A Regal Affair: Inspiration

I often get asked about where I find my inspiration. I find inspiration in everything, every time I'm at any store even the pet store.  I'm constantly observing all the elements that surround me. I'm inspired by my friends and loved ones, and in everyday interactions with vendors and venues. I am most inspired by my brides and grooms and their perspective families, their individual style and their traditions.  Every couple is unique to me and each family integrates traditions and religion in their own unique way. These are the elements I like to be exposed to and incorporate to their weddings, that is what makes a wedding truly personal and special.

 A friend of mine pointed something out to me when I was showing her pics of a wedding that I had just done, she said don't you find it amazing that even though this type of wedding is not at all something you would do for yourself your able to design and plan it so beautifully.  Yes its true, I can and I do it so lovingly. If it wasn't for that couple I would have never been inspired to design it.  For me there is no type of wedding or style that I like better then warm and personal weddings that represent the couples and their families as one.

on a side note: I found some photos that I shared with one of my brides that's doing a vintage garden wedding. I don't believe in copying but finding images that inspire you and point you toward the right direction is always helpful and welcomed.

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: 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! 

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: 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: 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+