I was recently interviewed by Youtoo America to talk about what I do as a wedding and event planner, and all of the amazing services I offer my clients. I love working with my special clients, and it was a great experience talking about all of my favorite details! Thank you, Amy Fuller for having me. Check it out!
A rich color palette, bold orchids, and deep purple roses, are only just a few phrases to describe the details of Nicholas and Noura’s Manchester Grand Hyatt wedding in Downtown San Diego.The reception was so aesthetically rich, that it was hard for me to choose just a few pictures to share with you! This blog post will focus on a few of my favorite details (I know, I say that word a lot), that made this day unforgettable.
So, let me walk you through the reception…
Imagine being newly married and sitting with the person you love the most at this royal sweetheart table! The romantic sweetheart table was fit for a king and queen. It was surrounded by candles, and was elevated on a platform embellished with damask details. Having an elevated sweetheart table is a nice extra touch to add, giving the couple a great vantage point to see everything that is happening during the reception, as well as creating a focal point for the guests that is visible at all times. Directly behind the sweetheart table were mauve and gold drapes, tied with large floral arrangements. The mirrored sweetheart table added a unique look to the setup, adding a glamorous touch, and tying together the mirrored touches seen throughout the reception.
Now let’s talk about the ornate and unique guest tables.
The guests tables were decorated with different floral arrangements. Having different centerpieces and decorations add depth and variety to the room, making it much more memorable.
The first of the four guest tables, was a long table decorated with high bridged floral arrangements. Smaller rose floral arrangements in gold square vases lining the table were full of fresh blush, lavender, and white roses. These smaller arrangements accented the larger elevated floral arrangements that were overflowing with orchids, roses, and various accent flowers. Not to forget the candles! As you can see from the pictures, candles were dispersed across the table, creating a romantic element to the table’s design.
The second type of long tables were covered with beige damask table linens and adorned with linear rose floral arrangements. The taller square candle votives added some height to this table variety.
The third style of long tables consisted of candelabras adored with bright white florals. The candle light reflected off the mirrored tables, creating a romantic and comforting glow throughout the night.As you have noticed from the pictures, there were lots of candles. Candles are a great way to create a sense of intimacy in a large space. In addition, the floral arrangements were so detailed and grand, that candles highlight the elements that you want your guests to fixate on.
The fourth and final table design was circular tables draped with gold table linen. Each circular table displayed large floral centerpieces with pearl accents draping down – contrasting beautifully with the glass vase. Each centerpiece was made of beautiful roses, full hydrangeas, orchids, and accent flowers.
This wedding definitely allowed me to led my creative abilities to my clients. Decorating your wedding reception and event is a way to represent your taste as a couple and I loved helping Nicholas and Noura incorporate their favorite flowers and dreams for their special day, into their decorations!
~ Vendors ~ Photography: Xavier Bailey Photography ~ Florals – Art Quest Flowers ~ Venue: Machester Grand Hyatt ~ Outside Caterer: Harvest Ranch Market ~ Sajj – Little Cedars
Take a look at this dream San Diego destination wedding. The weather was perfect – bright blue skies, the San Diego skyline and Coronado Bridge in the background, and lots and lots of love!
Matt and Ashley are originally from Northern California, but the bride has always dreams of having her wedding in San Diego. A couple months back, I featured a behind-the-scenes of their wedding planning experience with me. When the time finally came for them to get married, I could not help but look back on those “before” pictures, and smile when I saw the final result.
The ceremony and reception took place at The Marriot Coronado. During the ceremony,a string quartet played music for the guests while the bridal party walked down the aisle.
The couple decided to add a special element – to have an artist paint their ceremony. She was able to capture the San Diego scenery, as well as Ashley walking down the aisle towards Matt.
At the ceremony site, large floral centerpieces consisted of bright pink and blush roses, with bright white rose petals framing the isle. The altar was draped in a sheer white fabric, with a glamorous chandelier hanging in the middle, and more blush floral arrangements all across the top.
After the ceremony, the couple took a peek at their reception venue, while the guests enjoyed cocktail hour. During cocktail hour, guests could choose between an etched wine glass or whisky class with their name or initials on it. This is a unique souvenirs to feature at any event that guests will surely keep. The couple took some fun pictures by their wedding cake, which was elegant, and added a touch to the rest of their reception decor.
The reception took place in a tent at the same venue, with open walls. This allowed the crisp San Diego breeze to blow through, as well as display the skyline lit up at night as guests enjoyed the fireworks. Outside of the tent, there was silver and white lounge seating, that coordinated with the weddings theme, so guests could enjoy the view of the Coronado Bridge.
Now, let’s talk about those gorgeous centerpieces! The large bright centerpieces consisted of a variety of flowers, including roses, dahlias, and hydrangeas! They were so bright, but not as bright as the bride’s smile.
Lightweight white fabric draped the tent, and was lit up by chandeliers as well as accent lighting.
The two love birds sat on a comfy white love seat at their sweetheart table, with the Coronado bridge in the background. It was lined with the same bright floral arrangements as the centerpieces. Each table setting consisted of a clear charger plate, so that guests could enjoy the details of the silver sequin damask linen.
I loved working with this special couple – and was so happy that I could make their dream San Diego destination wedding come true. Destination weddings are some of my favorite events to plan, especially since San Diego is the #1 desired spot with lots of beautiful venues to choose from. As a San Diego wedding planner, I can show my clients the best venues in San Diego, that meet all of their requirements. Ashley and Matt, it was a pleasure working with you and wish you all of the happiness and love in the world!
Ashley and Matt, it was a pleasure working with you and wish you all of the happiness and love in the world!
~ Vendors ~
Venue: Marriott Coronado Coordinator: Events by Gisele Photographer: Brant Bender Photographer Videographer: Taylor Films Florist: Blush Botanica Rentals: All Star Rentals Linens: APR Linens Lounge Chairs: Hire Elegance Trio & Harp: Caprice
Red, white, and blue, and a whole lot of love! I recently had the privilege of working with some of my favorite vendors in order to create a patriotic inspired wedding photoshoot at, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe. This styled photoshoot is bound to give you lots of ideas on how to incorporate your military service or love for your country into your special day. Let me walk you through the day and show you some of my favorite details that will be perfect for your military or patriotic inspired wedding!
My good friend, Beata, of BZM Photography, was there to capture the whole day from start to finish. We started our day off at Nicole Miller, which has a beautiful selection chic and classy wedding dresses. Our bride Meghan, was fitted into a form fitting wedding gown, with simple details and a high neckline.
Her classic and preppy wedding dress went perfectly with the rich and lush grounds of, The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe, and pops of colors seen throughout the shoot. Our groom, Nathaniel, wore a tailored suit with a bright red-bow tie. The groom’s fitted navy blue suit, crisp white shirt, and vibrant red bow-tie paid tribute to his career as a Marine in a trendy way.
The rustic props and florals were styled by, Floral Design by Ari. The bridal bouquet featured a hint of burlap, full white peonies, and tiny hints of red and blue, to complement the patriotic themed wedding. The simple bouquet played well with the natural textures of the surroundings, and would be perfect for a bride or bridal party any season.
Over by the cake (which we will talk about next), were pieces of antique furniture and accents that tied together the photoshoot. The sturdy details were complemented by fresh flowers. My favorite part of this photoshoot was the sign that read, “always & forever”, surrounded by fresh tulips and a lace accent. Using signs is a way to incorporate sweet sayings into your wedding, and can be easily used to accent a variety of themes.
Now onto the cake! The cake created by, Sweet Cheeks Bakery, was a masterpiece! The four-tiered cake had subdued red and blue hints, with bold red dahlias cascading down the cake. The sweet treat sat atop a cake stand adorned with flowers with lush greens under it. The wine barrel was an addition that added to the rustic and patriotic charm of the shoot.
Finally, we can’t forget about a man’s best friend! It would be hard not to include this cute not-so-little fur ball in our photoshoot, completing his wedding look with an American flag bandanna tied around his neck. Incorporating your pet in your special day is another way to add a personal touch to your special day, and include your four legged family member(s).
I loved working with the different vendors on this creative shoot! It is a reminder that there are chic and trendy ways to incorporate the most important elements of your life into your wedding, and also display the things and details that are the closest to your heart.
Vendors – Location: – The Inn at Rancho Santa Fe – Coordinator: Events by Gisele – Photographer: BZM Photography – Cake: Sweet Cheeks Bakery – Flowers & Props: Floral Design by Ari – Linen: APR Boutique Event Rentals – Wedding Dress: Nicole Miller – Makeup: Liz Margin – Hair: Victoria Sexsmith of Studio Savvy – Menswear: A Better Deal Tuxedos and Suits
It’s hard to explain exactly what my clients receive when they hire Events by Gisele to plan their special events. Spending time with my clients allows me to better understand their expectations for me as an event planner, as well as their expectations for their event. When first meeting with my clients, I ask them to close their eyes and envision themselves walking into their event. I have them describe to me the details, the reactions from their guests, and most importantly, how they imagine themselves feeling as they see everything come together.
Often times, clients do not believe that I’m with them EVERY step of the way. I accompany them to various venues, in order to ensure that the venue meets exactly what they have in mind. Many years in the business has allowed me to work with a variety of vendors, and I insist on introducing my clients to only the best; those who respect their ideas, time, and budget.
After finding me online, Ashley and Matt contacted me to plan their dream destination wedding here in San Diego. I assured them that although they are living in Northern California, I will make the process of planning their wedding a breeze, even from many miles away.Ashley and Matt then traveled to San Diego, to meet with me and get the planning process started. Beata Pevny, of BZM Studio, followed myself, as well as Ashley and Matt, while we spent the day meeting with different vendors. These pictures provide a behind the scenes look of how an event by Event by Gisele comes to be.
We began our day by meeting with two local rental companies. Each rental company was able to provide us with different options for our rental needs. We browsed through Milano chair, Chivari chair and lots of other options, different lounges, linens and charger plates – just to name a few! My job is not only to make sure you are working with the best vendors, but to keep you focused on your design vision, and make sure your event is aesthetically cohesive. As you can see by these pictures, we worked with different linens, chairs, and table settings to create Ashley and Matt’s ideal table for their reception.
After visiting the event companies, we headed to two bakeries for some cake tasting! Wedding cake tasting involves tasting all of the different flavors, choosing a design, and making sure it goes with the event. It sure is a delicious bonus when planning an event!
I always try and suggest new ideas for events, in order to make your special occasions unique and the most memorable. After we finished cake tasting, Ashley, Matt, and I headed over to a unique dessert tasting. We sampled mini ice cream sandwiches for their reception! They were delicious and definitely going to be a great addition that guests will love!
Despite Ashley and Matt’s short trip to San Diego, we were able to visit some of the vendors they will be using for their big day. It was a productive day, and I was able to get to know the lovely couple even more before their wedding in July.I am excited to share these photos with you, in order to give you a more detailed glimpse of what exactly I can do for you! As you can tell, I will be there for you every step of the way, and will help you create the vendor dream team that will make sure your event fulfills all of your expectations!
Vendors: APR Boutique Event Rentals, Hire Elegance Event Rentals, Sweet Cheeks Bakery, Cake, Cream Ice Cream Shop
Everyone deserves to have their dream wedding become a dream come true! And that is why I am so excited to share the details from Delia and Feras’ dream wedding!
The couple, originally from Arizona, decided to celebrate their love here in San Diego. I enjoyed showing them different places where they could have their ceremony, as well as connecting them with vendors that would best cater to what they dreamed for their big day.
The ceremony took place at the beautiful Immaculata Catholic Church on the University of San Diego campus. The church itself is breathtaking and was delicately accented with blush and cream florals. Because the church is so ornate and rich, it was important to not over-decorate the space, which would take away from its pre-existing beauty. Hanging from every other pew was an elegant bouquet of fresh flowers, that coordinated with the bridal party bouquets, as well as the two tall arrangements framing the altar.
After the ceremony, the guests made their way over to the Manchester Grand Hyatt while the wedding party took some quick pictures at USD. USD is a beautiful campus and is a great place to take pictures before or after the ceremony.
The newlyweds were glowing as they took their first pictures as husband and wife! Just look at those smiles!
The blush bridesmaids dresses are proof that not all bridesmaids dresses have to look the same! They were stylish and the fit and color was flattering on everyone in the party. The groomsmen were stylish as well, in their well-tailored suits and blush bow ties.
Every single detail in Delia and Feras’ wedding created a cohesive and one-of-a-kind look for their big day. The bridesmaids bouquets perfectly matched their dresses, as well as the brides’ bouquet, which was a mixture of blush and cream florals with rhinestone accents. As you can tell from the pictures, all the floral details went together perfectly throughout the day.
I love helping design the sweetheart table a little bit more than the rest of the room. This is the place where the bride and groom get to look at their beautiful party and take a quick break from all of the dancing. But most importantly, it is the place where they get to share their first meal as husband and wife together and admire all of the people that joined them in celebrating them and their new journey.
The sweetheart table was a elegantly decorated with gorgeous, fresh orchids, cascading from the tabletop. Framing the lucite sweetheart table was a floral arch consisting of a variety of blooms, including orchids, and white and blush roses. Hanging from the inside of the floral arch were five chandeliers, perfectly lighting up the flower arrangement and framing the newlyweds.
The rest of the room was beautifully decorated as well. Some tables were covered with ornate gold mica overlay, while others were covered with rich gold blush linen . The round tables were decorated with tall floral arrangements consisting of blush and cream florals, that matched the other arrangements throughout the room. The long tables were assigned for the wedding party and immediate family and decorated differently with one big flower arrangement towering over the table and smaller arrangements, mixed with the romantic candlelight. Candles on all of the tables added a romantic feel to the already romantic florals.
Everyone danced the night away on the bright white dance floor with the couple’s initials displayed in gold. They enjoyed the traditional Jordanian zaffe as well as live music by Jamal Kassab and band!
Last but not least, we have the cake! The cake sat on a glass top cake riser hovering on top of a rich gold rosette table linen and a crown like structure made of a fresh, lush, white and blush flower arrangement. It looked great, and tasted great too!
I am so happy Delia and Feras chose me to help them plan their dream wedding! I loved the cohesiveness of all of the details and design, and wish them a lifetime of health and happiness! Congrats Delia and Feras!
Vendors
Venue: Grand Hyatt – Florist: ArtQuest – Linens: APR – Dance Floor: HCD Dance Floor – Entertainment: Jamal Kassab and Band – Zaffe: Sa’id Dance Group – Photographer: Emilio Azvedo – Videographer: Taylor Films – Transporation: San Diego Limo Buses – Invitations & Menus: Whimsique – Printing: Artplace
Full of so many personal details, a gorgeous venue, and of course most importantly; love, Chelsea and Alexander’s San Diego winter wedding was quite perfect!
The couple chose to have their ceremony at St. Therese Catholic Church, with the reception followed at the, Hyatt Regency Mission Bay.
In between, the wedding party stopped at the historic Balboa Park for some quick pictures! If thinking about a destination wedding in San Diego, Balboa Park is a picturesque place for a wedding ceremony, reception, or a backdrop for pictures of your special day.
Now lets talk about the reception! Chelsea and Alexander decided to veer away from having the reception in a banquet hall, and chose instead a luxurious upscale tent complete with elegant draping and warm lighting.
Guests sat at romantic candle lit tables draped with regal navy blue table linens, and flashy gold chargers and chairs. A variety of lush white floral arrangements were placed on every table, complimenting the richness of the navy and gold details.
It was important for the couple to incorporate their Middle Eastern culture into their festivities. During cocktail hour, guests munched on delicious freshly made sajj, hummus, as well as other yummy treats.
A traditional Lebanese Zaffe escorted the lovely couple into their wedding reception, equipped with drums, swords, and elaborate costumes.
A special dessert table was also featured with a variety of Lebanese sweets made by grooms mother, as well as other sweet treats!
As if the cake wasn’t already fit for a king and queen, the couple cut their wedding cake with an ornate sword and sipped champagne out of custom made glasses.
As a fun way to end the night after lots of dancing and celebrating the newlyweds, the couple chose to have a Mexican food truck show up at the end of the night, providing the remaining guests with a delicious midnight snack.
Congratulations Chelsea and Alexander!
The sun was shining and love was in the air at Katie and Kyle’s Santa Barbara wedding!
Whether the couple chooses to their first look before the ceremony or during, it is one of the most special moments of the day, and certainly exciting for the bride and groom. Katie and Kyle chose to do the first look before the ceremony, which allowed them to experience the special moment in a more private setting.
The lush green landscape at the Santa Barbara Polo Club served as a great spot for Katie and Kyle’s ceremony, which was held in front of the score board, and reception.
Even though the day was full of that famous California sunshine, once the sun sets it does get chilly. With that in mind; red, navy blue, and white shawls were placed at the guests tables to keep the guests warm in between dancing.
Katie and Kyle’s whole day was full of details that had a deeper meaning. Because the couple met while attending college at the University of California, Santa Barbara, they decided to incorporate their alma mater’s colors; navy blue, gold, and red.
Another personal touch was the different food stations that served different cuisines from around the world. Each cuisine was chosen from a country or region that held a special meaning for the couple. For example, a Cajun food station was present because the bride and groom got engaged in New Orleans!
Personalized signs at the open bar added a nice touch to the wedding, reminding their guests to eat, drink and be merry!
The sweetheart table boasted of a rich gold sequenced table linen and romantic red florals accented by gold mason jars.
Touches of gold were also present in other details throughout the wedding, like a gold “love” wedding topper that added some pizazz to the wedding cake.
As a fun way to end the night after lots of dancing and celebrating, guests formed two lines and lit sparklers, forming a walk way that allowed the newlyweds to walk away into wedded bliss surrounded by their family and friends!
Hello, it’s me again! I am excited to show you Sommer and Joe’s wedding! It was a pleasure working with the lovely couple, and together we pieced together all of the details to make for one BEAUTIFUL wedding.
The ceremony was held at the church of the Immaculata at USD. After the happy couple said, “I do”, everyone headed over to the Hilton Torrey Pines.
The ballroom was transformed into a romantic and classic reception area, boasting of a variety of white and lilac colored floral centerpieces of different sizes, elegant white drapery, and soft lavender lighting.
The cake was white with touches of lilac and silver embellishments, as well as flowers. The metallic sequined table linen was the perfect pop of sparkle, adding just the right amount of glitz to the cake table.
The couple decided to add a unique touch to their wedding, a customized coffee bar by Eurobar!
It was such a joy helping Sommer and Joe make every detail of their fairytale wedding come to life!
Vendors:
Church- Church of the Immaculata — Venue- Hilton Torrey Pines — Chairs- APR — Lighting and Drape- Julius
Photographer- Emilio Azevedo
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