A Regal Affair: Vendor Tipping

Tipping is one of the wedding planning details that tend to get neglected. As a wedding planner I don't usually receive a monetary tip but it is a wonderful and reassuring feeling when you know youre clients are pleased with your service. Here is a general list of vendors and my advice on tipping, however these amounts are not set in stone. Plan according to your budget and the type of service you receive from each. If you are on a tight budget a thank you card and or a very small gift is always appreciated.

Caterer: most add in 18-20% and it is up to you if you want to give a tip above that.

Bartenders - 15% to 20% of the liquor bill.

Hair and Makeup: 15% of the bill

Limo driver: 15-20% of the bill but not more than $150

Music: $30 per band member or 10% of the bill for DJs

Cake: Generally not expected but 10% is welcomed.

Officiant: considered inappropriate however a donatetion of $50 – $200 is welcomed.

Flowers: Generally not tipped but if they do a really great job, 5-10% is welcomed.

Photographers: Normally not tipped, however it is welcomed. You can add $100-300

Wedding Planners: gratuity is not usually required, although, for something better than usual to exceptional a 10-20% tip is not unheard of.)

A Regal Affair & Susie Chhuor 2011 Special

Check out the special that A Regal Affair and Susie Chhour have put together for our 2011 wedding couples!!!

A Regal Affair: BRIDAL SHOES!!!

I’m not sure I know too many women who haven’t had a massive crush on at least one pair of  heels. There’s just something about a super sexy 5″ heels… so crush worthy.
 
I know finding a wedding shoe was an extremely difficult process for me. I ended up with three pairs of  wedding shoes (no complaints there).  I always recommend two pairs, a pretty pair to walk down the aisle with, and a pair with kitten heel for dancing the night away. Needless to say I LOVE shoes so here are a few of my crushes.

I'll start with my favorite! Jimmy Choo

 

the unforgettable Christian Louboutin

Michelle & David

Michelle and David are good good friends of mine and it was so much fun to help plan their wedding all within two months.  A lot of coordinators actually enjoy being a guest at weddings, being able to take a break and sit back and enjoy.  But I would always prefer to help when its a good friend.  Michelle is so special to me and it was such an honor to be  a part of the planning process. One of the first things that we all agree on was to have Mary Jane  to capture the special day. Mary Jane you always blow me away!

David is so neatly woven for Michelle and Michelle is just crazy about David. I've known Michelle since freshman year of high school and I've never seen her so happy and in love.I can not imagine Michelle with anyone else, and have become so fond of David even-though as a result of their marriage my best friend has moved to Spain. When you meet them you just know that they were meant for one another.  Their love is true, patient and kind. 

David and Michelle, I cannot tell you how much I thank you for including me in the planning process!  I love you both so so much.  Michelle, my best friend; I miss you and can not wait till we reunite!

Intimate Session/boudoir Special with the talented Kelly Segre!

Your hubby to be would love this as gift! Kelly has a way of making you feel sexy and comfortable in front of the camera. The 3 days only special books up fast so make sure to emial Kelly.

Here are the details: Dates are limited to October, 24th, 30th, & 31st
All sessions include...
• ½ hour session in our Ventura Studio
•Professional hair and make up
•Female Photographer (Kelly Segré)
•Private Online Viewing / Proofing
•Credit towards cd, prints, or albums

Simple, but Sweet Package* $99 (normal price $225)
•30 minute session with wardrobe changes
•10 retouched images posted online
•$15 credit for products
•*CD can be purchased for $50
Isn’t She Lovely Package $175 (normal price $300)
•30 minute session with three wardrobe changes
•15 retouched images on cd & posted online
•$25 credit for products
Hot Hot Hot Package $250 (normal price $375)
•45 minute session with four wardrobe changes
•30 retouched images on cd & posted online
•5 x 5 coffee table book of images of all edited images
•$50 credit for products

Mix and Match Bridesmaid dresses!

For those of you who don't know me I love and find myself constantly drawn to the color purple. I love the way deep purple grabs attention yet it looks so sophisticated and rich.  I always get so excited when I meet a couple that will be incorporating this color in their wedding because purple is my best friend we get along so well. It always makes me laugh because whenever I'm describing a color , I find myself talking about fruit. I don't know why but saying eggplant describes my favorite color so much better then Aubergine.  I made this inspiration board for a bride that was interested in doing a different dress for each bridesmaid within the Spanish theme. I love The Dessy Collection bridesmaid dresses, you can search by color on their site, they have an amazing variety of shades for each colors and style at very affordable prices.

cutest hair accessories for weddings and special events!

Untamed Petals is about all things feminine, romantic, and chic.  They design sashes, headbands, halos, and fascinators.  All adornments are freshly cut and crafted from the highest quality materials.  Visit the site and the shop to see more! You can find them on Facebook, too.  Click here to stay updated on special offers and new styles.

Petersen's Automotive Museum hosted by Jen O'Sullivan!

As I was heading home last night after a wonderful charity engagement shootout  hosted by the very talented photographer Jen O'Sullivan at the Petersen Automotive Museum I awed and oooh'd as I passed by all the beautiful bridal salons, which of course got me all gitty about my job. I'm always finding and seeking inspiration and love emerging myself in bridal bliss and every aspect of wedding planning. I get to be a part of a couple's biggest decision and their journey to the altar. I always get a little anxious and nervous a few days before any event not because I'm worried about it looking good, but because I want all the elements to flow together as I have planned and imagined. I live to see my clients and their families happy . I design a variety of wedding theme/style, simplistic, glamour, grand, beachy, traditional and ethnic yet my twist on it is always to be classy and beautiful . Yes, it's easier to create a beautiful wedding if you are blessed with an unlimited budget but my talent lies in making any budget work and making the most out of every penny. Most of all I want your wedding day to be about who you are as a couple and an event that your family and friends will cherish forever.

Today I'm grateful for all the couples that have honored me as their wedding designer+coordinator and let me into their lives. I feel blessed and fortunate. Thank YOU!
Now here are some photos of the Peterson Museum, they have tons of options so you really should make a visit. It's a really unique place and offers tons of different areas for photos.

Fiesta Theme birthday Party for my honey :)

I've been thinking about my husband's 30th B-day party and I know exactly what I want but its always nice to have pictures that inspire you. Some of the fun things that are a must for our fiesta is a taco stand, margaritas and home made sangria (I'm famous for my Sangria). I might even post my Sangria recipe on the blog.  Check out these photos, when I saw the string lights with the banners I screamed (quietly) that's exactly what I had pictured in my mind.

I think a fiesta/Spanish theme could be absolutely delicious and would work really well for a wedding. It can be done very classy and without the cheese factor or it can be very casual and flirty. Just see the inspiration board I found on once wed. I just love love the cake and the dress is just to die for.

How cute is this for a save the date?

A Regal Affair: Groom's Gifts

What I love most about pre wedding pictures is the cards/gifts the bride and groom exchange. I think its so sweet and important to share your love and excitement with one another. Its also wonderful to have something to remember it by. I often have brides ask me what they should give to their grooms. Ofcourse watches are an awesome choice, but if you want something more unique and personal check out my suggestions.

Richly hued and elegantly printed with details of San Francisco's landscape.

Perfect cufflinks for the music lover/musician

You can check out Josh Bach for more fun choices! 

A Regal Affair: Coture Wedding Garters

Throwing the wedding garter is a very popular tradition in many weddings even today and many new brides consider them to be an essential wedding accessory to her bridal ensemble. Many brides may choose to use a blue wedding garter to symbolize the “something blue” to bring good luck to her and her groom. However, today you may choose any color that you prefer as well as something that matches your chosen wedding theme and wedding colors. Look at these beautiful coture garters from Florrie Mitton
All items are handmade using exclusively designed trimmings, vintage findings, beautiful crystals,fine laces & silks. Florrie Mitton items are beautiful, fashion led & timeless in their appeal.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Crash The Wedding: A Regal Affair giveaway

Happy Monday, this week we are giving away tickets to crash the wedding show. All you have to do is send an email to info@aregalaffair.com to be selected, or you can buy tickets for this fabulous event at http://www.CrashTheWedding.com/rsvp   This is an event that you don't want to miss! “Crash The Wedding” is the hottest new wedding show to hit the bridal industry. Brides and Grooms are welcome to RSVP to be a part of this historical event. It's a mock wedding. It's a bridal show. It's a charity benefit. It's a live auction. And it's all green!

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

from 6pm - 10pm

at the Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel

At this new take on wedding shows, you will experience an exquisite live mock wedding first hand with the top luxury bridal industry specialists in the area at one of the most beautiful locations in Southern California. You will have the special opportunity to get a behind the scenes look from the specialist's perspective as they disclose their secret tips and tricks to help you plan your perfect wedding. The entire event will culminate with an exciting LIVE auction with 100% of the money raised to go towards our charity, Step Up Women's Network.

Make it a date night for you and your fiance! You will receive a food tasting, wine and cocktails, along with a swag bag filled with tons of gifts and special offers. Tickets are $100 per couple and are subject to availability. Seating is limited.

To RSVP please go to http://www.CrashTheWedding.com/rsvp
 

A Regal Affair: My new favorite dress designer

I found my wedding dress within the first three bridal salons that I visited. I thought it was too early but after I had a dream about it, I knew I had to get it. Few months later I made a casual  visit to a bridal salon that I had windowshopped at when I was a teenager. I remember looking in and admiring all the majical wedding dresses when I was just a girl. I decided to go in and look for accessories, well I got more than I bargained for. I found a really simple dress, with a low back and with a big discount. My friends urged me to try it on, and I LOVED it. I ended up buying a second dress, a flower girls dress and a veil. They gave me an amazing price as they were closing down their sherman oaks store. Part of me thinks that it was meant to be. This was the only store I had admired as a young girl, now I had taken part of the majic with me right before it closed. I'm so happy that I had two dresses. I had the luxury of wearing a wonderful traditional dress to our ceremony, and changing into a much more comfortable, light and fun dress mid reception. Eventhough I loved both of my dresses so much I can't help but fall in love with others!
This month I'm in love with Christos. I love the texture, yet it looks so soft and romantic.

A Regal Affair: A cake tasting with Nancy Kay's Confections

I had the privilege of accompanying a couple to Nancy Kay's Confections, and I have to admit that it wasn't exactly hard work. Nancy makes amazing cakes but its her style that takes her to the next level. Her cakes are simple, classic, modern and pure perfection. She also provides a variety of flavors, my favorite is the Triple Chocolate Cake. Here is just some of the examples of her creations

A Regal Affair: Fun & Unique Escort Cards

I just love these ideas. It's the little things that make a wedding special and personal. These ideas are some fun ways to incorporate into your wedding. 

These would be fun for a yacht or nautical wedding

 

Oh and how sweet are these?  You can pair these with Jars of honey as your favors

and more fun options

A Regal Affair: September Gray Inspiration Board

I love meeting new and potential clients. It really gets my imagination going and I spend hours looking for photos that capture not only the right cake, or flowers but also the right feeling.I wanted to create a simple, clean yet very classy wedding with a feminine touch.  September Gray was inspired by one of my brides that is getting married at Shutters in September. It's not until the wedding day that all these elements will be together, but while going through the wedding planning process I like to help create an event that is cohesive, seamless yet enchanting. 

ENJOY!

A Regal Affair: Calligraphy Contest- One Winner Every Week!

When we find a fun contest or an amazing deal, we like to pass it on.

Do you want calligraphy but think you can't afford it? We want to help you out and have decided to start a new program in hopes to make calligraphy a bit more affordable for you.

Each week one lucky client will be chosen to receive 15% off their entire order, free return ground shipping (U.S.) and 25 free thank you notes designed by us! Be sure to spread the word to your friends, or vendors to your brides, etc.. See below on how to apply.

How to apply:

* Send us an email to jennscalligraphy@aol.com with your wedding date, details pertaining to your order (services needed and quantity needed), and when you need to receive your order back.

*Each week on Monday we will select one random person that will get this great offer!

*Once you are notified you are the winner, we will then ask you to fill out our online contract form to reserve our services.



www.calligraphybyjennifer.net

jennscalligraphy@aol.com

A Regal Affair: Wedding Favors

Here at A Regal Affair we thrive to make the wedding process as easy on our couples as possible.

We are excited to announce that we now can offer a huge variety of favors at a fraction of the cost . Check out the entire Cassiani Collection on their site, send us an email with the item number and quantity you are interested in and within hours we will contact you with pricing information. We also have arranged to create personalized tags for your favors and ribbons cohesive with your style and wedding theme for an additional fee.

Here are just some of the most popular items and estimated pricing. Pricing varies based on quantity ordered. For exact pricing information please send us an email at info@aregalaffair.com


Perfect for a beach weddings,vineyard theme $3+

Simple yet fun Damask Picture Coaster Frames $1.75+

Great for a bachelorette or bachelor party favors, or even a Vegas wedding $1.50+

A Regal Affair: Beautiful Wedding Rings

One of my favorite obsessions beyond wedding planning is jewelry so naturally I'm always looking and obsessing over wedding rings.

When I got my beautiful wedding ring I was so traditional in my taste, all I wanted was a white round diamond on a simple diamond pave band, now only three years later I find myself loving yellow stones and diamonds in the rough.   Here are a few of my favorites:

Tacori: I love this ring because of that vintage feel

Diamond in the rough collection

A Regal Affair: Taglyan Cultural Center

I've been feeling the heat of wedding season and loving it. Helping a client look for a venue is one of my favorite part of wedding planning. It was a bit of  a challenge, but that's what makes my job fun. The requirements were 250 guests, indoor ceremony and reception, outside catering, budget friendly, and of course it had to be unique and beautiful.  Seher and I spent hours researching, oohing and awing but it was the Taglyan Cultural Complex that stole her heart. It's really a beautiful venue located mere blocks from the world famous intersection of Hollywood and Vine. I consider it to be one of the best kept secret venues in Los Angeles. If you are looking for an indoor venue, I would highly recommend that you check it out.

Here are some of the photos that Seher and I fell in love with

 The Taglyan Grand Ballroom sparkles with cascading crystal chandeliers and a 5,000 square-foot, circular stained glass ceiling. This mesmerizing ballroom can be programmed to shift colors with an elaborate lighting system.

The beautiful foyer

 and the gorgeous garden!