Posts by Douglas Green7

I guess it’s finally that time of year again—the season for cakes and pastries. Does anyone have any solid recommendations for krokant, wedding cakes, or just good old-fashioned desserts?

Can anyone give me some solid advice on picking out an accordion—maybe a duo or trio setup—specifically for playing weddings? You know, the standard stuff at the reception when the newlyweds are making their entrance. Any tips would be appreciated.

Joshua Perez122 said:So, I just got off the phone with Sky and checked out a few other halls and restaurants a bit ago. Prices seem to be hovering somewhere between $45 and $50... I mean, I can definitely keep calling them myself, but honestly, I’m more interested in hearing from people who have actually been there for weddings..
I reached out to
Aria
Bolero
Sky
Velum
And Kadena—they said they can fit about 120 people there.

If any of you know anything at all, could you maybe write a few words about each place?..
Or if you have a recommendation, let me know!

Well, here’s my take, based on what I’ve seen and what I haven't 😁. The only time I was at Bolero was for a party, and that was years ago. I remember the hall itself being nice enough, but honestly, I couldn't get past the entrance—having to deal with a garage setup is just a mood killer. I’m getting married this October, so I’ve pretty much scouted most of these spots. In the end, we pulled the trigger on Sky. As for the others, let me give you my two cents. I already mentioned Bolero. Regarding Velum, it’s fine, I guess, but I’m just not a fan of that whole nautical theme they have going on—everything is decorated like a sailboat or a marina. I did go there for a pirate-themed party once; the room looks good, and the food is actually great. The staff seemed polite enough from what I could tell, but for the 170 guests I'm planning for, it's way too small. Plus, from what my friends have told me, the dance floor is tiny for a crowd that size. Ultimately, we went with Sky. Both my fiancé and I loved it immediately, so the decision was easy. Also, the venue is right in Santa Barbara, so there isn't a massive trek to get there, which was a big factor for us. We also love the idea of having cocktails by the pool, assuming the weather behaves and—by some miracle—the pool is actually full 😁.

gentlewolf69 said:You can definitely find them for less money, though it really just comes down to what you're looking for... There are those big-name companies out there selling them for $2.00 or even more, but plenty of people will do the job for a bit less if you ask. Douglas Green7, if you've got the patience and the time—and if you're feeling a bit crafty—you could always try making them yourself...

Betty Davis93 said:I honestly think it’s totally worth just making your own reverbs
You can pick up parts for around $2.00 and up
That way you end up saving some cash—plus, you actually get to build something that fits your specific taste
There are so many cool ideas floating around online, and there's plenty of variety if you hit up those specialized gear shops
I'm planning on getting my hands on about $0.67 units
...

I found some sashes online for about 3 or 4 bucks—any style you want. They look pretty great, too. Now I'm sitting here wondering if I should just make them myself... I've got the time and the drive, but as for my actual dexterity? Let's just say it's probably better if I don't attempt it. 😛

Timothy Fisher50 said:The price for flowers seems to hover right around $1333 everywhere you look, especially if you’re aiming for that full look where every single table in the hall has a bouquet, plus the sweetheart table, the car decorations, the church arrangements, and individual bouquets...
There’s Mis and TNT over in San Francisco which are pretty well-known names, though personally, I wasn't ever huge on Mis, but hey, maybe you'll actually love them. It really just comes down to personal taste, I guess.

Oh, and guys, I seriously need some advice 😁
So, I’ve decided I’m going to try making the boutonnieres myself, partly because I love being hands-on and partly to save a little cash.
I went ahead and bought some ribbons in this pale pink shade and tried to fashion a little flower, but honestly, it looks terrible because I just can't get any kind of shape or expression out of it... :-( Thank goodness I haven't actually bought the flowers in that color yet.

What do you all prefer more—pink or cyclamen? Though lately, I've been leaning toward the darker tones, like an old rose... paired with white, I think that would look lovely. What colors are mostly showing up at your weddings? What do your boutonnieres look like?

Thanks for the heads-up. I was actually planning on making the boutonnieres myself too, though I might still sleep on the idea 😁. As for the colors, I'm still stuck in limbo. I have plenty of time, but I'm tossing ideas around between a delicate lavender, then there's fuchsia—though that feels a bit cliché at this point. I also had this thought about using grey, maybe in some kind of combo.
I am being completely indecisive about this whole thing 😁

So, now that I’ve finally checked the venue, the photographer, and the band off my list, I’m staring down the barrel of floral arrangements—and honestly, I could use some help. Does anyone have a solid florist they’d actually recommend? Also, if you know what the going rate is for decorating the hall or the church, let me know. I'm trying to get a sense of the damage before I commit.

Hey there!
I’m looking for some solid recommendations for a photo studio and a band in the Los Angeles area—ideally something that won't break the bank, maybe one of those hidden gems rather than the big-name outfits everyone uses. Thanks!