Vendor Spotlight! | K.O. Floral Designs

K.O. Floral Designs

Maddie + Matt | Vee Taylor Photography

About

Serving Sonoma, Napa, and San Diego counties for 10+ years, we love working with Kristin of K.O Floral Designs! Her expertise is in the romantic and wild style of fresh in-season blooms with special attention to intricacies that help customize each event to our unique clients.

Maddie + Matt | Vee Taylor Photography

Andie + Derek | Amy Lynn Photography

From another professional event vendor, it’s fantastic to know we can trust her to deliver breath-taking floral arrangements on time and install them without any issues. Her positivity and respect for a timeline put her at the top of our list when recommending vendors to clients.

Maddie + Matt | Vee Taylor Photography

Whether you know exactly what you want or seek assistance in making your thoughts and ideas come to life, you’ll be in the right hands. It’s obvious that her mastery of floral design and years of experience make her one of the best qualified to help you achieve your floral dreams.

Andie + Derek | Amy Lynn Photography

Contact K.O. Floral Design Today!

email
kristin.osterloh@gmail.com

phone
(619) 980-5901

Julie + Adam | Mike Thezier Photography

Check out these Real Weddings with K.O. Floral Designs!

Julie + Adam | Mike Thezier Photography

Maddie + Matt | Vee Taylor Photography

Andie + Derek | Amy Lynn Photography

Andie + Derek | Amy Lynn Photography

Real Rancho Weddings | Cassaundra + Matthew

Classic Garden Romance

This incredible couple and their family were such a joy to work with. Everyone came together to make the day as special as possible for Matthew and Cassaundra. We loved celebrating their love here at our Rancho and had an awesome vendor team to help make the magic happen!

Cassaundra and her ladies finished getting ready in our Bridal Suite connected to the main house while Matthew and his troupe relaxed in the Groom’s Den downstairs.

The intimate ceremony was downstairs on the Lower Patio, which is flipped afterwards into the buffet and dancing area!

Beneath our tree and the gorgeous wooden arbor, the love birds recited their vows and sealed the deal with a kiss!

To the cheers of the crowd, they walked back down the aisle as husband and wife! This officially starts the party portion of the night, and everyone was more than ready to celebrate.

It was hard not to notice all the love in the air that day. Matthew and Cassaundra’s family were overjoyed to get together after so long apart.

Thanks to Personal Touch Dining, the Lower Lawn was all set and ready for the night’s festivities! We love the look of long feasting tables in this space.

All of the stunning floral arrangements were made by Matthew’s family! Lush greens were complimented by pops of white and pale pink roses to match the napkins. We were so impressed by these professional-looking arrangements.

With the ceremony over, the flower girl and ring bearer were escorted home to bed. Too many noises and dancing feet can be scary for these tiny wedding helpers!

The newlyweds followed True Photography out into our rolling back hills for some iconic golden hour field shots. This is one of the many favorite photo locations for magic moments here at the Rancho.

Once their frolic in the fields was over, it was time for the Grand Entrance! They rejoined their friends and family just in time to have dinner.

Personal Touch Dining always offers the freshest food for our clients. This buffet with the Citrus Marinated Tri-Tip, carved to order, is like the cherry on top of a perfect meal.

Once everyone had eaten their fill, the buffet disappeared, as if by magic, to open up the dance floor for Sound Illusions the rest of the evening.

There was a small moment between songs where the happy couple was able to sneak away to cut their wedding cake from Flour Power. This beautiful, three-tiered, classic cake was the perfect way to end a day filled with so much love and laughter.

We are so glad that Matthew and Cassaundra’s big day went off without a hitch. they were such a delight to celebrate with, and we can’t wait to see where their bright future together takes them!

Vendor Info

Venue Management, Event Coordination, and Catering: Personal Touch Dining

DJ: Sound Illusions

Florist: Groom’s Family

Photographer: True Photography

Cake: Flour Power

Linen Options to Elevate Your Event!

Upgrade Your Linens

Table linens, napkins, and runners that come standard with our packages can be exchanged for luxury options that will enhance your event's overall look and feel.

Exquisite linens can be the statement piece of a table which will save money later on when wedding venue decorations won't need to go the extra mile to compensate for, essentially, a standard empty table.

Textured tablecloths such as lace overlays, as seen below, allow for that "White Wedding" look with hints of color from the base linen peeking through.

It could be the significant detail that sticks with a guest as they look back on how elegant the evening felt.

Sometimes subtle lace accents are too demure for the type of event you're envisioning.

If you're looking down a more glamorous avenue, but the idea of collecting a dozen sparkly centerpieces is daunting, perhaps some dazzling sequined linens are exactly what you need!

All the glitz and glam are apparent immediately upon entering the room, allowing for simpler decorations, a thrifty trick!

 Farm Tables with their minimalist motif tend to need large sprawling garlands down the center to make the table seem less empty.

Decorative runners could be the economical solution to this issue. With bright pops of color to tie in with the floral arrangements, a fun napkin choice can polish everything off for the perfect constructed tablescape!

Just ask our gifted Coordinators to help introduce you to our endless Linen Upgrade options!

Father's Day Tribute!

"The heart of a father is the masterpiece of nature." --Gloria Naylor

Mike Thezier Photography

“A little girl needs Daddy
For many, many things:
Like holding her high off the ground
Where the sunlight sings!

Like being the deep music
That tells her all is right
When she awakens frantic with
The terrors of the night.

Like being the great mountain
That rises in her heart
And shows her how she might get home
When all else falls apart.

Like giving her the love
That is her sea and air,
So diving deep or soaring high
She'll always find him there.”

By Unknown Author

Thanks to all the proud Dads who have graced our historic halls with their love.

From all of us at The Old Rancho, we hope all you Fathers feel appreciated and loved on your special day!

Sweetheart vs Head Tables | Pt.2

Welcome Back For Part Two!

In Part One of this topic, we discussed all the perks of a Sweetheart Table over a Head Table. Now it's time to fully explore the benefits of this grand feasting table design to see if it's right for you!

Head Tables: For All of Your Knights and Ladies In Waiting

As mentioned before, Head Tables can come with their own difficulties, but with an appropriately sized bridal party, they can be a perfect fit! Medium to small-sized bridal parties (4-10 people total, including the Bride and Groom) are what Head Tables are perfectly built for.

Photographer: Chuy Photography, Florist: Sugar Rose Flowers.

Historic Traditions

Royalty kept only the most trusted people close to them at meals. Without getting too into the history, it was a matter of safety and propriety, which determined where guests were seated. So today, we seat those that the Bride and Groom want to honor closest to them for their friendship and loyalty in their lives. Usually the Best Man and Maid of Honor, these people have helped support the happy couple throughout their relationship, not to mention all of the wedding planning mayhem. Placing them next to the newlyweds as a way to honor them give them the thanks they deserve seems only natural.

Photographer: Photography by Joshua Killeen, Florist: The Flower Shop Encinitas.

Family Matters

Family is an enormous part of weddings, and we wouldn't want anybody to feel left out. Some couples stick everybody who was part of the processional of their ceremony at one table. Meaning the happy couple, the bridal party, all parents, and any other significant members all come together again, essentially creating an XXL Head Table. Here the love birds can be in the thick of all the fun, and surprisingly, it works out flawlessly! Their bridal party, full of people practically family to them already, is sometimes too big. It makes sense to be with them in the middle of the festivities. Your family and closest friends are all going to want to talk to you anyway; you might as well join them so everyone can be able to sit and chat!

Photographer: Vafa Photography, Florist: Haystack Floral.

Tired Of The Spotlight?

Let's say you don't particularly care for the spotlight 100% of the time, and you want to be seated with your family. We suggest trying a Family Table. Introverted and family-focused couples love this option, especially when so much stimulation over the course of the day gets to be too much. The extra support you'll receive surrounded by those already begging at the chance to help will be a relief. This option is also smart for pinching a few pennies since you won't need to order extra tables and decorations!

Photographer: Gipe Photography, Florist: Huntress Florals.

Now that you have all the information, good and bad points, feel free to reach out to our fabulous event coordination team with your final decision!

Thanks to all of the amazing photographers mentioned above, whose pictures we used to make this collaboration, and all the Florists who help inspire us with these beautiful arrangements!

Sweetheart vs Head Tables | Pt.1

Choosing Your Royal Dias

Wedding planning can be exhausting, and one of the hardest parts is planning out the seating chart. After worrying about where and how your guests will be sitting, some couples forget to seat themselves!

Choosing whether you want to sit close to your bridal party and family or on your own throne as wedding royalty can be a tough choice. The decision between a Head Table and a Sweetheart Table comes down to most couples' preferences or logistics. If you and your honey aren't particularly swayed in one direction over another, here's some detailed information about both options to help you decide.

Photographer: Plum and Oak Photography, Florist: Native Poppy.

Sweetheart Tables

A Sweetheart Table is exactly what it sounds like: a table meant for only the "Sweethearts." It will be one of the few designated places you and your significant other will be able to--frankly--escape the hordes of your adoring fans. There won't be many moments over the course of the night where the two of you will be able to have private moments to yourselves, and having a designated seat away from the crowd might be exactly what you need.

Photographer: Elizabeth French Creative, Florals by a family member of the Bride.

A Remote Island Getaway

This table acts as a liferaft in the sea of your enthusiastic family members and will become your perching place for those few precious moments that nobody needs you for anything. Plus, everything on the table only comes in two's, so you can afford to decorate! Without worrying about making 100+ copies of everything and buying in bulk, you can customize your special space all you want. Make it look like the table of your wildest dreams—or your wildest Pinterest boards!

Photographer: By Amy Lynn Photography, Florist: KO Floral Designs.

No Need to Have Your Friends on a Leash!

Having your own table also grants your bridal party the freedom to mingle and pursue their own agendas throughout the night without feeling like they have to ask permission to leave the table. Most bridal party members will also be bringing a date, and they'll want to be seated close to them. The Sweetheart Table keeps your honored friends out from under the spotlight and in a better position to help entertain your other guests.

Photographer: Jordan Galindo, Florist: Layered Vintage.

It's All About The Numbers.

Speaking of bridal parties, have you considered the size of your whole crew? Plus their dates? If you plan on seating only the designated bridal party with you, hopefully, their "Plus Ones" know somebody else to sit and talk with at their tables...

In general, extensive bridal parties tend to look a bit excessive if they're all seated away from the rest of your guests at a Head Table. A group of people over twelve thick is tough to seat properly, especially if they're all looking out in the same direction since you wouldn't want anybody's back to the rest of your guests. That can mean your head table is now around eighteen feet long! (If you want to talk to the ones at either end, start practicing your smoke signals now.) In this situation, unfortunately, those whom you wanted closest to you can end up not being the most remote.

Photographer: Chuy Photography

Musical Chairs

Think back to other occasions where a large group of friends and family got together at a restaurant. One of the biggest seating issues is making others have to get up or scoot their seats in every time you need to get up. Honestly, at your wedding, you only get to sit and relax for a total of about 45 minutes, if you're lucky, and if the toasts are long. You're going to want every second of that seated peace enjoyed.

This seat-shuffling issue is removed by having a Sweetheart Table. It also makes you seem more approachable to your guests. Nobody wants to cause an inconvenience by imposing themselves on someone else's space. By removing additional bodies, a direct line of traffic can form between your excited guests to you. Thus, creating a quicker flow of interactions and a more time-efficient process for the event overall.

Photographer: Chuy Photography

Sentiments and Symbolism

Sitting at a Sweetheart Table can also be the first gesture a couple can make together in their married lives. It can signify that they are a single united entity forging a future path of their own. Many couples choose this option for that reason, as well as the privacy it allows. Whispering sweet nothings in the ear of your freshly wedded spouse, without worrying about an audience, can keep the romance alive on such a crazy day.

Photographer: Lauren Scotti Photography, Florist: Siren Floral Co.

Still Can't Decide?

With all of this said, the idea of a Sweetheart Table doesn't sit right with some couples. They want their bridal party right at their sides, or they love the thought of a Head Table's ability to make a bigger design statement.

Keep an eye out for Part 2 coming next week, where we'll explore the other side of this decision and all the Head Table benefits!

Vendor Spotlight! | Happy Camper Photo Bus

“The Most Unique Addition To Your Event”

About

Meet Emerald. This beautifully restored 1970 VW Bay Window Bus is a California native and has traveled most of the United States through her years. She is the life of the party and “promises to deliver smiles for miles!”

Professionally, working with Jessi and Nick (Emerald’s owners) has been a delight. They’re always cheerful and obviously in love with their jobs. They take pride in their work on this unique photo booth experience and attend events to help guests reap all the benefits Emerald can offer. They’re reliable, respectful of bigger picture timelines, and feel like a natural part of our events.

Brittany + Chris | Madeline Barr Photography

Services

“She's a backdrop, prop, event focal point and can also be used for photo shoots, product advertisements, store openings, or corporate functions.”

Our clients and their guests love Emerald and all the amazing props she comes with. The customized photo strips are a priceless memory for everyone to take home as a fun wedding favor. There are thousands of combinations between props and models, so guests are always thrilled to hear that they have unlimited chances to get their perfect shot.

Cleverly arranged inside the bus is a one-of-a-kind, custom-built photo booth that houses a studio caliber ring flash and DSLR. This chic design features a touch screen monitor that easily guides users through the photo booth process in just a couple of taps. Emerald’s trunk is always stocked with the most unique and eye-catching props and an LED-lit mirror to perfect your look before your photoshoot.

A lab-quality printer tucked away inside the booth turns out prints on the spot, just seconds after taking the last photo. Photo strips can be custom-tailored to your event with your logo or graphic of choice for a lasting guest experience!

Each Rental Package Includes:

• Unlimited photos

• Unlimited prints

• Customized photo strips

• Digital sharable/downloadable album

• Tons of fun props

• A happy attendant!

Add-Ons!

• High-quality guest book

• Custom backdrops

• Social sharing kiosk

Sydney + Kevin | David Manning Photography

Contact The Happy Camper Photo Bus Today!

Phone | (951) 526-6614

Email | happycamperphotobus@gmail.com

Instagram | @happycamperphotobus

Brittany + Chris | Madeline Barr Photography

Best Wedding Cake Ideas for 2021

When couples start thinking about their wedding plans, somewhere down the line, someone asks about the cake. While wedding cakes serve as the cherry on top of a celebration, dreaming up epic wedding cake ideas is a fun task! (Fewer wedding planning tasks are more therapeutic than scrolling through images of decadent tiered masterpieces decked out with sugar flowers.)

Wedding cakes are like people; they come in every shape, size, color, and flavor.

The amazing thing about wedding cakes, and even cupcakes if you prefer, is how incredibly versatile they are. Wedding cakes are the newest blank canvas, and there's a stunning wedding cake idea out there for each couple, no matter how varied their style may be. This is a chance as the Bride and Groom to express yourselves on a blank canvas! Get the flavors you feel best to represent your relationship and the style you feel best about!

Simple, Elegant, and Modern Cakes

Ivory or white frosting and is splashed with color from a few simple flowers to coordinate with the wedding colors. If you're looking for a clean, classic look, check out these cakes with crisp white frosting and sharp straight edges. One of our favorite vendors, Flour Power Cakes, always has the most beautiful cakes with an infinite number of flavors. Beautiful and timeless, this style goes well with modern, chic, or industrial looks. This type of cake is also most often crowned with dainty, intricate cake toppers customized to send any message the couple wants!

Kami Olavarria Photography

Rustic Wedding cakes

Renata Amazonas Photography

Another style that gained popularity over the last few years is the unfrosted or "naked" cake, the classic cake's free-spirited cousin. This particular cake pictured above is only "half-dressed," and the style offers a trendy look while still falling under the "rustic" genre.

Cultural Wedding Cakes and Cake Alternatives

Paige Hill Photography

Just recently, a bride and groom ordered a giant, three-tiered Napoleon Cake for their special day. Many layers of golden brown puff-pastry are filled with Millie-Feuille Cream and dusted with powdered sugar, no frosting needed at all. It was unique, light in texture and flavor, and absolutely delicious!

We’ve also seen couples, especially around the holidays, ask for pies over cakes for their ceremonial “cake cutting.” Go with whatever feels right for you and your wedding theme!

Single Tier Cakes, Couple’s Cakes, and Cupcakes

Traci True Photography

If big, multiple tiers of cake seem a bit too much, you can join another newer trend and go mini! Not only do cupcakes allow for perfect portions, but they're also great for exact number counts, and the flavor options can be limitless! Have lots of friends or family with dietary restrictions? Specialized cupcakes that are gluten-free or dairy-free/vegan provide an avenue for even the most sensitive guests.

Statment Cakes

Some couples love the idea of something special to really wow their guests. Many bakeries are just waiting for that bold couple to come through their doors asking for the impossible. Let the confectionary masters work their magic to bring your wildest dreams to life!

Statement Tier

Carissa Woo Photography

Much like the trend in Nail Art, a statement tier can be a pop of color, texture, or florals in the middle of your cake. Add a bit of excitement to a traditional tiered cake.

Dramatic Colors

Chuy Photography

There’s a thrilling new desire for the dark and broody color pallets at weddings this year. That same theme extends to desserts as well! This three-tiered cake is coated in dark chocolate and garnished with gold flakes for contrast. Beautiful, elegant, and unique, it was all the guests could talk about!

To cut to the chase: your cake is free ground to express yourself however you want! Pick something you would want to eat. No ifs, ands, or bundts.

Dinnerware Upgrades!

Bring your place settings up to the same level as the rest of your table decor! Dinnerware, meaning the plates and chargers, is the largest part of a place setting and could dull your table with common plates. Using a combination of decorative china, chic stoneware, and striking chargers, your tables will shine! We’ve collected some of our favorites from previous clients who knew how important the right dinnerware was to their event motif.

China Plates

Printed Patterns

These are pretty enough to make your grandmother’s tea set jealous. What better way to share an occasion than serve guests dinnerware that says romance with every bite? These delicate plates are perfect for garden parties, formal outdoor events, Bridal and Baby showers, or even Spring season events like Mother’s Day!

Embossed

For something a little more classic but still traditionally “romantic,” these plates are our favorites! An elegant, white raised pattern covers the border of this upscale dinnerware. Subtle details, like these embossed plates, can draw out a whole sub-level of detail to complete the look of your table. There are tons of style options for this as well, so if you're looking for something fun but not as rustic, our coordinators have got you covered!

Solid Colors

Are white plates too plain? Try some colored or decorated options! With these, launch your event from tame to stunning!

Stoneware

A welcome refresh to white china, Stoneware perfectly compliments a modern minimalistic or chic, rustic tabletop design. Reminiscent of hand-made pottery, Lisbon Stoneware looks amazing on the finest linens or against natural wood-grain tables. Mix and match with Paris Stoneware for a unique look all your own.

Chargers

Chargers add an old-world class to events and, ever mindful of being stuck in the past, choose a style that brings out that same elegance with a dash of modern imagination!

Hammered and polished to a brilliant finish, our gold chargers will bring warmth and luster to your table setting. Studded, plain, ruffled, and brushed, these chargers come in different styles to best fit your overall motif!

Wood

The graceful lines of our Valentin wood chargers add visual appeal to your table with a discernible texture and two different finishes: a grey wash and a natural dark acacia wood.

Woven Wicker

The best part about a rustic-chic motif is the fun of mixing everything together! Grand metallic chargers can be swapped for these adorable woven mats and a classy cute napkin ring for polish! They're versatile, go with nearly every color, and add texture-- an often forgotten detail genre-- to an otherwise flat tabletop. We love these and your guests will too!

Ratan Mats

Round Brown Rattan Charger Plates create a rustic feeling to your tabletop decor. With a woven design and deep brown color, it can be used with any color dinnerware to protect the table from spills and messes while exuding a warm and inviting feeling.

Glass Sunburst

Bring a work of art to your tabletop! This charger’s irregular edge catches the eye and adds an exquisite touch of shimmer to your decor in gold, silver, and chocolate.

Glass With Gold Trim

Glass chargers with a gold band add an understated, fresh look to your table. A delicate glimmering accent along the rim makes this glass charger plate a glamorous enhancement to a plain table.

Let designing your tablescapes be the most enjoyable part of planning your event!

Ask our gifted coordinators what available design options they'd recommend for your unique vision.

Happy Mother's Day!

“It may be possible to gild pure gold, but who can make his mother more beautiful?”

—Mahatma Gandhi

Tayler Ashley Photography

How would we have survived the last year without our Mothers?!

Their positivity and grace got us through the most bizarre and dangerous year in history. Through toilet paper shortages, the elections, and countless brain-probing covid tests, they were always there for us via facetime or Zoom. Without their unfaltering love, our world would have seemed a little more chaotic and uncertain.

This year, it’ll be incredible to spend Mother’s Day in person! We can’t wait for all the flowers, chocolates, and Mother’s Day Brunches to come!

Check out our recipes for our favorite Spring-inspired cocktails perfect for Mom’s big day! We wanted to send our love and appreciation to all the mothers out there that helped make 2020 a little easier from all of us here at The Old Rancho. Remember to give your Mom twice as much this year to make up for last year’s bewildering Mother’s Day experience!

Tayler Ashley Photography

"When you are looking at your mother, you are looking at the purest love you will ever know."

—Charlie Benetto

Vendor Spotlight | Black Tie Productions

“Creative events and classic entertainment from planning to party.”

About

Black Tie Productions prides itself on being a full-service production and entertainment company. They go the extra mile to offer event consulting & management, design, coordinating, entertaining, DJing, and MCing from booking to the end of your event.

Working with Black Tie Productions in a professional setting and at events has been a fantastic experience. They are well organized, reliable, and most importantly, they know how to read a crowd! Our Clients and their guests are always impressed by how great the song selection is and appreciate Corey’s talent as an MC!

Meet Corey

“Hi! I’m Corey. I’ve been spinning tunes and producing events, weddings, concerts & conferences for over fifteen years. The best days of my life are spent celebrating the moments that mean the most.”

As a DJ, Corey creates the ideal environment for your event to bring out the best of you and your guests on the dance floor. As an event consultant and producer, Corey knows the importance of planning out each detail so that your wedding or event fits the picture of your dreams. This is your day, and he will bend over backward to bring your vision to life.

Contact

Feel free to email, call, or text any time! 

corey@blacktieproductions.biz | 760.500.0616

Party Favor Inspiration!

Are you seeking that perfect wedding favor?

Gifting your guests a miniature memento of your big day is a timeless tradition, but if you're scrambling for some inspiration, worry no longer! We’ve collected some of our favorite ideas to help guide you in a favor-able direction.

Koozies

Customize a Koozie with the wedding date, and in the future, your friends will think of your special day when they sip on a refreshing beverage.

Meagan B. Photography

Something Hand-Made

Your souvenir options are endless! As long as it uniquely represents your personalities as a couple, let your imagination run wild.

Photo by Chana

Photo Booths

Photo booths are a perfect way to provide instant picture keepsakes, as well as endless entertainment during an event.

Fonyat Photographer

Sweets

A symbolic sweet treat can go a long way. Let your guests take their dessert on the road with this cute Hot Cocoa mix!

Photo By Chana

Spell It Out

Small, straightforward favors are endearing! These hand-made scrabble magnets were crafted by the love birds to help them point out what is important in their relationship.

Linsey Middleton Photography

Tatoos

They don't always have to last forever! Too many weddings and guests have loads of little bobbles bouncing around their house. These temporary tattoos are easy to customize, fun for all ages, and reduce a little of life's clutter.

Rad + In Love Photography

Succulents

Succulents are increasingly popular as favors due to their adorable size, wide range of styles, and easy care instructions. Here, they've been used as a favor and escort card for twice the fun!

True Photography

Something Spicy

Is love the spice to your life? Try sending a personal bottle of love home with your guests!

Vacay Photography

These micro manifestations of the Bride and Groom are fun, small, and meaningful "thank yous" to your guests for supporting your relationship and believing in your future. If you have fun with it, they will too!

Summer 2021 Trendy Wedding Design Concepts

Thanks to COVID vaccine distribution, happy couples from 2020 are crossing their fingers, hoping their wedding dreams will finally come true. This Summer, weddings are bound to shock and awe guests with their bold statements and unique customizations!

Rising Hemlines

Knee-length, “tea-length,” and mini wedding gowns are some of the top keywords for 2021 dress trends. These options are easy to dress up or down, usually cost less than formal floor-length ball-gown shapes, and are super thriftable. Plus, with all the elopements, outdoor weddings, and out-of-the-box wedding locations, these shorter skirts might be better equipped for the varying environments.

Digital Invitations

With nearly everything being virtual now, it’s no surprise that sending event invites via snail mail is a thing of the past. Whether you’re looking at it from an eco-friendly perspective, a time and efficiency angle, or fully embracing the virtual culture, this seems to be the best fit for most couples these days. We plan on digital invitations to become the standard across the board soon.

Intimate Ceremonies

Most couples and their families are still concerned about the pandemic, so big ceremonies and receptions are still on ice. To still honor their wedding date, “Minimonies” and “Micro Weddings” are popping up everywhere. These wedding ceremonies take the spirit of elopement, minus the secrecy, and supplemented by all of the support from afar. These safe, intimate gatherings usually only have immediate family members and a tiny bridal party in tow, keeping the risk of spreading the virus to a minimum.

Justice Photography

The Mountains are Calling

Couples are getting creative at social distancing by diving into the wilderness and gathering together in local, national parks. This fits the two big trends we’ve seen since last year with couples wanting to give their guests a one-of-a-kind experience and the passion for outdoor weddings.

Warm Over White Pallets

Green and white florals have been the go-to color combination for a while now, but we’re sensing a warm breeze blowing through. Couples seem to be gravitating towards rich, Autumnal tones reminiscent of the ’60s and ’70s. We’re excited to see warmer hues like burnt orange, deep burgundy, and vibrant purple making a comeback.

Logan Cole Photography

Summer 2021 Weddings will still feel “different.”

Unfortunately, COVID-19 will still be part of our reality for a while. However, now that wedding venues and coordinators have adapted to the new planning process, we're likely to see fewer delays, as well as safer gatherings. Dr. Anthony Fauci has been quoted saying that he believes the United States can reach “some degree of normality” by “the end of the summer, the beginning of the fall of 2021,” but we’re hopeful that it’ll be sooner!

Glamorous Goblets for Every Occasion!

Color doesn't have to only come from the flower arrangements! Spice up your tablescape by adding pops of color at each seat with these gorgeous goblets. These come in all different styles and shapes as well, so stick with one color or even mix and match hues to encompass the full spectrum of your wedding pallet.

Bar Glassware

Have a signature drink? It wouldn't be an actual Mule without a copper mug! Your guests are sure to remember an eye-catching glass containing a tasty cocktail. Imagine your guests sipping elegantly from Martini Glasses or getting the party started with an authentic Margarita Glass in their hands. Authenticity elevates the look and feel of your event!

Photographer: Holly Ireland Photography, Goblets: Hostess Haven Rentals

Let designing your tablescapes be the most enjoyable part of planning your event!

Ask our gifted Event Coordination Team about what available designs they'd recommend for your unique event among our endless upgrade options.

3 Easy-To-Make Spring-Inspired Cocktails

Sip On That Liquid Sunshine!

It's finally Spring! Here in Carlsbad at our Rancho, we're lucky enough to experience some classically gorgeous, sunny-and-75 days pretty regularly. We're breaking out our sun hats, propping up patio umbrellas, and enjoying the sunshine. The only thing this setting needs now is a refreshing drink!

We've gathered a few of our favorites for the season. Think sour citrus drinks to keep you cool as warmth spreads on the air, bubbly drinks to match your higher spirits, and bright colors, like the landscape waking up around you. After the comfort of winter cocktails and before the unabashed party spirit of summer cocktails, these springtime signature drinks are perfect for sipping on the patio and enjoying the sun!

1. The Secret Garden

You can’t have a Spring signature drink list without something pink and bubbly to start it off. This seasonal twist on the classic French 75 is best for sipping on Easter, Mother’s Day, or any Sunday Brunch!

Ingredients:

1.5 oz. The Botanist Gin

.75 oz. Fresh Lemon Juice

.75 oz. Elderflower Liqueur

1.5 oz. Sparkling Rosé

Directions:

Combine The Botanist Gin, fresh lemon juice, and Elderflower Liqueur in a cocktail shaker. Add ice and shake. Strain into a flute glass. Top with sparkling rosé. Garnish with a lemon peel.

Courtesy of The Botanist Gin

2. The Green Cup

Bright green is the first color we think of for Spring. This easy-to-mix cocktail is garnished with fresh basil and cucumber to bring out the vibrant green to fit the bill. Light and refreshing, this cocktail can carry you through the summer months as well!

Ingredients:

2 parts SVEDKA Vodka

¾ part fresh lime juice

¾ part simple syrup

Cucumber slices and basil

Directions:

Muddle cucumber and basil in a cocktail shaker. Add remaining ingredients and shake vigorously. Fine strain into a chilled Martini glass, and garnish lavishly with cucumber and basil.

Courtesy of SVEDKA

3. Taste of the Tropics

After a long day of Spring Cleaning, the last thing you’ll want to do is mix a bunch of complicated ingredients to quench your thirst. Try this ready-to-drink pre-mixed margarita from Jose Cuervo to shake off the cleaning dust and relax those stressed muscles!

Ingredients:

4 oz. Jose Cuervo Orange

Pineapple Margarita

Directions:

Garnish with lime slice, orange zest, and pineapple wedge.

Courtesy of Jose Cuervo

Vendor Spotlight | To Be Designed Events

“SAN DIEGO'S LEADING CUSTOM EVENT DESIGN COMPANY”

KO Floral Designs, By Amy Lynn Photography

We are obsessed with the uniquely beautiful event designs that come from To Be Designed’s (TBD’s) team of master event visionaries. Their seemingly endless inventory of carefully curated rentals and one-of-a-kind pieces for all types of events never ceases to impress. As a company, TBD prides itself on keeping up with the latest trends, reinventing the old, and designing exceptional event spaces. Spanning motifs from vintage to chic, their extraordinary designs will help elevate the look and feel of your event beyond your wildest dreams. Unafraid of braving bold new challenges, TBD constantly proves that it is redefining event design limits.

Find Out More About The Owner: JILLIAN ZISKA

“Her desire to build and create new, unique pieces for her clients so they can experience a one-of-a-kind event has always been at the forefront of her designs.”

KO Floral Designs, By Amy Lynn Photography

Check Out Their Extensive Online Inventory

From Seating to Structures, Floor Rugs to Ceiling Lights, they’ve got it all!

Services

RENTALS

The cornerstone of their business, To Be Designed, started with offering a unique selection of event rentals. The constantly updated inventory offers clients a full spectrum of the trendiest decor and furniture options available for their dream events to become a reality.

EVENT DESIGN

These event visionaries are professional from start to finish, meaning that no matter how grand the event, you can trust that it’ll be organized, designed, and planned to perfection.

FLORAL DESIGN

As part of their newest endeavors, they are now providing dazzling florals for their clients’ events!

Foxtail Florals, Mirelle Carmichael Photography

“Our goal is to create memorable moments through design.”

Speaking as event professionals ourselves, we recognize the same shared common core values of quality and integrity in all TBD does. They strive to lift their client’s goals above and beyond what they thought possible. Whether it’s a wedding, corporate event, or photoshoot, they “create a vision to help bring purpose to any event - big or small.”

Foxtail Florals, Mirelle Carmichael Photography

Contact TBD About Your Upcoming Event Today!

619-255-0656

hello@tbdsandiego.com

Upper Lawn

Our Upper Lawn is as versatile space as it is lovely.

This location is most commonly used for ceremonies, framed by the historic home, private gardens, and a beautiful wall of blooming bougainvillea.

Renata Amazonas Photography

Chuy Photography

Capable of comfortably seating guests in multiple directions, this location works perfectly for any outdoor event. It can easily transform into a lush garden cocktail hour for your guests to enjoy as well.

Alison Davis Photography

Chuy Photography

Just reach out to our fantastic Event Coordination Team for questions about your upcoming ceremony or event!

Fonyat Photography

Fonyat Photography

Spacious Outdoor Cocktail Hour Area

Our Rancho comes equipped with ample space for guests to relax and socialize during the Cocktail Hour.

Overlooking the Upper Lawn, the patio wraps around our venue, dipping into shaded private patios and circling the Upper Bar.

It’s the perfect spot for Welcome Tables, Gift, and Guest Book Tables, and Stationary Appetizer Stations for your guests to enjoy while they sip cocktails before moving downstairs for dinner.

Built-In Bars

Our gorgeous built-in bars are placed in two areas of our reception levels for effortless guest accessibility during your events!

The Upper Patio Bar

After your ceremony on our upper lawn, this bar area is the first to greet guests and start the party! We’ve seen couples use it as a full bar or self-serve non-alcoholic beverage station.

Its charm and placement so close to the ceremony make it perfect for setting the tone for the evening and could even be used as a sign-in book space or wedding favor/escort card location. Customize this bar by decorating it with dazzling floral arrangements or engagement and family photos to welcome your guests!

The Lower Lawn Bar

This cozy built-in bar tends to be a bit snug for more than one bartender, so we encourage this spot for dessert, beverage stations, or beer and wine service during dinner.

Located directly outside of the Groom’s Den, it’s the heart of our lower lawn area and acts as subtle divider between the dining and dancing locations.

Vendor Spotlight | Chasing Light Photo & Video

ABOUT

This husband and wife team offers nearly a decade’s worth of photo and video experience. They openly state that they strive to evolve and learn from each client and their unique take on love. Through their devout attention to details, natural lighting, and genuine connection with their clients, they can transcend common notions of photography and turn anything into art.

“Through every wedding, engagement, and elopement, we learn more about love, commitment, people, art, and how there are so many different ways to be creative.”

Seeing their flawless teamwork in action resonates with many of our own core values in this line of work. We can tell that they understand the importance of embracing each couple’s true nature and how they define love to better coax out the perfect translation of that love into a breathtaking picture.

THE MANIFESTO

“We constantly evolve, educate ourselves and each other. We are two teams, a husband and wife and two best friends, all equally passionate about candid smiles, happy tears, and connecting with people.”

Each package they offer is customized to the individual needs of the client and occasion. They make sure to reach out and offer their years of experience in guiding clients through the planning process of their day and are effortless to coordinate with on our side as well. Responding quickly to emails, we can trust them to be efficient while collaborating on the perfect timeline and respecting our need for details such as the number of other shooters or client’s photo requests. Choosing Chasing Light for your next wedding, engagement, elopement, or family pictures would be a choice to immortalize the happiest moments of your life with all the magic and wonder remembered in the day.

Contact Them Today!

442-262-4932

book@chasinglight.tv