Posts by Raymond Brooks7

Kate Gonzalez said:Ivica Matić actually shot my godmother’s birthday party, and honestly, those shots are legendary!!!! It was such a steal 🙂
Maybe Siniša Serdarević?? Everyone seems to rave about him, though he was booked up when I needed one..
I ended up going with Photo California and hired Hrvoj to handle the camera... the man is an absolute legend... the photos were mind-blowing. As for the other photographers over at FD, I can't really speak to their work.....

Siniša Srdanović... or even Sina mentioned above 👍👍👍 highly, highly recommend. I've looked through a few weddings he’s covered and 👍👍

frozentiger2 said:I’ve been lurking on this forum for a while now, and honestly, it’s been a lifesaver when it comes to picking out venues and bands. Hopefully, I can return the favor by sharing some of our progress here.😉
We still have plenty of runway—our date is November 8th—but I was genuinely shocked to see how many venues and bands are already booked up. It's wild.😲
We settled on the Bolero venue, which is currently sitting at $40 per head (assuming we don't go crazy with the menu changes and since we're locked into using their bakery for the cake). As for music, we went with Pink Panther 1800 USD.
We haven't pulled the trigger on a photographer yet, so I could really use some input from you guys.🤷
We're currently torn between: Matić, Lisjak, or Photo California.The first guy is significantly pricier than the others, whereas the quality of the second one seems pretty much on par with the first (at least, that’s my gut feeling).
As for everything else? I feel like there's no need to rush just yet... or maybe there is.

Anyway, that's the update. I hope these price points help someone else out there.
We actually checked out ExxonMobil over in Santa Monica and the Castello-sala too. The first one is okay—we aren't huge fans of the layout—but the $35 price tag is hard to argue with. The Castello-sala is lovely, and at $36, it’s actually quite reasonable.

Welcome to the club.
Lisjak and Matić have completely different approaches when it comes to photography. It’s all a matter of taste, really. Personally, my vote goes to Lisjak—after all, he’s the one who took my photos. 😍)
I’m putting Photo California at the absolute bottom of my list. Honestly, unless you can drop a specific photographer's full name and surname, don't expect anything from them.
Bolero is an incredible lounge. I was there for a gala once, and honestly, the vibe was just something else. 👍

Kate Gonzalez said:Meanwhile, you have the other crowd who attended the gala yesterday claiming everything was absolutely perfect!!!!!!

So, where does that leave us now?😢

I’ve been there twice myself, and honestly, I don't have much to complain about either.

Harold Scott4 said:Hotel Park is absolutely stunning, but they wrap things up by 1 or 2 in the morning.
I also heard about George's restaurant in Malibu, which is right on the beach—I really need to look into that. Are there any other restaurants situated directly along the coastline?

What is the vibe like over at America?

I’m assuming the Radisson will be similar to Le Meridien, and frankly, I have zero interest in a traditional wedding. I want something outdoors, right by the ocean...
Thanks for the help.

Oh, and about George's... I'm not sure how many people they can actually handle for weddings. A friend of mine had a tiny reception there—maybe 20 people—and the table was literally sitting on the sand. I have no clue if they can scale that up for a larger crowd.
You also have the option of just driving along the coast and hopping from one restaurant to the next.😍

The America place isn't even really right on the water.

Zachary Price2 said:The wedding went down at the start of the year, and honestly, maybe she just dropped the ball by handing him total control without actually laying out her non-negotiables. I was pretty let down because I’d already seen his portfolio from other weddings, and there’s zero doubt the guy has some actual talent. Yet, looking through the album, half the shots felt like redundant filler, just different crops of the exact same moments.
It really baffled me too, because the guy was all over the place during the reception—one minute he’s down on the floor, then he’s perched on a chair or climbing a ladder, basically scouting the whole ballroom—and yet, none of those candid, dynamic shots made the final cut.🤷

It’s such a shame she isn't happy with them... those moments are gone forever once they pass... who was taking your photos? I saw some of those amateur shots you posted, and you looked incredible.

Harold Scott4 said:Hello everyone, I am reaching out because I am in desperate need of some guidance regarding a wedding in San Francisco. I have spent countless hours scouring the internet for details, and frankly, I am starting to lose my mind 🙂
My vision is to host a wedding in St. Louis or the surrounding areas, ideally at a hotel or a restaurant situated right on the coast, allowing for a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor spaces. We are looking at a guest list of approximately 100 people.
I have been researching various venues online like the Friends, Nevaeh, and the San Antonio locations near Malibu, but obviously, nothing beats seeing them in person. Does anyone here have any firsthand experience with these spots? The Friends venue looks lovely and seems to be the most budget-friendly option, though I can't help but feel the decor leans a bit toward the old-fashioned side.
Furthermore, are there any private villas available for rent in St. Louis, Savannah, or similar areas that feature a pool and expansive outdoor space, much like the estates you find in Oregon?
It is absolutely vital to me that we can hold part of the celebration outdoors if the weather permits, though I must ensure there is a reliable backup plan for an indoor transition should the weather turn sour...
Thank you

If you want to be right on the water, your only real bets are Friends, San Antonio, or Nevaeh... Savannah isn't really an option for that. Villa Zarko used to be a thing, but they don't do weddings anymore. For a group that size, you could look at Hotel Park or Acy in St. Louis.
San Antonio is the most modern choice. Friends is decent. As for Nevaeh, I haven't been, so I can't say.
Your best bet is to just drive around and judge for yourself.
And regarding the villa idea? As far as I know, those don't exist there.

John Baker80 said:Hey everyone! Can someone give me the lowdown on Photo California? I heard if I book them, I need to pick my specific wedding team ahead of time—so any recommendations there would be huge. Also, if anyone has contacts for solid makeup artists, I’d be incredibly grateful 🙂 I'm starting to panic a little—wedding is in 9 months and all I have so far is the band and the venue 😁

You'll find someone in time, don't sweat it.
Photo California is on the pricier side. If you go with their entry-level package, you might actually land someone decent with a "stronger portfolio."
If you love their style, demand to see a full gallery from a single wedding. That’s the only way to know. Or, just pick photos you absolutely adore, find out exactly who shot them by name, and request that specific photographer.

My suggestions are:

www.ivicalisjak.com
the son (I've got his number if you want it)
Studio Papaya

They work freelance. There's an advantage to booking an individual rather than a big studio; at least then you know exactly who is showing up.😍

Benjamin Hill10 said:Dad, I actually thought of you, but then I figured you married women don't ever bother coming around here anymore... PSHHH...😛😛😛😛😛😛😛😛

What else can you think of? 🙄After all, this is our original thread, right? No matter how far you wander, you always find your way back home.
😍
p.s. Frank, we love ya. 😘

Benjamin Hill10 said:Help me out here...

Does anyone have the scoop on good spots for duck or mill-style food in San Diego or maybe near a coastal town like Malibu?

Benjamin Hill10 said:Thanks... I guess.
Yeah, he's the one...
I was thinking about hosting a little christening for the baby over there... I mean, more like a lunch party...🤣

🤦 Well, how could you not know? That's where I got married. P.S. I was just back there for a party, and honestly, the food is incredible. I think I finally realized how good it actually is.👍👍

Henry Wood4 said:Does anyone happen to know where I can pick up some cardboard pastry boxes for a bake sale around here? Target doesn't carry them, and they aren't planning on stocking them anytime soon...

I ordered mine from a firm out in Chicago... they were great... way better selection than what you'll find at Metro

I was out for a stroll last night and stumbled upon a killer spot for a wedding celebration... at least if you ask me: the old Stella Maris lounge, right on the beach in Savannah... perfect vibes for a couple looking to celebrate... everything was so polished, from the slipcovered chairs to those tall floral arrangements in martini glasses, plus green bows everywhere and cocktails waiting at the entrance... and the ocean is right there... 🙏

I don't have all the specifics, but there it is... might be useful for someone out there 👍

wanderingbadger17 said:Hey everyone, we're looking for some insight here...

Does anyone have any intel on the Hotel St. Croix over on Manhattan Island??? If you know anything at all, please reach out!! Thanks!!!!

The food is decent enough and the space looks nice. It might work better for a smaller crowd, but honestly, it lacks that certain "spark."

All things considered, it’s a solid 4/5. If the Church is located over in TG, it’s a great pick. But if you're coming from St, you're better off heading toward Omaha... driving there in the summer is a total nightmare.

brightscout12 said:Hey guys, quick question—does anyone know a killer makeup artist or hairstylist out in San Diego or maybe near Los Angeles? Also, how far in advance do I actually need to book them if I don't want to be left hanging?

The earlier you book, the better. You don't need to lock in an exact hour right this second, but you absolutely need that reservation secured.

Kenneth Ramos9 said:Can anyone drop more names of makeup artists? Like Lucija Spajić, Antonija Guć, or Tina Katalinić... I've seen them popping up all over this forum lately, so...🙏
By the way, does anyone actually buy cookies or brittle from Viadela? Are they any good?

I sent over the contact info for Lucija and Tina.

Kenneth Ramos9 said:Hey girls! Does anyone know if I can rent those glass vases shaped like oversized goblets anywhere in San Francisco? I saw some killer ones at a boutique in Napa, but they're way out of my budget to actually buy. Tnx!

Honestly, any self-respecting florist should have those on hand already...

wanderingbadger17 said:Matic is probably our top choice, though they're definitely the most expensive. We're just looking at photography right now; we've talked to him about more detailed arrangements, so we'll see how it goes..🤷 😍Studio In is our second option, but their vibe is a bit different.. 😍

There is a massive gap in both style and price here 😬...but photos last forever...so...I’m pulling for Matić (even if nobody asked for my opinion 🤦), and if you "happen" to connect with him, it’ll be a total home run. He is truly incredible 👍

Kyle James4 said:Bog cura,

I haven't checked in here for a little while... I'm actually out in San Francisco right now, though I have to admit I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed because there is still so much work left to do... and I've "only" got two months to go.

I was wondering if anyone might be able to recommend a good hairstylist in the San Francisco or Ojai area? I'm really looking to get some volume and lift in my hair...😕

And does anyone know a good makeup artist? I've heard a few names floating around, like Mattea, Lucia, or Antonia... If anyone happens to have experience working with them, please feel free to reach out to me here on the forum or send me a private message. I would really value your recommendations, and you're more than welcome to send over some photos if you have them!! 🙂
HVALA!!!! 🙏

My vote goes to Lucia... 👍👍👍She’s done my makeup and the makeup for plenty of my friends, not just for weddings but for all sorts of events. I’ve already posted quite a bit about her, so I won't drone on...
As for a hairstylist, unfortunately, I don't have a single recommendation because I was never happy with the one I used. If you need Lucia's number, let me know... I heard they do good work at Mladen Grdovic's place over at Joker, but maybe someone else will chime in. 🤷

mellowfalcon said:Does anyone know if there are any dance studios in San Francisco that offer classes specifically for newlyweds?

I've no clue, but I do have the number for a dance instructor... we opted for private lessons, and honestly, I was pretty happy with them...

wanderingbadger17 said:Does anyone happen to know where Ivica Matic's studio is located in San Francisco? Or does the place even exist? Thanks in advance!!🙂

I'm not entirely sure, but I don't think they have a dedicated space...
p.s. Have you guys made a decision yet?

Chris Torres8 said:I left it vague on purpose because I wanted to hear everyone's take on all the different bands.

If I bumped up anyone's blood pressure, my bad—didn't mean to!😁

Nobody’s getting worked up here... relax. Just remember... you've got a hundred different personalities in a room of a hundred people. It's pretty much impossible to hit exactly what you're looking for.😁

Chris Torres8 said:A while back, we were at a party where Bravo Band was playing, and we all agreed—there's no way they'd ever play a gig for us.👎 Most of the crew sat there in silence; nobody was feeling the vibe. 🤷

We thought we’d make it to Major League, but the more I listen to them now, the further away that seems. Instead of actually singing, the guy just recites lyrics like he's reading a poem. It drives me nuts...

Anyone here have experience with Tip-Top?
Or maybe some other band I haven't heard of yet?

🤔 Then be a little more specific... what exactly are you looking for? What kind of music do you actually like?
For instance, I saw the Bravo Band once and nobody stayed on the dance floor, though the vibe was actually great... plus, I've been to three weddings where Major League played... they were fantastic too, and I didn't notice any weird reciting stuff...

Chris Torres8 said:Hey everyone,
I'm looking for some recommendations for the best local bands in San Francisco, but they absolutely have to have a female vocalist (besides Verve).

Thanks,

Bravo Band
Major League