Everything you need for a California wedding

Joshua Miller27 said:Does anyone know if there's a shop around the West Coast that’s anything like that good boutique in Washington, D.C., where you can pick up all those little wedding details—you know, things like bowties, ribbons, decorative mesh, and all that extra stuff?

Also, does anyone know the name of that shop in a town like Phoenix that carries those specific wedding dresses? I'm trying to figure out if it's actually worth buying a gown there or if I should just head over to Washington, D.C. instead.

Thanks in advance for any help you guys can give me! 🙏

My cousin actually got everything from Ada's place in San Francisco... all the ribbons, those artificial flowers, the little leaves for the boutonnieres. Even the invitations, the big car decorations, and stuff to spruce up the house and the church, of course.
And besides that, they had decor items too, like those little gems... and floating candles.

Olivia Hill9 said:Joanna, thank you. You've been such a huge help.
I'm heading to New York City this weekend, so I'll check out the Suzy Price you mentioned for the basic package. It doesn't look bad at all compared to what things cost in NYC. One thing though—Suzy doesn't provide the camera herself, right? So, I'd have to factor in the extra cost for a camera, but the real issue is where to find one that isn't tied to the photo package.🤷🤔

We'll get to hear Tempo at a party we're attending soon, but it might be too late by then—they might already be booked for our date. We'll try to see them perform this weekend instead.

Since you've been so helpful in guiding me—do you happen to know anyone in NYC who does great makeup? Nothing heavy like stage makeup, just something natural that lasts all night? And also, someone who does amazing hair?

Thank you, thank you 🙂

You've got Aurora in town, and Simpa over at the Walmart on the Boulevard—actually, just around there, in the same building as Hypo Bank, there's another hair and beauty salon.😉

Sarah Anderson79 said:Blue, I actually booked Suzy. You can find out her rates by sending her an email; she'll walk you through everything and you guys can coordinate a meeting if you're able to get to her location. If not, she'll clear it all up via email. Honestly, she isn't nearly as pricey as people claim given the quality of her work—for me, the photos are the most important thing, and I'd pay double what she charges because she's such an awesome woman. Plus, I've seen the shots and albums she's done for my friends. Here is her link: http://www.suzynewlife.com/ Just shoot her an email and she'll give you the lowdown. As for the Trophy band, they didn't really wow me at a party I went to; I much prefer the guys from Tempo or Modus. I don't have their number handy, but I can track it down for you. I decided against a massive gala; we're looking at about 50 people—just parents and best friends—and I'm planning an afterparty too, so I'm trying not to sweat the tiny details. Martin Arbanas is doing my makeup, and she is incredible. For hair, I'm going for that loose, effortless look, and I've left all the heavy lifting to Silvana from Si Wedding Events. Check out her site here: [URL][/URL] It lets me focus on enjoying myself without stressing over the logistics. Silvana is handling the decor, the bouquet, the cake, and all the sweets. I've picked a color scheme, and everything will revolve around that. The venue is Adriana, and I need to be ready to hit the floor and celebrate until the early hours of the next morning. Catch you later, ladies!

Tani, thanks so much... I'll definitely reach out to her by email. I'm actually heading to New York City this weekend, so I might even be able to see her in person...
No cameras??

placidorca13 said:Well Music - absolutely incredible guys
If you’re willing to invest a little extra to really elevate the musical experience at your event, I cannot recommend them enough.
They performed six songs for us, and honestly, they were flawless; they brought such a unique, soulful atmosphere to the entire wedding ceremony:
Here is the setlist we handpicked for them to perform:
"When You Come to Me," right as the bride was walking toward the groom
"My Beautiful Angel," during the flower girl moments
"Let There Be a Calm Sea," which they played at the end of the ceremony just as the fireworks started
"Christ on My Soul," right as dinner service began
A heartfelt American classic instead of a traditional hymn
"My Fairy," for our very first dance🙂

Super, super... especially for the first dance!!!!👍

Olivia Adams71 said:You've got Aurora in town, and Simpa over at the Walmart on the Boulevard—actually, just around there, in the same building as Hypo Bank, there's another hair and beauty salon.😉

So, what you're saying is they're great because they don't just cake you in layers of makeup that make you look ten years older? They go for a more natural look that still holds up all night?

Sorry if I'm being a bit blunt, but I really wouldn't want to get my makeup done only to come home and have to wash it all off myself...😲

Also, how much does it cost to get professionally done?

I heard about this stylist who used to work at Glamour in NYC, but she's been based in New York City for a few years now. Her salon is somewhere downtown, but I can't remember the name. Could that be the place?

p.s. thanks for the info.

Olivia Hill9 said:So, what you're saying is they're great because they don't just cake you in layers of makeup that make you look ten years older? They go for a more natural look that still holds up all night?

Sorry if I'm being a bit blunt, but I really wouldn't want to get my makeup done only to come home and have to wash it all off myself...😲

Also, how much does it cost to get professionally done?

I heard about this stylist who used to work at Glamour in NYC, but she's been based in New York City for a few years now. Her salon is somewhere downtown, but I can't remember the name. Could that be the place?

p.s. thanks for the info.

I think the one from Aurora used to live in NYC, but I'm not positive.

Look, I don't know where you saw those "cemented" faces, but from what I've seen, these girls look amazing and their makeup stays put all night long: Blackie, Ancika, and a few others who aren't even on this forum.
Anyway, at the end of the day, you're the one calling the shots on your own style.☕
As for prices, I'd guess around $67, but Blackie and Ancika probably know better—you should just shoot them a DM.😉

Olivia Adams71 said:I think the one from Aurora used to live in NYC, but I'm not positive.

Look, I don't know where you saw those "cemented" faces, but from what I've seen, these girls look amazing and their makeup stays put all night long: Blackie, Ancika, and a few others who aren't even on this forum.
Anyway, at the end of the day, you're the one calling the shots on your own style.☕
As for prices, I'd guess around $67, but Blackie and Ancika probably know better—you should just shoot them a DM.😉

Then she's definitely the one from Aurora...
I've personally seen young women get done up so heavily that they would've been ten times better off without any makeup at all. To be fair, I didn't see that happening at the NYC parties... but still... I'm just asking. I want to pick something that actually suits me, which is why I'm here in the first place.😉

thanks for everything...

Is it actually worth hitting up Ikea or Rose for apartment decor and party supplies? Specifically looking for some killer sand, pebbles, little stones, and maybe some tillandsia. I think I read somewhere you can grab this stuff at Ada in San Francisco too, but honestly, I have no clue where the best deals are. Anyone got the scoop?🤷

Olivia Hill9 said:Then she's definitely the one from Aurora...
I've personally seen young women get done up so heavily that they would've been ten times better off without any makeup at all. To be fair, I didn't see that happening at the NYC parties... but still... I'm just asking. I want to pick something that actually suits me, which is why I'm here in the first place.😉

thanks for everything...

We were on the same page. 😉
Look, it’s pretty obvious—you talk to any makeup artist and you’ll quickly get a feel for how they actually operate. Just listen to their vibe and use that to set your own expectations. 😉

Olivia Adams71 said:We were on the same page. 😉
Look, it’s pretty obvious—you talk to any makeup artist and you’ll quickly get a feel for how they actually operate. Just listen to their vibe and use that to set your own expectations. 😉

Yeah, you're totally right... I definitely needed a few recommendations first, which is exactly what you gave me 🙏, but I'll figure out the rest just by talking to them! 🎉

Olivia Hill9 said:Joanna, thank you. You've been such a huge help.
I'm heading to New York City this weekend, so I'll check out the Suzy Price you mentioned for the basic package. It doesn't look bad at all compared to what things cost in NYC. One thing though—Suzy doesn't provide the camera herself, right? So, I'd have to factor in the extra cost for a camera, but the real issue is where to find one that isn't tied to the photo package.🤷🤔

We'll get to hear Tempo at a party we're attending soon, but it might be too late by then—they might already be booked for our date. We'll try to see them perform this weekend instead.

Since you've been so helpful in guiding me—do you happen to know anyone in NYC who does great makeup? Nothing heavy like stage makeup, just something natural that lasts all night? And also, someone who does amazing hair?

Thank you, thank you 🙂

I actually shot Suzy an email, and she sent over some videographer recommendations along with their contact info. So yeah, don't sweat that part too much.😁

Dana Thomas14 said:Hey ladies,
I’m new here. I’ve been lurking for a while now and honestly, all your info has been such a lifesaver (thanks a ton!!!), so I figured it was finally time to jump in and join the conversation.

My birthday is August 28th next year, and we’ve finally checked some major things off our list: the venue is the Ritz-Carlton, the band is Flash, photography/video is being handled by a pro, and for the guest reception (on my end): we’re looking at the Getty Museum. We spent forever weighing every single option, scouting locations, and going back and forth—so we’re seriously relieved to finally have these big pieces in place.

Now, we’re hunting for a solid catering company (ideally one that can provide tents) for the reception. Any recommendations? I saw someone mention some local spots and boutique caterers earlier? Has anyone actually used those specific catering services or maybe others out there? I need the real scoop—how’s the food, how’s the service, and what’s the damage to the wallet?

Also, we’re looking for a good vocal group to sing a few songs (maybe 2 or 3 before and after the ceremony). Someone suggested a few specific acapella groups to us—what’s the verdict on them? Do you have any other suggestions? And what are we looking at in terms of pricing?

I am seriously so grateful for all this intel—especially since I live out of state, so I can't just pop in to check everything out or listen to performers in person.

Later!

Well, like I mentioned before, we actually had the guys from the Bunari vocal group perform for us, and they were absolutely stellar. As for the cost, it really just depends on your specific vision and how long you want them to keep singing.
When it comes to catering, we went with George's restaurant in Malibu, and honestly, the food was nothing short of phenomenal, and the service was just as impressive. I highly recommend them without hesitation! Our menu featured savory pies, prosciutto, artisan cheeses, classic French salad, octopus salad, both black and white risotto, and fried calamari.

mellowfalcon said:I actually shot Suzy an email, and she sent over some videographer recommendations along with their contact info. So yeah, don't sweat that part too much.😁

I just shot an email over to Susie, so we'll see what she comes back with...
I figured she'd definitely have some videographers to suggest anyway...
If it's just a standard, basic package $1667 then that would be a Super price👍🎉for the photos and then this much extra for the video...😍

Hey everyone, I just wanted to drop a quick recommendation here... My wedding is already behind me, and I ended up using Wedding studio in. I know they get a lot of praise on this forum, but I can personally vouch that they did an absolutely stellar job.
The shots are genuinely diverse and creative...

mistyraven272 said:Is it actually worth hitting up Ikea or Rose for apartment decor and party supplies? Specifically looking for some killer sand, pebbles, little stones, and maybe some tillandsia. I think I read somewhere you can grab this stuff at Ada in San Francisco too, but honestly, I have no clue where the best deals are. Anyone got the scoop?🤷

Look, Ira, then there's Rose... I always save the worst for last with Ada—well, more like Charlotte acting as the rep over at ST—because that's where they really bleed you dry. It’s the most expensive option by far.

Sandra Murphy14 said:Hey everyone, I just wanted to drop a quick recommendation here... My wedding is already behind me, and I ended up using Wedding studio in. I know they get a lot of praise on this forum, but I can personally vouch that they did an absolutely stellar job.
The shots are genuinely diverse and creative...

I accidentally hit submit before I was finished... here is the rest of it....

So...

The photographer and videographer from Wedding studio in... honestly, they deserve a round of applause. The shots are incredibly creative and there are so many of them. The video was fine too, they use some interesting effects, though frankly, I don't care much about having a DVD; the photos are what matter to me, and they are gorgeous. Everyone said they were amazing.
The Band... Bravo band... they were great for us. We danced all night and the energy was high, which is what matters most to me—they have a huge repertoire of American hits.
The Venue... It's located out in the suburbs... it was decent enough. The food was okay and there was plenty of it. It’s certainly not some elite five-star restaurant, but I suppose I was satisfied.

Anyway, if this helps anyone, I'm glad. If you have questions, maybe send me a PM, since I'm not on this forum very often.
Best, 😉

Jack Murphy7 said:I'll weigh in on the music side... you should check out the groups performing this Wednesday in Latin America (up near the tunnel on Boulevard).

I'd love to check them out, but unfortunately, I'm stuck in Germany right now. Maybe my better half can make it down to Latin America instead.

placidorca13 said:Well, like I mentioned before, we actually had the guys from the Bunari vocal group perform for us, and they were absolutely stellar. As for the cost, it really just depends on your specific vision and how long you want them to keep singing.
When it comes to catering, we went with George's restaurant in Malibu, and honestly, the food was nothing short of phenomenal, and the service was just as impressive. I highly recommend them without hesitation! Our menu featured savory pies, prosciutto, artisan cheeses, classic French salad, octopus salad, both black and white risotto, and fried calamari.

thanks for the heads up.

I hadn't heard of that vocal group before, but since you raved about them, I jumped on their website and checked out some of their videos. honestly, they make a great impression 👍.

placidorca13 said:Well Music - absolutely incredible guys
If you’re willing to invest a little extra to really elevate the musical experience at your event, I cannot recommend them enough.
They performed six songs for us, and honestly, they were flawless; they brought such a unique, soulful atmosphere to the entire wedding ceremony:
Here is the setlist we handpicked for them to perform:
"When You Come to Me," right as the bride was walking toward the groom
"My Beautiful Angel," during the flower girl moments
"Let There Be a Calm Sea," which they played at the end of the ceremony just as the fireworks started
"Christ on My Soul," right as dinner service began
A heartfelt American classic instead of a traditional hymn
"My Fairy," for our very first dance🙂

That is a seriously killer song selection! I can totally see how all of that gave your reception such a unique, romantic vibe🙂

Dana Thomas14 said:That is a seriously killer song selection! I can totally see how all of that gave your reception such a unique, romantic vibe🙂

Honestly, the whole experience felt like something straight out of a movie. We had this gorgeous outdoor wedding right at the marina in Newport Beach, and having that live vocal group perform really set the mood. When they started singing that very first song, I swear, half the guests were already reaching for their tissues—it was just that moving.