Everything you need for a California wedding

Sam Myers66 said:Hey, does anyone recognize where this wedding took place? http://marinkovic-weddings.com/jelenamarko-in-split/

Benny at Central Park

Ashley Hall5 said:Ladies, what’s the best way to decorate a hall, a church, and a car on a budget? Should I even bother asking here?

Williams Sonoma. I suppose you'll be satisfied with them.

Robin Hughes91 said:Good grief, you’d probably pay through the nose for a slice of that pizza right about now.🙏🙏🙏😁
How would you even go about setting up a target range for the local crowd? We’ve still got that church right there in Manhattan—it’s basically our neighborhood. Honestly, thanks for the idea. If we could actually get the locals to agree on something, this would be the perfect spot. Thanks. 🙂

Please, let me know what they tell you if you end up calling them. We aren't planning on getting married until the very end of summer, so I really don't have the energy to be stressing over all these arrangements yet. An older lady mentioned to me once that they've hosted a few weddings there before, so I'm assuming the venue itself isn't an issue—it's more about finding out what their specific terms and conditions are.

Keith Gomez9 said:Please, let me know what they tell you if you end up calling them. We aren't planning on getting married until the very end of summer, so I really don't have the energy to be stressing over all these arrangements yet. An older lady mentioned to me once that they've hosted a few weddings there before, so I'm assuming the venue itself isn't an issue—it's more about finding out what their specific terms and conditions are.

yeah, me too, thanks

Alexander Morgan said:Benny at Central Park

sweet, thanks

I’m actually looking for something outdoors by the water, somewhere along the coast between Charleston and Savannah, for about 100 people.
We were checking out Benjamin Franklin in Saint Louis, which honestly seems like our best bet, but like we mentioned earlier, they aren't exactly the most reliable spot; the reviews are pretty rough, and they don't even use email, so you have to go down there in person 🙄 which would totally mess with my schedule since I don't live in San Francisco during the year.
Places like Santa Barbara and The Beverly Hills Hotel are just way out of our budget, and the Radisson is too, plus I don't think their terrace can even hold that many people. I'm not really feeling the Carnegie vibe either, and that house in Savannah isn't for us—those are basically all the outdoor spots I know in Saint Louis, so if you guys have any other ideas, please shout.

The Old Mill in Santa Monica seems alright, and you could probably decorate it nicely, and they can handle food and I think they have seating for maybe 80 people, but if you go over that, you're kind of on your own. Also, a wedding there could run until midnight, which makes it a whole daytime thing, and mid-summer is just way too hot for that, whereas if we pick an earlier or later date, there's a higher chance of getting crappy weather. 😁

What about Barbera in Durham? Does anyone know anything about that place, like how many people it can actually fit? And would it even be possible to set up a dance floor there?

There's this farm called Panj in Haverhill that looks really beautiful and I've heard nothing but good things, but it's not right by the ocean. 🕺

Alexander Morgan said:I’m actually looking for something outdoors by the water, somewhere along the coast between Charleston and Savannah, for about 100 people.
We were checking out Benjamin Franklin in Saint Louis, which honestly seems like our best bet, but like we mentioned earlier, they aren't exactly the most reliable spot; the reviews are pretty rough, and they don't even use email, so you have to go down there in person 🙄 which would totally mess with my schedule since I don't live in San Francisco during the year.
Places like Santa Barbara and The Beverly Hills Hotel are just way out of our budget, and the Radisson is too, plus I don't think their terrace can even hold that many people. I'm not really feeling the Carnegie vibe either, and that house in Savannah isn't for us—those are basically all the outdoor spots I know in Saint Louis, so if you guys have any other ideas, please shout.

The Old Mill in Santa Monica seems alright, and you could probably decorate it nicely, and they can handle food and I think they have seating for maybe 80 people, but if you go over that, you're kind of on your own. Also, a wedding there could run until midnight, which makes it a whole daytime thing, and mid-summer is just way too hot for that, whereas if we pick an earlier or later date, there's a higher chance of getting crappy weather. 😁

What about Barbera in Durham? Does anyone know anything about that place, like how many people it can actually fit? And would it even be possible to set up a dance floor there?

There's this farm called Panj in Haverhill that looks really beautiful and I've heard nothing but good things, but it's not right by the ocean. 🕺

Did you guys actually talk to the people at the mill? Ending at midnight is pretty lame, if that's the case, I'm not even bothering to call them. As for Barbera, I was at a wedding there once and it was gorgeous—the vibe and the food are top-tier. I'm just not sure about capacity; maybe 70 or 80 people max. There isn't a real dance floor either, just improvised space once you move the tables around. Also, it’s kind of a pain because the floor is stone, so if you're wearing heels, dancing is going to be a struggle.

Sam Myers66 said:Did you guys actually talk to the people at the mill? Ending at midnight is pretty lame, if that's the case, I'm not even bothering to call them. As for Barbera, I was at a wedding there once and it was gorgeous—the vibe and the food are top-tier. I'm just not sure about capacity; maybe 70 or 80 people max. There isn't a real dance floor either, just improvised space once you move the tables around. Also, it’s kind of a pain because the floor is stone, so if you're wearing heels, dancing is going to be a struggle.

I haven't personally, but an acquaintance of mine got married there, and apparently everything had to wrap up by midnight because the restaurant probably only has a permit to operate until then, so they started gathering earlier in the afternoon.

It's the same deal with those stone tiles over at Benjamin Franklin.

Austin has some lovely piers with space for about a hundred guests. I happened to see a wedding held at one with a pavilion on the pier, and it looked pretty great.

As far as other spots go, I might suggest checking out Joe's Crab Shack (assuming they're still open) in Santa Monica, the Old Mill in Charleston, or maybe the Coastal Villa. 😁

Alexander Morgan said:I’m actually looking for something outdoors by the water, somewhere along the coast between Charleston and Savannah, for about 100 people.
We were checking out Benjamin Franklin in Saint Louis, which honestly seems like our best bet, but like we mentioned earlier, they aren't exactly the most reliable spot; the reviews are pretty rough, and they don't even use email, so you have to go down there in person 🙄 which would totally mess with my schedule since I don't live in San Francisco during the year.
Places like Santa Barbara and The Beverly Hills Hotel are just way out of our budget, and the Radisson is too, plus I don't think their terrace can even hold that many people. I'm not really feeling the Carnegie vibe either, and that house in Savannah isn't for us—those are basically all the outdoor spots I know in Saint Louis, so if you guys have any other ideas, please shout.

The Old Mill in Santa Monica seems alright, and you could probably decorate it nicely, and they can handle food and I think they have seating for maybe 80 people, but if you go over that, you're kind of on your own. Also, a wedding there could run until midnight, which makes it a whole daytime thing, and mid-summer is just way too hot for that, whereas if we pick an earlier or later date, there's a higher chance of getting crappy weather. 😁

What about Barbera in Durham? Does anyone know anything about that place, like how many people it can actually fit? And would it even be possible to set up a dance floor there?

There's this farm called Panj in Haverhill that looks really beautiful and I've heard nothing but good things, but it's not right by the ocean. 🕺

If you ever find yourself wandering around Santa Barbara, you absolutely have to stop by the Nautic restaurant located right within the Marina del Rey. It’s one of those rare finds where everything just clicks. They have this stunning glass-walled dining room that sits right on the water's edge, offering an incredible view, plus a lovely terrace and—thankfully—reliable parking if you're driving. Honestly, the price is almost laughably low; as far as I know, they're keeping it at $36 per person through the end of the year, which is practically a steal considering the sheer quality of the meal you receive.
Regarding those restaurants you all were mentioning around Malibu, if I’m being perfectly honest, the only one actually worth bringing up is Austin. That said, if you’re planning on grabbing a bite during July or August—right when they’re absolutely swamped with summer crowds—I wouldn't be surprised if you have a hard time snagging a table. As for San Antonio and the rest of that crowd, they're frankly overpriced, the seating is cramped and uncomfortable, and to put it bluntly, the food just isn't up to par.

Nathan Watson2 said:If you ever find yourself wandering around Santa Barbara, you absolutely have to stop by the Nautic restaurant located right within the Marina del Rey. It’s one of those rare finds where everything just clicks. They have this stunning glass-walled dining room that sits right on the water's edge, offering an incredible view, plus a lovely terrace and—thankfully—reliable parking if you're driving. Honestly, the price is almost laughably low; as far as I know, they're keeping it at $36 per person through the end of the year, which is practically a steal considering the sheer quality of the meal you receive.
Regarding those restaurants you all were mentioning around Malibu, if I’m being perfectly honest, the only one actually worth bringing up is Austin. That said, if you’re planning on grabbing a bite during July or August—right when they’re absolutely swamped with summer crowds—I wouldn't be surprised if you have a hard time snagging a table. As for San Antonio and the rest of that crowd, they're frankly overpriced, the seating is cramped and uncomfortable, and to put it bluntly, the food just isn't up to par.

I actually checked, and Nautic was packed for the 2017 season. They had a few Friday nights left available about a month ago, but since then? Yeah, those spots are probably long gone.

So, what’s the word on Dodger Stadium? Anyone actually been there lately? Thinking about the vibe and if the food is even worth the hype.

Sam Myers66 said:Yeah, tell me about it. Same vibe. We're hunting for something similar, but honestly, it feels like anywhere around the San Francisco Bay Area or Santa Barbara, if a spot can hold a hundred people, it's just some generic, boring banquet hall.

not a person

We finally pulled the trigger and booked Joe's Crab Shack in Durham. Prices are super low, the staff seems really chill, and I hear the food is actually great.
Ps. Does anyone have recommendations for flowers or table decor that won't break the bank? Please! Just nothing like Williams Sonoma, I already know them too well.😉

amberhawk60 said:Anyone been to the post-Lent party? Is everything cool?
We've got a new manager in charge, so I'm trying to gauge the vibe...

I attended one at the Fenix venue near Durham.
In my estimation, the improvements are quite notable; all three halls have been renovated with fresh white tiling and modern LED lighting.
They even have a preferred contractor for additional lighting at reasonable rates, and they offer candle arrangements as well. A seat for the reception was approximately $34, and the appetizer spread featured fritters alongside fish pâté, prosciutto, cheese, and French bread.
The catering was handled in-house and included various beverages; the buffet featured octopus salad, prosciutto, cheese, artisanal bread baked under a bell, savory pies, and fried shrimp tails—everything was truly top-tier.

Hey ladies, has anyone here actually used Miller catering before? Just wondering if they're any good. Thanks! 🙂

Does anyone here actually know—like, from firsthand experience—if you really need a permit for these lanterns, or can I just fly under the radar?

The girls who were asking about Twitter:
They won't rent out the whole venue because they don't want their regulars complaining about the noise 😵 They're only willing to set aside one section—probably outside—provided we cover the servers' hourly wages and all the drinks. I’m heading over there next week to hammer out the specifics and see if the math actually works, though I really hope he isn't planning on charging us full retail for every round.

Scott Chase6 said:Williams Sonoma. I suppose you'll be satisfied with them.

The starting price for the venue renovation $333, does that sound right? Does anyone know what other places are charging?

Hey, can someone who’s actually been there give me the lowdown on Benedict at Ben? I’m seeing a lot of bad reviews floating around, but I can’t quite put my finger on why people hate it so much. Also, what are we thinking for a backup plan if it rains? My biggest worry is the space—I don't think they can actually fit everyone inside. And am I being delusional for planning an outdoor wedding in September? Is it going to be freezing by then, or should I just move it up to August?

Keith Gomez9 said:Does anyone here actually know—like, from firsthand experience—if you really need a permit for these lanterns, or can I just fly under the radar?

You talking about those Asian paper ones? Not sure about the legal side, but from what I've seen during dry seasons, I wouldn't touch them with a ten-foot pole. They're unpredictable—one second they're floating, the next they drop or catch fire, and if they land on someone's house or a pine tree, it's game over. You don't need that kind of stress on your party day.

Anyone near San Francisco know of a villa with a pool (not required) available for rent for a party? Maybe 2-3 days in mid-September.