La Soie Bridal's most Romantic Gowns for 2012
Many of the gowns from the latest 2012 bridal collections feature lovely and feminine details such as rosettes and ruffles, sweetheart necklines, and vintage-inspired lace - perfect for brides who want a romantic look.
The 2012 bridal collection from designers La Soie, Enzoani, Blue by Enzoani and Allure are currently available at La Soie Valencia with a price point of about $1,100 to $2,700. Appointments recommended; 288-1989
New Wedding & Event Association Ready to make your Dreams come True
Planning and coordinating a wedding or event can be an extremely hectic process. The SCV Wedding & Special Event Association members can handle every detail, freeing you and your family to savor every moment. They help clients with any or all of the following:
Facility and vendor selection
A la carte vendors, including florists, photographers, caterers, locations, event planners, dessert specialists, children's tuxedos, invitations and more
Ceremony planning, including readings, music and more
Day-of-wedding on-site coordination
Full-service wedding and event planning
"We listen to your needs, desires, and brainstorm with you to make the day even more special," says Carmen Russo, a professional wedding planner, owner of Caruso Weddings & Events and member of the SCV Wedding & Special Event Association.
"We are here to help bring your ideas to life, not to tell you how your wedding should be. I have decades of experience in the hospitality industry, acting as general manager and catering coordinator at a variety of popular wedding sites. I also have a background in catering and culinary arts, which means I bring increased attention to detail and innovative creativity to my work with clients as well as vendors. I have experience working with over 500 couples and know that every bride and groom is unique. I will seek to reflect your personality, lifestyle, family traditions, and spiritual beliefs into your special day."
Browse the site and sign up for the newsletter. You'll get regular updates and exclusive vendor discounts; 818-605-8057
www.scvweddingassociation.com
10 Steps to Planning the Perfect Event
1. Decide what type of party is suitable for you and your guests (e.g. casual or formal, brunch or luncheon, sit down dinner or buffet, cocktail or afternoon fiesta).
2. Pick your event theme, date and location. Be creative, practical and focus on color schemes, potential seasonal enhancements, and budget-friendly times of the day, week and year.
3. Consider working with a full-service event planning group or event coordinator.
4. Get organized! Consider keeping a file of event details as well as a calendar of appointments with potential vendors.
5. Interview and choose vendors you would like to help assist you with your event.
6. Think about and discuss details and accents such as lighting and production, catering options, table linens and hardware, guest favors, music and/or other entertainment.
7. Plan the menu.
8. Construct a detailed plan of the event. Be sure to have a "plan B" in case of drastic weather changes.
9. Use a checklist as the event gets closer to ensure that no detail has been omitted.
10. Remember that this event is your event, so don't be afraid to be creative and add your own personal touches wherever you like.
Tips courtesy of A-1 Event Rentals; 775-8111
www.a-1rentals.net
"We have lots of requests for
VINTAGE FURNITURE,"
~ Rob Cruikshank of A-1 Event Rentals
In with the Old, Out with the New
Vintage Romance Sets the Scene
Elements as authentic as your love for each other, time-tested looks that are classically romantic... What's there not to like about vintage-inspired weddings?
"It's in with the old and out with the new," jokes Rob Cruikshank, owner of A-1 Event Rentals. "We've been custom-making cabanas with the vintage look, and have lots of requests for vintage furniture. Because we have such a wide selection, our weddings have been picked up by top blogs, some as far away as England," shares Cruikshank.
"I LOVE how luxurious purple florals can be,"
~ Myra Harbour of Floral Designs by Celebrate
A Passion for Purple
To paraphrase a popular refrain: Would a purple rose by any other name be so popular?
Based on some of the most inspired recent weddings, the answer is "absolutely."
"Lavender" or "Purple-colored" flowers - especially roses - are a very popular trend right now," says Charmaine Wojciechowski, owner of Charmaine's Bouquet Canyon Florist. "They contrast gorgeously with greenery and they are ultra-feminine, but with an edge. My brides have used purple in very modern weddings and also in very 'English Garden,' classic settings. The purple color is 100-percent adaptable and able to be created for a fresh look, which explains why it's in such high demand," she explains.
Myra Harbour, owner of Floral Designs by Celebrate, agrees. "I love how luxurious purple florals can be. You'll be hard-pressed to find a richer palate than purple. They dress up any setting and add a defined aura of elegance. These florals can take on a real chameleon quality that make them a perfect fit for any theme. Personally, I can't get enough of them when surrounded by supple textures - velvet, silk ribbon - and rhinestones!"
"PURPLE ROSES represent
enchantment and enthrallment."
What do Purple Roses "Mean?"
Primarily, purple roses represent enchantment and enthrallment. They are often associated with love at first sight. Purple roses send this message: "I am deeply drawn and charmed by you. I find you irresistible, desirable and magnetic."
Be careful, though. "Enchantment" is rarely synonymous with "permanent." Magical moments are often dispelled quickly; those who give purple roses may be prone to fleeting feelings.
Secondary meanings refer to the historical reference of the color to royalty. Messages of glory, majesty and opulence are also common interpretations of the purple rose. And, because "once a royal, always a royal," this meaning neutralizes the impermanence of the first, making purple roses a safe - and beautiful - choice for a wedding that is the start of a lifetime of happiness.
"They contrast gorgeously with greenery and they are ultra-feminine, but WITH AN EDGE,"
~ Charmaine Wojciechowski of Charmaine's Bouquet Canyon Florist