Blog | ABC OC

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

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.

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

in Educational Meetings / Events / Industry News / Member News 0 comments

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

in Business / Coordinator Meetings / Educational Meetings / Events / Industry News 0 comments

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