Category: Weddings

I haven’t blogged in ages so let’s just put that aside for a moment.  Life with two little ones at home has certainly kept me busy!  I promise some catch-up posts are coming soon, including some wonderful wedding features and fun family updates.  Today, I am THRILLED to share (here on the blog) that I’m hosting the 2nd Love & Splendor Workshop this fall, September 14-17, 2015, at beautiful Greengate Ranch and Vineyard in San Luis Obispo, California!

I revealed the location of the workshop yesterday on Instagram, but wanted to give you a little more information about the stunning venue I selected for our time together this fall.  In case you are a newcomer to my blog or haven’t heard about the workshop in the past, let me first introduce you to the workshop itself.  Last fall, I had the privilege and joy of hosting my very first wedding workshop.  It took place at the Ace Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles and 15 wonderful women (including one from Canada, and one from Greece!) joined me for a time of instruction and inspiration.  The Love & Splendor Workshop is an immersive educational experience for aspiring and current wedding planners and designers.  Whether you’re still dreaming of taking the leap into entrepreneurship, or have been working in the business for years, I believe that the workshop will facilitate growth, innovation and excitement for all of the attendees.  The workshop covers everything you need to know about starting and building a successful planning and design business, as well as how to continue to elevate your client experience, remain memorable in a saturated market, and develop and nurture incredible relationships with your colleagues and collaborators.  I strive to make the workshop an immersive experience, which means I plan and design every moment (from classroom sessions to spectacular meals together) to feel special.  I am blessed to have some amazing friends and collaborators on board (again! yes!!) and I can’t wait to reveal more details in the coming weeks…

On Monday I’ll be sharing some details about the workshop schedule and how some changes to the itinerary will help encourage even more connecting and learning.  For now, save the dates!!

Today’s workshop focus is a reveal of the location of the workshop: Greengate Ranch and Vineyard in beautiful SLO, located on the central coast of California.  One of the key distinctions with this year’s workshop is that I chose a private property as our home base, rather than a hotel.  I wanted to create a more retreat-like atmosphere and experience, where we had more opportunities to mingle, socialize, dream and share together.  I can’t imagine a more perfect place to do this than Greengate.

Greengate is a working ranch and vineyard set in the Edna Valley, a winemaking region here in CA.  Surrounded by lush green hills, the sprawling property features a variety of settings for special events including two luxury rental homes, grassy open lawns, a pond and a stunning barn and courtyard.  There are chickens and horses on-site, and I’m not kidding when I say the birds just sing sweeter there.  I’ll have to post a video up on IG that I took yesterday morning… I couldn’t believe the beautiful song they sang for my arrival.  😉  Greengate Ranch frequently hosts incredible weddings and events, but their wonderful grounds make it perfect for a workshop retreat as well!  There are a number of accommodations on-site that will facilitate smooth travel arrangements.  I will outline accommodations in a future post but it will be a first-come, first-served basis for accommodations.  The first attendees to sign up with get “dibs” on the magnificent rooms on-site.  But don’t you fret — the other attendees will stay in phenomenal 2-bedroom oceanview suites at a four diamond resort just 15 minutes away (with shuttle provided back and forth each day).  So the real question is, do you want the vineyard or ocean view??

We will spend our “classroom sessions” in the ranch house’s gorgeous library/den or great room, with that golden California light pouring in through the windows.  But with this beautiful setting, I imagine so many more unique and valuable learning opportunities.  I see breakfast around the gigantic kitchen island, sitting on barstools and sharing stories and dreams together.  I see us roasting marshmallows out back (I’ll bring plenty so please don’t let me be the only one… haha), wrapped up in blankets under the sparkling stars.  I know it sounds crazy but there’s something about a bonfire that helps people open up.  I’ve had so many great conversations with friends around a fire… I look forward to the ones I’ll have with you this fall!  To top it off, many/most of our speakers will be staying with us on-site (yes!!) which means instead of just 45 minutes listening to a speaker from a distance, you will have more opportunities to ask questions, get to know everyone, and build genuine relationships.  Someone pinch me, because I seriously can’t imagine anything better than a giant sleepover with my favorite friends & colleagues plus the new ones I’ll be making.  🙂

I’ll be taking advantage of all the unique venues on-site at Greengate to design some magical experiences.  If you want a taste of the scale of the workshop, take a peek at these posts Green Wedding Shoes shared from the last workshop: HERE and HERE.  You can expect the same attention to detail this time; I definitely don’t hold back when it comes to spoiling my attendees!

I have a LOT more to share next week (schedule! speakers! collaborators! a full recap of what we did last year!) but I’m going to wrap up now with some photos I snapped at Greengate yesterday.  You can see much more on their website as well — I thought it was easier to direct you there then re-post them all here!  😉

Enjoy your Friday and see you back here next week!

I have been dying to share this special celebration with you, and I am thrilled that the day has finally arrived!  Tina and Brian’s incredibly creative, colorful, and detail-laden 5-year vow renewal is featured today on Green Wedding Shoes (thank you, sweet Jen!).  Make sure you scoot on over to feast on all the eye candy, courtesy of my talented friend Braedon Flynn.  It is always an honor to be featured on Green Wedding Shoes and I think it’s the perfect venue to debut these stunning images.

I couldn’t resist sharing my own post today, whittled down to some of my favorite images from the day, as well as some extra background and details.  I had the hardest time selecting photos because this event was seriously jam-packed with gorgeous.  Everywhere you turned, there were layers and layers of beauty and visual interest.  I hope you’re pulled up in a comfy chair and ready to dive into all the goodness.

Tina and Brian are a very special couple to me, because we go way, way back to 2009.  Tina had been a blog follower even before her engagement, and I was blown away when she contacted me to help her style her nearly 800-guest wedding in Taipei, Taiwan (!!!) *and* her stateside reception in Los Angeles.  We clicked from the very start, and I can tell you that she truly become one of my most precious friends since then.  When she told me she wanted to throw a 5-year vow renewal celebration, and wanted me to be a part of it again, I was over the moon.  Tina, for you — any party, anytime, I’m there.  😉  It is a dream working with a friend/client who is so creative and stylish herself, yet also yields to her vendors an amazing amount of trust.  She had such a strong sense of vision from the get-go, and all we had to do was embellish and breathe life into it!

For this occasion, I had the pleasure of collaborating with  my dear friend, Tori Hendrix of Sitting in a Tree Design, on the design for the celebration.  We had a perfect creative synergy and had a blast working together!  The vow renewal was drenched in rich colors embracing a jewel-toned palette (inspired by Tina’s background as a gemologist) that included sapphire, emerald green, deepest purple, oxblood, onyx and metallic accents.  Texture also played a big part in the overall event design, and elements such as leather, ponyhair hide, herringbone tweed and velvet all made their way into the look of the day.

Tina blew us away right out of the gate by setting the tone with her one-of-a-kind invitations.  You guys, it was the kind of invitation that you wonder how you can display forever.  (No wonder, since Tina is a gifted calligrapher and hand lettering artist that goes by Miss Multee.)  A custom black acrylic box was topped with a geode “handle” like a sleek jewelry box.  Inside upon a velvet pillow, an agate slice was hand-lettered in gold ink.  Accessory cards were also done in Tina’s calligraphy, letterpressed and foil stamped by Copper Willow.  A black leather tag wrapped around the entire box on a length of black suede cord.  It took my breath away!  Best of all, Tina had thoughtfully chosen each geode and agate slice to match the style and sensibilities of the recipient.  No two were alike.

They invited 30 of their nearest and dearest to be present for this momentous occasion.  Though the celebration was intimately-sized, the details were larger than life and styled for maximum impact.  Upon arrival, guests encountered a station with an array of floral crowns and boutonnieres to adorn themselves.  They grabbed a beverage and followed a path through a set of striking green vintage doors to enter the ceremony space, where sumptuous upholstered furniture from Found Vintage Rentals faced a bougainvillea-draped arch by Siren Floral Co.  Overhead, hundreds of agate slices were strung as linear garlands, creating an aerial “cloud” (one of our earliest design ideas).

The incredible dinner, artfully prepared by Chef Matt of Heirloom LA, was entirely vegetarian (and mostly vegan).  Tina and Brian, both vegetarians, were excited to share an inventive meatless meal with their guests.  Creative courses included beet greens ravioli, coddled eggs and potatoes served in miniature mason jars, and the tiniest casserole dishes filled with vegetarian bibimbap: a spicy and savory Korean rice dish.  Sweets were plentiful, with macaron ice cream sandwiches by Sweet and Saucy Shop and Sweet Lucie’s, as well as an assortment of mini desserts and cakes by The Scootabaker.

Guests enjoyed the evening at one of four uniquely-designed tablescapes.  Each table featured a unique color story and design details.  It looked like a veritable showcase of the Casa de Perrin inventory, because we were able to play with so many incredible pieces from their collection.  One table featured ponyhair, succulents, airplants, cement, clear glass, corrugated zinc and wood.  A second table was topped with black leather placemats (made by Tori), sapphire blue glassware and milkglass budvases filled with bursts of berry-colored florals.  The third table showcased green glass demijohns from Found, filled with bougainvillea.  Black taper candles in brass candlesticks completed the moody look.  The couple themselves joined their friends at the fourth vignette: a breathtaking green wooden table topped with dazzling gold details, aubergine glassware and a literal treasure chest overflowing with florals.  Rachael of Siren Floral Co. beautifully executed the floral vision to capture the wild, romantic, lush feel of the day.  Although each table felt distinct, they were tied together in the scale of their design.  I spent most of the day debating which one was my favorite and I think I changed my mind 100 times!

Tina and Brian are a truly unique couple, inspiring those around them with their impeccable taste as well as their generous and loving hearts.  Everyone present, myself included, felt blessed to be a part of such a special celebration.  Sitting down as a guest that evening was the ultimate gift, because I am thankful to be invited into their lives after all these years.  I wish Tina and Brian only the best for the future and am already counting down until their 10-year anniversary!

Vendor Dream Team

photography: Braedon Photography // wedding planning + design: Love & Splendor // venue: The couple’s home in Los Angeles, California // wedding design + styling: Sitting in a Tree Events // florals: Siren Floral Co. // videography: Elysium Productions // invitations, favors + calligraphy: bride, Miss Multee // printing studio: Copper Willow Paper Studio // makeup: e2beauty // hair: 1011 Makeup // furniture rentals: Found Vintage Rentals // tabletop rentals: Casa de Perrin // welcome drinks + dessert bar rentals: The Hostess Haven // table linens: La Tavola // geodes, agates + crystals: All sourced by bride // concrete planters: Concrete Geometric // bar: Please & Thank You Bar // catering: Heirloom LA // desserts: The Scootabaker // macaron ice cream sandwiches: Sweet & Saucy Shop + Sweet Lucie’s // bride’s gowns: Rachel Gilbert // bride’s shoes: ValentinoStella McCartney // bride’s headpieces: Twigs & Honey // groom’s suit: Club Monaco // shirts: Club Monaco(multee)project // shoes: Cole Haan // watch: Rolex // live musician: Kevin Miso

And I can’t end this post without sneaking these personal photos of us at the celebration.  See that ridiculous swing that Rachael made??  Braedon snapped a dozen photos of Olive on it and they’re easily some of my favorites of my little girl!  Thanks also to Erica of 10.11 Makeup who did my hair and makeup as a gift from Tina (!!!).

 

Happy Friday, everyone!!  I thought I’d send us off into the weekend with some beautiful engagement photos from one of my 2015 couples, Makenna and Tyler.  Although I’ve yet to meet Tyler, I just ADORE Makenna!  She is an absolute joy and I feel truly blessed to be working alongside her (and her darling mom!) on her wedding next year.  Clients like Makenna remind me how very fortunate I am to do what I do.  After nine + years in this industry, this is what keeps me going: the sincere connections I am able to build with incredible people.  It is a privilege and joy.  Can’t wait for this beautiful day to unfold next fall… it’s going to be one for the books!

Makenna — thank you for entrusting me with the planning of your special day.  Love you!!

Here are some sneak peeks of their recent engagement session with I Heart My Groom.  Although Madison and Felicia aren’t shooting the wedding, they did a stunning job with these heartfelt images.  <3

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!  My big tasks are to  finalize my Thanksgiving menu (can’t wait to be hostess for the first time!), do some grocery shopping, and deep clean the kitchen.  See you soon!

Today is an exciting day for our family, as Erik’s older sister is getting married!  We are so thrilled for her and her fiancé, whom we’ve known and loved for years now.  They will exchange vows after dark, in a super romantic rooftop ceremony in downtown Los Angeles.  As a fun bonus, Erik, Olive and I are all in the wedding!  I’m a bridesmaid, Erik is a groomsman, and Olive is one of two adorable flower girls.

One thing I am NOT, however, is the wedding planner.  😉  Although I assisted in pulling a few things together for Meg, I really wanted to enjoy the wedding day as a member of the bridal party and family.  I am grateful for some sweet friends who will be managing the set-up and day-of details so we can all relax today.

The wedding has an underlying Art Deco and Gatsby-inspired theme, since her venue is a historical building with period architecture and furnishings.  This made it a ton of fun picking our my bridesmaid dress (we all go to pick our own!) and accessories.  My lovely friend Heather from Twig and Twine did the dark and moody florals — I can’t wait to see everything come together!  Feel free to check my Instagram today where I’m sure I’ll post a few sneak peeks of the big day, too!

photo by Callaway Gable

Congratulations, Megan and Anthony!!  We love you so much and are truly delighted to see you join together in marriage.  Let’s celebrate!

Everyone else — enjoy the weekend and see you soon!

It’s true — I haven’t blogged in ages!  As things got busy around here with my final weddings of 2014, the blog took a backseat.  Then, I spent the majority of the last month finalizing preparations for the very first Love & Splendor workshop.  I’m here to report that by God’s grace, the event was a smashing success.  I am still floating on cloud 9 from the experience, and I know it will be a few weeks before I can fully process the beauty of it all.  It will also be a bit before we see the professional film photos from Ryan Ray (eek!!) so these iPhone snaps will have to do for now…

This past Sunday, as I scurried around the Heirloom LA Salon with Michelle, prepping for the welcome dinner, I confessed that my heart was beating wildly in my chest.  She couldn’t fathom why I’d be nervous.  After all, I’m definitely not afraid of public speaking, and I was totally prepared and ready for the workshop itself.  I told her that I thought my nerves were a mix of excitement, anticipation and maybe even a bit of self-imposed pressure.  I spent nearly a year thinking about hosting a workshop, and then planning every last detail.  I wanted to present a workshop that was impactful, educational, and inspiring.  Once we had our attendees locked in and registration closed, I think it became real to me.  There were 15 incredibly passionate, intelligent, creative women coming to this workshop — would I meet their expectations?  Would I be “worth” the journey some were making (from as far as Greece, Canada, Detroit, Pittsburgh…)?  In the end I knew all I could do was my very best, and all I could give them was myself, genuinely and freely.

Once the ladies arrived on Sunday and the introductory hugs were given, my nerves naturally calmed.  I felt truly humbled to spend a few days with this beautiful group of women, just sharing my heart, my story, and the lessons I’ve learned in the 9 years I’ve worked in this business.  With such an intimately-sized group (the perfect size!!), I got to spend time chatting with each of them, too.  I got to hear about their goals, their struggles, their desires.  We laughed together, I cried (haha! at least 3x on Tuesday — all happy tears!), and we shared some unforgettable moments.  When I walked into the farewell dinner at The Washbow, I burst into (joyful) tears.  I felt like I had finally given birth, in a way… something I had dreamed of for so long had finally come to fruition and I felt so blessed.  I am SO thankful I put on this workshop.  I am SO grateful to have met each of these hearts.  I can’t wait to keep in touch with each of them, following their journey in the years ahead.  Look out for these ladies — I think the L&S “alumni” are the best of the best for the future of this industry.  😉

I could not have put on this workshop alone and I plan to blog a bit about each of the speakers, collaborators and sponsors for this workshop in the weeks ahead.

Our amazing team included: Ryan Ray // Heirloom LA // Green Wedding Shoes // Jesi Haack Design // JL Designs // found vintage rentals // Julie Song Ink // Casa de Perrin // The Venue Report // Elysium Productions // La Tavola Linen // Sweet Lucie’s // Sweet and Saucy Shop // Financially Wise Women // The Washbow // 10.11 Makeup // Flipbooth LA // Jacobsen Salt Co. // Rosy Rings // Il Fustino // Pinch Provisions // Herbivore Botanicals // Malvi Joy // Solstice Canyon // Vanesa Rey // Rifle Paper Company

For now, let it suffice to say that I had the BEST team of people behind me for this workshop and that made all the difference.  Above all, I have to give all glory to God.  Anything good in me, any gifts that I have, come from Him.  I am so grateful for the opportunities He has given me.

I also have lots of general blogging catch-up (life, Olive updates, real weddings) to do.  Now that my 2014 season has come to a close, you’ll be hearing more from me here again!

I’ve already been asked many times — will you do another workshop?  I think the answer is a resounding yes.  But, before diving into that process, I will be taking time to relax, recharge and pray about it.  It’s important to me that each workshop has the same level of intention, purpose and attention to detail as this one did.  Once I have some information to share, you’ll hear about it!  If you would like to join the interest list for the next workshop (and have priority pre-sale for tickets before they are released), feel free to email workshops@loveandsplendor.com.

Thank you to each of you who has followed along here on my blog (or on Instagram) as I embarked on this inaugural workshop journey.  Your love, support, prayers and encouragement mean the world to me.

Have a wonderful weekend and chat again soon!

Happy Wednesday, everyone!  I’m back with another edition of Workshop Wednesday and I am thrilled that we are now just shy of TWO MONTHS until the Love & Splendor Workshop in downtown Los Angeles!  If you are thinking about joining us, don’t delay and grab your seat HERE.  We’d love to have you join us and the inspiring attendees from all over the country and world ( gasp! — we just had our first international attendee register all the way from Greece!  Hi V!).

Today I wanted to whet your appetites with some additional information about the fabulous speakers who will be joining us for the workshop in October.  I wanted to bring on speakers who were excellent communicators, experts in their field and passionate about what they do.  I also wanted to make sure that the content of their presentations was useful, informational and inspiring.  While I expect to have tons of fun during our time together at the workshop, my main goal is to fill our days with really practical, eye-opening, spark-igniting KNOWLEDGE and then a breakdown of the tools needed to get things into motion.  😉  So without further ado, here is a rundown on the all-stars (and my dear friends) who will be presenting at the workshop this fall…

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Ryan Ray, Film Photographer // Ryan is a highly sought-after photographer who shoots film exclusively.  He creates consistently stunning images that are full of emotion and natural beauty.  Ryan will be sharing about his experiences working with planners and designers, and what he finds to be their ideal and most helpful qualities and characteristics.  He will explain his creative process and how he collaborates with a designer on a shoot or a wedding day, styling each shot to perfection. Ryan exemplifies the importance of vendor relationships and aligning yourself with like-minded creatives as you hone in on your target clientele.  You will also get to witness the talent and passion of one of the industry’s foremost photographers and learn about his own story of finding success in a saturated market.

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Jen Campbell of Green Wedding Shoes // Jen Campbell, a formally trained graphic designer, started Green Wedding Shoes in October of 2008. GWS was born out of Jen’s desire to help couples dream up and plan weddings that reflect their personal interests and sense of style. GWS has since grown to become one of the most popular wedding blogs.

As the Editor and Creative Director of GWS, Jen works closely with top wedding industry talent and creative brides to showcase innovative and unique weddings, style photo shoots, share DIY ideas, and identify trends that give brides-to-be daily inspiration as they plan their big day. Green Wedding Shoes is widely recognized as the go-to wedding blog to find the most creative wedding ideas and vendors along with always keeping a high standard for gorgeous photography.

Ever wonder how to get featured on blogs like Green Wedding Shoes?  What is the editor looking for?  What makes a submission stand out (in a good way vs. a bad way) and how can you work with your photographer to style & shoot “for” submission?  Jen will address these topics and more, as she candidly shares her experience working with planners and designers all over the world.  She has a truly unique perspective as an industry figurehead and will make herself available for a no-holds-barred Q&A session following her talk.  You’re going to love getting to know the sweet Jen, and will benefit from a personal introduction to her in an intimate, encouraging environment.

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Jesi Haack Design // Jesi Haack is a designer, stylist and unmatched craft specialist.  She is the brilliant mind behind one of the hottest event design studios in the country, now bicoastal with outposts in soCal and NYC.  Jesi found quick success in the industry, making a name for herself with her out-of-the-box design style.  She mixes her fresh, playful style with a bit of irreverence for a modern take on celebrations of all kinds.  You will find her work all over the web and Pinned to no end.

How did she find success in a relatively short period of time?  Why did she quit planning and move toward design-only?  What does her wedding design process look like?  How does she remain ahead of the trends?  I know you will be pumped up by Jesi’s infectious energy as she shares on these topics and more in her presentation.

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Carissa Jowett // Carissa Jowett is the owner and floral event designer behind JL Designs: one of California’s top floral design studios.  Carissa’s incredible eye for design is evident in every wedding she does. She has put together phenomenal designs in every aesthetic, from rustic to classic, and retro-tropical to ultra modern.  With innate talent and creativity, Carissa produces work that is layered and textural, creating lots of interest and drama.  I could stare at her work for hours!

Did you know Carissa once worked for a wedding planner?  Carissa will share about her past experiences in the field, as well as how she now works alongside wedding planners and designers in creating a perfect day for her clients.  In addition to enjoying Carissa’s insightful presentation, we will have the pleasure of soaking up her gorgeous designs all around us at the workshop itself: her stunning florals will be featured at each workshop event.

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Brittney Castro // Brittney Castro is the founder and CEO of Financially Wise Women.  As a Certified Financial Planner who specializes in working with female entrepreneurs, Brittney is well-versed on the pitfalls and mistakes many young business owners make in their first few years.  She will share priceless knowledge with us about starting your own business, pricing, how to manage your money wisely, and creating sound financial goals.  She will also open up for a Q&A so you can ask her about your own business money questions.

I know many people in this industry who work full time and yet barely make more than they might working a minimum wage job.  I believe this is mostly due to poor financial planning.  If you are running a business (and not merely enjoying a hobby), you need to be financially wise.  Brittney is so adept in taking the intimidation out of money talk.  I can’t think of a better advisor in this arena and am thrilled to have Brittney speak at the workshop!

In my own sessions, I’ll be covering the wedding industry from A-Z.  Here are just some of the topics I’ll touch on in my sessions…

  • Starting your business: the nitty gritty steps and priorities
  • Writing a solid contract and what needs to be included
  • Pricing wisely for your market
  • Workflow and time management: how to run the business and not let it run you
  • Advertising & Marketing: getting your name out there without spending a dime
  • Social Media: using it as an extension of your brand; being active and relevant but not obsessed 🙂
  • Event production from start to finish: day-of management and handling the “what-ifs”
  • Client experience and tips for memorable interaction
  • Cultivating priceless vendor relationships
  • The planning process: budgets, checklists, timelines and emails.
  • Targeting your ideal client
  • Hiring and building your team
  • The Illusion of Competition
  • and much, much more!

I feel very strongly that our lineup of speakers represents the industry’s cream of the crop; we will all have so much to glean in October!  Come join us and learn firsthand why it pays “flock together” with these birds.  😉

For more information on the workshop:

Thanks for stopping by today; I hope you’re having a great week!

Happy Wednesday, everyone!  With the first Love & Splendor Workshop just over 2 months away, I wanted to start a mini feature called “Workshop Wednesday” on the blog, where I’ll share some tidbits about the plans in progress and hopefully answer any lingering questions you may have about joining us in October.

If you need the basics on the workshop, you can find the 411 HERE and the “Why & Who” HERE.

Today, the topic is FOOD.  If you know me, you know I loooove to eat.  I have always been what you might call a “foodie,” although I don’t consider myself a food snob.  I savor the chance to enjoy an opulent 9-course tasting menu as much as I can get down with a hole-in-the-wall Korean restaurant.  My mom raised me to have a great appreciation for all types of foods and cuisines and I attribute the development of my adventurous palate to her guidance.

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a gorgeous salad from a wedding with Heirloom LA this summer: burrata, purslane, peaches

One of my great job perks is attending numerous wedding tastings with my clients.  I mean really, who gets to call a five course tasting menu “work” other than a wedding planner??  In putting together my workshop, I wanted to make sure that my attendees would get to experience the very best of every part of the industry and that included the food.  I mean, of course we have to eat when we’re spending all day together.  But, I wanted to elevate our meal times to more than just that — they will also serve as beneficial times of instruction as we discuss how you work with a caterer and client in creating a personalized menu, how a tasting runs, and how you manage logistics and details with a caterer leading up to the big day.  Perhaps just as importantly, these wonderful meals will simply expose you to great food: an extremely vital part of a successful event.  They say wedding guests will always remember the food, whether it was fabulous or lackluster.  Some will even judge the entire event based on the food!  The menu you choose and the style of service you select will have a profound effect on the atmosphere of your event.

A large part of being a wedding planner and designer is being a guide, a sounding-board, a source of advice and information.  Your clients are counting on you to have informed opinions and elevated taste in everything from flowers to linens to of course, food.  My clients often ask me to weigh in on their menus and my knowledge and love of food are so valuable in those instances.  It is therefore crucial for you to at least be informed about what good food is, getting to know the best caterers in your region and learning what sets them apart.  I can think of no better way to learn about food than to taste it and in this case, you will get to enjoy the best.

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from another wedding with Heirloom LA last month: quail eggs in a hole

Love & Splendor Workshop attendees will enjoy six amazing meals (as well as copious snacks and treats) over the course of the workshop that will both nourish the body and excite the palate.  I thought today I’d tantalize you a bit with some teasers of what you can expect.  😉

  • On Sunday, October 19th, we will kick off the workshop with an incredible welcome dinner catered by the one and only Chef Matthew Poley of Heirloom LA.  We will be dining in the Salon, their private tasting room, and watching Chef Matt prepare many dishes right before our eyes.  Upon arrival, we’ll nosh on seasonal bites and appetizers as we meet with the other attendees.  The formal coursed meal that will follow is sure to be amazing, as every meal prepared in their kitchen is.  Although the menu will not be determined until closer to the workshop, you can count on the best local ingredients to make it onto our plates.
  • On Monday & Tuesday, we will have both breakfast and lunch at the Ace Hotel DTLA, catered by their in-house restaurant, LA Chapter.  Once again, our meals will be seasonally-driven and feature an array of options.  You won’t see stale muffins and bagels for breakfast.  No soggy sandwich platters and chips for lunch.  How about hangar steak or curried pork loin?  Grilled fish or a buckwheat soba?  Treviso and arugula or roasted vegetables and kale, anyone?  Maybe a bruleed pineapple or cereal milk panna cotta (!) for dessert?  I’m having so much fun putting together meals we will all enjoy.  Any allergies and dietary restrictions can be accommodated as well so rest assured you will be well-fed!
  • On Monday & Tuesday, we will also enjoy plenty of snacks and treats throughout the day including some of my favorites like cold-brewed Stumptown coffee, gorgeous mezze platters, and of course, indulgent treats from Sweet and Saucy Shop and Sweet Lucie’s organic ice cream.  😉
  • On Tuesday, October 21st, we will wrap up our time together with a spectacular farewell dinner prepared once again by Chef Matt of Heirloom LA.  This dinner will take place at a secret location and will be styled like a very intimate dinner reception.  Have you ever wanted to attend one of my events?  This is your chance, as you dine alongside workshop speakers and collaborators in the perfect setting to wrap up our time together.  You can expect a magical experience for all of your senses, and a stunning meal that you won’t soon forget.

Hungry for more?  REGISTER HERE for the Love & Splendor Workshop and we’ll see you in October!  As always, feel free to contact me with any additional questions.  Have a great day!

Happy Monday, everyone!!  With registration now open for the Love & Splendor Workshop, I wanted to share a little promo video about the workshop prepared by my friends at Elysium Productions.  We filmed this a while back on a busy street in downtown LA, not far from the Ace Hotel DTLA, where the workshop will take place!

Love & Splendor Workshops from Elysium Productions on Vimeo.

Thank you to Erica of 10.11 Makeup for making me feel gorgeous that day, and of course to Libby, Julie and the editors at Elysium Productions for helping me with this little project!  I figure if you’re going to come to my workshop and hear me speak for 3 days, you might as well make sure my voice doesn’t annoy you (too much) first.  hahah!  I realize it’s the first time that most of you have heard my voice… was it weird??  I always find it a little interesting to watch someone on video that you’ve only seen in photos.  Now that I’ve set you up to analyze my awkwardness in complete detail, enjoy.  😉

For much more info about the workshop, check out THIS 411 POST.

To register to join us, CLICK HERE.

I’m thrilled about the talented women who have already signed up to join us; who’s next??  Thanks for watching and enjoy the day!

UPDATED — REGISTER HERE!!!

If you’re looking for information on the Love & Splendor workshop, you’ve found it!  Here are all the details you need to know about this very special time I’m planning!

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BASICS: Sunday, October 19th thru Tuesday, October 21st // Ace Hotel DTLA // For wedding planners & designers of all experience levels!

TOPICS COVERED:

  • Writing business plans, contracts and other planning documents
  • Pricing wisely
  • Managing marketing and publicity
  • Effectively harnessing (without being consumed by) the power of social media
  • Nurturing incredible vendor relationships
  • Web features and publication
  • Creating a sincere client experience
  • Hiring and building your team members
  • Cultivating a unique brand and standing out in a saturated market
  • Determining and reaching your target clientèle
  • Designing a wedding from inspiration to execution
  • Collaborating with other like-minded creatives
  • Planner vs. Event Designer vs. Coordinator
  • Workflow and time management
  • Nitty gritty money talks: how to run a successful business, not lose money on a hobby 🙂
  • Balancing work and life/family
  • Staying personally inspired
  • …and much, much, more!

WHAT’S INCLUDED: 

  1. Instruction by myself (Angel Swanson) as well as insightful guest sessions by industry experts including film photographer Ryan Ray, Jen Campbell of Green Wedding Shoes, Jesi Haack of Jesi Haack Design, Carissa Jowett of JL Designs and Brittney Castro, certified financial planner and founder of Financially Wise Women.  Instruction will be classroom-style as well as hands-on, focusing on both the business side and the design side of planning weddings and events.
  2. 6 incredible meals (dinner on 10/19, breakfast + lunch on 10/20 and all 3 meals on 10/21!) plus plenty of delicious snacks.  All food is provided by either Heirloom LA (Sunday and Tuesday dinners) or LA Chapter, the fab restaurant at the Ace Hotel DTLA.
  3. A beautiful binder filled with the workshop’s curriculum including templates, outlines, sample documents and notes, tips and helpful resources.
  4. Carefully curated gifts and surprises — I can’t wait to delight each of the attendees with some of my favorite things.
  5. A stunning setting.  The workshop will be set and styled with care and chock full of details that you’d expect at any event of Love & Splendor.  Our dear friends from {found} vintage rentals, Casa de Perrin and La Tavola Linen will help us set the scene, with floral design by JL Designs.
  6. An authentic and heartfelt experience.  I am working hard to ensure that you will have plenty of personal attention, interaction with speakers and other attendees, and most of all, a genuine experience that is truly inspiring.  I look forward to the connections and memories that will be made in our time together.

OVERALL SCHEDULE:

  • Sunday PM, October 19th // Celebratory Welcome Dinner prepared by Chef Matthew Poley of Heirloom LA at an off-site location.  Opening Words by Angel Swanson.  Mix & Mingle with other attendees.
  • Monday, October 20th // Instruction at the Ace Hotel DTLA from 8:30a-4:30p.  Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided by LA Chapter at the Ace.
  • Tuesday, October 21st // Instruction at the Ace Hotel DTLA from 8:30a-4:30p.  Breakfast, lunch and snacks are provided by LA Chapter at the Ace.
  • Tuesday, October 21st // Farewell Dinner at 7p.  An unforgettable evening at a secret location (!), with a beautiful meal prepared by Chef Matthew Poley of Heirloom LA.  It will be the perfect wrap up to our time together and a night you won’t soon forget.  Cocktail attire requested.

TUITION: The 2014 Love & Splendor workshop costs $2200.  The full amount is due at the time of registration and tickets are non-refundable and non-transferrable.

TRAVEL NOTES: If you are flying in to join us (!), you will want to arrive at LAX (just 17 miles away, which is about 45 minutes in ‘typical’ LA traffic).

A special block rate has been secured with the Ace Hotel DTLA for our attendees.  We encourage you to stay with us for the workshop and enjoy the amenities of this gorgeous new LA hotspot.  Travel information will be sent along once your registration is confirmed.

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Registration officially opens this Friday, at 9am PST / 12 noon EST.  HERE is the live link to registration.  Tickets will be limited to maintain an intimate workshop experience so if you’re interested in joining us, don’t wait too long!  😉

Any additional questions?  Feel free to email angel@loveandsplendor.com and I’ll get back to you as quickly as possible.

I hope to meet you in October; thanks for reading!

A million thanks to: Ryan Ray // Heirloom LA // Green Wedding Shoes // Jesi Haack Design // JL Designs // found vintage rentals // Julie Song Ink // Casa de Perrin // The Venue Report // Elysium Productions // La Tavola Linen // Sweet Lucie’s // Sweet and Saucy Shop // Financially Wise Women

Hello again, everyone!!  It’s a big week as I approach opening up registration for my very first workshop (ahhhh!!).  In an effort to pre-emptively answer some questions about the workshop, I’ll be sharing some informative posts here this week with lots of information.  Today I wanted to share WHY I’m hosting this workshop and WHO is invited to join and would benefit from attending.

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WHY are you hosting a workshop?

I’m hosting a workshop because I am passionate about this industry and am eager to instruct, inspire and encourage others who work in the same field.  I don’t consider myself the end-all when it comes to wedding planning and design, but I have certainly gained some valuable experience, knowledge and (by God’s grace) a measure of success over the past 9 years.  I want to share that information with others who are desiring to develop and grow their own businesses.  I also love building community and want to create an environment where you can ask questions without fear and make new connections without pretense.  I want to foster more camaraderie among planners and designers and also see us raise the bar in the biz by pushing each other to reach new heights.  I want to watch others succeed, flourish and find joy in their work.  I want to help others achieve balance between work and home/family life.  I want to make new friends and be inspired by your stories.  I am realllly pumped about this workshop (can you tell??) and like most things in life, if you’re passionate about something, you’re going to succeed at it.  I am pouring my heart into making this experience a game-changer for everyone who attends.

WHY is it different from other workshops out there?

Every workshop is unique simply because each workshop organizer has their own interpretation of how to run one.  A workshop is naturally going to be infused with that organizer’s personality and aesthetic, and will be managed and run based on that organizer’s determination of the most valuable curriculum.  A workshop is also a collaborative effort.  In this case, the Love & Splendor Workshop will feature a carefully-curated roster of speakers and collaborators.  I can assure you there is going to be inspiration galore with the amount of talent we have on board our team.  I am humbled and grateful for each person who is coming alongside me on this endeavor.  Because of this, you will be exposed not only to my perspective, but also those of top wedding experts including Ryan Ray, Jen Campbell of Green Wedding Shoes, Jesi Haack of Jesi Haack Design, Carissa Jowett of JL Designs and many more.

This workshop will focus on both the business side AND the design side of events.  I wanted to make sure the workshop was filled with lots of useful information, focusing on classroom time led by me and other experts in the wedding and event industry.  The material will be practical and eye-opening.  We will also address the design side of the business, giving insight on the “how” of creating a unique event design from start to finish.  Finally, I want to address the personal side of the industry (since hey, it’s a personal business!) and how I manage balancing work-life with home-life.  The workshop will be a blend of both information and inspiration.  You will have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and interact with me and the other speakers directly, due to the intimate size and format of the workshop.

I can also promise that the workshop will have INCREDIBLE food (featuring Heirloom LA, Sweet Lucie’s and more!) and stunning attention to detail so our environment can inspire us as much as the education.  😉

WHY should I attend?

You should attend if you are looking for information, camaraderie and inspiration in the wedding and event world.  I knew if I ever did a workshop, it had to be a completely special experience.  I am looking forward to providing that to my attendees!

WHO can attend?

I welcome wedding/event planners and designers from all stages in their careers.  Whether you are aspiring to start your own business or have years of experience under your belt, I am working on creating a curriculum that will have challenging and useful information for all.  Maybe you’re looking for all the basics and information to finally get your dreams off the ground.  Or, perhaps you’re a seasoned pro that wants to see the industry from another perspective and refresh your brand and business practices.  I think we can always learn from one another and find new ways to step up our game.  I can’t wait to meet the talented group of attendees who will join me in the fall.

If you are working in another avenue within the event world, you are still certainly welcome to join but the curriculum is definitely geared toward those who plan and design events as the main focus of their work.

I think that’s all for now!!  I’ll share more nitty gritty details in the next few days.  Keep your eyes here and on my Instagram (@loveandsplendor) for additional information.  Thanks for reading and I hope to meet you in October!