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July 22, 2016July 26, 2016 by ABC OC

July 2016: What Makes the Best Wedding Pros, ‘The Best’

Usually when someone hears the word “casino,” they either picture dollar signs or a negative bank balance. However, there was nothing negative about the Casino San Clemente at our meeting this July. Upon arrival, guests were handed a signature cucumber cocktail as they mingled their way to the Patio of the Stars. There, vintage furniture provided by FOUND created a stunning and welcoming atmosphere, only to be enhanced by The Pink Daffodil’s centerpieces and bouquets. The ambiance of this stunning casino was perfectly paired with the musical styling’s of the Kalama Brothers. Guests could even venture to the Rock Garden to see a beautiful ceremony set-up that FOUND had also fashioned. Between the décor and the shabby chic venue, our guests were in a wedding professional’s heaven. There were even models in Casablanca Bridal wedding gowns floating around!

Later in the evening, everyone fled into the Ballroom, which was beautifully accented by a crystal chandelier and exquisite linens by La Tavola Fine Linen. Vive Entertainment, Inc. kept the vibe going by taking requests and even getting a birthday jingle started for Co-Director, Kerrie Underhill. Kerrie then handed the floor over to long-time officiant, JP Reynolds, who reminded us all “what makes the best the best.” After a few light hearted stories and helpful tips, dinner was served. Iva Lee’s already wowed us at the cocktail hour with their Cauliflower Cakes, Zucchini Rolls, and Ginger Scented Chicken Sugar Cane Lollipops. However, they really outdid themselves with the following courses of Thai Strawberry Watermelon Salad, Local Seabass, and Filet Mignon. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better, Luisa Chocolatiere had been working in the West Wing to set up a buffet of chocolate covered strawberries, pretzels, Oreos, the list goes on. They were so delightful that a few marshmallows might have “accidentally” fallen into some purses before heading home.

Ultimately, the evening had to come to an end, but not without some Cupid Shuffling on the dance floor first. During these busy summer months, it’s always nice to kick off your own shoes and bust out your favorite dance moves! Events by Cori, in addition to Jill Watson from the Casino San Clemente definitely gave us all a night to remember.

A huge thank you to all our Sponsors!

Venue: Casino San Clemente

Catering & Bar: Iva Lee’s

Planning: Events by Cori

Floral: The Pink Daffodil

Photography: Wheeland Photography

Video/Film: Vantage Point Productions

Lighting: Crown Five LLC

Linens: La Tavola Fine Linen

Rentals: Signature Party Rental

Vintage Rentals: FOUND

Entertainment: Vive Entertainment, Inc.

Paper Goods: Polkadot Weekend

Dessert Station: Luisa Chocolatiere

Live Music: Kalama Brothers

Hair & Makeup: Flawless Faces, Inc.

Wedding Gowns: Casablanca Bridal

Limousine & Vintage Cars: Lake Forest Limousines

June 24, 2016June 26, 2016 by ABC OC

June 2016: Delight the Senses at Montage Laguna Beach

There’s nothing quite like an ocean view and although this Earth is primarily water, it’s safe to say The Montage Laguna Beach offers one of the best in the world! Our Coordinators were reminded of this at our June luncheon. However, our sight wasn’t our only sense getting spoiled. It didn’t take long for our members to notice the scent in the air, and no, we’re not talking about the ocean. Pastiche Perfumes was there promoting their amazing fragrance bar. Guests were able to choose from an array of different scents and combine their favorites, thus creating their own custom fragrance.

As our members were spritzing their new perfumes, tray passed hors d’oeuvres and champagne were making their way throughout the lawn. Our taste buds were in heaven, but it didn’t stop there! Once we were welcomed into the luncheon, Chef Craig Strong of The Montage Laguna Beach was there to answer questions on trendy dishes and explain just what we were going to be dining on. The description alone was enough to make us weak in the knees, but the actual taste was beyond expectations.

If there’s one thing we’ve learned at our meetings, it’s that you can never have too much dessert and Sweet Lady Jane was there to take our senses over the top! Everyone collected a delicious treat (or two or three) and brought them back to their table adorned with fabulous linens provided by Mikasa Fine Linens. They were a “touch” of perfection. And of course, DJ Chris Rox was there to set the mood and provide the tunes.

Thus, our five senses got a work out this day, but what would one of our meetings be without the sixth sense, a sense of humor. A huge thank you to all our members who continue to laugh, enjoy, and most importantly make connections!

A special thank you to all our Sponsors!

Venue: The Montage Laguna Beach

Planner: Nicole Marie Events

Photography: Jeremy Lucero Photography

Videography: Mission Visual

Florals: Nisie’s Enchanted Florist

Dessert Buffet: Sweet Lady Jane

Entertainment: DJ Chris Rox

Stationary: Sugar Press

Linens: Mikasa Fine Linens

Perfume Bar: Pastiche Perfume

Rentals: ChiavariChairRentals.com

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May 23, 2016May 23, 2016 by ABC OC

May 2016: An Evening Under the Stars

Lion, tigers, and bears…more like cheese, wine, and mingling oh my! This month’s meeting was held at the fabulous Rancho Las Lomas Resort and Zoological Garden on May 10th. As guests handed their cars over to the valet, a few zebras made an appearance, but let it be known they were not the only “party animals” in attendance.

Kelsey Events outdid themselves once again, bringing together some of the best vendors in the business to give us this year’s most social event yet. While we usually host a phenomenal speaker of some sort, this month focused on just getting to know one another! And we all know there’s no better way to mingle than over wine and delicious cheese arrays provided by 24 Carrots Catering & Events.

To add a little entertainment to the evening, guests were handed a fill-in-the-blank game, where the answers were actually names of your fellow guests. Thus, while everyone was on the hunt for those who can quote “Father of the Bride” or who have spent over ten years in the industry, business cards and crazy stories were exchanged. When guests weren’t racing to get their games filled out, they were either lounging on the classic furniture provided by Found Vintage Rentals or busting out their best dance moves to music performed by Undercover Live Entertainment. Overall, there were laughs, there were introductions, but most importantly there was a candy bar by Hollywood Candy Girls! It was the perfect cap to such a sweet night!

A special thank you to all our Sponsors!

Venue: Rancho Las Lomas Resort and Zoological Garden

Planner: Kelsey Events

Catering: 24 Carrots Catering & Events

Paper Goods: Wiley Valentine

Florist: Posh Peony

Rentals: Found Vintage Rentals

Photography: Happy Photos

Videography: Expressionary Films

Music: Undercover Live Entertainment

Photo Booth: Lucas Jeanne Events

Candy Bar: Hollywood Candy Girls

Valet: Special Parking Services

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April 19, 2016April 25, 2016 by ABC OC

April 2016: Making PR Your Priority

A night at the museum? Don’t mind if we do! Except unlike a normal visit to Bower’s Museum, signature pineapple martinis and delightful appetizers filled our fists instead of a brochure. We were greeted, per usual, by a familiar face, a name tag and an open bar. The first hour was used to mingle, form connections, reminisce on the good times, and of course, satisfy our appetite. Once the cocktail hour in the Huang Sculpture Garden was nearing an end, the doors to Bower’s Great Hall opened and guests began taking their seats.

Yellow tulips in square glass vases arranged by Flawless Flowers served as the centerpieces, atop clear, acrylic tables with textured, navy runners provided by GBS Linens. This contemporary design with a pop of color was met by some history with ancient artifacts lining the walls of the museum. Leila Lewis took to the stage to discuss PR tips and the power of positivity. She stressed on the importance of working with your fellows vendors, especially when it comes to publicity. She opened the floor for questions and once that was finished, we dined on the impeccable catering of Patina Restaurant Group. Finally, we capped off the night in the back courtyard with some cappuccino from Brew Ha Ha. It was such an exciting evening, even the mummies in Bower’s new exhibit were coming to life!

A special thank you to all of our Sponsors!

Speaker: Leila Lewis

Planner: Erika’s Elegance Weddings and Events

Venue: Bowers Museum

Catering: Patina Restaurant Group

Florist: Flawless Flowers

Music: Del Lago Trio

Paper Goods: Rebecca Calagna Events

Linens: GBS Linens

Coffee Station: Brew Ha Ha

Rentals: Absolutely Fabulous! Events and Productions

DJ: Scratch Weddings

Videographer: The Emotion Picture Studio

Photographer: Brian LaBrada Photography

Be sure to check out the video from The Emotion Picture Studio:

http://www.theemotionpicturestudio.com/orange-county-weddings/oc-abc-april-meeting/

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April 4, 2016September 26, 2016 by ABC OC

March 2016: Branding You

The Estate on 2nd, winner of Trendsetter’s “Best New or Refreshed Venue”, opened their doors to us as we hosted our third meeting of the year. Upon arrival at this gorgeous location, guests were led upstairs to a cocktail hour. Music by Undercover Live set the mood as we networked and mingled over sangria and delicious paella whipped up by Jay’s Catering.

As the evening progressed, it was time to migrate downstairs where guests were welcomed by a shabby chic display of farm tables topped with rustic centerpieces involving some of our favorites for weddings, succulents. As we took our seats, we were introduced to the shining “Star” of the soiree, world-renowned wedding photographer and branding genius, Jasmine Star. This creative entrepreneur taught us a thing or two (or twenty) about “keeping it real” and how to market yourself on social media without spending a penny. With our minds enlightened and our goals set, it was time to quench our appetite. Thus, Jay’s Catering wowed us again with an extravagant buffet complete with a meat carving station. From then on, the rest of the night was ours to wine, dine and build connections with newfound friends

Thank you to all of our Sponsors:

Speaker: Jasmine Star

Planning: Green Apple Event Co

Venue: The Estate on 2nd

Catering: Jays

Rentals: Sundrop Vintage

Paper Goods: Fabulously Unique Designs

Linens: Mod Mix Studio

Flowers: Sweet Sage

Music: Undercover Live

DJ/Lighting: Ampersand Event Co

Photography: Victoria Johansson Photography

Videography: Hoo Films

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February 16, 2016February 16, 2016 by ABC OC

February 2016: Coordinator Meeting

Our thriving chapter has definitely set out to ‘Raise the Bar’ in 2016, and the gathering of Coordinator and Planners for our February Coordinator luncheon was proof of this. Guests were welcomed to a completely beautiful Spring-hued setting at Fig & Olive, with gorgeous warm and sunny weather to match. Everyone mixed and mingled and sipped on refreshing sparkling wine ‘piscines’ as the afternoon got underway. Once seated, a delicious first course salad was brought out and our esteemed panel of wedding professionals kicked off a candid conversation on how to be the best Planner and Coordinator partner possible. A great big thank you to our panel members: Jessica Claire (Jessica Claire Photography), Julie Hill (Elysium Productions), and Patty Burns (Montage Laguna Beach) moderated by Co-Director Kerrie Underhill (Platinum Weddings by Kerrie). After a lively and informative discussion our main course was devoured followed by a sweet treat. All in all a gorgeous afternoon among friends and peers!

Thank you to all of our sponsors!
Venue, Food and Beverage: Fig and Olive
Planning: Kelsey Events
Florist: The Blooming Bud
Stationery: Wiley Valentine
Linens: Luxe Linen
Entertainment: Undercover Live
Photography: Davello Photography
Videography: The Yodsukars

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January 19, 2016January 20, 2016 by ABC OC

January 2016: Networking Event

We certainly started the year off right at Pacific Hills Banquet and Catering . Their gorgeous ballroom was dressed in the Pantone colors of the year, Rose Quartz and Serenity. Wildflower linens really showed off these colors coordinating table linens and chivari chair covers fit for a princess. Dave’s Flowers provided centerpieces that perfectly complimented the event’s color scheme. The overall look was exquisite.

Instead of our traditional speed networking, we decided to mix things up with assigned seating, and networking at your table during dinner service. This allowed each table to make multiple connections using industry related questions to spark the conversations. Everyone met new people, enjoyed great food, and ended the night with the perfect array of desserts from Drive Me Cookie.

Looking forward to a successful 2016.

Thank you to all of our sponsors!

Venue, Food & Beverage: Pacific Hills Banquet & Catering
Planning: Kelsey Events
Photographer: Mark Martinez Photography
Florals: Dave’s Flowers
Linens: Wildflower Linen
Lounge Furniture: Absolutely Fabulous! Events
DJ: Extreme DJ
Stationary: Ampersand Ink
Dessert: Drive Me Cookie

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January 8, 2016February 1, 2016 by ABC OC

December 2015: Holiday Gala and Trendsetter Awards at the Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort

It should come as no surprise that the Trendsetter Awards are our favorite night of the year. Not only does it give us an excuse to dress up and dance the night away, but it gives us the opportunity to recognize those we admire most, our friends and fellow vendors.

The Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort in Huntington Beach served as the perfect venue to celebrate our unbelievable year and we extend our warmest congratulations to everyone on setting a new standard of excellence in 2015. Kerrie Underhill along side AOO Events really out did themselves this year and we send a special thank you to them for creating such a stunning gala for us!

Here is the highlight video from Godfather Films:

Association of Bridal Consultants – Orange County 2015 Trendsetter Awards Gala Highlight Film from Godfather Films on Vimeo.

The Trendsetter Committee:
Shashona Reynolds, Mastro’s Steakhouse
Sheena Mehta, Westin South Coast Plaza

Sophia Caramanoff, Les Belles Affaires
Courtney Urquiza, InStyle Events Co.
Carmen Fuentes: Expressionary Events

Jessica Tijan: Tustin Ranch Golf Club

Panel of Judges

Amy Squires, Wedding Chicks

Beth Helmstetter, Beth Helmstetter Events

Kristin Banta, Kristin Banta Events

Congratulations to all our winners of the 7th Annual Trendsetter Awards. Photos taken by Lucero Photography

Once the dresses were zipped and the bow ties were straightened, guests embarked upon the lovely venue to be entranced by glitter and gold. As old friends captured pictures in the festive photo booth provided by Joy Squad, new connections formed while waiting in line for the signature drinks. Once the doors to the ballroom opened and guests were taking their seats at their stunning tables, the awards ceremony was upon us. The winners accepted their glass trophy and incredible swag bag in the center of the custom dance floor, with a custom black and gold logo by TMMPRO. Meanwhile, square wooden boxes filled with gourmet cheeseburgers and French fries were delivered to our tables and although it was hard, everyone was able to make room for the next course: Root beer floats. How could you not, right? Once all the categories were announced, Society Music and Sound got everyone to the dance floor with their renditions of both classic and new hit songs. They then handed the night over to Invisible Touch, who brought down the house in spectacular fashion. It is can definitely be said that there was no finer way to end the year. 2016, you have a lot to live up to!

Relive this amazing night through the incredible photos below by Lucero Photography:

2015 Trendsetter Winners

Best Captured Moment: Lin & Jisra Photography

Best Design Transformation of Space Over $50,000: A Good Affair Wedding and Event Production

Best Design Transformation of Space Under $50,000: Platinum Weddings By Kerrie

Best New Idea or Concept: Luxury DJs

Best New Memento: Water Tree Events

Best New or Refreshed Venue: Estate on 2nd

Best Overall Theme/Thematic Follow-Through: Heather Hoesch LVL Weddings

Best Tablescape: A Good Affair Wedding and Event Production

Elevation of Industry: Lindsay Longacre, LVL Weddings and Events

Trendsetter of the Year: 24 Carrots Catering and Events

Joanie Scott Award: Laurie Davies

Member of the Year: Erika Bowers

Swag Bag Sponsors:

Center Club* Conscious Bean* Delovely Details* Frank Salas Studios* Happy Photos* Hilton Costa Mesa* Hollywood Candy Girls* HotShot Awards & Engraving* ll Fornaio* Left Coast Brewery* Mammoth Mountain Ski Area & Resort* Mastro’s Steakhouse* Red O Restaurant* Tustin Ranch Golf Club* The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar* What a Betty* Simply Sweet Cakery*

A Special Thank You to All of Our Sponsors!

Executive Producer & Event Design: AOO Events

Planner: Kerrie Underhill

Floral Design: AOO Florals

Venue, Food and Beverage: Hilton Waterfront Beach Resort

Draping: Amber Event Production

Rental Furniture: Glam Events

Linens: GBS Linens

Chargers: BBJ Linen

Dance Floor: TMMPRO

Lighting and DJ: Invisible Touch

Entertainment: Society Music and Sound

Audio Visual: Encore Events Technologies

Acapella Group: These Guys

Stationary & Graphic Designs: Honeycrisp Designs

Wood Etching: Happily Ever Etched

Photo Booth: Joy Squad

Beauty: Vanity Belle Beauty Boutique

Balloon Decor: Balloonzilla

Cogu Bar: Mad and Ovel

Dessert Buffet: Mixed Bakery

Photographer: Lucero Photography

Videographer: Godfather Films

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October 21, 2015October 21, 2015 by ABC OC

October 2015: Creative Planner Day

Kendra Scott replaced “diamonds” as our so-called best friend this month, when they opened their doors to our Event Planners, allowing each person to customize their own piece of jewelry. With mimosas and pastries in hand, a convenient touch screen display at their Color Bar made it a synch to create unique pieces tailored to individual personalities and styles.

Donned with our new favorite accessories, we sashayed over to the Red O Restaurant for a patio luncheon. La Tavola Fine Linens created a chic, yet casual atmosphere with their beautiful floral linens, while The Blooming Bud perfectly complimented the affair with quaint centerpieces. Chips, salsa, and of course, margaritas also dressed the table and later, along with various entrees served as a delicious addition to our stomachs.

As if that wasn’t enough, we finished off the event with an exclusive calligraphy lesson by Jill Velez of Copper Willow. Equipped with the proper tools to learn the lovely art of decorative hand writing, everyone was able to put ink to paper and give it a try. After seeing the result, I feel some of us will just leave this art to the experts. This event was truly an experience, one that created friendships, good memories, and even some future jewelry designers or calligraphists.

Thank you to all of our sponsors!

Venue and Catering: Red O Restaurant

Planning: A Good Affair

Photography: Ashley Kelemen

Videography: Emotion Picture Studio

Florist: The Blooming Bud

Linens: La Tavola Fine Linens

Stationary: Honeycrisp Designs

Favors: Mixed Bakery

Entertainment: Geoff Maddox Entertainment

Special Thanks to: Kendra Scott

Special Thanks to: Copper Willow

Special Thanks to: Wedding Chicks

Love the video from The Emotion Picture Studios

Beautiful Photos by: Ashley Kelemen

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September 17, 2015September 19, 2015 by ABC OC

September 2015: Havana Nights

Our Havana Nights soiree was a blast, ending our summer on a high note. Located in Huntington Beach, Venue by Three Petals definitely knows how to throw a celebration. The lavish area was filled with tropical colors, making this one HOT ending to our busy summer. The light up bar invited guests to try their themed drink of the evening. Cuban food stations and tray passed delights were a plenty throughout the beautiful space. Sprinkles Cupcakes served ice cream for dessert, while Urban Espresso offered wonderful coffees and espressos perfectly capping off the night.

The dance floor did not stay empty long thanks to Visions Entertainment who provided the music and lighting for the event. El Canito Cigars really played up the theme with their cigar bar stationed on the patio. If that wasn’t enough to keep you entertained, Vox DJ’s had fun props to pose with in their photo booth and Water Tree Events provided a Video Dare Booth… The question is, did you dare to try it out?

The “plus one” was a nice touch as guests loved being able to bring their significant other and friends to the party, adding a whole new level of networking. It’s no surprise that this “meeting” was one of the highest in attendance. It’s safe to say, there was no better way to conclude our summer!

A huge thank you to all of our sponsors!

Planner: Simply Sweet Weddings and Events

Planner: Platinum Weddings by Kerrie

Photographer: Joan Fuller Photography

Videography and Video Dare Booth: Water Tree Events

Florist: Three Petals

Stationary: Honeycrisp Designs

Dessert: Sprinkles

DJ & Lighting: Visions Entertainment

Linens, Lounge Furniture & Draping: Chiavari Chair Rentals

Photobooth: Vox DJ’s

Coffee Bar: Urban Espresso Catering