Friday, September 6, 2013

Fashion Friday: Cap Sleeve Gowns

Huge on the runway this season are bridal gowns with details cap sleeves.  We adore this trend because sleeves are a comfortable option - you won't have to be pulling your dress up all night!  These looks really are timeless, and the cap sleeves are detailed and interesting enough so it still looks modern.  Photo Credits to bridal designers Rivini, Sarah Janks, Carolina Herrera, St. Pucchi, Jenny Packham, and Lea-Ann Belter!

Left: Rivini; Right: Sarah Janks
Left: Carolina Herrera; Right: Sposa by St. Pucchi
Left: Jenny Packham; Right: Lea-Ann Belter

Thursday, September 5, 2013

Vendor Spotlight: Nicoli Productions - Engagement Promotion!


Vendor Nicoli Productions
Location Escondido, Ca
Website www.nicoliproductions.com

Specializes In:
Magical engagement sessions for display portraits, guest sign in albums, save the date cards or custom video slide shows.

Signature Style:
Environmental portraiture with a natural feel.

Your Wedding Tip:
Relax and enjoy it!

The connection you have with your wedding photographer will be reflected in your wedding images.
The engagement session is the perfect way to set the stage.

Let me show you not only how to look and feel comfortable in front of the camera but how to pose for your most flattering angles, look natural and have fun while you’re doing it.

Most couples love our lush, tropical grounds, perennial gardens and fields and unusual sets but we will travel to your most meaningful location upon request.
Remember, it’s not the destination but the journey.
Don’t miss this chance to create one of a kind images that tell the story of your journey together!


PROMOTION!
Schedule your engagement session before March 15th and receive 20 watercolor cards to share your excitement with your family and friends!

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

It's that time of year again! San Diego Style Weddings is ramping up for our annual magazine launch party which will be held at the luxurious Hotel Del Coronado! Check out this video of last year's celebration courtesy of Justin Taylor and Taylor Films (taylorfilms.com)



San Diego Style Weddings 25th Anniversary from Taylor Films on Vimeo
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(Wedding) Wednesday: A Real San Diego Engagement!

We love this real proposal for the engagement of Isabella and Octavio Perez.  The drive-in movie turned proposal is romantic but still low-key, and every last bit happy.  The photos tell the story of the engagement so you will just have to see for yourself!

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Vendor Spotlight: Marriott San Diego La Jolla


The Marriott La Jolla is has been transformed by its contemporary $17 million renovation and is now the shining Jewel of La Jolla.  A brand new lobby, hotel entrance and 100% of the guestrooms are just part of the new look!  A new Ballroom with an outdoor terrace is perfect place for a wedding ceremony or reception with a true California outdoor feel.  Two new restaurants, an outdoor firepit, salsa lounge, modern fitness center and flashy pool area complete the remodel. 


Venue San Diego Marriott La Jolla
Location La Jolla, CA
Person to Contact Christina Garcia
Phone 858-597-6339
Email Christina.garcia@marriottlajolla.com
Website www.marriottlajolla.com
Social Media Twitter Facebook


Venue Background
Marriott is a symbol of hospitality and has been since the late 1920’s and the Marriott La Jolla continues that tradition.   Let the experienced and professional wedding planners, banquet and culinary staff take care of your every need for this very special day.

  •  372 completely renovated guestrooms and suites all with balconies
  • Two large ballrooms can comfortably accommodate event from 10 people to 1000 people with dance floors and staging
  • Up the Grand Escalators is the La Jolla Ballroom  -  Feel a sense of elegance with the Ballroom’s 18-foot high ceilings and gracious wall sconces
  • Stunning sunset ceremony or cocktail reception is available on our outdoor Fountain Court
  • Brand New Soledad Ballroom (opened June 1, 2013) is stunning with floor to ceiling windows and an attached outdoor terrace surrounded by blossoming gardens
  • Our professional culinary team will prepare a delectable menu just for you and your guests
  • Banquet & Catering staff with over 25 years of experience
  • We are committed to providing a flawless event just for you!


How would you describe the atmosphere of San Diego Marriott La Jolla in three words?
Unique, Refreshing, Experienced

What makes San Diego Marriott La Jolla stand out as a wedding venue?
We believe our strength is rooted in our core values: putting people first, pursuing excellence, embracing change, acting with integrity and serving our guests. These values are our legacy and our future. Here at the San Diego Marriott La Jolla we offer on-site wedding planners that ensure every aspect of your event goes smoothly. Because we know that successful parties don't just happen, they're planned; we are here to make your event seamless!


What spaces are available for ceremonies/ receptions? How many people can you accommodate?
Ceremony & Reception areas include our
Fountain Court – accommodates up to 700 people
La Jolla Ballroom – accommodates up to 1000 people
Soledad Ballroom – accommodates up to 200 people

Is there in-house catering? Yes. We also allow outside caterers for specific ethnic cuisines.

Is there a day-of coordinator? Yes


How would you describe the San Diego Marriott La Jolla experience?
Our new look is Love Inspired just for you! Our hospitality is felt from the moment you are greeted at the doorstep, throughout the planning process and continues while you and your guests enjoy the Chef’s culinary creations served by our delightful and gracious staff. You will feel completely relaxed and confident that every detail has been covered so that you can enjoy this special day with the ones you love!

What is one important piece of advice you would like to share with couples in choosing a wedding venue?
Look for a venue that has an Event Planner that has a great deal of experience planning weddings. A planner that is able to answer your questions before you even ask them (mind readers are a bonus). One that knows the tips and tricks of the trade to help made the planning process and execution of the event easy and stress free.  A person you feel comfortable with and you can trust makes a perfect pair. 

Special Offer:

Our New Look is Love Inspired Just for You!
Reserve your wedding date at the Marriott La Jolla by October 31st and you can select one of the following items complimentary!

Ø  Chocolate Truffles Display for Each Table
Ø  Bride and Groom upgraded to the Presidential Suite (based on availability)
Ø  Uplighting throughout the Ballroom, your choice of color
Ø  50% off Self-Parking Rates
Ø  International and Domestic Cheese Display for the cocktail hour
Ø  A Bottle of Dom Pérignon Champagne for the Bride and Groom

San Diego Marriott La Jolla: 4240 La Jolla Village Dr. La Jolla CA 92037,
 858-597-6310, www.marriottlajolla.com

Monday, September 2, 2013

Special Offer: The US Grant's "At Last" Reception Package!

Photo Credit: True Photography
Pop the cork to a San Diego Wedding Special Offer that promises exquisite style, renowned rewards and a wealth of memories for you and your beloved to begin your happily ever after.

Host your wedding celebration encapsulated in the romance of one of the US Grant Hotels, and for a limited time only, enjoy unlimited bubbly during the reception for you and your guests. In timeless tradition, the first bottle of champagne will be sabered by The US Grant Sommelier, or should you wish to perform the art of sabering, lessons will be provided. To end the evening in all-encompassing luxury, retreat to your complimentary Presidential Suite accommodations the night of the wedding.

The US Grant "At Last" Reception Package includes...
  • Reception Venue at The US Grant
  • Three Hours Hosted Sommelier's Selection of Champagne
  • First Bottle of Champagne Sabered
  • Menu: Three Butler Passed Hors d'Oeuvres, Choice of Soup or Salad, Entrée Presentation, Hand Rolled Chocolate Truffles
  • Menu Presentation Cards, Guest Tables, Chairs, Italian Rivolta Carmignani Ivory Linens, Draped Cake Table, Gift Table, Guestbook Table, DJ Table and Dance Floor
  • Overnight Accommodations for the Couple the night of the wedding in the US Grant Presidential Suite
  • Signature Turndown Amenity and Complimentary Valet Parking for the Couple the night of the wedding
  • Preferred Guest Room Rates for your Wedding Guests and Personalized Wedding Website
  • Complimentary Menu Tasting and Sabering Lessons
*Book by October 15, 2013 for weddings hosted before December 31, 2014
Additional Terms & Conditions Apply
Photo Credit: True Photography
Photo Credit: Tim Otto Photography

Mangia Monday: Skewers

One way to make a simple, barbecued meal look elegant is to use wood skewers as part of the presentation! Not only do skewered meats and veggies look great, but they also minimize the use of utensils and dishes.  If you are a fan of seafood, shrimp works well with this style. Barbecuing shrimp gives it extra flavor because you do not ordinarily cook shrimp this way, especially with a zesty chili lime seasoning like we tried from Savory Spice Shop in Encinitas. Chicken also tastes great on the grill, especially with barbecue sauce or teriyaki and pineapple.  Because the skewers make it easy to cook, you can go straight from the grill to the serving platter and serve to your guests on the spot!

Photo Credit: Candids by Allie
Photo Credit: Rebecca Seal
Photo Credit: Rebecca Seal