa
St., Santa Barbara, 805-730-7300. | Vera
Wang Bridal off-the-shoulder sheath with
draped tulle train ($4,190) available at
Santa Barbara Bridal, 15 W. Figueroa St.,
Santa Barbara, 805-730-7300. | Alvina
Valenta duchess satin soft fluted gown
with halter neckline and low back ($2,410)
available at Santa Barbara Bridal, 15 W.
Figueroa St., Santa Barbara, 805-7307300; or at Mon Amie Bridal Salon, 355
Bristol St., Costa Mesa, 714-546-5700.
above: Vera Wang Bridal silk taffeta
one-shoulder draped mermaid
gown with golden laurel back
appliqué ($6,890) available at Santa
Barbara Bridal, 15 W. Figueroa St.,
Santa Barbara, 805-730-7300.
:6..:
$0--&&/8*&45
This is the day you and your
bridal party will shine wearing
jewelry created to last a
lifetime with handselected
pearls, gemstones, Swarovski
E-mail sevensistersdesign@sbcglobal.net
www.sevensistersjewelry.com
crystals and precious metal.
point of View
I Was a Male Bridesmaid
Surviving the uncharted waters of modern manhood.
By Anthony Head
photo courtesy of katie artukovich
I
t’s wedding season again and things sure are different. Of
course, the brides-to-be are doing what they do. And any guy
who has a couple of brick-heavy issues of bridal magazines
lying around the house will undoubtedly be renting a tuxedo soon.
Other men, who aren’t taking a bride but must still take part in the
festivities, are giving their shoes a spit-shine and unearthing that
dark blue suit.
And then there’s that little-known third group of males that’s a
true cultural enigma: the male bridesmaid. Sure, the role is getting
to be a bit more common these days. But I can tell you it wasn’t
always so. Some of us pioneers had to slog through the dark ages of
wedding attendant experimentation. This is my story.
Back when the 21st century was very young, Bill Clinton was still
the president, Y2K proved to be a whole lot of nothing, and Britney
Spears was only just beginning to emerge from her shy little shell.
My year 2000 started with a conversation that sounded like a good
song being played on an out-of-tune piano. “I would like for you
to stand up on my side of the wedding,” announced my very good
friend Katie.
Don’t get me wrong, I was honored to be asked, but even Katie
couldn’t keep a straight face when I asked for clarification. “You
want me to be a bridesmaid?”
“No. Well, yes. But we’ll call you a bridesman,” she snickered.
And then, as ludicrous as this sounds, I found myself asking, “Do
I have to wear a dress?”
Back then, modern wedding culture meant bridesmaids were still
women and groomsmen were still men. So when I expressed my
concerns, Katie assured me that there would be a counterweight of
sorts. Matt, the groom, had asked his friend Juliet to stand on his
side. She, too, would become a gender-busting icon of modern wedding traditions. So when the laughter died down, I vowed to take
my appointment seriously.
I gave my opinions on food and flowers (none were taken seriously). I even memorized the wedding colors. (They were something
like midnight moonlight and peacock’s plume-de-royal, but I just
called them silver and purple.) And as the months passed I tried to
research my role, but it was clear that I was in uncharted territory.
Emily Post never uttered a word on the subject of males as bridal
attendants. Bridal magazines were keeping mum about it as well.
Even the World Wide Web was surprisingly empty of useful knowledge. When I asked my older brother, Mark, he could only counsel
me to make sure I had earrings that matched my gown.
Taking matters into my own hands, I declined the invitation to “a
day of indulgence” (manicures, pedicures, seaweed body wraps, etc.)
with Katie and the other bridesmaids. Instead, I begged for—and
received—the green light to attend the bachelor party. That’s where
I should have been from the start, I thought, as we ingested masculine food, drank American beer, and headed out for, uh, mischief.
10 Rules for Being a
Bridesman
1. It is not your responsibility to help the bride shop for anything
connected with the wedding. (You’ll just screw it up, anyway.)
2. You need not attend a bachelorette party unless there are
gender-neutral activities planned. Examples would be extreme
paintball, a barbecue buffet, or anything involving chrome.
3. If you are invited to the bachelor party, be prepared to prove
that you’re not a spy for the bride. This proof may involve baby
oil and a woman named Tinsel.
4. There is no acceptable color for tuxedo socks other than
black—no matter how hard the other bridesmaids beg you
to wear midnight moonlight instead.
5. It’s okay to flirt with the other (female) bridesmaids.
6. During the wedding ceremony, however, is not the proper time
to boast about your covert work with the CIA.
7. There is no shame in crying at the wedding. Just keep telling
yourself that they’ll restock the bar at their earliest convenience.
8. No matter how tempting, do not flip the middle finger to that kid
in the fourth row who keeps smirking at you. (Wait until after the
ceremony and then dump a bucket of ice down his pants.)
9. Do not let anyone catch you committing rule number 8.
10.Never try to prove your gender-preferences to the groom’s
mother after consuming four Jack-and-Cokes.
2008 EDITION 805 weddings | *
I Was a Male Bridesmaid
But the other fellas wouldn’t let me thoroughly enjoy the evening.
Eventually I stopped counting the times I was asked if I’d forgotten
my dress. “I’m not a bridesmaid, guys,” I whimpered. “Once and
for all, I’m a bridesman. Now can I please take off this tiara?”
Here’s the thing: The word bridesman is actually an antique.
In the early 1800s it referred to a man who attended both the
bride and groom. Over time, his service was reserved exclusively
for the groom, and he was eventually designated the “best man.”
The term bridesman had never been successfully resurrected, at
least not to the point where it was recognizable, even to those in
the wedding business. Case in point: the tuxedo shop.
“So, are you an usher or one of the groomsmen?” asked the
woman with sparkling gemstone eyes who stood behind the counter.
“Well, actually I’m a bridesman.”
“I’m sorry. A what?”
“I’m standing up on the bride’s side of the wedding,” I said,
squaring my shoulders and dropping my voice a full octave.
“Oh,” she finally said with a grin that revealed a desire to set me up
with her friend, David. “I understand. I think that’s so progressive.”
Things got worse at the rehearsal dinner when I was introduced to the groom’s mother. “Oh really, what’s that? The head
What you do on
the Dance Floor
is Our Business
With all the things to think about on your
Wedding Day, your feet should not be one of them.
Our trained instructors will give you the confidence
you need in just a few fun and easy lessons.
Westlake Village
s
805.495.1445
Santa Barbara s 805.963.6658
Ventura s 805.644.5999
www.arthurmurray.com
“I’m not a bridesmaid, guys,”
I whimpered. “Once and for all,
Now
can I please take
off this tiara?”
I’m a brides man.
usher?” she asked. She thought we were joking as I explained the
situation for like the millionth time. To this day, that woman’s
laugh—like a ghoulish blast from the ninth circle of hell—still
echoes in my ears. It began as a clamorous oh-you-kids-today!
barrel laugh, rumbled low to a nervous okay-the-joke-is-over
chuckle, and ended abruptly with a well-I-never! snort.
On the morning of the ceremony, once again, I was a man without a country. I couldn’t hang out with the ladies, since I thought
it would be especially bad luck for the bridesman to see the bride
dressing before the ceremony (and afterwards, too, I suppose);
and the groomsmen were having their photos taken. But when the
moment of truth came, I manned up. I proudly walked Juliet to the
altar steps where we parted. I joined my ladies, she stood with her
men. And when I turned around I saw so many curious faces. Of
course they were watching the ceremony, but I also know that some
of them were grinning because they just knew in their tiny little
brains that we had screwed up and walked to the wrong sides.
In the end, the day came off perfectly. The sun shone. The
bride was beautiful. My friends got hitched. I survived. And when
the wedding photos came back, I liked what I saw. There I was,
surrounded by lovely ladies, sporting a grin like that of an explorer,
just back from a supremely satisfying excursion to the unknown. I
think that, at least for that day, I really was the best man. 
CoutureWedding Cakes
Our designer wedding cakes will
make your special day complete.
Call for your Private Cake Tasting
appointment. Or log on to our web
site to learn more.
Cake Tasting Room
• S P E C I A L E V E N T C A K E S • W E D D I N G C A K E S • 8 0 4 T H O U S A N D O A K S B LV D • 8 0 5 / 4 9 7 - 6 1 1 1
F OR H EAVENS C AKES . COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
The Bride Guide
Local resources to help plan your wedding day
Visit www.805weddingsmag.com to learn more and to
Bridal Gown Stores
Lili Bridals • 818-774-9700, www.lilibridals.com
Lili Bridals carries designer wedding gowns, bridesmaid dresses, eveningwear, and mother of the bride
dresses. Known for excellent customer service, Lili Bridals is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.
Santa Barbara Bridal • 805-730-7300, www.santabarbarabridal.com
Santa Barbara Bridal is California’s finest couture bridal and eveningwear salon, with an entire Vera
Wang boutique in the showroom. Featuring more than 15 bridal designers, this upscale salon offers
bridesmaid, mother, and flower girl dresses, veils, jewelry, lingerie, shoes, accessories, designer
tuxedos, and a beautiful selection of evening gowns.
Bridal Party Gifts & Registry
A la Maison • 818-338-3301, www.alamaisonwlv.com
A la Maison is a home furnishings store and interior design showroom for the kitchen, bed, and
bath. We feature imported antiques, hand-crafted furniture, elegant European table top, luxurious
bedding, bath accessories, and so much more!
A Touch of Grace Events • 805-496-8758, www.atouchofgraceevents.com •
See “Wedding Coordinators/Planners”
Bella Claire Romantic Design • 818-575-9930, www.bellaclaire.net
We have the finest and most unique gifts, linens, table settings, as well as bridal registry. We
carry Oprah’s favorite line called Lollia, which encompasses luxury bath and body products. We will
also be the exclusive store in Westlake Village to carry wedding planner Mindy Weiss’s new line.
She is well known for her practical and exciting items.
Mrs. Jones Boudoir • 805-484-9800, www.mrsjonesboudoir.com
Ventura’s top source for luxurious bridal lingerie. Unique, hard-to-find trousseau lingerie and
bustiers alongside everyday essentials, plus gift certificates. Our professional staff will ensure that
everything fits perfectly. Playful gifts and accessories for the shower, bachelorette party, and the
honeymoon. (Ask us about hosting your parties!)
Personalized Invitations & printing • 818-943-8368, www.invitesrus.com •
See “Invitations”
Pixtorie • 877-749-8674, www.pixtorie.com
Pixtorie offers an effortless way to preserve your memories with style. Pixtorie albums are composed of beautiful archival papers, fun extras, and professionally-printed photos. Designed online
by you, crafted with care by us, it is the perfect way to commemorate your special day. Gift certificates also make great gifts for parents or bridesmaids.
Seven Sisters Jewelry Design • 805-748-3076, www.sevensistersjewelry.com
Traditional as well as contemporary styles created just for you with your choice of customized
gemstones and precious metals. I use only the finest materials I select myself to create beautiful
heirloom-quality pieces you and your attendants will treasure. I have been making beautiful
jewelry for 10 years. Call me for your consultation.
register to receive additional information from these advertisers.
Caterers
678 Dine • 818-483-1789, www.678dine.com
678 Dine has established the ultimate standard in wedding-related events and functions. P6,
Suki 7, and Chapter 8 are uniquely designed restaurants located in the Conejo Valley. Each location offers private rooms and banquet spaces ideal for wedding rehearsal dinners, bridal showers,
engagement parties, and bachelorette parties. Our highly acclaimed chefs will custom-tailor a
spectacular menu for your special occasion to ensure a truly memorable experience. 678 Catering
offers a menu that combines “the best of” from each of our restaurants. Whether you’re in the
mood for American fusion, classic steaks and chops, or contemporary Japanese, sushi, and robata,
our extensive menu will be sure to impress the most discerning palates.
Calamigos Catering • 818-889-6280, www.calamigoscatering.com
Full service event planning and gourmet catering located in the beautiful Santa Monica Mountains
on more than 140 acres called Calamigos Ranch. Catering available on-site or off. Other locations
include The Vineyards in Simi Valley, Paradise Cove and Beach Cafe, The Victorian in Santa Monica,
and the Equestrian Center in Burbank.
Chocolatine • 805-557-0561, www.chocolatine.net • See “Wedding Cakes”
Command Performance Catering Group • 805-523-3232, www.cpcatering.com
At Command Performance Catering and Wedding Design, we specialize in personalized menus and
customized wedding packages created specifically to meet the unique needs and desires of every
bride and groom we work with. From location selection to helping with almost every aspect and
detail of the wedding day, Command Performance has been making brides’ dreams come true for
more than 20 years.
NACE – National Association of Catering Executives • 805-532-2834,
www.venturanace.net
Trust a NACE executive for the best quality service on your special day—the industry standard
for excellence.
RSVP–The Catering Company • 661-291-1155, www.cateringbyrsvp.com
RSVP–The Catering Company is a full service, off-premise catering company. Their expertise in
helping you choose a location, menu, linens, florals, rentals, entertainment, and decor will give your
wedding a unique “only you” touch that your guests will talk about long after your wedding day.
Status Catering • 805-375-7636, www.statuscatering.com
Sophisticated is one word to describe Status Catering. Our staff prides itself on serving you with the
highest quality of care. Delivering a wide array of selections, made only with the finest of ingredients, we thrive to make every experience one to remember. Status Catering provides full-service
catering and event planning for any function.
Villa Piacere • 877-924-0555, www.villapiacere.com • See “Venues/Locations”
Florists
Greenwich Floral Design • 805-427-3399, www.greenwichfloral.com
Custom floral design, full-service florist.
The English Garden • 818-597-1501, www.theenglishgarden.com
The English Garden breaks the mold of conventional flower arranging and gives real meaning to floral art.
Our floral designs are bold, colorful, and distinctive and our unique style will always delight and surprise.
Tivoli Floral • 805-231-7431, www.tivolifloral.com
Boutique style designs. What’s your love story? Jake gave Janice a dollar. Janice wins $30,000 on a
slot machine. Nobody was shocked to find dice hanging from Janice’s bridal bouquet. Tivoli Floral:
Telling Your LOVE story.
Hair & Makeup Artists/Beauty
Artistic Ink • 805-494-0405, www.artisticinkstudio.com
Featuring excellent permanent makeup, eyelash extensions, medical and regular tattooing.
Licensed, certified, and insured. Private studio. By appointment only.
Beloved Beauty • 805-297-5689, www.mybelovedbeauty.com
I am a licensed skin therapist who can provide a wonderful, customized skin care service and
makeup application. I bring the benefit of my vast knowledge to my clients with an understanding
in dual areas of skin care and makeup that will have you looking your best on your special day.
Kalologie Skincare • 805-497-9400, www.kalologie.com
Medical spa offering Botox, Juvederm, Restylane, Cortisone, laser hair removal, photo facials,
chemical peels, facials/peels/waxing, and retail products.
Kensington Make-up Artists • 805-298-2420, www.kensingtonbeauty.com
Wedding and special occasion makeup artistry.
Rejuvenation, A Hair Salon • 805-778-1602, www.rejuvenationahairsalon.com
The bridal team at Rejuvenation, A Hair Salon will take care of all your hair needs for your very
special day. From haircolor, extensions, and makeup to the final touches of your bridal style,
Kiley and her team of trained professionals will create your very best look for your special day,
transforming the hair of your dreams into reality.
Health & Fitness
Extreme Boot Camp • 805-905-9998, www.extremebootcamp.com
Extreme Boot Camp is led by a team of highly qualified, trained former military personnel and
expert certified trainers. They will lead you through a six-week outdoor military-based fitness program. This program is designed to put you in the best shape of your life in a short amount of time,
while having a great time doing it.
Invitations
Fla-de-Dahs • 818-597-9375, www.fla-de-dahs.com
Invitations are the front door to your event! Nothing says YOU or builds the excitement more
specifically than a custom invitation designed exclusively for your event. This design can be carried
through coordinating with your colors and theme for event accessories including place cards,
menus, programs, and more. We do it all.
Personalized Invitations & printing • 818-943-8368, www.invitesrus.com
Invitations, consultant, and coordinator for weddings, anniversary, business, birthday, holiday,
retirement parties, dinner receptions, rehearsal dinners, and Bar/Bat Mitzvahs. Huge selection of
invitations for all events. Beautiful embossed, engraved, letterpress, and thermography stationery,
save-the-date cards, invitations. By appointment.
Sugarcube Press • 805-340-5862, www.sugarcubepress.com
Modern and sweetly vintage! Custom couture letterpress invitations and social stationery.
Serving the world.
The Invitation Spot • 805-777-8898, www.invitationspot.com
Your complete source for all your invitations, announcements, greeting cards, and more! Located in the
beautiful Janss Marketplace. We carry Crane, William Arthur, Chace, Elite, Encore Studios, Envelopments,
Checkerboard, Tru, Gala, Michael Gitelle, Arlene Segal, Stylart, Birchcraft, Carlson Craft, and more.
Jewelers
Athena & Co. • 805-520-3858, www.athenacojewelers.com
Athena & Co. was established with more than 20 years of jewelry experience. The company is
founded on the idea of educating customers on all forms of jewelry. Beginning in designing and
manufacturing jewelry, the store provides both designer and custom-made fine jewelry.
Dejaun Jewelers • 818-783-3960, www.dejaun.com
Retailer of fine Swiss timepieces and couture jewelry.
Malibu Rock Star • 310-456-7374, www.maliburockstar.com
Looking for a piece for your rock-star husband? Or perhaps an engagement ring with an unusual
gem, glowing pink instead of white with a diamond? Those with diverse tastes need look no
further than Malibu Rock Star, a hip bling store that carries everything from pieces with skull-andsnake designs to delicate bridal rings.
Moyen & Co. Jewellers • 805-494-8114, www.moyenco.com
At Moyen we cater to consumers who seek the highest quality jewelry at the most affordable
prices. Our friendly, experienced, professional sales staff is trained by the Gemological Institute of
America. We will answer all your questions so you can be assured the rings you choose will be the
right ones. We offer a tremendous assortment of engagement rings and wedding bands for you to
choose from. We carry such designer lines such as Scott Kay, Simon G., Albert Malky, and House of
Taylor. You may also want to design your own rings. Whatever your style, Moyen & Co. Jewellers is
your place for engagement and wedding rings as well as for gifts for the entire bridal party.
Polacheck’s Jewelers • 818-225-0600, www.polachecksjewelers.com
Polacheck’s offers the finest in designer jewelry along with GIA-certified diamonds. For your
convenience we have a gemologist and jeweler on the premises. There is also a designer available
to assist you with all your bridal needs. If you need a gift for the bride or groom you will find the
finest in Swiss watches to choose from.
Seven Sisters Jewelry Design • 805-748-3076, www.sevensistersjewelry.com •
See “Bridal Party Gifts”
Music & Entertainment
Bruce Barrios Mobile Disc Jockey • 805-658-7565, www.brucebarrios.com
Cover 2 Cover Music & entertainment • 805-492-8150, www.cover2covermusic.com
We provide DJs, MCs, and bands for receptions. String quartets, harpists, and classical ensembles
for ceremonies. We assist our clients with timeline and flow suggestions to keep their special day
fun and worry-free. Our entertainment professionals have performed at the finest hotels and on
concert stages around the world. References available.
Gold Dust Entertainment • 800-700-2877, www.golddustentertainment.com
Voted 2007’s “Best Wedding DJ” by myfoxla.com, Gold Dust Entertainment is a one-of-a-kind
professional DJ service. Since 1999, DJs Jeff and Jennifer Kantor have been the DJs of choice for many
amazing weddings throughout Southern California. We give 110% passion and commitment to
ensure your wedding reception runs flawlessly and the music moves everyone. We use only stateof-the-art pro sound and lighting. Please visit our online wedding guide to start planning the best
wedding party you’ve ever witnessed, or call us to book an entertainment consultation. Hear and
feel the difference with Gold Dust Entertainment.
Harp Music by Vonette & Musical Networks • 805-531-3725, web.mac.com/vonharp
We provide the perfect touch of elegance and ambiance for any wedding ceremony, cocktail hour,
reception, shower, or rehearsal dinner. Solo harp and various duos, trios, quartets, and bands are
available including guitar, strings, flute, saxophone, and much more. All styles of music available
including classical, jazz, rock, world, pop, R&B, and more.
Officiants
A Hallmark Wedding • 805-496-3988, www.revbarbaralaughray.com
“A Hallmark Wedding” non-denominational, honors all beliefs, warm and personalized. Video of
ceremony at a nominal fee.
Elegant Weddings • 818-889-8706, www.theringplease.com
Kimber Lee Wilkes, PhD, a non-denominational minister for more than 22 years, seems to fit
everybody’s idea of the quintessential minister. Warm and sensitive by nature, she sees the
exchanging of vows as a deeply personal statement. Kimber Lee also offers a marriage license and
counseling service. She has officiated for thousands of couples and boasts an amazing success rate
for their marital longevity. Her motto is, “I tie double knots!”
Rentals & Linens
the Cappuccino Club • 805-815-4185, www.thecappuccinoclub.com
Traveling cappuccino, fruit smoothie, ice cream dipping and fresh mini-donut bars for all occasions.
Great for a special event, wedding, Bar or Bat Mitzvah, or a thank-you to a special client.
United Methodist Church of thousand oaks • 805-495-7215, www.umcto.org •
See “Venues/Locations”
Classic Party Rentals • 805-566-3566, www.classicpartyrentals.com
Classic Party Rentals is the largest event rental company in the country. Our consultants have many
years of experience helping clients choose everything they need to make any event a great success.
Valley Orthodox Church • 805-522-5186, www.wemarryyou.com
Wedding ceremonies performed by Reverend John Southwick at locations in Southern California.
Command Performance Catering Group • 805-523-3232, www.cpcatering.com •
See “Caterers”
Photography & Videography
Travel
A-Rotem Studios • 818-442-9303, www.weddingphotographyinla.com
A-Rotem Studios will take care of the posing, the lighting, and the little smile. Photographers who
specialize in capturing their subjects in a natural, photojournalistic style.
Chelsea Elizabeth Photography • 805-797-2868, www.chelseaelizabeth.com
Whether you need an event photographer or family portraits, Chelsea Elizabeth takes the time to
get to know you and your personal needs, and that translates into hip, beautifully artistic pictures
you will cherish for a lifetime. Chelsea Elizabeth is based out of Thousand Oaks, but puts no limit on
where her camera takes her.
Curtis Photography • 805-427-1012, www.dreamdayimagery.com
When quality, creativity, reliability, and 25-plus years of experience are a MUST. Choose the
artistic photographic mastery of Curtis Photography. Referred and respected by all wedding and
event professionals. A photographer with a perfect 100% customer satisfaction record. Curtis is
professionally respected by many other pro photographers.
David Michael Photography • 805-418-9868, www.davidmichaelphoto.com
Harmony Wedding Photography • 323-788-1306, www.harmonyweddingphotography.com
Award-winning photography. Specializing in weddings, events, engagements, maternity, children,
and portraits. Let Harmony Wedding Photography capture your most cherished memories for a
lifetime to come.
Kimberlee Miller Photography • 805-529-8489, www.kimberleemiller.com
Having shot more than 40 weddings a year for the past 7 years gives Kimberlee the experience and knowledge to be the right photographer for your wedding. She mixes a more natural
journalistic style with some traditional portraits, allowing not only beautiful images and details
to be captured but also emotions and personalities. Her unobtrusive approach helps create a
stress-free day for her clients.
Maria McCarthy Photography • 818-597-1792, www.mariamccarthyphotography.com
In addition to the traditional formal pictures, I also provide a documentary-style of photography in
both black and white and color, aimed at capturing your day unobtrusively the way it happens.
Mi Belle • 805-496-7565, www.mibelleinc.com
Mi Belle wedding photography combines a sense of photographic tradition mixed with a modern
style to blend your day into a creative flow of history and artistic imagery.
Moonlight Video Productions • 800-401-8433, www.moonlightvideo.net
Imagine having your beautiful wedding day captured professionally for you and future generations
to enjoy. Your smiles, your tears of joy, the groom’s reaction, the bride’s gentle touch. All the beauty
and emotion will be available for you to enjoy again and again. Moonlight Video Productions has
studios in Newbury Park and Tarzana.
New Dawn Cinema of Beverly Hills • 888-854-7278, www.newdawncinema.com
Providing the perfect combination of fashion-forward photography and distinctive video
productions for today’s modern bride, New Dawn Cinema is the only wedding company that holds
two Emmy nominations and more than 40 industry awards. Fully licensed and insured. Serving
Southern California and destination weddings. “Let our eye capture yours.”
Riviera Vacations–Destination Weddings • 888-844-0700, www.rivieravacations.com
Honeymoon and destination specialist.
Venues/Locations
678 Dine • 818-483-1789, www.678dine.com • See “Caterers”
Calabasas Country Club • 818-222-8111, www.calabasasgolf.com
Private country club offering location for events and parties as well as golf for members.
Calamigos Catering • 818-889-6280, www.calamigoscatering.com • See “Caterers”
Calamigos Equestrian • 818-972-5940, www.calamigosequestrian.com
Calamigos Equestrian offers a secluded and beautiful venue centrally located on the north face of
historic Griffith Park. The scenic Santa Monica Mountains provide a pastoral backdrop to this unique
location. With its impressive ballrooms and garden ceremony sites, Calamigos Equestrian offers
accommodations for up to 550 guests.
See “Caterers”
Duke’s Malibu • 800-910-0600, www.dukesmalibu.com
Located on the beach in Malibu, Duke’s oceanfront banquet room accommodates up to 260 guests
and offers its own private entrance with self or valet parking along with spectacular views of the
Pacific Ocean. The stunning setting is surpassed only by the delicious selection of menu items
ranging from fresh fish and steak to Hawaiian-influenced favorites. All this plus Duke’s warm,
personalized service make a perfect combination for that special day.
Herzog Wine Cellars • 805-983-1560, www.herzogwinecellars.com
Facility for special events and weddings. Features include a winery, tasting room, private rooms, and
restaurant. On-site catering.
Meridian Vineyards • 805-226-7133, www.meridianvineyards.com
Meridian’s long driveway leads to a natural stone winery with sweeping vineyard views, giant
oaks, landscaped gardens, and lovely grounds. The tasting room features an exclusive sampling of
limited-release wines ideal for your wedding. Both the gardens and barrel room create a dramatic
backdrop for your special event; we can accommodate 5 to 500.
Moorpark Country Club • 805-532-2834, www.moorparkgolf.com
Come discover Moorpark Country Club for your next special event. Nestled in the foothills above the
city, our professional and courteous staff is waiting to assist your every need. Combine Moorpark
Country Club’s breathtaking views, magnificent clubhouse, and our romantic outdoor wedding
garden and you have the perfect setting for your special day.
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals • 805-423-9174, www.pasoroblesvacationrentals.com
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals provides incredibly beautiful, relaxing homes for the wedding party,
their families, and important guests to stay before the big day. All located in the Central Coast Wine
Country region. We provide vineyard, view, or vintage vacation homes in downtown Paso Robles.
Feel at home the day of your destination wedding!
Peachy Canyon Winery • 805-237-1577, www.peachycanyon.com
Experience Peachy Canyon’s 125-year-old schoolhouse setting by having your wedding or special
event at our quaint tasting room located on Bethel Road in the heart of wine country. Our outdoor
venue is perfect brides looking to have a wedding that captures the beauty of the Central Coast.
Spanish Hills Country Club • 805-388-5000, www.spanishhillswedding.com
At Spanish Hills Country Club you will enjoy the friendly warmth and elegance of a gracious private
club. We pride ourselves on our thoughtful attention to the details that make your special day truly
memorable. Elegant touches like our unforgettable synchronized table service have earned Spanish
Hills Country Club a reputation for sophistication, beauty, and fun!
United Methodist Church of thousand oaks • 805-495-7215, www.umcto.org
Church location for weddings, which would also cover the wedding coordinator and officiant.
Villa Piacere • 877-924-0555, www.villapiacere.com
Known for elegant garden weddings. Ceremonies in our intimate brick courtyard. During the day,
umbrellas and large, lacy-leafed pepper and willow trees provide sun-dappled shade. At night, the
same trees glitter with tiny white lights for a fairy-tale feel. Gorgeous two-story villa-style restaurant
boasts soaring ceilings, chandeliers, and a fireplace.
Vina Robles • 805-227-4812, www.vinarobles.com
Combining classic California Mission-style design with modern European elegance, the Vina Robles
Hospitality Center is an ideal venue for events of all sizes and styles, including weddings, parties,
and business functions. Here, guests enjoy soaring interiors, outdoor luxury, and sweeping views of
the surrounding vineyards.
Westlake Village Inn • 818-889-0230, www.westlakevillageinn.com
For your special day choose the Westlake Village Inn. A breathtaking botanical 17-acre boutique estate
adorned with 141 guest rooms and suites ensconced with fireplaces, Jacuzzi tubs, and decadent Italian
bedding overlooking golf course, lake, or rose-arbor views. 14,000 square feet of scenic event space, four
unique exterior ceremony sites, lakeside dining at Mediterraneo, and our signature night club complete
with live music and dancing makes this spectacular site a truly idyllic venue for your next event.
Wedding Cakes
A Sweet Design • 818-912-1433, www.asweetdesign.info
Wedding cakes ... creative designs, exceptional value at an affordable price.
Bread Basket Cake Company • 805-482-1337, www.breadbasketcake.com
We specialize in wedding cakes and also make cakes for all occasions; we also bake cookies, muffins,
and pastries; we also carry gourmet items and make gift baskets.
Chocolatine • 805-557-0561, www.chocolatine.net
French pastry tea room specializes in special occasion cakes, party favors, custom chocolate,
and more.
For Heavens Cakes • 805-497-6111, www.forheavenscakes.com
For Heaven’s Cakes outstanding wedding cakes are specially designed to fit with the character and
style of your wedding. The experience begins in our private tasting room. Call and book your private
tasting today.
Pastries By Vreeke • 805-523-2253, www.pastriesbyvreeke.com
Extraordinary wedding and special occasion cakes. Don’t just buy a piece of cake, buy a piece of art!
Hours by appointment.
Wedding Coordinators/Planners
A Touch of Grace Events • 805-496-8758, www.atouchofgraceevents.com
A Touch of Grace Events is a wedding coordination business specializing in every detail of your wedding.
Our motto is “Love is in the details.” We also offer several wedding kits to help you make the
wedding planning and day perfect.
Bella Claire Romantic Design • 818-575-9930, www.bellaclaire.net • See “Bridal Party Gifts”
Bella Vita Events • 818-874-0776, www.bellavitaevents.com
Bella Vita—it means beautiful life. That’s what founder and CEO Deborah James and her talented
team manage to evoke in every event. From weddings to intimate soriees to movie galas, celebrations by Bella Vita have a grace and flair that clients claim is flawless. It’s our goal to make our
clients feel like guests at their own event.
Bijoux Events • 805-403-1618, www.bijouxevents.com
Bijoux Events understands that not only does an event’s success lie in the planning, but that the
memory lies in the attention to detail and the personal relationship built with the client. Every event
is a true reflection of perfection.
Calamigos Catering • 818-889-6280, www.calamigoscatering.com • See “Caterers”
Churchill House ViP Events • 805-338-0490, www.churchill-intl.com
Our passion is to make your event unforgettable. We produce beautiful memorable weddings,
outstanding corporate events, and unique private parties. We treat every client as our most
important, and spend as much time with you as required to produce your event. Just as it should be.
Unforgettable. Please call for a complimentary consultation.
See “Caterers”
Events by AnnMarie • 818-400-6211
Exquisite Events • 818-620-2665, www.exquisevents.com
Exquisite Events is a full-scale event planning company producing upscale gala affairs and weddings
throughout California and abroad. With the company’s attention to detail, Exquisite Events has been
able to achieve unparalelled ambiance. Let Exquisite Events handle all of your event planning needs,
from concept and design to delivery and management.
Occasions bridal consulting & event design • 818-548-5297,
www.occasiontoremember.com
Occasions boutique planning studio creates exquisite signature weddings. Award-winner Mary
Sushinski brings an innovative approach to planning, utilizing technology and artistic sensibilities.
Call or visit Occasions Web site to see how they create exotic atmospheres, tantalizing tastes, and
the most splendid ambiance that will amaze your guests.
Paso Robles Vacation Rentals • 805-423-9174, www.pasoroblesvacationrentals.com •
See “Venues/Locations”
Tiffany Cannis Events • 323-512-7573, www.tiffanycannis.com
With a natural sense of style and an appreciation for truly fantastic parties, Tiffany Cannis brings
a fresh sophistication to every event. With more than seven years of experience in the hospitality
industry, Tiffany is well-versed in all aspects of service, design, and event logistics. Tiffany and her
team offer exceptional service, unsurpassed attention to detail, and a high standard for quality to
create unique events for every client.
Toby Kay Applebay & Associates • 805-653-5351, www.tobykay.net
Expert wedding coordinating. Our goal is to ensure a wonderful time is had by all (including the
bride and her mom)!
Other
Cupid’s Coach • 877-345-5683, www.cupidscoach.com
A personal matchmaking company, serving highly desirable, relationship-oriented professionals.
Dating coaching, photos, seminars, social events. Introductory and comprehensive personal search
packages by invitation. Complimentary consultations by appointment in Westlake Village and
Brentwood. Founder Julie Ferman - 1000+ marriages. Call 877-345-LOVE.
NACE – National Association of Catering Executives • 805-532-2834,
www.venturanace.net • See “Caterers”
Visit www.805weddingsmag.com
to help plan your dream day.
Search the 805 Weddings advertiser Bride Guide
for information on the area’s top wedding vendors.
Find everything from event planners to cakes,
photographers to flowers, caterers to calligraphers.
Check back often for new listings,
copyright istockphoto.com/9lives
upcoming bridal show dates, and more.
7 ) . % # / 5 . 4 2 9 s % , % ' ! . # % s ! 7 ! 2 $ 7 ) . . ) . ' 7 ) . % 3
Weddings
Special Occasions
Corporate Events
-ILL2OAD0ASO2OBLES#!
WWW6INA2OBLESCOM4ASTING2OOM/PEN$AILYAMPM
Elizabeth Messina
Five real couples share
recent tales of tying the
knot in Southern California.
Elizabeth Messina
By Anthony head
Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara
Photogr aphs by Elizabeth Messina
Left to right, from top: Jasmine,
serene and happy before the wedding;
Michael’s shoes from Zegna await
their entrance; even Oscar gets the
bridal treatment, in a rhinestone
collar and leash made by the bride;
the groom’s suite at the Four
Seasons Resort; Jasmine redesigned
her Vera Wang dress to show off
her back: “I wanted to feel elegant
and sexy;” the bridal bouquet: “I’m
partial to white roses because that’s
what Michael always brings home
to me;” the wedding ceremony;
Michael happily awaits his bride
under a huppah of white roses,
hydrangea, ivy, fresh herbs, and rope.
asmine and Michael share a love of horses. They play polo and Jasmine competes in hunter
jumpers, so naturally a bit of an equine theme ran through their wedding day. Held at the
Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore Santa Barbara, the celebration included two large white
ceramic horseheads on display at their sweetheart table, and an elegant horsehead pendant in
Michael’s boutonniere.
“There was also some rope twirled in with the fresh flowers and white roses on the huppah,” says
Jasmine. “During the ceremony I walked around Michael three times as a symbol of our marriage—but
the huppah was tight and I really had to squeeze around him to make my circles. It was so sweet.”
The couple exchanged vows on the hotel’s manicured lawn in front of about 90 guests and two
dogs—Panda, an Aussie, and Oscar, a Yorkie—both wearing rhinestone collars and satin leashes made
by the bride. As the waves broke gently onto Butterfly Beach and a pair of seabirds flew above the
wedding site, everyone moved inside for the reception.
The happy couple celebrates at
their sweetheart table. Opposite
page, left to right: The first
heady moments as a married
couple: “We were falling in love
all over again;” Michael shows
off his new ring; a tight cluster
of white roses decorates the
cake table; white horseheads on
the sweetheart table tie in to
the theme; the El Mar room at
the Four Seasons: “I loved the
dramatic fireplace and Spanish
accents—and that it opened up
to a lounge area that overlooks
the ocean,” says Jasmine.
The handsome Spanish Colonial resort provided various locations to congregate, including the dining room, dance floor, and a humidor lounge with couches and tables on the terrace for guests to smoke
cigars and drink cognac. And the highlight of the evening’s festivities was surely the Flamenco dancers.
Jasmine says she knew exactly how she wanted the day to feel for her guests: “I really wanted the
ceremony to be simple and intimate, but have a little touch of excitement at the reception. More than
anything, I wanted people to have fun. I remember everything about the day and I recall being so happy
that it all came together just right.”
Their wedding planner, Scott Corridan, appeared on the HGTV show Design Star, but Jasmine says
he brought more than just design cache. “Scott and I ride together. We also worked together on an event
for the Dream Foundation where I saw his wonderful work firsthand. So I asked him to do my wedding.
I really didn’t give him much direction, and he embellished the day with so many personal touches.” 
Rothbard Wedding
Vendors
Invitations:
The Stationery Collection;
805-969-3414 or
www.stationerycollection.com
Wedding Coordinator:
Scott Corridan, Corridan &
Company Design Studios; 805-5659770 or www.corridanandco.com
Wedding Location:
Four Seasons Resort, The Biltmore
Santa Barbara; 805-969-2261 or
www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara
Photographer:
Elizabeth Messina; 310-779-9151
or www.elizabethmessina.com
Floral Design:
Corridan & Company Design
Studios; 805-565-9770 or
www.corridanandco.com
Wedding Cake:
Montecito Confections, Santa
Barbara; 805-965-8150 or
www.montecitoconfections.com
Wedding Favors:
Recchiuti Confections;
www.recchiuticonfections.com
Rentals:
Classic Party Rentals, Carpinteria,
805-566-3566, or Santa Barbara,
805-563-3800, or www.santabarbara.
classicpartyrentals.com; Designer
8 Event Furniture Rental, Santa
Barbara, 800-709-7007 or
www.designer8furniturerental.com;
Corridan & Company Design
Studios, 805-565-9770 or
Wedding Dress Designer:
Vera Wang; www.verawang.com
Groomswear Designer:
Ermenegildo Zegna Boutique,
Beverly Hills; 310-247-8827
or www.zegna.com
Hairstylist:
Andrea Ridgell, Mishay Salon
& Spa; 805-563-6700
Makeup Artist:
Diane Trudeau; 805-896-4986 or
dltrudeau@gmail.com
Carrie and Andrew on a post-ceremony vineyard stroll.
Opposite page, from top: the bride’s niece, Emma,
displays potted succulents that served as table decor and
a take-home reminder; blue sky and yellow grasses set a
natural ambiance; the couple’s personality shows in their
distinctive choice of footwear; Andrew holds the bride’s
bouquet of lady slipper orchids and white sweet pea.
oak savanna vineyard
santa ynez valley
Photographs by Jose Villa
arrie and Andrew were married in a beautiful outdoor ceremony at the Oak Savanna Vineyard in the
Santa Ynez Valley. Amid lush vineyards, rolling hills,
and tranquil ponds, this Los Olivos hideaway proved
to be a picture-perfect setting for their wedding. But don’t try
to secure it for yourself, cautions Carrie. “I did the recipe testing for the owners’ cookbook, Fandango, and got to know them
really well. They don’t normally rent out the space, but it’s such
a beautiful spot that we just had to ask. We were overjoyed when
they agreed to let us use it.”
Carrie is a food stylist and Andrew is a photographer, so
there’s no doubt that the tiny details of their wine-country
ceremony and reception received special deliberation. “My
husband wanted to be involved and we’re both creative people.
We had this vision of what we wanted the day to look like, right
down to the luminarias and flowers. We also decided to keep
things as local and as ‘green’ as possible,” Carrie says.
That meant that the menu featured organic and locally
produced ingredients when possible. The reception began
with specialty cocktails—Pimm’s Cups and Lapu-Lapus (a maitai-like drink from the Royal Hawaiian restaurant in Laguna
Beach)—and finger foods for noshing. There were salads,
potatoes, and other side dishes to support the entrées: salmon
wrapped in fig leaves with nasturtium butter; flank steak with
Opposite page, from top, left to
right: Hand-written table assignments
peek out of antique soda bottle
crates planted with Irish moss; the
bride and groom; guests nibbled on
french fries served in paper cones
during the cocktail hour; groomsmen
sport brown “Chucks” for a casual
look; calla lily boutonnieres accent
the groomsmen’s tan suits and
brown polka-dot ties from Banana
Republic. This page: Carrie and
Andrew offered an array of desserts,
including this banana wedding
cake with cream cheese frosting
from Decadence Wedding Cakes.
chimichurri sauce; and three kinds of grilled pizzas. The Purcells
also served three local wines: Alma Rosa Pinot Gris, Babcock
Pinot Noir, and Stolpman Poetry in Red.
“Everybody told us that the day was a unique time, a lot of fun,
and very ‘us.’ We had about 140 guests and we were really excited
that many people who we expected to take off after we cut the
cake stayed well past midnight,” says Carrie.
Her advice to those just beginning the process of planning a
wedding is to simply have faith that it gets easier as time goes by.
“The hardest part of planning is the beginning—and those are
the big things,” Carrie says, who chose the date of the wedding
based on the photographer’s availability. “The rest—those little
details which make it so special—are so much fun to envision
and make happen.” 
Invitations
Letter Perfect Stationery, Santa Barbara; 805-969-7998
or www.letterperfectstationery.com
Rehearsal Dinner
Cold Spring Tavern, Santa Barbara; 805-967-0066
or www.coldspringtavern.com
Wedding Coordinator
Kelly Clark, Event of the Season, Santa Barbara;
805-705-9727 or www.sbeventcoordinators.com
Officiant
Matt Mills, Santa Barbara; 805-689-6026
or matimills@cox.net
Photographer
Jose Villa, Solvang; 805-688-8654
or www.josevillaphoto.com
Entertainment
DJ Bill Dup, Santa Barbara; sbmusician@hotmail.com
Floral Design
Renae’s Bouquet, Santa Barbara; 805-691-1660
or www.renaesbouquet.com
Wedding Cake
Decadence Wedding Cakes, Santa Ynez; 805-344-4077
or www.decadenceweddingcakes.com
Caterer
Kim Schiffer, Fresh Foods Catering, Santa Barbara;
805-687-7535 or kimschiffer@cox.net
Rentals
Ventura Rental Center, Ventura; 805-644-4496
or www.venturarental.com
Wedding Night Accommodations
Bacara Resort & Spa, Santa Barbara; 805-968-0100
or www.bacararesort.com
Wedding Dress Designer
Peter Langner, www.peterlangner.com; M Bride Salon,
La Jolla, 858-551-1718 or www.mbrideaslon.com
Headpiece Designer
Mercedes Trump, Beautiful Boutique,
Santa Barbara; 805-687-7433
Opposite page, clockwise from top: A candy
buffet included Lemonheads, Tootsie Pops,
caramels, and Smarties for guests to take home
as a favor; the couple cut all the twigs for the
table assignment cards from Felix Doolittle
(www.felixdoolittle.com); Andrew’s aunt
donated birch logs from her Colorado woodpile
that Andrew and a friend built into a cupcakeserving “landscape;” guests dined at long
tables: “I wanted it to be casual and intimate
and feel like a real dinner table,” Carrie says.
Groomswear Designer
Hickey Freeman, available at Garys, Newport Beach,
949-759-1622; or at Nordstrom, Santa Barbara,
805-564-8770; or at Patrick James, San Luis Obispo,
805-549-9593; or at www.hickeyfreeman.com
Bridesmaid Dresses
J.Crew, Thousand Oaks, 805-230-2697; Santa Barbara,
805-563-0373; or www.jcrew.com
Hairstylist
Darin Jon Studio, Santa Barbara; 805-962-1884
Treasure Hill Ranch,
Hidden Valley
Photographs by Michael Brannigan
“T
his is how I always dreamed it. I wouldn’t have gotten married anywhere else.”
That’s the way Rachel Loftin describes her choice of location for her wedding day.
And last May she married Charles at her parents’ home in Hidden Valley. Named
“Treasure Hill Ranch,” this 20-acre estate is an iconic California portrait, complete with a barn,
split-rail fence, and horses in the pasture.
The day’s events were held in different locations. For the ceremony, which took place as the
sun was beginning to set over the woodsy backdrop, the Loftins exchanged vows in a beautiful
garden setting. This would normally be considered a once-in-a-lifetime wedding site, except in
this case it was the exact spot where Rachel’s parents had been married about 30 years prior.
Such history was important on this day, also told in Rachel’s bouquet adorned with photographs
of grandparents and great-grandparents who had passed away.
Having anointed the day with the theme, “Love, luck, and laughter,” the Loftins had yet
another playful element for the occasion—this one colored a rather distinct hue. “Pink’s my
signature color,” Rachel says. “I’ve always loved the color pink. I just ran with it.” So when
the 300 guests arrived at an enormous reception tent they found it swathed in pink. Cherryblossom trees brought in for the occasion, napkins, fresh-cut flowers, ribbons and bows—nearly
everything was pink. So was Charles’ boutonniere. So were the pashminas given as gifts to the
female guests. And naturally, so was the cotton candy. The band and a fancy barbecue buffet
were going strong from the first moment, so guests could do as they pleased—dance, mingle,
eat—whenever they wanted.
Rachel is a makeup artist and Charles is a distributor of industrial engines and generators
throughout the Southwest. Rachel’s family’s company used to manufacture gumball machines.
“So we had gumballs,”—no doubt many of them pink—“everywhere, even floating in the champagne glasses,” she says. “We wanted the reception to just be a great party and a great big thank
you to all our guests, so we did whatever we could do to make it fun.” 
top: Reflection of a beautiful day in Hidden Valley. “It was like we were standing on water!” says Rachel. Below, left to right: Votives
hung from graceful ivy-covered arches marking the aisle and in trees around the ceremony site, creating a soft glow; even the
groom’s boutonniere was pink; a kiss seals the deal.
Loftin Wedding Vendors
Invitations: Hadco, Canoga Park;
818-888-8928 or www.hadcoforms.com
Caterer: Someone’s In the Kitchen,
Tarzana; 818-343-5151 or www.sitk.com
Rehearsal Dinner: Westlake Village Inn,
Westlake Village; 818-889-0230 or
www.westlakevillageinn.com
Wedding Favors: Irish Crystal Company,
Thousand Oaks; 805-494-9422
Wedding Coordinator: Churchill House
ViP Events, Westlake Village; 805-338-0490
or 805-496-3160 or www.churchill-intl.com
Photographer: Michael Brannigan,
Westlake Village; 805-418-9868 or
www.davidmichaelphoto.com
Floral Design: Fleur De Liz, Sherman Oaks;
818-907-5442 or www.fleurdelizevents.com
Wedding Cake: Bread Basket Cake
Company, Camarillo; 805-482-1337 or
www.breadbasketcake.com
Rentals: Classic Party Rentals,
Carpinteria, 805-566-3566, or Santa Barbara,
805-563-3800, or El Segundo, 310-535-3660
or www.classicpartyrentals.com
Wedding Dress Designer:
Vera Wang; www.verawang.com
Wedding Night Accommodations:
Westlake Village Inn, Westlake Village;
818-889-0230 or www.westlakevillageinn.com
Above: The pinked-out party
tent looked “absolutely amazing,” gushes Rachel. “By the time
we got there after pictures
everyone was already dancing.”
Opposite page, clockwise from
top: Even the water in the centerpieces was dyed to match the
theme; pink sweet pea bedecked
the bride’s and groom’s chairs
at their sweetheart table; Mr.
and Mrs. Loftin’s first dance
as man and wife; “Vivien Leigh”
bridesmaid dresses from Siri
(www.siriinc.com); the floral
arch from the ceremony highlights the cake, accented with
pink peonies and topped with a
Waterford crystal horseshoe.
“We wanted the reception to just be a great party
and a great big thank you to all our guests, so
we did whatever we could do to make it fun.”
Bacara Resort & Spa
Santa Barbara
Photographs by Jose Villa
“R
yan and I love going wine tasting in the Santa Ynez
Valley. After so many trips up there, we also fell in
love with Santa Barbara,” says Brittany. She’s a graduate
student in social work at San Diego State University,
and her husband, Ryan, is a San Diego-based attorney.
When it came to planning their big day, they liked the
idea of a destination wedding in Santa Barbara, which
wasn’t too far away for friends and family to attend. “We
thought Bacara [Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara] was
going to be perfect.”
Clockwise from
top: Colorful fans
(the other side of
which served as
a program) and
parasols bought
in LA’s Chinatown
added a festive touch
and kept guests
comfortable; the new
Mr. and Mrs. Kirby
share a kiss along
a path overlooking
the ocean; Brittany
walked down a rosepetal-strewn aisle in
front of 150 guests on
Bacara’s Miró Lawn.
And according to Brittany, it was. The Kirbys had
an outdoor ceremony at Bacara on a beautiful latesummer day with 150 guests in attendance. Ryan had
four groomsmen attending him, while Brittany had six
bridesmaids in chocolate-brown dresses plus a junior
bridesmaid. They personalized the occasion by expressing their own vows, and also read aloud their “Top Ten”
lists of what they love about each other.
Once the wedding ceremony was completed, the
reception guests left Miró Lawn, which overlooks the
ocean, and gathered in the Rotunda Room for dinner,
dancing, and cake-cutting. Guests popped into a photo
booth that supplied a pair of portraits: One to take home
(in a frame given as a gift for attending the ceremony),
and the other for a guest book along with well-wishes for
the happy couple.
“What I heard from many of my guests afterward was
that they felt like they were witnessing a very intimate
ceremony and then attending a party in an elegant
dining room in a beautiful home. My mom and I did a
lot of planning but we also used Jill La Fleur for the final
planning. I remember sitting down at the reception and
seeing all the twinkle lights and happy people and being
so content about how it all came together—better than I
could have expected.” 
“What I heard from many of my guests afterward was that they felt
like they were witnessing a very
intimate ceremony…”
Kirby Wedding Vendors
Invitations: Paper Source; www.paper-source.com
Rehearsal Dinner: Bouchon, Santa Barbara; 805-730-1160
Wedding Coordinator: Jill La Fleur; 805-688-7805
or www.lafleurweddings.com
Wedding Location: Bacara Resort & Spa, Santa Barbara;
805-968-0100 or www.bacararesort.com; Whitney Byxbee,
Bridal Director
Officiant: Jon Ireland; 805-886-2913 or jon@oceanhills.org
Photographer: Jose Villa, Solvang; 805-688-8654 or
www.josevillaphoto.com
Entertainment (DJ): AMS Entertainment; 805-899-4000
or www.amsentertainment.com
Floral Design: Camille Panzarello, Modern Day Design,
Santa Barbara; 805-689-6197 or www.moderndaydesign.com
Wedding Dress Designer: Jenny Lee, Santa Barbara Bridal,
Santa Barbara; 805-730-7300 or www.santabarbarabridal.com
Bridesmaid Dresses: Nicole Miller, La Jolla, 858-454-3434;
or West Hollywood, 310-652-1629; or Saks Fifth Avenue,
Santa Barbara, 805-884-9997; or www.nicolemiller.com
Hairstylist: Trina Duarte, The Studio Agency, Santa
Barbara; 805-436-2828 or www.thestudioagency.com
Makeup Artist: Cathryn VanBreene, Santa Barbara;
805-436-2828 or www.cvbmakeup.com
Red Cheese Photo Booth: 888-770-2266 or
www.redcheese.com
From top: Pretty maids in a row with the newlyweds; three julep cups brimming with imported
Vendela roses, peppermint geranium, and maidenhair fern dressed the reception tables; table
assignments rest in a mossy bed trimmed with pieris, ferns, and vines; the gilt wedding cake
detail tied in to a design from the invitations; a photo booth at the reception provided a take-home
keepsake in silver frames also used for place cards; Brittany and Ryan pose with the program fans.
Shawn
+MIKE
stru b
Ke llogg
Adamson House, Malibu
Photographs by Katie Moos
“I’m a graphic designer and Mike’s a computer programmer
working mainly on developing Web sites,” explains Shawn while
talking about why they chose specific wedding colors. “Being a
designer, I love colors and I wanted to have a lot of them. We had
red, brown, orange, and lime green. I didn’t intentionally choose
them for the location, but they really fit in well with the setting.”
That setting was at the Adamson House in Malibu. On the
grounds of this 1930s estate, now a National Historical Site and a
registered California Landmark, is a house and other structures
built in the Spanish Colonial Revival style. Everywhere on the
grounds there are ceramic tiles that just happened to match the
couple’s bold color palette.
The site also features great views of Malibu Beach, the lagoon,
and the pier. “I wanted the day to be elegant and near the ocean
without having our guests’ feet in the sand the whole time. I
couldn’t believe how wonderful the Adamson House was. We
loved it because it was the best of both worlds,” says Shawn.
The ceremony was held in the early evening with about
75 guests attending. Solo Spanish guitarist Anthony Ybarra
played during the ceremony while a good friend of the couple’s
performed the rites.
As the guests moved to the reception area and the sun began
to set over the Pacific Ocean, two other musicians joined Ybarra
to play during cocktails and hors d’oeurves. The couple chose an
Opposite page: Shawn and Mike enjoying the colorful architectural details of the
Adamson House (and each other). This page, clockwise from top: Mike’s nieces,
Erycka and Reece, served as flower girls; a whimsical feather detail adorns Shawn’s
‘do; “Dahlias [are] my favorite flower. They come in so many gorgeous colors,
especially reds and oranges which I LOVE;” Shawn hand-picked Japanese paper to
bind the booklet invitations, which she also designed.
Eye-catching array: Shawn’s mother made table runners from fabric Shawn
collected while traveling through Japan (below left). Clever system: Place
cards were color-coded based on guests’ meal orders, to make serving a
snap (below bottom right). Opposite page, clockwise: A small cake still
packs a big punch for the cutting ceremony; mini cupcakes from Leda’s
Bake Shop (“There were none left at the end of the night for us to take
home!” laments Shawn); a designer friend (www.miraaster.com) made the
favors—bookmarks—out of the same paper used for the invitations.
eclectic mix of Mexican and Japanese influences for their wedding, the latter reflected in the invitations, place cards, and guest
book Shawn designed. Friends and family slipped good wishes
for the couple into glassine envelopes in the guest book and then
decorated the pages with Japanese stamps.
After dinner, the trio of musicians became a quartet and
Shawn says her first dance with Mike was the most memorable
part of the day. But for the guests, she guesses, it was probably
the wedding cakes. Cupcakes, to be exact. “Instead of a traditional wedding cake we had big trays full of miniature cupcakes
from Leda’s Bake Shop in Sherman Oaks,” she says. “We had
different flavors and they just looked so yummy. People went
crazy for them. That was fun.”
Strub-Kellogg Wedding
VENDORS
Invitations: Papel Paper & Press; 323-653-6771 or
www.papelpress.com
Rehearsal Dinner: Gladstone’s Malibu, Pacific Palisades;
310-459-9734 or www.gladstones.com
Wedding Coordinator: Stephanie Lairson; 949-285-4933 or
www.stephanielairson.com
Wedding Location: Adamson House, Malibu; 310-457-8185 or
www.adamsonhouse.org
Officiant: David McRae; 760-985-4376 or www.vestedpower.com
Photographer: Katie Moos; 805-469-3505 or www.katiemoos.com
Rentals: LA Party Rents; 877-527-2789 or www.lapartyrents.com
Entertainment: Anthony Ybarra; 805-403-6375 or
www.ybarramusic.com
Wedding Night Accommodations: Casa Del Mar, Santa Monica;
310-581-5533 or www.hotelcasadelmar.com
Floral Design: Kate Holt, Flower Wild, Burbank; 818-729-0309
or www.flowerwild.com
Wedding Dress Designer: Nicole Miller, West Hollywood,
310-652-1629 or www.nicolemiller.com
Wedding Cupcakes: Leda’s Bake Shop, Sherman Oaks;
818-386-9644 or www.ledasbakeshop.com
Groomswear Designer: Hugo Boss at Barneys New York,
Beverly Hills; 310-276-4400 or www.barneys.com
Caterer: Gary Weddle, The Spanish Kitchen, Los Angeles;
310-659-4794 or www.thespanishkitchen.com
Bridesmaid Dresses: J.Crew, Thousand Oaks, 805-230-2697;
Santa Barbara, 805-563-0373; or www.jcrew.com
Wedding Favors: Mira Aster; www.miraaster.com
Makeup Artist: Jackie Brubaker; www.dollfaceartists.com
Great
bouquets
to lead
you down
the aisle
in style.
Opposite page: Romantic hand-tied bouquet of white garden roses and hydrangea by Tricia Fountaine, 805450-8753. Photograph by Ryan Phillips Photography (www.ryanphillips.com). This page, left to right: Bold bouquet
of green and apricot cymbidium orchids with roses from Modern Day Design, 805-689-6197 or www.
moderndaydesign.com. Photograph by Katie Moos (www.katiemoos.com). | Pretty pink cymbidium orchids and pink
roses with white stephanotis garnished with pearls from Luna Gardens, 310-281-2565 or www.lunagardens.
com. Photograph by Jennifer S. Rau Photography (www.jsrphotography.com). | Sophisticated bouquet of pure white
roses punctuated with pearl-garnished stephanotis from Happy Flowers, 818-597-0272. Photograph by Captured
Moments by Dee (www.capturedmomentsbydee.com). | Cheerful yellow and pink roses with white dahlia, accented
with hypericum berries from Your Neighborhood Florist, 805-498-2162 or www.yourneighborhoodflorist.net.
Photograph by Mi Belle (www.mibelleinc.com).
»
This page, left to right: Luscious cluster of Mexican lavender with ribbon-wrapped stems by Mindy Rice
Floral Design, 805-688-2499 or 310-308-3735 or www.mindyrice.com. Photograph by Elizabeth Messina (www.
elizabethmessina.com). | Striking white-on-white bouquet of double tulips, ornithogalium, lisianthius, and lily of
the valley surrounded by a cuff of amber cymbidium orchids by Unique Floral Designs, 805-522-1669 or www.
uniquefloraldesigns.com. Photograph by Mi Belle (www.mibelleinc.com). | Exotic bouquet of white miniature calla
lilies and green cymbidium orchids accented with touches of freesia by Modern Day Design, 805-689-6197 or
www.moderndaydesign.com. Photograph by Jennifer S. Rau Photography (www.jsrphotography.com). | Perfect pink
and cream roses accented with sweet pea and feathery pink and cream astilbe by Stacey Martin, 818-718-0797
or www.flowersbystacey.net. Photograph by Mi Belle (www.mibelleinc.com). Opposite page: Fragrant bouquet of
Australian blushing bride, miniature calla lilies, brunellia, stephanotis studded with crystals, gardenia, silver
brunia, and orange blossom by Asiel Design, 800-942-7435 or www.asieldesign.com. Photograph by Jennifer S.
Rau Photography (www.jsrphotography.com). For additional flower resources, turn to page 122.
At left: Event producer Scott Corridan
is launching his own line of wedding
gowns—White Chocolate Label—after
more than a dozen years of helping
select and fit clients’ wedding dresses.
Opposite: Corridan’s West Coast
roots and love of the equestrian
lifestyle were both major sources
of inspiration in designing the new
line—as were many of the brides he
has worked with over the years.
California Couture
Scott Corridan’s new White Chocolate Label wedding dresses are
inspired by—and made in—Southern California.
By Laura Samuel Meyn Photographs by Elizabeth Messina
S
anta Barbara-based event producer Scott Corridan of Corridan & Company Design
Studios has been making weddings and other special events stylish, inspired, and
personal for 14 years. (Those who haven’t seen his work in person or on the pages
of magazines might have caught the designer in his turn on HGTV’s Design Star.) So, after
accompanying many a bride to the bridal salon to help select or fit her dress—he thinks of
the dress as the cornerstone of a wedding, after all—it was a natural transition for Corridan
to design his own line of wedding gowns: White Chocolate Label (prices range from $6,000
to $20,000). 805 Weddings caught up with Corridan—as he was working on the gowns in
anticipation of a spring launch date—to find out more about the high-end line made from
such sumptuous fabrics as cashmere, silk satin, and silk chiffon.
805 Weddings: Why design wedding dresses—which needs
were you inspired to answer?
Scott Corridan: I’m a West Coast designer, a born and bred
California boy. It’s important to bring a voice and perspective
to the West Coast, to get away from that heavy East Coast and
European idea of what it is to be a bride.
805: How are your gowns different?
SC: People who have viewed samples say, “This is going to be a
woman who knows herself.” The point of view is very West Coast.
The girls I grew up with are equestrians, sailors, surfers … strong
athletic women who are gorgeous and can show up in a couture
gown in the evening … or muck a stall, take care of a foal. It’s fun
to incorporate the details that make up the equestrian lifestyle
into some of the wedding gowns in the collection; we’re using
mini horse bits as clasps, and very, very stylized horseshoes—in a
clean, Tiffany, sterling-silver way—as cufflinks.
805: What’s the significance of your name for the line—White
Chocolate Label?
SC: I wear a lot of chocolate brown; it’s my most complimentary
color. So the notion of white chocolate came to mind: white
chocolate poured over a woman’s body and creating a gown on
her body.
805: Beyond the designs, how will you be involved?
SC: I hate it when girls are starving to themselves to fit into a
dress; it damages their psyche and the alterations process. I want
them to be normal and healthy girls. When they order a dress
they’ll get a box of white chocolate truffles and a note from me.
Every fifth Saturday I’ll be in the salon to work with fitting and
altering the gowns with the seamstress. Every woman’s body is
different; I’m excited to get in the salons and fit them properly
to accentuate their assets.
805: The gowns each have a woman’s name—Bianca, Devanee,
Jessica, Heather, and Jasmine—what’s the story there?
SC: They’re real women—girls I’ve worked with in the past 14
years … this is what I would’ve done if I’d been doing their dress
myself. I’ve reached out to each one of them [with the designs]:
There were giggles and squeals and “I wish we could turn back
time” or “I wish I could get married again.” It’s funny.
805: What do you love about weddings?
SC: Weddings embody so much that we hold true and dear and
right in the world; it’s a moment in time when we are our biggest
and greatest … if we could always live in that place! I want to
frame her with this dress, add to that incredible moment. 
For more information on White Chocolate Label call 866-925-2235
or visit www.whitechocolatelabel.com.
Left: From sketches to fabric selection, Corridan has seen his first collection of high-end wedding gowns from conception through completion; soon
they’ll be showing up exclusively in five handpicked California bridal salons.
Opposite, clockwise from top left: Corridan found inspiration for designing the gowns in several of his past clients; elegant fabrics, many sourced
from Italy, are used in constructing the dresses; Corridan plans to stay
hands-on with his designs, making regular visits to the bridal salons carrying White Chocolate Label to assist with fitting the gowns; the line debuts
with Corridan’s Fall/Winter 2008 collection, featuring five distinct designs.
Kensington
Beauty
Make-up Artists LLC.
Bridal and special occasion make-up, hair styling,
custom spray tan, and tattoo covering.
www.
KensingtonBeauty.com
(805) 298 -2420
Jewelry Provided By:
Anderson Jewelers
(805) 529-5844
Photography By:
Cherie Carlson Photography
(310) 867-9240
FINDS | travel
The Day After
the Wedding
If this is your year to get married—first of all,
congratulations!—but for heaven’s sake don’t forget to plan
the honeymoon. The editors of the Honeymooner’s Review
Guide Web site report that the Fiji Islands top the destination
wish list for hopeful honeymooners. (FYI: Hawaii and French
Polynesia follow closely behind.) To make it easier to plan the
big getaway, this Web site provides couples with updated
information on travel destinations and accommodations,
whether you’re looking for an active backpacking trip in the
mountains, a cruise in the Caribbean, or a luxurious retreat
to a five-star hotel. The site also includes ideas for sparking
romance, tips for what to pack, and advice on how to book a
romantic room. Much of the information comes straight from
newlyweds who have already taken the honeymoon plunge. For
more information visit www.honeymoonersreviewguide.com.
—anthony head
where will the
?
You think you’ve thought of
everything: the location for
your wedding, the invitations,
music, food, and flowers. But
what about out-of-town family
and guests?
Santa Barbara-based Anna
Leek, to the rescue. As founder
of MrsWeddingTravel.com,
Leek has vast knowledge
of Central Coast hotels and
provides complimentary
services that include assisting
the bride and groom in
selecting hotels for traveling
guests, negotiating the best
rates, and coordinating who is
staying where, so that cousin
Ben from Hollywood can find
Auntie Mary from Kansas.
Her Web site allows guests to
see who’s coming, where they
will be staying, as well as the
wedding party schedule, if you
have a rash of activities planned
around your special day.
Of course, you will need to
contact her before you mail your
invitations, but you remembered
that, right? Leek can also help
couples who use her services
create their dream honeymoon,
booking air, accommodations,
and transfers that include
“honeymoon rewards” ranging
from $100 to $300.
For more information
contact Anna Leek at
877-569-6829 or visit
www.mrsweddingtravel.com.
—Leslie A. Westbrook
Perfect for
Lovebirds
Beverly Hills-based Mindy Weiss—wedding planner to the
stars (think Eva Longoria and Tony Parker, Heidi Klum and Seal,
to name just a few)—has launched The Mindy Weiss for Two’s
Company collection of wedding gifts and accessories. Shown
here, items from the Love is in the Air collection: “Mr. and Mrs.
passport case set” ($15 each) and “Mr. and Mrs. luggage tag set”
($7.50 for the pair) available at Bella Claire Romantic Designs,
4667 Lakeview Canyon Road, Westlake Village, 818-575-9930.
top photo: COPYRIGHT LUCKYOLIVER/Yuri Arcurs
guests stay
..............
........................................................
The English Garden
floral designs
31143 Via Colinas, Suite 406 • Westlake Village CA 91362
818.597.1501
www.TheEnglishGarden.com
Located across from the Four Seasons Hotel
for people who love flowers
DESTINATIONS | HONEYMOON
Riviera Nayarit
Finding paradise in a mostly undiscovered part of Mexico.
JOHN C. RUSSELL
By Anthony Head
The couple at the Puerto Vallarta International Airport walked arm in arm, both
of their sun-tanned faces completely relaxed and worry-free. She leaned over
and gave him a kiss, and he looked back at her as if he had just awakened from
a blissful dream only to find himself in another. They then proceeded to board
their plane, because, in fact, they were leaving. But if their demeanor were any
indication, they would probably return home filled with tranquil harmony. Such
is the magic of Mexico.
The aquamarine
waters of the
Pacific Ocean are
a playground for
fishing, swimming,
boating, and many
more activities.
As far as honeymoon destinations go, Mexico is always near the
top of the list, and for good reason: It’s close by. The US dollar is still
strong south of the border. And Mexican hospitality remains timeless
and inviting. They are our neighbors, after all, and that recognition
transcends government boundaries.
Puerto Vallarta is as popular as ever. The city of 350,000 residents
greets nearly three million tourists each year, many of them de-planing
and heading straight for Banderas Bay. This is an international port
for the world’s cruise lines, and throughout the week it’s possible to
see as many as three floating behemoths anchored in the calm waters
at one time. Puerto Vallarta is also a shopping and dining hub, and
as more resorts and hotels come to town, the choices for spending
your money on food, clothes, and souvenirs have grown considerably.
Café des Artistes Bistro Gourmet has been the reigning hotspot for
elegant dining for many years. Mixing some Mexican ingredients
with European cooking techniques, chef and owner Thierry Blouet
still commands culinary respect with his unique creations. Make your
reservations before leaving home, though.
Those visitors wanting to get a bit off the beaten path need only
take a scenic drive north to discover mostly unknown treasures of
Central Mexico. The Riviera Nayarit spans about 100 miles from just
north of Nuevo Vallarta to the historic colonial town of San Blas. This
coastal drive, much like California’s Highway 1, touches many different landscapes. Along with long, undeveloped lengths of coastline,
there are myriad towns with dusty, crumbling streets, and tiny palmtree-dotted fishing villages. On one side of the road the boats bob
gently in the bay and on the other side, lush jungle flows to the Sierra
Madre Mountains, which can be seen far in the distance.
The whole Riviera Nayarit region features some of the best vacation activities: whale watching along the coast; snorkeling, diving,
and fishing in the Pacific Ocean; Jeep and hiking tours of the Sierra
Madres; bird watching in La Tovara National Park; and learning all
about native sea turtles at the Grupo Ecológico de la Costa Verde,
located in the San Francisco area (also called San Pancho).
But it’s still early in Nayarit’s development. The area was recently
re-launched by local tourism boards and governments (even the
Riviera Nayarit name is new). As more visitors discover the relaxed
“Old Mexico” ambiance, the future is quickly catching on. Today,
there are some highly visible patches of development in the forms
of cinderblock and cement infrastructure where nothing but jungle
once stood. These new buildings are going up as quickly as the old
ones are folding over; and now colorful hotels and private residences
scallop the contours of the hillsides. But there are still many opportunities to enjoy a rustic experience in a tiny village or have a wonderful
stay in one of the many boutique hotels.
Bucerías, for example, is a quaint fishing town just a few miles
north of Puerto Vallarta. It retains much of its historic cobblestone
charm. There are plenty of cantinas and casual beachside restaurants. A local favorite is Sandrina’s, a Mediterranean restaurant with a
garden courtyard. The menu here emphasizes Greek specialties, like
spanakopita and chicken souvlaki.
Up in San Blas there are no condos or major resorts, but there
are still wonderful accommodations. Located in town and just a mile
from the beach, Hotel Hacienda Flamingos is a perfect home base to
return to after a 12-mile boat ride through the jungle to spot crocodiles, turtles, and exotic birds.
The pinnacle of Riviera Nayarit, though, is Punta Mita, an angular,
1,500-acre peninsula where aquamarine waves break onto coastal
rocks before rolling lazily onto sandy beaches. Perched on the hillside of this geographical tip (Punta Mita translates to “arrow point”)
is the Four Seasons Resort, a wonderful location for any couple to
get to know one another better in luxurious surroundings. The
resort is spaciously spread out on lushly landscaped grounds where
exotic birds nest and the occasional iguana suns itself on the rocks.
Sea turtles are
protected along the
Nayarit coast, and
they use the beaches
as nesting sites.
Below: The Four
Seasons Punta Mita
famous “Tail of the
Whale” green, on
hole 3B, is set on
a natural island in
the Pacific Ocean.
Those visitors wanting to get a bit off
the beaten path need only take a
scenic drive north to discover mostly
unknown treasures of Central Mexico.
MARY NICHOLS
PETER VITALE
During the winter, humpback whales migrate through the slate-gray
open waters, occasionally breaking the surface directly in view from
the beach.
With only 141 guestrooms and 32 suites, the resort never feels
crowded. Accommodations are elegant but not over-the-top weighty.
Instead of heavy antiques or other cumbersome bric-a-brac, the rooms
are lightly furnished with traditional Mexican art and dark-wood
furniture, creating a breezy ambiance suitable for returning to after
a day at the beach. (Or, if the situation warrants, remaining indoors
for extended periods.)
Along with the beaches framing the peninsula, the Four Seasons
also has a variety of swimming pools (one just for adults) as well as a
“lazy river” feature with a very gentle current for guests to float along
with around a family-friendly oasis.
The links at the Four Seasons are certainly world-class, but golf can
be a touchy subject when it comes to romantic vacations. The game
has been known to strain relationships, and has no place on a honeymoon unless both people agree to it up front. Ranked number one in
2006 by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the Jack Nicklaus-designed
course here is considered one of the finest in the world. If nothing
else, the 200-acre course wraps itself to the shoreline and is a terrific
walk for couples. But for those who are serious about the game, there
are five sets of tee boxes that provide 5,037 to 7,014 yards of play. The
signature 3B hole—referred to fondly as the “Tail of the Whale”—has
players hit onto a green that is set on a natural island 194 yards from
the tee. During low tide, golfers cross a rock path to the hole; at high
tide they must ride in a water taxi.
There are certainly more indulgent ways to pass the time, such
as enjoying treatments at the Apuane Spa. The signature Hakali
massage, for instance, is a true Mexican rejuvenating experience that
uses a warm “meringue” of prickly pear cactus and pulque (fermented
agave sap) for a massage and body wrap that rehydrates the skin,
removes toxins, and leaves the body feeling invigorated. There’s also
a Mayan Mud treatment, a penetrating massage with richly textured
fango volcanic mud that’s said to stimulate the energy systems.
Treatments can be enjoyed at the spa or in the guests’ hotel room,
as well as in ocean- and garden-view cabanas. There is also the deluxe
Apuane Suite, a romantic hideaway for couples that features twin
massage tables, a private Jacuzzi, sundeck, and sauna. To take such
pleasures to the next level, there are also after-dark spa experiences,
which combine gourmet dining and exotic treatments. For example,
after a Watsu massage by the pool, couples can enjoy a candlelit
dinner in a private cabana.
Guestrooms at the Four Seasons Punta Mita feature
spectacular ocean views and are comfortably furnished
with traditional Mexican art. Above: The infinity pool
at the Four Seasons Punta Mita appears to flow
directly into the waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Speaking of dining, there are four different on-site restaurants
ranging from the more casual beachside Bahia grill to the elegant
Aramara dining room. Seafood reigns as Riviera Nayarit’s signature
cuisine, and three days a week local fishermen bring their freshest fish
directly to the Four Seasons’ beach. Chefs then consult with guests to
select from this “catch of the day” for menu specials, such as tangy
ceviche or grilled red snapper.
This interaction between visitors and locals is one of ways the resort
provides a strong sense of place. Guests can also visit the library and
cultural center for nightly Spanish lessons and other activities, such
as tequila tastings. They’ll also find plenty of information on the rich
traditions of the area’s pre-Columbian history.
While it may be surprising that more people haven’t yet heard of
Riviera Nayarit, it’s not so shocking to learn that the Four Seasons
will soon have company on Punta Mita. A St. Regis Resort, as well as
a second Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course, are scheduled to open
later this year. Such development is sure to mean more honeymooners
returning home awfully happy after a magical trip to Mexico.
MARY NICHOLS
When viewed
from the Punta
Mita peninsula,
the Mexican
sunsets are as
soothing as any
spa treatment.
Riviera Nayarit
Resources
Café des Artistes
Bistro Gourmet
Puerto Vallarta
www.cafedesartistes.com
Four Seasons
Punta Mita
www.fourseasons.com/puntamita
Hotel Hacienda Flamingos
San Blas
www.sanblas.com.mx
Sandrina’s Restaurant
Bucerías
www.sandrinas.com
Destination Wedding:
Four Seasons Punta Mita
Punta Mita is not just an ideal location for honeymooners and anniversary couples. It’s the perfect
place to get married, too. From an intimate ceremony with the couple exchanging vows before a
few close friends to an extravagant celebration with 150 guests, each facet of the wedding can be
handled to the guests’ delight.
Liliana Rico is the Four Seasons’ dedicated wedding planner at Punta Mita. She says the resort
hosts at least 30 weddings each year. “Some of our couples are first-time guests who have never
been to the property before, but have had it recommended to them. Others have been here before
and simply fell in love with the area,” Rico says. “We can take care of the photography, the cake,
the catering. We can handle delivering welcome amenities for arriving guests. We can make sure
the groom’s boutonniere is perfect. And this is not just a one-size-fits-all package. We tailor our
services to what the couple wants and needs.”
That means you can do as much or as little as you desire. Even if you forget the wedding gown—
which Rico says has happened—they’ll be able to find one for you. As for a ceremony site, there
are several to choose from, each with the beach as a wonderful backdrop. For smaller ceremonies
with fewer guests, the ultimate setting would be on “the rock.” This natural formation juts out over
the water and provides wonderful 360-degree views of the beach, ocean, and the peninsula itself.
Larger weddings can set up in numerous locations on the sand. Dinner, dancing, and cake-cutting
can all take place in the wonderful Mexican sunshine.
The Four Seasons can also help arrange post-wedding excursions such as snorkeling, shopping
trips to Puerto Vallarta, and a day spent on the Four Seasons yacht. For more information contact
Liliana Rico at 011-52-329-291-6099 or liliana.rico@fourseasons.com.
gary moss
Snorkeling along the beautiful
Riviera Nayarit is just one way
for honeymooners to spend
quality time in Mexico.
805 Weddings: The A-List
hg
Elizabeth Messina
Select wedding resources to help make your dream day come true.
•= ADVERTISER
|BRIDAL PARTY GIFTS|
•A la Maison
31143 Via Colinas
www.alamaisonwlv.com
•Bella Claire Romantic Design
4667 Lakeview Canyon Road
www.bellaclaire.net
•Mrs. Jones Boudoir
2068 Ventura Blvd.
Camarillo, 805-484-9800
www.mrsjonesboudoir.com
•Pixtorie
Camarillo, 877-749-8674
www.pixtorie.com
|BRIDAL SALONS|
•For Heavens Cakes
804 Thousand Oaks Blvd.
Thousand Oaks, 805-497-6111
www.forheavenscakes.com
LaStarr & Co.
805-642-2814
www.lastarrcakes.com
Leda’s Bake Shop
13722 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, 818-386-9644
www.ledasbakeshop.com
Montecito Confections
121 E. Yanonali St.
www.montecitoconfections.com
Morning Star Creations
San Luis Obispo, 805-785-0566
www.morningstarcakes.com
•Lili Bridals
18663 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, 818-774-9700
www.lilibridals.com
Nothing Bundt Cakes
www.nothingbundtcakes.com
•Santa Barbara Bridal
15 W. Figueroa St.
www.santabarbarabridal.com
Pastries by Edie
21608 Sherman Way
Canoga Park, 818-340-0203
www.pastriesbyedie.com
|BUTTERFLY & WHITE
DOVE RELEASES|
•Pastries by Vreeke
717 Lakefield Road
www.pastriesbyvreeke.com
Heavenly Doves by Jerry Garcia
Oxnard, 805-512-0206
www.heavenlydoves.net
Humbug Butterfly Farms
805-964-0727
www.humbugfarms.com
|CAKES|
•A Sweet Design
20935 Vanowen St.
www.asweetdesign.info
•Bread Basket Cake Company
83 Daily Drive
Camarillo, 805-482-1337
www.breadbasketcake.com
The Cakery
773 Foothill Blvd.
www.slocakery.com
Cassie’s Custom Cakes
7425 El Camino Real
Atascadero, 805-462-2253
www.cassiescustomcakes.com
•Chocolatine
www.chocolatine.net
Christine Dahl Pastries
22 W. Mission St.
www.santabarbaracakes.com
Decadence Wedding Cakes
Buellton, 805-686-2860
www.decadenceweddingcakes.com
Skiff’s Cakes
2335 Tapo St.
Simi Valley, 805-582-4882
Sojourner Cafe
134 E. Canon Perdido
www.sojournercafe.com
Sugar
www.sugarcakes.com
|CATERERS|
•678 Dine
www.678dine.com
Amuse Bouche Fine Catering
5754 E. Los Angeles Ave.
www.myamusebouche.com
•Calamigos Catering
327 S. Latigo Canyon Road
Malibu, 818-889-6280
www.calamigoscatering.com
•Command Performance Catering Group
and Event Production
5273 Commerce Drive
Moorpark, 805-523-3232
www.cpcatering.com
Duo Catering & Events
110 Santa Barbara St.
www.duoevents.com
»
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
Justine’s Private Cuisine
805-657-6885
www.justinesprivatecuisine.com
•Bijoux Events
www.bijouxevents.com
The Wedding Planner, Jill La Fleur
www.lafleurweddings.com
Lafond’s Pampered Palate
5670 Cielo Ave.
www.lafondcatering.com
Brownstone Place
805-499-3314
www.brownstoneplace.com
XOXO Bride
805-644-9696
www.xoxobride.com
•Churchill House ViP Events
www.churchill-intl.com
|FILM & VIDEO|
•National Association of Catering Executives
805-532-2834
www.venturanace.net
Phoenix Fine Catering
www.phoenixfinecatering.com
Pierre’s Catering
31210 La Baya Drive
www.pierrecatering.com
Pure Joy Catering
710 E. Haley St.
www.purejoycatering.com
•RSVP – The Catering Company
24623 Arch St.
Newhall, 661-291-1155
www.cateringbyrsvp.com
Santa Barbara BBQ
1915 de la Vina St.
www.sbbbq.com
Seasons Catering
Carpinteria, 805-339-9665
www.seasonscateringsb.com
•Status Catering
1111 Rancho Conejo Blvd.
Newbury Park, 805-375-7636
www.statuscatering.com
Two Cooks Catering
805-540-0840
www.twocookscateringonline.com
Wolfgang Puck Catering
www.wolfgangpuckcatering.com
|CIGAR ROLLERS|
Old Oaks Cigar & Wine Co.
www.smokezone.com
|DANCE INSTRUCTION|
•Arthur Murray Dance Studio
www.arthurmurray.com
|EVENT PLANNERS & DESIGNERS|
Alegria by Design
www.alegriabydesign.com
•A Touch of Grace Events
www.atouchofgraceevents.com
•Bella Vita Events
www.bellavitaevents.com
Corridan & Company Design Studios
•Events by AnnMarie
1348 E. Hillcrest Drive
Events by Philippe
254 E. Calle Laureles
www.eventsbyphilippe.com
•Exquisite Events
www.exquisevents.com
Imagine, Rebecca S. Gigandet
315 Meigs Drive
www.imaginesb.com
In Any Event, Lisa Blades
805-455-0687
www.inanyevent.net
•Occasions Bridal Consulting & Event Design
Mary Sushinski
818-548-5297
www.occasiontoremember.com
Joel Serrato, Super 8 Film
joelserratofilms.bigfolioblog.com
•Moonlight Video Productions
5554 Reseda Blvd.
Tarzana, 800-401-8433
www.moonlightvideo.net
•New Dawn Cinema of Beverly Hills
9107 Wilshire Blvd.
Beverly Hills, 310-461-3503
www.vki-party.com
Paradise Film & Video
2112 Eastman Ave.
Ventura, 805-477-7680
www.paradisefilmandvideo.com
Super 8 Girl
135 E. De La Guerra St.
www.super8girl.com
|FLORISTS|
Adornments
www.adornmentsflowers.com
Arroyo Grande Flower Shop
Santa Maria, 888-249-0733
www.arroyo-grande-flower-shop.com
Oh How Charming, by Lisa Vorce
943 E. Santa Ana Blvd.
Santa Ana, 310-927-1696
www.ohhowcharming.com
Asiel Design
www.asieldesign.com
Pamela Galvin
805-403-3515
pamela@eventsinsb.com
Botanik
2329 Lillie Ave.
Summerland, 805-565-3831
Santa Barbara Wine Country Weddings & Events
805-688-2934
www.sbwinecountryevents.com
Camilla Svensson Burns
www.camillaflowers.com
S.R. Hogue & Company Exclusive Floral
and Event Design
525 San Ysidro Road
Montecito, 805-969-1343
www.srhogue.com
David Jeffrey Designs
1560 Newbury Road
www.davidjeffreydesigns.com
Stacy Porras Wedding Consultant
818-842-0711
www.porrasweddingconsulting.com
•Tiffany Cannis Events
www.tiffanycannis.com
Elegant Details Floral & Event Design
Santa Maria, 805-260-2430
www.elegant-details.com
End Design
310-248-5212
www.end-design.com
•Toby Kay Applebay & Associates
Ventura, 805-653-5351
www.tobykay.net
•The English Garden
31143 Via Colinas
www.theenglishgarden.com
VP Events
Santa Monica, Santa Barbara, Westlake Village
805-492-2114
www.vpevents.com
Fiore Designs
11600 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, 818-980-6410
www.fioredesigns.com
Flower Wild
4004 Riverside Drive
Burbank, 818-729-0309
www.flowerwild.com
Flowers by Denise
Templeton, 805-434-1810
www.flowersbydenise.com
•Greenwich Floral Design
www.greenwichfloral.com
Happy Flowers
818-597-0272
www.happyflowersinc.com
Hoot & Heart Flower Company
9630 Santa Rosa Road
Santa Rosa Valley, 805-491-2029
or
Hoot & Heart Modern & Old World
Flowers + Found Objects
1016 Montana Ave.
Santa Monica, 310-319-9700
www.hootandheart.com
Kaleidoscope Flowers
1341 State St.
www.kaleidoscopeflowers.com
Modern Day Design
805-689-6197
www.moderndaydesign.com
Mindy Rice Floral Design
805-688-2499
www.mindyrice.com
Nico Designs
5329 Calle Real
www.nicosb.com
Panacea Event Floral Design
www.panaceaflowers.com
Renae’s Bouquet
17 W. Gutierrez St.
or
3605 Sagunto St.
Santa Ynez, 805-691-1660
www.renaesbouquet.com
S.R. Hogue & Company Exclusive Floral
and Event Design
525 San Ysidro Road
Montecito, 805-969-1343
www.srhogue.com
•Tivoli Floral
www.tivolifloral.com
Westlake Florist & Westlake Plaza Florist
2851 Agoura Road
or
www.westlakeflowers.com
»
•= ADVERTISER
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
|HAIR SALONS/MAKEUP|
•Artistic Ink
www.artisticinkstudio.com
•Beloved Beauty
www.mybelovedbeauty.com
Cathryn VanBreene
www.cvbmakeup.com
•Kalologie Skincare
www.kalologie.com
•Kensington Make-up Artists
Moorpark, 805-298-2420
www.kensingtonbeauty.com
•Rejuvenation, A Hair Salon
100 Rancho Road
www.rejuvenationahairsalon.com
Rhonda Johnson
Cambria, 805-395-0175
www.bridalmakeupandhair.com
|HEALTH/FITNESS|
•Extreme Boot Camp
www.extremebootcamp.com
|INVITATIONS|
The Art of Paper
19654 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, 818-708-3352
BaileyGirl Fine Stationery & Wedding Boutique
485 E. High St.
Moorpark, 805-517-1985
www.kbaileygirl.com
Ceci New York
212-989-0695
www.cecinewyork.com
Emily Rose Papers
805-582-2232
www.emilyrosepapers.com
•Fla-de-Dahs
30941 W. Agoura Road
www.fla-de-dahs.com
Impressive Weddings
805-685-2200
www.imppresiveweddings.com
•The Invitation Spot
265 N. Moorpark Road
www.invitationspot.com
Lazaro Design
Ventura, 805-861-8409
www.lazaro-design.com
Letter Perfect Stationery
1227 Coast Village Road
www.letterperfectstationery.com
Pale Blue Hanky
www.palebluehanky.com
Parchment
www.parchmentshop.com
•Personalized Invitations & Printing
Soolip Paperie & Press
8646 Melrose Ave.
West Hollywood, 310-360-0545
www.soolip.com
The Stationery Collection
1470 E. Valley Road, Studio K
Montecito, 805-969-3414
•Sugarcube Press
512 Cañada Road
Ojai, 805-340-5862
www.sugarcubepress.com
Wiley Valentine
175 Rochester
Costa Mesa, 949-764-9338
www.wileyvalentine.com
|JEWELERS|
•Athena & Co.
1555 Simi Town Center Way
www.athenacojewelers.com
•Dejaun Jewelers
The Oaks
424 W. Hillcrest Drive
or
North Ranch Mall
or
Westfield Topanga Plaza
6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
or
14006 Riverside Drive
Sherman Oaks, 818-783-3960
www.dejaun.com
•Malibu Rock Star
3835 Cross Creek Road
Malibu, 310-456-7374
•Moyen & Co. Jewellers
2806-A Townsgate Road
www.moyenco.com
•Polacheck’s Jewelers
4719 Commons Way
Calabasas, 818-225-0600
or
2200 Thousand Oaks Blvd.
www.polachecksjewelers.com
•Seven Sisters Jewelry Design
www.sevensistersjewelry.com
»
•= ADVERTISER
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
|LOCATIONS—GOLF COURSES/
COUNTRY CLUBS|
•Calabasas Country Club
4515 Park Entrada
Calabasas, 818-222-8111
www.calabasasgolf.com
Hidden Oaks Golf Course
4760 Calle Camarada
specialty gift baskets s luscious chocolate creations
handmade & innovative cakes s private parties & catering available
blissful wedding & party favors s irresistible petits fours & croques en bouche
Hunter Ranch Golf Course
4041 Highway 46 East
Paso Robles, 805-237-7440
www.hunterranchgolf.com
La Purisima Golf Course
3455 Highway 246
Lompoc, 805-735-8395
www.lapurisimagolf.com
Visit our
Web site today
chocolatine.net
Lost Canyons Golf Club
3301 Lost Canyons Drive
www.lostcanyons.com
tues–thurs 9–6
fri–sat 9–7:30
sun 9–6
closed on mondays
805-557-0561
•Moorpark Country Club
11800 Championship Drive
Moorpark, 805-532-2834
www.moorparkgolf.com
North Ranch Country Club
4761 Valley Springs Drive
www.northranchcc.org
Olivas Links
3750 Olivas Park Drive
Ventura, 805-642-2907
www.olivaslinks.com
Sandpiper Golf Club
7925 Hollister Ave.
www.sandpipergolf.com
Santa Barbara Golf Club
3500 McCaw Ave.
www.sbgolf.com
Santa Barbara Polo & Racquet Club
3375 Foothill Road
www.sbpolo.com/events/social.htm
Saticoy Country Club
4450 N. Clubhouse Drive
Somis, 805-485-4956, ext.19
www.saticoycountryclub.com
Sherwood Country Club
320 W. Stafford Road
Thousand Oaks, 805-496-3036, ext. 225
www.sherwoodcc.com
•Spanish Hills Country Club
999 Crestview Ave.
Camarillo, 805-388-5000
www.spanishhillswedding.com
Tierra Rejada Golf Club
15187 Tierra Rejada Road
Moorpark, 805-531-9300, ext. 16
www.tierrarejadagolf.com
Valley Club of Montecito
1901 E. Valley Road
Santa Barbara, 805-969-2215, ext. 16
Wood Ranch Golf Club
301 Wood Ranch Parkway
www.woodranchgc.com
|LOCATIONS—HOTELS/RESORTS|
The Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort
1054 Alisal Road
Solvang, 805-688-6411
www.alisal.com
Bacara Resort & Spa
8301 Hollister Ave.
www.bacararesort.com
The Beverly Hills Hotel
9641 Sunset Blvd.
www.thebeverlyhillshotel.com
The Beverly Hilton
9876 Wilshire Blvd.
www.beverlyhilton.com
Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel
9500 Wilshire Blvd.
www.fourseasons.com/beverlywilshire/weddings
Canary Hotel
(formerly the Hotel Andalucia)
31 W. Carrillo St.
www.andaluciasb.com
Casa Del Mar
1910 Ocean Way
www.hotelcasadelmar.com
ARTISTIC INK
The Cliffs Resort
2757 Shell Beach Road
Pismo Beach, 805-773-5000
www.cliffsresort.com
Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach
450 E. Harbor Blvd.
Ventura, 805-648-2100
www.cpventura.com/weddings.html
Bridal Special
Embassy Suites Mandalay Beach Resort
2101 Mandalay Beach Road
Oxnard, 805-984-2500
www.embassymandalay.com
I apply more lashes
per eye than anybody!
The Fairmont Miramar Hotel
101 Wilshire Blvd.
www.fairmont.com/santamonica
Mention this ad
and get $25.00 off
Fess Parker’s Double Tree Resort
633 E. Cabrillo Blvd.
www.fpdtr.com/weddings.html
Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills
300 S. Doheny Drive
www.fourseasons.com/losangeles/weddings
Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village
2 Dole Drive
www.fourseasons.com/westlakevillage/weddings
Before
After
Private Studio
By appointment only
»
•= ADVERTISER
805.494.0405
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore Santa Barbara
1260 Channel Drive
www.fourseasons.com/santabarbara/weddings
Hotel Bel-Air
701 Stone Canyon Road
www.hotelbelair.com
Hotel Cheval
1021 Pine St.
www.hotelcheval.com
Hyatt Westlake Plaza
www.westlake.hyatt.com
The Inn at Morro Bay
60 State Park Road
Morro Bay, 805-772-5651
www.innatmorrobay.com
Ojai Valley Inn & Spa
905 Country Club Road
Ojai, 805-646-1111
www.ojairesort.com
Paso Robles Inn
1103 Spring St.
www.pasoroblesinn.com
The Peninsula Beverly Hills
9882 S. Santa Monica Blvd.
www.beverlyhills.peninsula.com
The Pierpont Inn
550 Sanjon Road
Ventura, 805-643-6144
www.pierpontinn.com
San Ysidro Ranch
900 San Ysidro Lane
www.sanysidroranch.com
Sheraton Delfina Santa Monica
530 W. Pico Blvd.
www.sheratonsantamonica.com
Shutters Hotel on the Beach
1 Pico Blvd.
www.shuttersonthebeach.com
•Westlake Village Inn
31943 Agoura Road
www.westlakevillageinn.com
|LOCATIONS—RESTAURANTS|
Akwa
1413 Fifth St.
Arts and Letters Café
7 E. Anapamu St.
Beau Rivage Restaurant
26025 Pacific Coast Highway
Malibu, 310-456-5733
www.beaurivagerestaurant.com
Cicada Restaurant
617 S. Olive St.
www.cicadarestaurant.com
•Duke’s Malibu
Malibu, 310-317-0777
www.dukesmalibu.com
Geoffrey’s Malibu
Malibu, 310-457-1519
www.geoffreysmalibu.com
Il Cielo
9018 Burton Way
www.ilcielo.com
Inn of the Seventh Ray
128 Old Topanga Road
Topanga, 310-455-1311
www.innoftheseventhray.com
Mondial
201 W. Carrillo St.
www.mondialsantabarbara.com
Saddle Peak Lodge
419 Cold Canyon Road
Calabasas, 818-222-3888
www.saddlepeaklodge.com
The Sunset Restaurant
6800 Westward Beach Road
Malibu, 310-589-2027
www.thesunsetrestaurant.com
P astries By V reeke
Yamashiro CalAsian Cuisine
1999 N. Sycamore Ave.
Hollywood, 323-466-5125
www.yamashirorestaurant.com
|LOCATIONS/VENUES|
Acacia Mansion
205 S. Lomita Ave.
Ojai, 805-403-6356
www.acaciamansion.com
Adamson House
Malibu, 310-457-8185
www.adamsonhouse.org
Belle Loréve Tuscan Villa and Gardens
805-921-0671
www.belleloreve.com
•Calamigos Equestrian
Burbank, 818-972-5940
www.calamigosequestrian.com
Calamigos Ranch
327 S. Latigo Canyon Road
Malibu, 818-889-6280
www.malibuweddings.com
Extraordinary wedding& special occasion cakes
Not just a piece of cake, but a piece of art!
Camarillo Ranch
201 Camarillo Ranch Road
Camarillo, 805-389-8182
www.camarilloranch.org
Canyon Ranch
www.canyonranchfilmlocation.com
ooohYklja]kZqnj]]c][ge
»
•= ADVERTISER
¤¤:8B<
N]kldYc]ÛMaddY_]Û:Yda^gjfaY
?gmjkÛ9qÛ8hhgafle]fl
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
Cass House Inn
222 N. Ocean Ave.
Cayucos, 805-995-3669
www.casshouseinn.com
El Capitan Ranch
10920 Calle Real
www.elcapranch.com
Eucalyptus Lane
Ventura, 805-643-0981
www.rodhouckpresents.com/locations.php
Figueroa Mountain Farmhouse
Santa Ynez, 877-431-5200
www.figueroamountainfarmhouse.com
Hidden Chateau & Garden
23130 Sherman Way
West Hills, 818-610-3228
www.hiddenchateau.com
Hartley Botanica
4465 Balcon Canyon Road
Somis, 805-532-1997
www.hartleybotanica.com
Maravilla Gardens
8620 Santa Rosa Road
Camarillo, 805-491-1400
www.mgardens.com
McCormick Home Ranch
Camarillo, 805-482-1549
McGrath Ranch & Garden
5100 Olivas Park Drive
Ventura, 805-644-1235
www.mcgrathranchandgarden.com
Park Ballroom
1232 Park St.
www.parkballroom.com
Rancho del Cielo
Malibu
www.ranchodelcielomalibu.com
Rose Story Farm
www.rosestoryfarm.com
River Oaks Hot Springs & Spa
800 Clubhouse Drive
www.riveroakshotsprings.com
Saddle Rock Ranch
31727 Mulholland Highway
Malibu, 818-889-0008
Santa Barbara Botanic Gardens
1212 Mission Canyon Road
www.sbbg.org
Santa Barbara Museum
136 E. De La Guerra St.
www.santabarbaramuseum.com
Santa Ynez Inn
3627 Sagunto St.
Santa Ynez, 805-688-5588
www.santaynezinn.com
Simpson House Inn
121 E. Arrellaga
www.simpsonhouseinn.com
•United Methodist Church of Thousand Oaks
1000 Janss Road
www.umcto.org
Villa Amodei
www.villaamodei.com
Villa de Buena Vista Bed & Breakfast
www.villadebuenavista.com
•Villa Piacere
22160 Ventura Blvd.
Woodland Hills, 877-924-0555
www.villapiacere.com
Villa Toscana
4230 Buena Vista
www.myvillatoscana.com
|LOCATIONS—
WINERIES/VINEYARDS|
Bella Victorian Vineyard
Camarillo, 805-732-1262
www.bellavictorianvineyard.com
Bianchi Winery
3380 Branch Road
www.bianchiwine.com
Castoro Cellars
1315 N. Bethel Road
Templeton, 805-238-0725
www.castorocellars.com
Crossroads Estate
5000 Zaca Station Road
Los Olivos, 805-688-3940
www.firestonewine.com
Eagle Castle Winery
3090 Anderson Road
www.eaglecastlewinery.com
Eberle Winery
www.eberlewinery.com
Edna Valley Vineyard
2585 Biddle Ranch Road
www.ednavalleyvineyard.com
Fess Parker Winery
6200 Foxen Canyon Road
Los Olivos, 805-686-1545
www.fessparker.com
Firestone Vineyard
5017 Zaca Station Road
Los Olivos, 805-688-3940
or
2300 Airport Road
www.firestonewine.com
Foley Estates Vineyard
6121 E. Highway 246
Lompoc, 805-737-6222
www.foleywines.com
Gainey Vineyard
3950 E. Highway 246
Santa Ynez, 805-688-0558
www.gaineyvineyard.com
»
•= ADVERTISER
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
•Herzog Wine Cellars
3201 Camino Del Sol
Oxnard, 805-983-1560
www.herzogwinecellars.com
Lincourt Vineyards
1711 Alamo Pintado Road
Solvang, 805-688-8554
www.lincourtwines.com
Martin & Weyrich Winery
4230 Buena Vista Drive
www.martinweyrich.com
•Meridian Vineyards
7000 Highway 46 East
www.meridianvineyards.com
•Peachy Canyon Winery
1480 N. Bethel Road
Templeton, 805-237-1577
www.peachycanyon.com
Robert Hall Winery
3443 Mill Road
www.roberthallwinery.com
Silver Horse Winery
2995 Pleasant Road
San Miguel, 805-467-9463
www.silverhorse.com
Cover2Cover1-3pgAD
12/14/07
3:32 PM
Page 1
Stacked Stone Cellars
1525 Peachy Canyon Road
www.stackedstone.com
Still Waters Vineyards
2750 Old Grove Lane
www.stillwatersvineyards.com
Summerwood Winery & Inn
2175 Arbor Road
www.summerwoodwine.com
Swallow Creek Ranch
6030 Highway 1
Cayucos, 805-686-5175
www.swallowcreekranch.com
•Vina Robles
3700 Mill Road
www.vinarobles.com
|MATCHMAKING|
• DJs
• Bands
• Harpists
• String Quartets
• Chamber Groups
Coordinating live music,
DJs, & entertainment
for over 20 years.
• Classical Guitarists
• Steel Drums
...and much more!
|MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT|
•Bruce Barrios Mobile Disc Jockey
Ventura, 805-658-7565
• Brass Ensembles
• Bagpipers
•Cupid’s Coach
2625 Townsgate Road
www.cupidscoach.com
805.492.8150
www.cover2covermusic.com
•Cover 2 Cover Music & Entertainment
www.cover2covermusic.com
•Gold Dust Entertainment
Agoura Hills, 800-700-2877
www.golddustentertainment.com
•Harp Music by Vonette & Musical Networks
805-531-3725
web.mac.com/vonharp
Harpworks Music
Woodland Hills, 818-888-2661
www.harpworksmusic.com
Pipe Dream Flutes
818-640-5896
pipedreamflutes.googlepages.com/home
|OFFICIANTS|
The Rev. Jerry Bellamy
805-687-4248
www.santabarbaraweddingminister.com
•The Rev. Barbara Laughray
A Hallmark Wedding
Calabasas, 805-496-3988
www.revbarbaralaughray.com
The Rev. John Martin
805-484-9222
•The Rev. John Southwick
Valley Orthodox Church
3205 Fletcher St.
www.wemarryyou.com
818.912.1433
•Dr. Kimber Lee Wilkes
Elegant Weddings
www.theringplease.com
Custom Cake Studio
serving southern california
www.asweetdesign.info
|ON-SITE CHILD CARE|
The Little Guest
805-688-1812
www.thelittleguest.com
|PARTY FAVORS|
Good Fortunes
(custom fortune cookies)
21218 Vanowen
www.goodfortunes.com
HotCookie.com
805-564-2397
www.hotcookie.com
Jessica Foster Confections
www.jessicafosterconfections.com
& ASSOCIATES
Marry Me Favors
310-542-3857
www.marrymefavors.com
Santa Barbara Chocolate Co.
805-477-7682
www.santabarbarachocolate.com
Truffle Garden
www.trufflegarden.com
10 years experience
805.653.5351
www.tobykay.net
email: tobykay@isle.net
|PARTY RENTALS &
EVENT PRODUCTION|
Amigo Party Rentals
665 N. Ventura Ave.
Ventura, 805-653-6518
www.amigopartyrental.com
»
Expert Wedding
Consultant & Coordinator
•= ADVERTISER
BRIDAL | RESOURCES
Bella Vista Designs
www.bellavistadesigns.com
LBPS
www.lbpsevents.com
Elizabeth Messina Photography
310-779-9151
www.elizabethmessina.com
•The Cappuccino Club
4856 Amalfi Way
Oxnard, 805-815-4185
www.thecappuccinoclub.com
Wildflower Linen
Pacific Design Center
8687 Melrose Ave.
www.wildflowerlinens.com
•Harmony Wedding Photography
www.harmonyweddingphotography.com
•Classic Party Rentals
1120 Mark Ave.
or
2310 E. Imperial Highway
El Segundo, 310-535-3660
www.classicpartyrentals.com
Raj Tents
2908 Oregon Court
Torrance, 310-320-6600
www.rajtents.com
Event Rents
4350 Transport St.
Ventura, 805-658-3636
www.eventrents.com
The Tent Merchant
301 E. Gutierrez St.
www.thetentmerchant.com
JANUARY 13, 2008
Hyatt Westlake
Plaza
880 S. WESTLAKE BLVD.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE
�
AUGUST 17, 2008
Hyatt Westlake
Plaza
880 S. WESTLAKE BLVD.
WESTLAKE VILLAGE
CelebrYateianrgs
25
EXHIBITS 11 A.M. - 4 P.M.
FASHION SHOWS 12:30 & 3:00 P.M
TICKETS:
$10 AT THE DOOR • $8 ONLINE
|PARTY RENTALS—TENTS|
For registration and discount information
Jennifer S. Rau Photography
805-496-8191
www.jsrphotography.com
Joan Allen
310-614-3215
www.joanallenstudio.com
|PHOTO BOOTHS|
Jose Villa Photography
1470 Aarhus Drive
Solvang, 805-688-8654
www.josevillaphoto.com
LA Photo Party
310-997-0019
www.laphotoparty.com
Judi Bumstead Photography
www.judibumsteadphotography.com
Red Cheese
888-770-2266
www.redcheese.com
•Kimberlee Miller Photography
Moorpark, 805-529-8489
www.kimberleemiller.com
|PHOTOGRAPHY|
Kristen Beinke Photography
805-403-4742
www.kristenbeinke.com
Alyssa Nicol Photography
131 Barrington Place
www.alyssanicol.com
Manuele Photography
www.manuelephotography.com
•A-Rotem Studios
14668 Titus St.
Van Nuys, 818-442-9303
www.weddingphotographyinla.com
Marcia, The Art of Photography
877-569-7468
www.marciaphoto.com
Barbara Alessandra Photography
805-448-1435
www.barbaraalessandra.com
•Maria McCarthy Photography
www.mariamccarthyphotography.com
bb Photography
26 W. Mission St.
www.bb-photo.com
Mark Elkins Studio
16921 Ventura Blvd.
Encino, 818-905-9254
www.markelkins.com
Bella Pictures
Thomas Monaghan
888-556-7590, ext. 5036
www.bellapictures.com
Megan Sorel Photography
805-689-8160
www.megansorel.com
Bella Rosa Photography
Jennifer Carrillo
www.bellarosaphoto.com
Cameron Ingalls
805-471-7056
www.cameroningalls.com
•Chelsea Elizabeth Photography
www.chelseaelizabeth.com
INFO: (805) 376-3515
(877) 994-4321
www.bridalpremiere.com
Jeff Newsom Photographer
805-610-4337
www.jeffnewsom.com
•David Michael Photography
2820 Townsgate Road
www.davidmichaelphoto.com
•Dream Day Imagery
1506 Windmill Way
www.dreamdayimagery.com
Melissa Musgrove Photography
www.melissamusgrove.com
•Mi Belle
www.mibelleinc.com
Michael and Anna Costa Photography
805-965-5047
www.michaelcostaphotography.com
Michelle Warren Photography
www.michellewarrenphotography.com
•New Dawn Cinema of Beverly Hills
9107 Wilshire Blvd.
www.vki-party.com
Ryan Phillips Photography
www.ryanphillips.com
Susan Bordelon Photography
818-991-6956
www.susanbordelon.com
Susan Dean Photography
805-898-1619
www.susandeanphoto.com
Todd Johnson Photography
310-839-1126
www.tjweddings.com
Vernon T. Williams, Photographer
31360 Via Colinas
www.vernont.com
Wink Weddings
1123 Garden St.
www.winkweddings.com
|TRANSPORTATION|
Benedict Limousine
818-654-5466
www.benedictlimo.com
Central Coast Trolley
www.centralcoasttrolley.com
Classy Chassis Rentals
(chauffeur-driven vintage automobiles)
18375 Ventura Blvd.
Tarzana, 818-321-9022
www.classychassisrentals.com
Enchanted Carriages
(horse and carriage)
Moorpark, 805-579-7979
www.yourenchantedcarriage.com
Santa Barbara Trolley
23 E. Cabrillo Blvd.
www.sbtrolley.com/custom-trolley-weddings.shtml
The Wine Wrangler
805-238-5700
www.thewinewrangler.com
|VACATION RENTALS/
HONEYMOON PLANNING|
•Paso Robles Vacation Rentals
www.pasoroblesvacationrentals.com
•Riviera Vacation–Destination Weddings
888-844-0700 or 949-366-0384
www.rivieravacations.com
|WEDDING DRESS
PRESERVATION|
Rejuvenation,
A Hair Salon
Rejuvenate Yourself and Bridal Party
on Your Wedding Day
Bridal Party
Specialties:
•Upstyles
•Straightening
•Hair Coloring
•Make-up
•Individual
Eyelashes
Pre-Wedding
Day Trials
Encino Dry Cleaners
16946 Ventura Blvd.
Encino, 818-986-8464 
Have the Long
Hair of Your
Dreams with
Extensions:
•Sew-in
•Clip-In Pieces
•Great Lengths
•Over 10 years
experience
Services Available On or Off-Site
805•778-1602
100 Rancho Road, Suite 6
Thousand Oaks
RejuvenationAHairSalon.com
Special
Thinning Hair
Treatments
“Where Beauty is Art”
•= ADVERTISER
THE getaway
hg
Jasmine and Michael Rothbard (along with Oscar and panda) take their first
walk together as husband and wife. They are currently building their
dream home in Montecito, and are expecting their first baby.
Elizabeth Messina
The road goes on forever…
Surround your Wedding Day
with Beautiful Moments
A Wedding under the sky ….
A romantic Gazebo centered on a lush green lawn.
A Magnificent Clubhouse offering panoramic views for your guests …
An elegant Menu planned by you
with the assistance of our Professional Chef
A Wedding Consultant who will assist you with your dreams
so they become reality.
Moorpark Country Club …
Promising your day will be Special.
Call our Wedding Consultant at (805) 532-2834 ext. 133
11800 Championship Drive Moorpark, California 93021 Y www.moorparkgolf.com

The A-List - 805 Weddings Magazine

Transcription

Similar documents

to the PDF

January 4th - 5th, 2014 - Lehigh Valley Weddings

EPK

P.O.S.H. Couture Rentals

Special Books - Gratz Park Inn

Appleworks Wedding Brochure.

2015 Wedding Show - Mission Point Resort

wedding program guide.

Weddings - Hoar Cross Hall

10 top spots for - Forest Research Institute Malaysia