A Regal Affair: String Theory

 A few years back I saw a picture of String Theory's Performance at an event and I knew I had to know more. String Theory is one of a kind and unique music experience. You have to just check them out for yourself.

You know you will be getting a unique sound from these instruments!

A Regal Affair: Preferred Vendor's List

Here at A Regal Affair one of our new year's resolution was to update and add to our Preferred Vendor's List.   Last year I met and worked with some wonderful new wedding professionals.  I'm always researching and meeting new event professionals because every brides needs and vision is unique. One of our specialities is doing  ethnic and multi-cultural weddings with a modern twist, so when one of my couple's were looking for a DJ that could play a little of everything I found Dj Arsen from DJ International. 
I was very impressed with Arsen and so were my couple. His love and knowledge of music is profound.  Above all Arsen is very likable person and easy to talk to. To say the least my couple decided to choose Arsen as their DJ for their wedding and I'm confident that they made the right choice! Oh and did I mention he also offer's lighting packages?

A Regal Affair: Location, Location, Location!!!!

I've been meaning to blog and update you with all that this wedding season will be bringing but we've been extremely swamped with meetings and consultatons and have put the blogging on the back burner for a bit.  During this time of the year I do tons of venue search and visits, and I wanted to share these two spaces with you. I have known of SmogShoppe and the Marvimon for some time now but I haven't met the right couple for the space until this year. Both of these stunning venues are unique, funky and fresh and I just adore it so I wanted to share it with you all. Here are just a few teasers of the event space. If you are looking for a unique space I would certainly check these two out.

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 & 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.