Blog | ABC OC

August 8, 2017 by ABC OC

May 2017: Blooms and Bellinis

What more could a wedding professional want than a bellini and a lovely evening at 7 Degrees in Laguna Beach to end a work day? Lucky for our ABC members, that’s what they got to experience in May. The night started with a cocktail hour on the roof where a fortune teller was there to predict some prosperous fortune (and business) for onlookers. Found Vintage amazed us all by transforming the space into a shabby chic masterpiece!

Guests were later led downstairs, where they were guided to different tables, away from longtime friends and towards new ones. There were members from each line of business assigned to each table, including photographers, planners, venue managers, etc. It offered us the chance the branch out and network with individuals we might not have met otherwise. The Sugar Philosophers and The Pie Lady lived up their hype as well, creating enchanting and delicious desserts for all those sweet tooths’ out there. Keith J. Laverty outdid himself with amazing floral designs for each table. What really won the crowd over was when he told everyone, the flowers were up for grabs! There was even a wall in the back for guests to create their own bouquets. I guess April showers really did bring those May flowers!

A Special Thank You to our Sponsors!

Design and Planning: The Lynden Lane Company

Venue: 7 Degrees

Floral: Keith J. Laverty

Design and Paper Goods: Katie O’Brien

Music: The Replicas Music

Desserts: The Sugar Philosophers and The Pie Lady

Linens: La Tavola

Rentals: Found Vintage and Classic Party Rentals

Photography and Videography: Lin & Jirsa

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July 20, 2017 by ABC OC

April 2017: ABChella

April was all about feeling the vibe and enjoying the sweet sounds of the calming ocean at Ole Hanson Beach Club. Lucky members became stars of the evening after receiving flower crowns made by The Crown Collective. The casual atmosphere encouraged everyone to make new friends, while of course catching up with old pals. Food stations and butler passed items were a huge hit! The pretzel bar and make your own cocktail station were never left alone. Vox DJ played some great tunes, while Abfab Events provided a little silent DJing for the event. What a great way to kick off wedding season!

A Special Thank you to All of our Sponsors!

Planning and Design: Leilani Weddings

Venue: Ole Hanson Beach Club

Catering and Bar: 24 Carrots

Florist: Jenny B. Floral Design

Rentals and Decor: Jake Duke Rentals

Lounge: Sundrop Vintage

Entertainment: Vox DJs

Photography: Mark Martinez Photography

Videography: Kalet Productions

Lighting and Photobooth: Vox DJs

Stationary: Honeycrisp Designs

Linens: Wild Flower Linen

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Balloon Decor: Balloonzilla

Silent disco: Abfab Events

Popsicles: Front Porch Pops

Flower Crowns: The Crown Collective

Henna: Henna by Rachana

Macrame Swings: Macramama

Valet: American Limo

Hoop Dancer: Candace Rivera

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April 19, 2017 by ABC OC

March: Bigger Vision, Bigger Challenge: Obstacles No More! With Pina De Rosa

This month our members were treated to a lovely evening designed by Cori Sponagle from Events by Cori. The Old Ranch Country Club was the perfect venue for such an inspirational night and styled photo shoot. The views were spectacular as we enjoyed cocktails and appetizers on the patio near the majestic pergola.

As the sun was setting, guests were taking advantage of the beautiful sight by snapping a few pictures before heading into the reception. We were treated to a creatively plated salad just as our speaker, Pina De Rosa began telling us of her life’s journey. She was full of wonderful suggestions on how to overcome obstacles and how to be your best self. “The power of your mind is a spectacular thing…if we put our minds to it, we can stretch just a little farther than before.” De Rosa proved this with a fun exercise that got the whole room on their feet. We all stretched our arms to the limit, but then with the power of our mind were able to stretch just a little further. After that, it was time to stretch our stomachs as the kitchen served up a delicious duo plate. Throughout dinner, Waveform Events was there to set the mood with both tunes and lighting. As the evening was winding down, guests sought out the cappuccino provided by Cappuccino Man. With caffeine in one hand and car keys in the other, everyone left fuller, happier, and with a bigger vision for tomorrow.

A Special Thank you to All of our Sponsors!

Speaker: Pina De Rosa

Event Planner: Events by Cori

Venue: Old Ranch Country Club

Photographer: Wheeland Photography

Videographer: Vantage Point Custom Films Productions

Entertainment, DJ, Lighting: Waveform Events

Stationary & Design: Elizabeth King Design

Floral Design: The Pink Daffodil

Sweets Table: Plumeria Cake Studio

Rentals: Sundrop Vintage

Tableware: Via La Roche

Linens: BBJ Linen

Live Music: Kevin Miso

Gourmet Coffee: Cappuccino Man

Specialty: Lake Forest Limousines

Wedding Gown: Casablanca Bridal Flagship Salon

Hair and Makeup: Flawless Faces

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March 14, 2017March 14, 2017 by ABC OC

February 2017: Blue Valentine

We are so in love with our February Coordinator only event that was held at the Monarch Beach Resort. This event started off with a styled shoot like none other. You could definitely feel the romance in the air as the models roamed around the resort portraying realistic couples straight from a fairy tale. Thankfully, our photographer Emma Hopp and videographer Emma Lynn were there to capture the shoot perfectly.

As guests headed down the majestic staircase onto the patio they were hypnotized by such a beautiful ocean view. They sipped on signature cocktails and enjoyed passed hor dueveres that excited their palates for the soon to be served lunch. Everyone caught up with friends and made new ones along the way.

Folklore Vintage provided such dreamy pieces for the table settings that perfectly complimented the florals provided by French Buckets. During the luncheon we received great advice from the Stone Hill Tavern’s Sommelier and Wine Director Paul Coker. Our DJ and MC for the event Jack Farmer created the perfect mood with his array of musical selections. We ended the afternoon with a delightful treat from French’s Cupcake Bakery that was to die for. In fact, Valentine’s Day has tough competition for our favorite February memory!

A special thank you to all of our sponsors!

Planner: K. Sage Events

Venue & Catering: Monarch Beach Resort

Photography: Emma Hopp Photography

Videography: Emma Lynn Cinema

Floral: French Buckets

Dessert Display: Elan Sweets

Cupcakes: French’s Cupcake Bakery

DJ/Emcee: Jack Farmer

Rentals: Folklore Vintage

Photobooth: Capture Photobooths

Accessories: Marrow Fine

Sationary & Graphic Design: Arianna Nicole

Men’s Suite Designer: Friar Tux

Bridal Dress Designer: Claire Pettibone

Hair & Makeup: Dolled Up OC

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March 4, 2017 by ABC OC

January 2017: Love and Money: The State of the Wedding Industry

What a way to kick off the new year! January’s all member meeting really got our wheels turning learning about the state of the industry. Our speaker Liene Stevens showed off her expertise by describing what our couples are looking for and at while planning their weddings. Did you know that fresh flowers relax people and help to close 30% more sales? And who knew the average wedding hires approximately 43 vendors to work with them on their special day?

Speaking of vendors, this night’s sponsors truly put together a super chic event for us to enjoy. The rustic tables provided by Signature Party Rentals filled the room with such elegance. OC Pixie delivered an enchanting new way to photo booth with their magic mirror and fun props. The dinner served by The Mission Viejo Country Club was amazing, as expected. And the donut wall created by Lavish Candy gave us a fun treat to enjoy on the way home. Learning about the state of the industry was truly inspiring, motivating…and delicious. Wishing you all successful 2017!

Thank you to all of our sponsors.

Planner: Erika’s Elegance

Venue: Mission Viejo Country Club

Photographer: Jack Randall Photography

Videographer: Le Reve Films

Florist: Hydrangea Bleu

Stationery: Jen Simpson

Linens: On Call Event Rentals

Dessert: Lavish Candy

Entertainment/Lighting: Carcano DJ Audio Visual & Lighting

Rentals: Signature Party Rentals

Photobooth: OC Pixie

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January 23, 2017January 24, 2017 by ABC OC

December 2016: Trendsetter Awards Gala

This year’s Trendsetter Awards Gala was fit for a princess. What better way to end our year than an enchanted emerald evening at the Disneyland_® Hotel. Magical Cello music set the ambiance to our royal ball as we entered into the cocktail hour. We enjoyed catching up with old friends and making new ones as we posed with Mickey and Minnie for photos, and enjoyed a silly moment with Joy Squad in their photo booth. K errie Underhill and Kelsey Connelly really know how to plan and design a dazzling event that impresses from start to finish. We congratulate all of this year’s winners on truly elevating the industry standard.

Cinematographer: Plug Films

A special thank you to the Trendsetter Committee:

Suvin Mehta, Great Officiants (Committee Member)
Sheena Mehta, Westin South Coast Plaza (Chair)
Jessica Tjan, Tustin Ranch Golf Club (Committee Member)
Cassie Miranda, Golden Dot Events (Committee Member)

As we entered the emerald soaked Disneyland_®Grand Ballroom our eyes were met with floating centerpieces, cascading orchids, and elegant crystal chandeliers. Flowers by Cina really knows how to transform a ballroom into a real life fairy tale. Guests were treated like royalty and could even pose with Cinderella’s Crystal Coach. We eagerly anticipated the announcement of award winners as the presentation started and our elegant dinner service began. Pixie dust filled the room as each guest received an ice slipper filled with apple sorbet to cleanse their palates before the main course was served. As the awards concluded The Young Guns Band got the party started on our custom dance floor provided by Chiavari Chair Rentals. We danced until the clock struck midnight, and we had to return to reality. The evening was truly a testament to how Orange County Bridal Consultants are continually impressing other chapters across the nation.

Thank you to all of our Sponsors!

Planning and Design: Kelsey Connelly and Kerrie Underhill
Venue, Food and Beverage: Disneyland _® Hotel
Floral Design: Flowers by Cina
Rental Furniture and Tabletop Items: Classic Event and Tent Rentals and Chameleon Chair Collection
Vintage Furniture: Found Vintage Rentals
Draping, Flooring and Custom Dance Floor: Chiavari Chair Rentals
Linens: Luxe Linen
Rigging, Lighting and Sound: Disneyland Event Services
Screens and Cake Mapping: PSAV
Band: The Young Guns Band
DJ: Luxury DJ’s
Entertainment: Entire Productions
Stationery and Graphic Design: Honeycrisp Designs
Custom Laser Cut Elements: Delovely Details
Balloon Décor: Balloonzilla
Photobooth: Joy Squad
Beauty: Pure Beauty by Danielle
Live Feed Video Coverage: Godfather Films
Photographer: Lin & Jirsa Photography
Cinematographer: Plug Films

Our Swag Bag sponsors were:

The winners were:

Best Captured Moment: Le Reve Films

Best New Idea or Concept: Found Vintage Rentals

Best New/Refreshed Venue: Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings

Best New Memento: Stephanie Miller

Best Supporting Event: Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings

Best Tablescape: Square Root

Best Overall Theme / Thematic Follow Through: Engaged Events

Transformation of Space under $50K: The Waterfront Resort, A Hilton Hotel

Transformation of Space over $50K: Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings

Honored Member: Michelle Evinger, Disney’s Fairy Tale Weddings

Joanie Scott: Kevin Covey

Trendsetter of the Year: A Good Affair Wedding & Event Production

Elevation of Industry: Jim Kennedy

What a way to end the season. Until next year!

Your Association of Bridal Consultants, Orange County 2016 Steering Committee

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October 25, 2016October 27, 2016 by ABC OC

October 2016: Beer and Wine Fall Harvest

Fall: A time when pumpkin patches are around every corner, Halloween candy haunts you in the grocery, and ABC members are racing to finish their Trendsetter submissions. But what better way to celebrate harvest time than with some beer and wine?

Erika’s Elegance Weddings & Events hit a “hole in one” with this October meeting held at Tustin Ranch Golf Club. She called on Sweet Salvage to provide the most stunning and festive vintage rentals to lounge on during some outdoor mingling. However, as we all know, one can’t stay sitting for long when food is in sight, especially when it has a perfectly paired drink to go with it! The Tustin Ranch Pretzels and Bitburger German Pilsner were a huge hit, as was the Smoked Salmon Tartar and Champagne. With a drink in one hand, an appetizer in the other, and the musical styling’s of Don Covel Entertainment in your ear, it was hard to imagine this meeting could get any better….but it did!

Members eventually found their way indoors where some more fabulous food pairings were waiting. As small plates and glasses began to fill everyone’s hands again, the tables adorned with GBS Linens were put to good use. Meanwhile, it didn’t take long for everyone to spot Frank Salas Photography’s fun photo booth. How could we miss it with all the creative props he provided? He was also there to capture the laughs and smiles on the dance floor, which wasn’t hard thanks to Visions Entertainment and Steve Burdick Entertainment who were dishing out some of their favorite tunes on the turn tables.

With this being the last meeting of the year, members were reminded about the Trendsetter Gala, which will be held at the Disneyland® Hotel in Anaheim on December 13^th. Although everyone was looking forward to that celebration, this one was far from over. The Pie Hole was there to put the cherry on top of a wonderful night. Yet, most surprising of all would have to be our honorary vendor, Mother Nature who spoiled us all with perfect weather. Thank you to everyone who came out and we can’t wait to see you dressed to the nines in December!

Thank you to all of our Sponsors!

Venue: Tustin Ranch

Event Planner: Erika’s Elegance Wedding & Events

Florist: The Pink Daffodil

Tables/Chairs/Heaters/Lighting: Apex Tent and Party

Stationary: Jen Simpson Design

Photography: Frank Salas Photography

Videography: Godfather Films

Desserts: The Pie Hole

Vintage Rentals: Sweet Salvage

Entertainment: Visions Entertainment

Entertainment: Steve Burdick Entertainment

Photobooth: Frank Salas Photography

Linens: GBS Linens

Entertainment: Don Covel Entertainment

Signage: Ollie + Elle

Coffee: Coffee Catering LA

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September 26, 2016September 26, 2016 by ABC OC

September 2016 Coordinators Meeting: An Afternoon with Regina and Krista of Crosby & Jon and Archive Rentals

Simply Sweet Weddings and Events always puts together amazing events and this month’s meeting was no exception. Our Coordinators were treated to a charming luncheon hosted at the quaint Five Crowns Restaurant & Steakhouse of Corona Del Mar. Throughout the afternoon, guests couldn’t stop commenting on how stunning the ceremony location was put together. Who doesn’t love lounge seating nestled into the traditional seating? It was such a well-designed touch of romance thanks to Classic Party Rentals. Bella Blooms filled the room with elegant pops of white, leaving our eyes to wander in all directions. Meanwhile, we visited old and new friends before sitting down to enjoy our speakers of the afternoon.

Running your own business is not an easy task. Creative blocks prove to be a problem, such as not knowing if a paycheck will be coming in this month. Regina and Krista from Crosby and Jon Design and Archive Rentals inspired us to believe in ourselves and our creativity. Their knowledge and helpful tips brought inspiration to us all with the simple reminder that saying “You’ve got this” helps to power through and grow our businesses. Sometimes if the task seems difficult, you might just be doing things right. Make sure to delegate and hire out to get the entire job done and remember that we can’t do everything ourselves. Choosing jobs that bring value to your company helps to grow the big picture and you always want to be sure to get recognized for your work. In conclusion, we can’t be afraid to raise our prices; we are worth every penny!

After the inspiring lecture it was time to enjoy the luncheon. The delightful Five Crowns Restaurant & Steakhouse offered each guest a choice of prime rib, halibut or vegetarian entrée which was a real treat. Each plate looked as wonderful as it tasted. We ended the afternoon with a full plate of desserts provided by Mixed Bakery. Everyone tried their best to taste every scrumptious bite before heading back to the office for the day where they were left wishing for more!

Thank you to all of our Sponsors!

Speakers: Regina and Krista from Crosby and Jon Design and Archive Rentals

Coordination: Simply Sweet Weddings & Events

Venue: Five Crowns Restaurant & Steakhouse

Photography: Blue Sky’s Studio

Videography: Parallel Media Productions

Florist: Bella Blooms

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Entertainment: Steve Burdick Events

Desserts: Mixed Bakery

Stationary: Envelopments

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August 28, 2016September 28, 2016 by ABC OC

August 2016: Summer Celebration

Ocean views, vintage rentals, and tons of smiles are just a few of the stunning sights that were seen at our August “celebration.” That’s right, with the summer months dwindling down, it only seemed fit that we turn this month’s meeting into a party instead!

Taking perfection to the next level, Green Apple Event Co. planned a stunning event, utilizing the talents of Archive Rentals, Ambiance AV, and Darla Marie Designs. However, with the Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa offering some of the most enchanting views on the coast, it’s not like this venue needed any assistance being beautiful.

Our members mingled and laughed while sipping on their signature pineapple martinis, and after grabbing a few bites to eat, headed to cocktail tables fashioned by Flowers by Mae Mae and GBS Linens. Cool Haus was there to save the day when the sweet tooth takeover began. Guests were given the choice of different cookies and ice cream flavors, thus creating a custom ice cream sandwich. Now we all know that a party isn’t complete without proof that it happened and that’s where Booth & Bus Co. came in! Members found some friends, grabbed some props, and piled in to the photo bus to remember this spectacular evening in a series of pictures. As the photos printed and Undercover Live and Elevated Pulse called people to the dance floor, it was clear that the stress of these summer months was beginning to fade. Now on to September…

A special thank you to all our sponsors!

Planning: Green Apple Event Co.

Venue and Catering: Laguna Cliffs Marriott Resort and Spa

Specialty Rentals: Archive Rentals

Paper Goods: Darla Marie Deigns

Florist: Flowers by Mae Mae

Dessert: Cool Haus

Band: Undercover Live

DJ: Elevated Pulse

Lighting: Ambiance AV

Linens: GBS Linens

Photo Booth: Booth & Bus Co.

Photographer: Kristina Adams

Videographer: Mission Visual

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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.