Industry News Archives

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

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

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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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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

Cigar Bar: El Canito Cigars

Beauty: Erica Pennings

Love our Orange County Videography

ABC OC Havana Night Highlight Video from Water Tree Events Videography on Vimeo.

Photography by Joan Fuller Photography

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July 22, 2015July 23, 2015 by ABC OC

July: Wedding Coordinator Panel

Kelsey Events put on an amazing July meeting. Breathtaking views, signature drinks, and exquisite décor certainly created a night to remember. As we set our eyes on the venue we were immediately immersed into the amazing architecture of the Santiago Canyon Estate. Casual mingling among friends poolside seamlessly turned into an elegant dinner under the stars.

Upon arrival to the upper level our eyes wandered from the enchanting table settings, to the stunning floral arrangements, to the dessert table. The lounge style seating for our speakers was perfectly put together in all white with pops of fuchsia. The tropical centerpieces with Magenta Phaleonopsis Orchids and Ti Leaves completed the event’s overall look.

It’s always inspiring to hear success stories from our peers. All three speakers are considered some of the top Event Planners in the industry. Their success in business goes hand in hand with their love for their clients. Brooke Keegan emphasized having great relationships with your vendors to ensure a flawless event. While Lindsay Longacre’s leaderships skills have helped her build a strong event company that offers training for aspiring event planners. Since entering the industry in 2004 Wendy Dahl not only runs a successful event company but also coaches wedding professionals. All of the speakers enlightened the group with their past experience and how it contributed to their achievements over the years. From making the decision to join the industry, to where they are now has been quite the journey for each of them. It was truly an honor to hear each of their stories.

Jason’s Catering provided a delectable menu that certainly did not disappoint. The hearty portions were delicious. The dessert table by Pacific Patisserie Bakery had so many choices it was hard to decide which ones to bite into. Brew Ha Ha’s gourmet coffee station with fresh beignets really hit the spot at the end of the night.

A huge thank you to all of our sponsors!

Coordination: Kelsey Events
Venue: Santiago Vineyard Estate
Catering: Jason’s Catering
Photography: Allison Maggin Photography
Lighting and DJ: Extreme DJ
Flowers: Flowers by Cina
Bakery: Pacific Patisserie Bakery
Coffee Station: Brew Ha Ha Catering
Greenery: Green Effect
Linens: Something Borrowed Party Rentals
Specialty Furniture Rentals: AFR Event Furnishing
Rentals: ATB Party Rentals
Stationary: Jasmin Michelle Designs

Speakers for the Event:

Brooke Keegan: Brooke Keegan Weddings & Events

Lindsay Longacre: LVL Events

Wendy Dahl: Chic Productions

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June 22, 2015July 22, 2015 by ABC OC

June: “I Do: How To’s”

Our June coordinator’s luncheon at the Colony House was a fabulous way to start the summer. Not only did we have top notch vendors filling the room with a fresh summer citrus palette and relaxed atmosphere, we also had some expert presenters teach us a thing or two about how to improve and sharpen our planning skills.

Lavender’s flowers was the key to the event design. Starting with shades of white, she pulled in tangerine, grapefruit and blood orange citrus along with foraged greenery and added a variety of texture. 24 Carrots created a menu that incorporated the design: avocado and mixed green citrus salad with a meyer lemon vinaigrette, citrus mixers for the mimosa bar and a white chocolate citrus cake to finish the meal. Each vendor’s interpretation of the design complimented one another and the outcome was perfection.

During the breakout sessions, we were dazzled by napkin folds, quick makeup fixes on our brides, how to create an emergency boutonniere, phone lenses for better pictures at events and some of us caught on to tying a bow tie. We have to give the award for creativity (and courage) to the 24 Carrot rappers who taught us to set a “table with flare.” Thank you so much for sharing your time and knowledge with us.

Thank you to all of the vendor sponsors and presenters. Each of you are so appreciated:

Venue: The Colony House – http://colonyhouseanaheim.com/

Planner: Table7 Events – http://www.table-seven.com/

Caterer: 24 Carrots – http://24carrots.com/

Photographer: Studio EMP – http://studioemp.com/

Videographer: Lunch Pail Pictures – http://lunchpailpictures.com/

Furniture: Found Vintage Rentals – http://www.foundrentals.com/

Stationary: Sparkle Pony Press – http://sparkle-pony.myshopify.com/

Florist and Event Design: Lavender’s Flowers – http://www.lavendersfloral.com/

Linens: GBS Linens – http://www.gbslinens.com/

Dishes: Dish Wish Events – http://www.dishwishevents.com/

Entertainment: Scott Cummings Music – http://www.scottcummingsmusic.com/

Men’s Accessories: Friar Tux – https://www.friartux.com/

Makeup: Flawless Faces – http://www.flawlessfacesinc.com/home

Thank you Lunch Pail Events for the video you made of the event. ABC OC June 2015 video

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April 29, 2015April 29, 2015 by ABC OC

Giving Back to the Community: Brides Against Breast Cancer

This month was special as we partnered with Brides Against Breast Cancer (BABC) by hosting a fundraising event honoring those that have been impacted by cancer. Erika’s Elegance Weddings and Events put on an incredibly touching evening that highlighted this organization. The Red Horse Barn was a perfect backdrop for our evening as we enjoyed Summit Event Catering and the sounds of Larry by Fly by Night DJs. As we finished dinner and the venue was lit in pink (of course) by Elevated Pulse, we enjoyed a fashion show sponsored by Mon Amie Bridal Salon with MD Hair and Makeup providing their services for our models. Each of our models had a personal connection with someone affected by cancer. Our vendors all did a terrific job coming together to give back to this impactful cause and in addition Katherine Hoggard with Impact Favors educated us on how we and our clients can make a difference at our events by donating to meaningful causes and then passing it on to others in hopes of making an even bigger impact. Videographer Greg Fiske put together a heartfelt video for the event featuring our very own members. Our MC for the evening Tracy from Flawless Weddings and Events shared with us her personal connection to cancer by sharing the story of her mother’s battle.

It was eye opening to see that almost everyone in attendance that evening has known someone touched by cancer in some way. Brides Against Breast Cancer (BABC) is a non-profit organization that raises funds to ensure those battling cancer and their family have the resources and information they will need for their journey. Each year BABC tours the country with their “Nationwide Tour of Gowns”. The funds raised during the tour make it possible to provide the support needed to thousands of children and adults impacted by cancer. During our ABC event we were able to raise $1,161 for the organization. The donations will fund over 20 hours of FREE support for people affected by cancer. Other ways you may consider helping are to donate a wedding gown, volunteer for the organization, host a BABC fundraising event, become a BABC sponsor, participate in their Pink Envelope Project, or Be an Advocate.

It was such a pleasure for our organization to come together with Brides Against Breast Cancer (BABC), give back to those battling cancer and to learn what we can do in the future to an impact in assisiting BABC.

Thank you to Hilton Huntington Beach, Mastro’s and One Hope Wine for donating our raffle prizes and thank you to all the sponors for a meaningful and memorable evening.

A very special thank you to all of our vendors and sponsors for the evening.
Island Bar and Beverage
Mon Amie
Summit Catering
Sweet Traders
Fly By Night DJ
Erika’s Elegance Weddings and Events
Portobello Junction
M&D Hair and Make-up
The Waterfront Beach Resort, A Hilton Hotel
Elevated Pulse
OC Events
Fund With Photo
Mastro’s Steakhouse
Hilton Orange County/Costa Mesa
Signature Party Rentals
Red Horse Barn
Fiske Film

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March 20, 2015March 20, 2015 by ABC OC

March: Overwhelmed By Such A Wonderful Event

Andrea Woolf guest speaker and author of “Ignite Your Life” lead March’s meeting with some helpful tips to calm ourselves when things seem to be a bit overwhelming. We all go through some stressful times planning events, and balancing our personal lives, but with her helpful insights we may be able to enjoy them more as well. The Hotel Irvine was gracious enough to host our event this month. Let’s hope our coordinator was not too overwhelmed during the planning process, because the event was seamless from beginning to end. The food stations were amazing. The desserts were consumed quite quickly and then to our surprise, ice cream bars were presented to cap off the night. Thank you to all of our sponsors! We couldn’t do it without you.

Guest Speaker: Andrea Woolf

Venue: Hotel Irvine

Coordination: A Good Affair Wedding & Event Production

Photography: Luminaire Images

DJ and Lighting: Invisible Touch Entertainment

Dessert: Simply Sweet Cakery

Linens: GBS Linens

Cocktail Hour Entertainment: Scott Cummings Music

Stationery: Paper Plane Paperie

Rentals: Classic Party Rentals

Florist: Floral Riot