PORTFOLIO
Inspiration + Events
Crafting a Thank You Speech
A lot of pressure is placed on the best man and maid of honor when it comes to delivering a witty and sentimental wedding speech. However, one speech that is equally as important but often times forgotten is the Bride and Groom’s thank you speech.
GUESTS WILL APPRECIATE THE GESTURE, EVEN IF IT’S SHORT AND SWEET!
Find time before or after dinner and decide if one or both of you will do the talking, but most importantly make sure it’s heartfelt. There may not be enough time during the night to personally greet every single guest, but this is a nice way to show appreciation and call out any special loved ones who contributed to making the night possible.
Creating a Memorable Exit
A great deal of emphasis is placed on making an entrance when it comes to wedding ceremonies and receptions, but what about the grand exit? Even if you’re planning on joining your guests at the after party, you can still make a memorable exit at the reception!
A WEDDING EXIT CAN BE SPECIAL MOMENT FOR THE BRIDE AND GROOM!
For the traditional approach, pack your honeymoon bags in a vintage car and don’t forget the “Just Married” sign on the back!
Consider the photo opportunity of being surrounded by your guests with lit sparklers or tossed confetti as you make your getaway. Pro tip: If your venue allows sparklers consider supplying a lighter or matches for guests to ensure they all spark and stay lit at the same time.
For a simpler send-off, choose a meaningful song to end the night and make your exit once it’s over.
There’s no right or wrong way to exit, it’s just another fun aspect to consider for the big day!
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #weddingexit #getawaycar #sparklers
Venue Spotlight - The Queen Mary
Soultones recently performed at a gorgeous wedding aboard the historic Queen Mary ship, which has been docked in Long Beach since the year 1967.
It is known to many locals and tourists as a floating hotel and year-round attraction with three world-class restaurants and bars on board, but we were blown away by the indoor and outdoor spaces available specifically for weddings and events.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT WWW.QUEENMARY.COM
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingvenue #eventspace #thequeenmary #longbeachwedding #socalwedding
Vendors Know Best
Researching vendors in the early wedding planning stages can be very overwhelming. Whether you are working with a planner or going the DIY route, it’s important to lean on others for help, specifically vendors themselves.
ASK VENDORS FOR REFERRALS – THEY KNOW THE INDUSTRY BEST!
For example, if you find your florist first, find out who they have a professional working relationship with. Don’t be afraid to ask for their recommendations as they know the industry best. Similarly, your venue or wedding planner or coordinator will have preferred vendors they work with and can get the job done.
It’s important to remember that different vendors cater to different tastes and budgets, so once you receive referrals it’s best to schedule meetings with each of them to see what feels right for you before narrowing it down.
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #weddingvendor #socalwedding #losangeleswedding #californiawedding #downbeatlaweddings
Honeyfitz Events
When it comes to designing the perfect event, the HoneyFitz Events team is inspired by all things beautiful, and it shows. Our band, AMFM, had the pleasure of working with them recently on a wedding at Los Angeles’ iconic venue Vibiana, where every detail was flawlessly executed.
This Los Angeles-based team boasts full service planning for all wedding needs, check out some of their gorgeous work.
For more information on HoneyFitz Events, visit them at their website, www.honeyfitzevents.com
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingplanner #eventplanner #socalweddings #losangeleswedding #amfmla #downbeatla
Pre-Dinner Mini Dance Party
Some couples have requested a small dance set before guests are seated for dinner and it’s a huge hit every time!
GET THE GUESTS OUT ON THE DANCE FLOOR EARLY!
After cocktail hour, everyone is ready to have a great time. Whether it’s right after the first dance when guests are crowded around, or immediately following the grand entrance, ask your band or DJ to play 3-4 dance songs to get the party started. It sets a great tone for the night and is a great preview of what’s in store after dinner is over!
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #downbeatlaweddings #danceparty #weddingmusic
The Little Branch
We recently had the pleasure of working on a wedding with floral designers extraordinaire, The Little Branch. Mallory and Beau’s celebration at Carondelet House was gorgeous, and our band AMFM was blown away by how the floral designs created such a romantic, warm and inviting space.
Meg and Annie are the duo behind The Little Branch, based in Downtown LA. Their works speaks for itself, just look at these gorgeous creations!
We can’t wait for the next wedding where we can walk into the room and see The Little Branch florals everywhere! Head to www.thelittlebranch for inquiries or to see more about this amazing floral design team!
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingflorist @floraldesign
Don't Sweat the Small Day-Of Stuff
We understand how much preparation goes into making an ordinary day turn into a magical celebration. Once everything is planned down to the last detail it’s important to trust your vendors and enjoy your day!
You picked them because they are professional and know what it takes behind the scenes to make your day extra special.
DON'T WORRY, IT WILL ALL COME TOGETHER!
No one is going to know if a centerpiece is missing a few flowers, if there is one sign missing or a time may have shifted for a special song or dance. It’s important to be flexible and have an open mind and know that things may change on the day, but remember the guests won’t know the difference.
DON’T LOSE SIGHT OF WHAT’S IMPORTANT,
ENJOYING THE DAY WITH YOUR LOVED ONES
Jillian Rose Photography
When you book a wedding photographer, you are entrusting them to capture all of the important and memorable moments of your celebration! We can say, without a doubt, that we’ve witnessed nothing but professionalism and a tremendously skilled and talented eye with Jillian Rose Photography. Her portfolio speaks for itself.
Thoughts on First Looks
Some of the best moments are those that happen once.
Many couples forget to take time for themselves to enjoy their big day, and the first look provides and opportunity to do just this! Some couples have said it calms their nerves and gets them even more excited for the ceremony knowing that they can relax and spend less time on photos during the party.
THE FIRST LOOK IS AN INTIMATE, ROMANTIC MOMENT FOR THE COUPLE
For brides, if you want a first look but still want to surprise your groom walking down the aisle, switch up the dress! Don’t wear the veil during the first look but add it for the ceremony. Either way, both moments will be unforgettable and you’ll be happy you have the memories to last a lifetime.
Photography: The Youngrens
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #downbeatlaweddings #firstlook #californiaweddings
Calamigos Ranch – Wedding/Event Venue
Calamigos Ranch boasts an insanely gorgeous property lush with eucalyptus and redwood tree cover and twinkle lights galore! It’s no wonder brides and grooms fall in love with this Malibu venue, and it is hands down one of our favorite Malibu venues to perform at!
Celebrities, including Breaking Bad’s Aaron Paul, Goo Goo Doll’s Johnny Rzeznik and Workaholics’ Kyle Newacheck have all held wedding ceremonies on the property. Just take a look at these photos; can you blame them?
For more information on the venue and booking, visit www.calamigosranch.com.
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingvenue #eventvenue #malibuwedding #breakingbad #workaholics #aaronpaul #amfmla #downbeatla
Ceremony Cocktails
Traditionally, wedding ceremonies are followed by cocktail hours where guests can order drinks, mingle and enjoy hors d’oeuvres before dinner. But, what if you consider a twist on tradition where guests are greeted with champagne at a ceremony entrance or offered beverages to simply stay cool and hydrated during the vow exchange?
CONSIDERING YOUR GUESTS’ COMFORT AND ENJOYMENT IS KEY!
For adults-only weddings, we think this is a fun and unexpected way to welcome guests. If there are children in attendance, try switching it up and offering lemonade or soda to create a fun and more laid back atmosphere.
If your ceremony is held in a church or other place of worship, this may not fall in line with tradition. Even so, guests will always appreciate the thought of providing bottled water or a light refreshment no matter where the ceremony is taking place, just check with your venue and location for rules and availability first.
Photographer: The Perfect Palette | Scheme Events
Lumiani Events
When the band is still talking about a wedding weeks after it happened, you know it was one for the books! Our friends at Lumiani Events absolutely nailed John and Ada’s wedding at Bel Air Bay Club last month! These wedding and event planners based in SoCal know how to throw a wedding celebration that guests will be talking about forever!
WWW.LUMIANIEVENTS.COM @LUMIANIEVENTS.
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingplanner #eventplanner #socalweddings #soultonesla #downbeatla
Summer Wedding Plan B
It summertime and weddings are in full swing! Every season has its own pros and cons when it comes to wedding weather and planning, but for couples saying, “I Do”, in the summer heat, we’ve got some reminders that may be helpful on the big day!
1. ALWAYS HAVE A PLAN B
For outdoor weddings, don’t assume it will be sunshine and blue skies just because its summer. Having a backup plan for your venue, whether it’s a tent or indoor option, is crucial. Also, don’t forget to stock the entrance with sunscreen, parasols and fans to ensure the comfort of your guests.
2. WEAR LIGHTER, COOLER ATTIRE
A lighter fabric that breathes easily for the bride, linen suits for the groom and even sandals for all of the beach-casual weddings are smart options for staying cool at the altar.
3. CONSIDER THE DESSERT
If you’re in a cool, air-conditioned reception venue this may not be a concern. However, if you are celebrating al fresco, make sure you have desserts that won’t melt if they’re on display for a long period of time, or plan on bringing them out only when guests are ready to enjoy them.
Congratulations to all of our summer brides and grooms this year!
Photography: Shannen Natasha | Michelle Karas | Best Products
Tags: #weddingtipwednesday #summerwedding #downbeatlaweddings
Hoo Films
Insane drone footage, day-of edits and slideshow presentations from the wonderful team at Hoo Films are only a few of the amazing things they provide their clients. Our bands, Gold Standard and AMFM, have had the chance to work with the team at Hoo Films recently at weddings and were blown away by not only the professionalism, but also the skill and quality of work! Here's a couple events that we worked along side with them.
The films speak for themselves, head to www.hoofilms.com to see more!
Celebrity Planners Give Advice
1. START YOUR WEDDING DAY WITH A FEW MINDFUL BREATHS
To keep stress levels at a minimum on the big day, Weiss recommends taking a few minutes in the morning to center yourself. “When you wake up on your wedding day, take a deep breath and commit to enjoying the moments,” she says. “Whatever is going to happen will work out. I promise the more relaxed you are, your family and friends will feel it, too.” – Mindy Weiss, www.mindyweiss.com (source: la-confidential-magazine.com)
2. VALUE YOUR VENDORS
Your vendors are your family within the industry. They are the ones who will help bring your vision and ideas to fruition. The vendors I work with trust me and enjoy working with my team. Make sure you are kind to those who work alongside you to help make the event a success. – Sharon Sacks, www.sacksproductions.com (source: www.bizbash.com)
3. NOT EVERYONE IN YOUR BRIDAL PARTY NEEDS A PLUS-ONE.
If it's someone your brother plans on spending years with, fine. But you don't want to meet a new person at your wedding unless he or she is a really significant other. – Colin Cowie, www.colincowie.com (source: www.brides.com)
4. WHERE DO YOU TRIM COSTS TO MAKE ROOM FOR SPLURGES?
Cocktail hour should be gracious and lovely, but I don't believe in putting too much money into it. Three to five passed hors d'oeuvres are fine, and you don't have to play live music. Who's really going to hear it besides the 20 guests standing in front of the trio? – Bryan Rafanelli, www.rafanellieevents.com (source: www.glamour.com)
5. NEVER LOSE SIGHT OF THE REAL REASON FOR YOUR WEDDING CELEBRATION: TO CELEBRATE WITH TREASURED FAMILY AND FRIENDS.
Sure it will be fun to be in the spotlight but don’t forget to step away from the crowd for a moment and savor a private and special moment together. Celebrities often plan an elaborate spread for cocktail hour so that their guests are well taken care of while they slip away to capture their first precious moments as a happily wedded couple on camera. These are images you’ll treasure for a lifetime! – Andrea Freeman, www.andreafreemanevents.com (source: www.hollywoodlife.com)
Details Details
Details Details Wedding & Events are known for creating picture-perfect weddings and flawlessly executing every last detail. Last month, our band Gold Standard worked with them at Pelican Hill Resort and it was one of the most beautiful weddings we’ve ever had the pleasure of being a part of.
Check out more of their work at www.aboutdetailsdetails.com.
Tags: #sundayspotlight #downbeatlaapproved #weddingplanner #eventplanner