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BEHIND THE SCENES: IF YOU CAN’T SAY SOMETHING NICE…
My momma, just like everyone else’s, always said, “if you can’t say something nice, keep it to yourself.” Every day social media is making this common courtesy harder and harder to remember. With so much pressure to let followers “know who you really are” and so on, I simply feel like many of us are forgetting our manners. Especially when it comes to sharing our opinions about weddings and wedding design. It’s completely one thing to discuss among your colleagues and associates your disdain for “yard sale” chic weddings or to share that you’re “so over hipster weddings”, but to announce it to the world, is, quite simply rude. I think we’ve all forgotten how significant this day is to the couples planning them. If they want mustaches, mason jars, plastic animals spray painted gold, and so on, well then, that’s their personal style and just let it be. While, I agree, that many of these trends can be irrelevant to the celebration at hand and maybe I personally wouldn’t do them at my own wedding, but it’s simply not my place to make that judgment. And, if I were a bride who did decide she loved mason jars, I would be pretty disenchanted with the wedding industry as a whole to watch so many leaders speak out against my style.
Weddings are personal. The choices made are agonized over for days, weeks and sometimes even months. And, some couples out there simply want a day that feels right to them, whether it’s the most unique celebration in the world or just a lovely party that they created via inspiration from blogs, pinterest and the top designers of our industry. This being said, you wouldn’t walk up to a stranger and tell them you hate their shoes, so why would you ever announce the world, including thousands and thousands of adoring brides that you hate her personal style? Of course, our job is to guide our paying clients on design decisions and help them create a unique and cohesive look. And believe me, with my clients, I can be very vocal about what works and what doesn’t. But for that lovely bride out there, who lives for DIY and is simply trying to pull together a charming day that she truly loves, can we please try to be a little kinder all around? And, maybe, even though we are writing behind the safety of our computers, we can remember to simply mind our manners.
SOMETHING BORROWED
Earrings or clutch also make great options.
Left: Jody & Patrick/Bacara Resort
Right: Talia & Aaron/Santa Barbara
I don’t know about yours, but my grandmother has the most out of this world vintage handkerchiefs in her collection. They are perfect for wrapping around the handle of your bouquet.
SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK & SUMMER PICNICS
One of my absolute favorite things to do in the summer is pack up a picnic and head to Shakespeare in the Park. I’ve lived in three major cities so far and each have had a version of this experience, so everyone should be able to partake. Highly, highly recommend for a date night or with a group of your favorite friends. Personally, I like to pack up a bottle of wine, a little picnic basket and snuggle up on the grass.
And, in case you’ve never been to the Shakespeare festival, here’s what you’re missing. Love. Love. Love.
TOP ROW: Throw blanket from Anthropologie / Vintage enamelware, similar to be found on Etsy / Sicani Wine or any pretty bottle will do
2ND ROW: Disposable wooden silverware / Vintage picnic basket, again check out Etsy for something similar
3RD & 4TH ROW: Fresh & delicious picnic menu, all from Canelle Vanille
BOTTOM: Image from the Shakespeare Festival
SUMMER PICNICKING
Summer is opening her doors. Time to take out your finest quilts, china and silver and head to your favorite park with your friends for some relaxation, delicacies and catch-up.
Top Row: “Paris, Je t’aime” de Steve Meisel
Second Row: Jazz Age Lawn Party via Note To Self/ Silverware via Country Living
Third Row: Homemade Gift Basket via The Paper Package/ Picnic Detailing from Tara Sloggett
Fourth Row: Outdoor Dinner Party from Country Living/ Quilts from Nana Company
Fifth Row: Invites from Raquel & Franks’ Winery Inspired Wedding
Last Row: Flirty Floral Dress from Reiss/ Trendy Sandal from Kate Spade/ Nora Ring from Catbird/ Portrait Ring from Barneys/ Tory Burch Clutch via Net-A-Porter
DISCO FEVER
My current obsession is disco balls. I truly want to see them EVERYWHERE! Come back later in the week to see Kelly & Andrew’s fabulous wedding which featured a ceiling of disco balls at their after party as shown in the first picture below.
TOP ROW: Canopy of Disco Balls from Kelly & Andrew’s After Party captured by Steve Steinhardt
2nd ROW: Oh my, those stairs will be mine somewhere courtesy of Romanticizing Regular / Disco Balls for your eyes from Fuck Yeah Makeup
3rd ROW: Blingy Disco dress from Fashiolista/ Disco ball in my apartment, yes please! Found here.
BOTTOM ROW: Disco love from Saddlerock Ranch
THE DAY IT HAPPENED
The beautiful moment above was caught by Jose Villa from Louisa & John’s Malibu wedding.
INSTAGRAM RECAP : PARIS SCOUTING TRIP
Lars and I recently returned from a quick 3 day scouting trip to Paris for an upcoming wedding, which just so happens to be one of my favorite places on the planet. Here’s a little peek from some of the beauty we caught on our cameras. If you’re not already, follow us here and here to see what we’re up to on a daily basis.
DRESSES A MOTHER COULD LOVE
In honor of all you moms out there who I know absolutely HATE the stereotypical gowns designed for mother’s of the brides and grooms, I’ve hand selected just a couple of my favorite pretty numbers. All of which are fresh yet appropriate…
All gowns above are from Neiman’s.
TO DO LIST FOR YOUR DOWNTIME
Start your beauty regimen
If you haven’t been following my girl, Susie’s posts, then click here, here and here to find a way to start treating your skin right all the while getting it ready for the big day.
Start your pre-wedding workouts
Whether you are planning a full blown program with a personal trainer or you’re just going to step up your current regimen a notch, now’s a good time to get moving.
Get in the gift giving mood
Start thinking about and purchasing the gifts for all of your lovely friends and family, without whom, you wouldn’t have made it this far. Bridesmaids, Groomsmen, Parents or even the people who will serve as guest book attendant, etc. all are gift worthy.
Plan that honeymoon
I’m sure you’ve already been dreaming about the perfect place to spend your honeymoon, but now let’s go ahead put those plans in place.
Start registering
Update your registry. Showers and celebrations will likely start within the last two to three months of your wedding plans and it’s great to have the registries refreshed before hand.
Start shopping
The dress will be in soon and fittings will begin! You’ll need to have your shoe options narrowed down in time for the seamstress to get started. Also, it’s always nice to see the whole package complete with jewelry, hair piece and undergarments.
Start your DIY projects
If there is anything you’re hoping to do yourself, now’s the time to get started. I promise those favors and other little goodies you are making by hand, will take much longer than you anticipate, so get them started now and save yourself many sleepless nights closer to the wedding.
Get the men’s attire in order
If your fiance is like most, he hasn’t finalized his wedding day attire. Use this time to get the discussion going and finalize details on his fancy pants.
Reconnect with your fiance
Sometimes wedding plans distract from the real situation at hand, which is, you are about to be married. You could reconnect in a variety of ways from pre-marital counseling to simply just having a few heart to hearts with your fiance about situations you anticipate facing as a married couple. It will be good to touch base in a way that doesn’t revolve around the flower girl’s hair or which napkins will look best with your table scape. Or, if you’re so inclined, just go out and have fun together.
Image courtesy of Heather Kincaid
CONSIDERING PRE-MARITAL COUNSELING
I’m sure some of you think pre-marital counseling is something that is forced upon you by the church or other groups, but, I actually get a lot of requests for information on premarital counselors, the benefits of, the time commitment, etc. Since, I’m not a therapist and would never claim to be, I did ask one of my favorite therapists, Will Baum, to give us a bit of insight for all of you considering some counseling sessions before the big day. Here’s what Will had to say…
SOMETHING NEW
Wearing something new on your wedding day represents good luck and success for you and your partner and the hope for a bright future together. Here are a few of my favorite ideas on incorporating something new into the big day and beyond.
Wedding Dress Sash by Julia Newman Photography, Custom Perfume made by you for your new beginning by Ka-Mil-Yin and photographed by Jen Huang Photography, Christian Louboutin Shoes photographed by Jasmine Star and Event by Beth Helmstetter Events, Claire Pettibone Wedding Day Lingerie shot by Elizabeth Messina, Monogramm Bracelet
GETTING AROUND
Here are just a few of our favorite means of transportation…
TOP ROW: Guest arrival by Clydesdale at Trapp Family Lodge in Stowe, Vermont from Steve Steinhardt /Vintage Rolls Royce at Liz & Chris’s Figueroa Farmhouse Wedding by Aaron Delesie
2ND ROW: Vintage buggy at Jaime & Wes’s Bali Wedding at Amanusa Resort by Steve Steinhardt
3RD ROW: Tess & Peter basking in the moment in a Vintage Bentley by Amy & Stuart
4TH ROW: Jessica & Chetan cruise the Siene in a Vintage Bateau by Steve Steinhardt
BOTTOM ROW: Jackie & Fred pose in a Vintage Firetruck at Olowalu Plantation in Maui by Manuele Photography
INTERNSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Calling all Interns, Beth Helmstetter Events is looking for an eager, fun loving, responsible person who has a strong interest and slight obsession with all things wedding related! Please send your resume and cover letter to lars@bethhelmstetter.com if you feel that you are a great fit and meet the below criteria.
Duties will include but are not limited to:
- Assist in organization, distribution, and inventory of event materials
- Sourcing of materials for upcoming events
- Shipping and receiving as well as preparation of invitations and save the dates
- Data entry & RSVP tracking
- Vendor outreach and assistance with booking vendors
- General Administrative Support
- Assistance at events
- Assistance in researching & curating online store
- Assistance in Social Media efforts including twitter, Facebook, Pinterest and blogging
Minimum Requirements:
- Current student of a 4-year College or University
- Interest in the event industry, preferably wedding related
- Basic computer skills on a MAC and extreme proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel & Powerpoint
- Excellent internet research abilities
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Dependability
- Organization
- Friendly Disposition & Patience
- Detail-oriented and well organized with the ability to multi-task
- Some knowledge of Photoshop. Graphic design knowledge a plus.
- A minimum commitment of 16 hours per week in our West Hollywood office.
No phone calls please.
Look forward to hearing from you!
WINE KNOW-HOW
Dying to be a wine snob but need a bit of help? Here are a few tips that will help you show off your knowledge and know how at your next dinner party!
COOL IT DOWN
Most of us know that white wine should be chilled, but did you know that certain varietals taste better at different temperatures? Light, crisp wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio taste best around 35 to 40 degrees, which means about 1.5 to 2 hours in the refrigerator prior to drinking. On the other hand, richer, more buttery wines like Chardonnay actually do better in the 50 to 55 degree range or about 1 hour in the fridge.
OPEN IT UP
There are plenty of fancy wine openers on the market, some of which are more bout form than function which can be a little costly. One of the simplest most reliable tools is a simple waiter’s key. For around $5, this does everything you need and will last for years. If you prefer the look and ease of a lever-style opener, the Tower Power levee corkscrew is a great value at around $40.
DECANTING
Giving wine some time to breath makes a world of difference. Decanting isn’t rocket science either. The larger the surface area exposed to the wine, the better the decanting and flavor. Pour your wine into a decanter or carafe and let is sit for an hour. If you don’t have time, try a Vinturi Aerator. Pouring a glassful through the acrylic funnel exposes the wine to air very quickly and gives you an instant decanting.
TIME TO POUR
Have you ever noticed after you pour a glass of wine how a little seems to dribble down the side of the bottle? Once your wine is chilled and decanted, pour into the glass, and as you’re finishing, slightly twist your wrist and tilt up the bottle. This method works like a charm to keep every last drop into your glass and off your table.
CREATING A WINERY INSPIRED MENU
Can’t have your day in Napa, but love the idea of a winery inspired menu? We tapped culinary expert, Brooke Bagliatto, of Carneros Inn, to share her top tips on creating a wedding menu straight from the wine valley.
WINE PAIRINGS
Wine is one of the most important parts of the meal when created a winery inspired menu. Start with a lighter wine and move into heavier wines as the meal progresses. This sometimes means moving courses a lithe out of the “normal” order to accommodate. For instance, you may want to have your salad course before your starter course so you may pair the sale with a lighter, crisper wine than the starter course. Share the level of wine you are looking for with your chef and examples of wines you already enjoy. From there allow your chef & sommelier to make the suggested wine pairings based on the menu created. Make sure you list your pairings on the menu as well so guests can get the full experience.
LOCALITY, SEASONALITY & SUSTAINABILITY
It’s no secret that the best meals start with the freshest products. Food that is grown locally doesn’t have to travel far and therefore is harvested at its peak ripeness. Locally grown products are typically dictated by season, so let your chef guide you into what products are going to be the best and most abundant at the time of your wedding. Asparagus may look beautiful in the picture from your favorite magazine, but if you’re having an October wedding, a seasonal squash will probably taste much better.
GOOD FOOD HAS A STORY
Wedding guests really enjoy knowing where their food is coming from. Knowing that the figs featured on their salad are the same ones growing on the tress 20 feet away is a lot of fun and should be included on the menu when possible. Ask your chef to be descriptive in his menus sharing all the details about the food including the farms it came from.
Photo from Jose Villa from Natalie & Pat’s Big Day.
THE WEDDING DAY NAPA STYLE
Here are just a few design tips if you’re Napa bound for your wedding & celebration:
THE DECOR
Go residential all the way with a touch of refined luxury. Think understated elegance with a wedding that feels more inspired by your favorite interior designer than any other wedding out there.
THE ENTERTAINMENT
A baby grand overlooking the vineyards is the perfect juxtaposition of sophistication and nature. Pure bliss!
THE MENU
Farm to table ingredients, seasonal fare and course after course of the purest foods you will ever have. No matter what the menu consists of, go fresh and seasonal above all else.
THE DRINKS
Wine, of course! But don’t just choose your wine willy nilly. Talk to your chef who will be sure to pair your wine perfectly for each course.
CHARMING TOUCH
Go effortless in your decor and to play on the natural environment, consider moments of rustic touches like favors packaged in natural kraft paper or escort cards from clothes pins.
SWEET TREATS
Napa is the birthplace of Bouchon, the country’s best macarons, so give your day a french influence, by spoiling your guests with these wonderful and sweet treats.
All images are courtesy of Jose Villa from Natalie & Pat’s Napa Wedding.
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT : NAPA, CALIFORNIA
Ahhh…Napa. There’s no place that makes you want to relax, eat and just be romantic more than this area. It’s seriously one of our favorite places on the planet and therefore one of the best spots to become newlyweds. Bring your family & friends here and you might have the best little destination wedding out there. Here are just a few of our favorite to dos when planning a weekend celebration in the wine country:
FOR THE LADIES
Take your best girls to Domaine Carneros to tour their facility including a French inspired Chateau followed by a tasting of some of the region’s best sparkling wine.
FOR THE GUYS
Send the guys off to Sonoma to visit John Ash & Co. for one of the area’s best culinary experiences and an atmosphere designed for the guy’s guy.
THE WELCOME PARTY
Set up a wine shuttle to give your guests both a tour of the area and as many tastings as they can handle. Explore both the history and the all around deliciousness that Napa is known for.
MORNING AFTER BRUNCH
Don’t let your guests leave the area without brunch at the famous Bouchon. The perfect way to thank them for spending the weekend with you.
JUST THE TWO OF YOU
After your guests leave, grab a simple picnic lunch and head over to V. Sattui for a peaceful tasting and lunch to reflect on the weekend.
The above image is from Natalie & Pat’s Napa Wedding courtesy of the talented, Jose Villa.
VERA WANG TRUNKSHOW
Vera Wang’s latest collection is going to be showcased this weekend at their Melrose location. Definitely, definitely, definitely call my friend David to schedule an appointment. I’ve had a sneak peek and you are going to love every little gown!
PERFECT
Perfect is boring anyways…
This beautiful moment was captured by Max Wanger from Jody & Patrick’s Santa Barbara wedding.
COCKTAILS I LOVE
I try not to be overly high maintenance, but I do love a fancy pants cocktails on occasion. Room Forty put together some amazing cocktails for me awhile back and I just had to share the recipes so ya’ll can make these at home. My absolute favorite is the Collins Rouge . Here’s a picture of each courtesy of Steve Steinhardt. Enjoy!
WEDDINGS THAT MAKE THE EARTH HAPPY
Here are just a few of the lovely ways we recommend being earth friendly at your celebration…
Instead of printing individual menus, have one or two larger menus on mirrors, chalkboards or printed in a frame…For throw pillows and area decor, choose fabrics and details that you can then turn around and incorporate into your home decor.
Image by Jonathan Canlas from Nina & Russell’s Smog Shop Wedding
Succulents are the ultimate in being friendly to the world. After the wedding, you can literally throw them in your back yard where they will reroot and continue to thrive.
Image by Steve Steinhardt from Zoe & Griff’s Brentwood Wedding
Choose linens of natural fibers when possible like these Russian Linen drapes from La Tavola. Also, ask your linen supplier how they clean and process the linens to be sure they are doing their part to keep the earth happy.
Image by Corbin Gurkin from Michelle & Austin’s Clambake in East Hampton
Using found furniture and items is a great way to bring life back to older items. For this French wedding, we collected furniture throughout Paris to create both an eclectic and eco-friendly design.
Image by Steve Steinhardt from Jessica & Chetan’s Parisian Wedding
Use nature as your decor. Consider acorns, pine cones or other details to add charm and be kind to the earth. Potted plants and herbs that can be repurposed after the wedding can also be very chummy to the world.
Left Image by Jose Villa of Louisa & John’s Malibu Wedding
Right Image by Steve Steinhardt of Alyssa & Ryan’s Wedding at Saddlerock Ranch.
When possible feature local products and farms on the menu or in favors. Above, Angie & Brett, made homemade jam with Santa Barbara strawberries. So lovely!
Image by Meg Perotti of Angie & Brett’s Santa Barbara Wedding at San Ysidro Ranch
Centerpieces made of fresh fruit that can actually be consumed is always a hit and nothing is more earth-friendly than using heirlooms instead of buying new. For this Malibu wedding, we used a ring bearer pillow that had been through several family weddings.
Left Image by Steve Steinhardt of Jessica & Chetan’s Medieval welcome party at the Chateau d’ Esclimont in France.
Right Image by Steve Steinhardt of Bettina & Brian’s Gull’s Way Wedding
KARI & ELAN GET HITCHED : CARMEL, CALIFORNIA
Kari & Elan were the loveliest tree huggers we’ve ever had the opportunity to work with. We loved working with them to create an urban oasis in Carmel highlands, completely inspired by the landscape of Big Sur and completely and utterly green. From plantable invitations made with handmade paper to every detail of the seven course tasting meal being locally grown and sustainable, it was beautiful to see that this couple loved Mother Earth as much as they loved each other. We used air plants, succulents and orchids on the actual plant instead of cutting flowers which not only was environmentally sound, but also now all of the plants used from the wedding have made a home in Kari & Elan’s personal garden. I just love their story…and how beautiful is Kari? I just loved her bohemian style and was honored to help create her vision at the beautiful Point Lobos Ridge. Enjoy the images from Tiny Water and see the entire gallery over on Style Me Pretty…
MONIQUE LHUILLIER
It’s that time again! Monique Lhuillier trunk show. Call my friends, Hannah, Hannah Jo or Cait to check it out! 
EARTH FRIENDLY DETAILS
Here are just a few of our favorite details for all of you earth-loving couples out there…
1. Plantable Signage 2. I Love You Plant Kit 3. Plant the Packaging Herb & Veggie Candles 4. Eco-dough
5. Seed Bombs from a local vendor
HAPPY EARTH DAY
Inspired by mother earth…
Top Row: Wood Erns from Tess & Peter’s Bel Air Wedding
Second Row: Organic Wedding Cake/Garden Favors via La Tartine Gourmande
Third Row: Winston Howes tribute to his Late Wife/Rustic Stationary from Amelia & Danny’s Colorado Wedding
Fourth Row: Mountain Ceremony Backdrop from Amelia & Danny’s Colorado Wedding
Fifth Row: Floral Headdress via Studded Rose/Ferngully from Kari & Elan’s Carmel Wedding
Sixth Row: Book of Irish Poetry via Coralie Bickford-Smith
Last Row: Frida Kahlo Self-Portrait/Potted Tablescape from Amelia & Danny’s Colorado Wedding
A PLACE YOU FEEL FREE
This one is my all time favorite because it’s so, so true…
The beautiful image is from Louisa & John’s Malibu Wedding by Jose Villa.
BEHIND THE SCENES : THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS NO
Do you come from a problem solving mindset or an “it’s impossible” mindset? I have to say being able to find solutions or at least attempt to find solutions to your client’s problems is a HUGE factor in being a valuable member of the team vs. being someone who adds more stress to your client’s planning process. We all know sometimes clients ask for the moon and the stars and we all know there are times where what they are asking may seem impossible. My advice is, explore it anyway. Don’t say no without thoroughly thinking through the issue at hand, asking everyone that’s part of the equation and until every stone is unturned. My pet peeve when working with a vendor is one who says no without knowing all of the details. Coming from the angle of “that’s just not how we do it” is not only frustrating but can be damaging to your reputation. Brides want to feel like their day is custom and personalized for them, so when you say “that’s not how we do it”, they hear “We have a cookie cutter way of approaching our events and we aren’t going to change that for you.” It’s a silly mindset and quite honestly is perceived as laziness. Instead of saying “no” before you even know all of the details, try to listen to the request and think of ways to compromise. As a vendor, it’s your job to figure out how to make the client happy without compromising the integrity of your product and service. That’s another topic all together. But, as a wedding planner, there is NEVER an excuse to say no before you have really explored the options. Take the structure shown above…it took a full week to build and remove. We ran into so many no’s from the property manager to the neighbors to even the fire marshall. Instead of just saying, “well, we can’t do the structure”, we worked as a team with the property manager and fire marshall to come up with a solution on how we could get it done. It involved changing the design a tad, making sure things like forklifts had the right type of tires and so much more, but in the end, we created something amazing, if I do say so myself.
Even if I’m 99.9% positive my latest crazy request is going to get turned down, I will ask anyway. And, I’ll ask again and again until I at least have a compromise that I can present to my client. I might not be able to get my clients everything their hearts desire, but I’m going to get as close as I possibly can. That’s my job and if you’re working on a wedding, it’s yours too. Go to bat for your client. Even if you don’t get the solution you hoped for, it will build trust and show you’re client that you are truly on their team.
Photo from M&C Villa Sevillano Wedding, photography by Samantha Cabrera
SOMETHING OLD
Something old, something new
Something borrowed, something blue
And a silver sixpence in her shoe
This wedding tradition came from the Victorian Era in Great Britain and is still a tradition that has never lost steam. Each item in this poem represents a good-luck token for the bride. It is said, if you carries all of them on your wedding day, your marriage will be happy. And who doesn’t want that?!
Below are some of my favorite modern ways to incorporate this timeless tradition.
Check back next week for ideas on something new!
Vintage comb, Vintage Clutch, Rosary Bouquet shot by Angela Anderson Photography, Vintage Clock by Anna Rozenblat, Locket photographed by Theo Milo Phototgraphy
TOTALLY TRIBAL
We are all totally about tribal right now. These prints and references always add a bit of culture and even edge to some of the sweetest weddings…
TOP ROW: Jimmy Choo goes Native American at Amelia & Danny’s Colorado Wedding / Welcome table from Surya & Nick’s Big Day
2ND ROW: Mismatched china from Casa De Perrin / African Rug from Zoe & Griff’s Brentwood Wedding
3RD ROW: Totem from Jonas Peterson / Lovely upholstery from Found Vintage Rentals
4TH ROW: Our couple, Emily & Brandon and her fab Tribal print jacket, photo by Amy & Stuart
BOTTOM ROW: Tribal drums from Nina & Russell’s Big Day / Gorgeous rug from Anthropologie
LIGHTING DETAILS WE LOVE
Just a few of our favorite lighting moments…
TOP ROW: Whimsical Paper lanterns at Karen & Al’s Malibu Celebration/Butterfly Drum lamps from Natalie & Patrick’s Napa Wedding by Jose Villa
2ND ROW: Vintage chandeliers at Jessica & Chetan’s French Countryside Wedding by Steve Steinhardt at Chateau d’ Esclimont
BOTTOM ROW: Twinkly canopy at Tara & Kurt’s Big Island Wedding at Four Seasons Hualalai
TOP ROW: Sweet Candelabras at Stella & Peter’s Maui Wedding at Haiku Mill/Moroccan Lanterns at Zoe & Griff’s Brentwood Wedding
2ND ROW: Mason Jar Chandeliers at Surya & Nick’s Aspen Wedding by Jonas Peterson
BOTTOM ROW: Indian Lanterns from Nina & Russell’s Smog Shoppe Wedding by Jonathan Canlas/Tiki Torches from Tara & Kurt’s Big Island Welcome Party
LIGHTING BREAKDOWN
To further illustrate my post on lighting, here’s a breakdown of the different lighting techniques we commonly use to beautify our venues:
1. Overhead decorative lighting is almost always the most noticeable. For M&C’s Wedding, we mixed crystal chandeliers with rustic lanterns to create a more residential vibe and a soft, festive glow.
2. Pinspotting on the tables allowed the flowers to shine and highlighted the texture of each bouquet.
3. Uplighting draws attention to architectural elements and warms the space while distracting the eye from any eye sores of a space.
4. Candlelight is obvious. There’s nothing like that glow. We had hundreds of candles at this Villa Sevillano Wedding.
Above images by Samantha Cabrera.
5. If we have a band (like Amy & Jason’s 22 piece group), we love to make them shine by highlighting the musicians.
6. When in a space with amazing architecture, wood beams, beautiful chandeliers, a nice diffused textured lighting or soft wash draws your eye to the features of the space.
7. At this Vibiana wedding, we uplit the custom trees so we were able to see the texture of the branches, rather than turning them into dark shadows.
Special thank you to Samuel Lippke for this beautiful capture.
LET THERE BE LIGHT
So often, my clients asked me the question, “why do I need lighting?” and while I find it to be possibly THE most important element when it comes to the design of your event, it is a very hard thing to articulate. It’s the difference between having a candlelight dinner and dining under the harsh light of your kitchen. The difference between sitting in a bland banquet room or a room saturated in your vibrant wedding colors and the difference between a well designed, sophisticated event and one that is definitely missing something.
Most couples focus their priorities on the area that they notice the most at a wedding. Be it the over-the-top flowers, the crazy band or the delicious feast, every couple has a different detail they remember when they leave an event. Rarely, if ever, have I had a couple mention that they noticed the lighting as it is very much an atmospheric and background element, but when comparing a room side by side, one with and one without external lighting, there is no argument. Lighting can turn a room into a romantic escape, a funky lounge or even a crisp palette on which you can implement your design. You can add shapes, monograms and other little details with lighting, or at the very minimum, highlight those amazing flowers you spent so long picking out. All in all, it can truly help you create the atmosphere you are looking for, whether it be a garden event with paper lanterns or a ballroom that just needs a few flaws hidden behind some mood lighting. A few uplights and some pinspotting can go a very long way when trying to warm up what could be a boring ballroom.
And, if you still can’t take my word for it, check out the amazing “Before and After” gallery on one of my favorite lighting designers’ sites, Peterson Lighting, because of course, seeing is always believing.
BEHIND THE SCENES AT BHE
I get a lot of questions from newbies in the wedding world or people who are considering making the leap into this industry, which I love. Being a part of someone’s wedding is a huge responsibility, one I think many people take a little lightly. Forget about the extreme emotions and expectations that come along with this day and consider that this is likely to be one of the most significant investments a couple will make in their lifetime. You will be a part of lifelong memories and if you’re like most people drawn to this world, you want those to be happy ones…better than happy…ones that make them well up for years and ideally think of you when that happens. I know the best compliment I can get is when I get a letter from my couples on their anniversaries thanking me for creating such an amazing day with them. That’s when I know I’ve made an impact. But, I digress. These occasional postings will be for all of you who have been thinking about or have recently made the commitment to the wedding industry. I can’t promise I will post regularly, but as questions hit my inbox, I learn a new lesson or am reminded of an old one, I will share any relevant insight here for all of you. So, if anything’s on your mind simply email me at beth@bethhelmstetter.com or leave a comment below. I’m an open book.
Photo from M&C Villa Sevillano wedding by Samantha Cabrera
DOGS IN YOUR WEDDING
Anyone who knows me, knows I’m the biggest dog lover. Pair them with a wedding, and I’m literally OBSESSED. This being said, however, our furry babies, do add logistical challenges to be aware of. To make sure the day goes well for both you and your pooches, here are some of our top tips for avoiding mishaps on the day:
1. Give them plenty of exercise the day of the wedding: A tired dog is typically a happy dog and less likely to be unpredictable. Hire a dog walker or even take them to a crate free doggy daycare where they can play until they are exhausted prior to the wedding.
2. Don’t forget the food: Having your family member in the wedding is obviously very special, but it does add another level of detail to keep in mind…mainly, don’t forget to keep your pet on their eating & restroom patterns for the day.
3. Assign someone to doggy patrol: Whether hiring an extra pair of hands or having a family member the dog loves, put someone in charge of feeding, walking and just taking care of their needs. Also, this person should be standing by near the first row to take the dog away in case he or she becomes a distraction from the ceremony.
4. Get them pretty! It goes without saying, that grooming is a must for a wedding worthy pup, but don’t just stop there. Have your florist create a leash made of flowers, give him a puppy bow tie or even commission a seamstress to make a sweet little tux or tutu depending on your preference. One of our favorite resources for doggy attire is ROVER by RoverDog on Etsy. Their little bow ties & puppy pea coats are to die for!
5. Have them taken home after the ceremony: Once your pet has done his duty, have them taken back to your home or hotel room and hire someone to check in on them throughout the evening. The reception might be a little much for your pup to handle!
Overall, we love having furry children as part of the ceremony. They are just one more way to show your guests who you are as a couple and for many of us (including myself), they are such a huge part of your family that you can’t imagine not having them there. We have very few disaster stories when it comes to pets involved in the wedding day and if you follow the above tips, you too will have nothing but great success!
That sweetie above is from Zoe & Griff’s big day, captured by Steve Steinhardt.
SWEET PROPOSAL
Please do yourself a favor and check out this super sweet proposal from Graphic Designer, Chase Pitzer of Meepbox, to the love of his life, Alexandra. What a lovely way to propose in the modern world. Big congrats to the two of you!
If you love this proposal and site as much as we do, Chase makes the loveliest stationery and invitations as well. Here are a few of our favorites:
GARDEN PARTY
We’re in the process of designing a garden party, any lady would love. Take a sneak peek at our inspiration…
Top Row: Life of the Garden Party Dress via Mod Cloth/ Siman Tu Flourite Cluster Necklace via Taigan/ Dior Waterlily Nail Polish via Refinery29/ Aerin Lipstick via Saks Fifth Avenue
Second Row: Garden Lanterns from Cody & Will’s Malibu Wedding/ Floral Fence from Jessica & Chetan’s French Wedding
Third Row: Decorated Eggs via LRF/ Seed Bomb via Anthropologie
Fourth Row: Mason Jar Lighting from Surya & Nick’s Colorado Wedding
Fifth Row: Magenta Cutlery via Core Bamboo/ Morning Glory Tole Tray via Polyvore
Sixth Row: Fresh Lemonade from Louisa & John’s Malibu Wedding/ Chalkboard Garden Maker via Anthropologie
Last Row: Fun Hors D’Oeuvres from Louisa & John’s Malibu Wedding/ Garden Party Greeting via Country Living
SO ROYAL
Just a few of our favorite details fit for all of you queens out there.
TOP: French castle which happened to be the backdrop for this beautiful wedding (also seen on Style Me Pretty here…)
2ND ROW: Queeny ring from Etsy / Rifle Paper Co.’s Royal Coasters definitely belong on my cordial cart
3RD ROW: Glittery clutch fit for a princess from Talia’s Santa Barbara Wedding / Royal Wedding Cake with Vintage Crown from Jessica & Chetan’s Parisian Wedding
4TH ROW: Complete happiness from Kate Spade’s tumbler / Venetian Palace from my scouting trip to Italy
BOTTOM ROW: If I could’ve planned any royal wedding, it would have been this one / DIY greeting card for the king in your world from Real Simple
SHE SAID
I love everything about Brian Andreas…
My all time favorite image courtesy of the amazing Jonas Peterson from Surya & Nick’s Aspen Wedding.
BEST FAREWELL EVER
If I had it my way, every event would end with fresh doughnuts, strawberry milk and confetti everywhere…Catch you later March!
BRINGING PARIS HOME
If you are anything like me, this last couple of posts have filled you with joie de vivre. Now it’s time to pop some champagne and bring Paris home.
Doll up in a vibrant colorful ensemble accessorized with cocktail ring and scarf. Top it off with a whimsical beret and you’re all set for the day.
Welcome guests with Parisian tunes, from the likes of Pink Martini and Edith Piaf, setting the mood and transporting them to a night of merriment. A friend with skills on the accordion is always an added bonus.
Add personal touches via signage including vintage postcard invites with varying landmarks, custom gift totes, wine descriptions and fun food station detailing.
For some tasty nibbles set up tables of baguettes with charcuterie boards, have make your own crepe areas with savory and sweet options, and dessert displays filled with champagne jellies and macaroons.
10 oz plus 2oz champagne
1 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon sugar
3 envelopes Knox Gelatin
3 oz cognac
Santé
Gussy up your home with flirty napkins, wire market chairs, crafty cake stands and romantic bold florals highlighted by candlelight.
FASCINATING FASCINATORS
We are in the midst of preparing for what is sure to be an amazing wedding where the attire requests ladies to wear fascinators. I. CANNOT. WAIT. Here are a few of our favorite fascinators around! Oh so Parisian…
Top Row: Vivacious red fascinator from Jessica & Chetan’s French Wedding/Flower fascinator via Nordstrom
Second Row: Sarah Jessica Parker in a Phillip Treacy fascinator via Cosmopolitan/SJP with the girls at the premiere of Sex and the City 2 via E! Online
Third Row: Red Siouxsie Sioux hat via Avenue32/Laurence Leleux linen fascinator via Farfetch
Fourth Row: Kate Winslet rocking out some fascinators via Huffington Post
Fifth Row: My favorite fascinator via Boticca
Sixth Row: Kate Middleton adorning some beautiful fascinators via Marie Claire
Last Row: Marilyn Monroe in a classy cocktail hat via Femme du Coupe
PARISIAN WELCOME
As you probably already know, we are big fans of the welcome bag. It’s the perfect opportunity to introduce guests to your destination in an authentic way. In honor of our impending Paris wedding, and Style Me Pretty’s coverage of this French wedding, we’re all about Paris this week, starting with the most perfect welcome to the most perfect place.
JAZZY NIGHTS
I’ve recently happened upon a new (to me) record player for my home. Ever since, my evenings look a little something like this…
Okay, maybe there isn’t gin EVERY night, but something about Billie Holiday and the like make me crave an uber classic libation like a martini or champagne cocktail.
1. Vintage turntable…get your own on Etsy
2. Records can be found at Amoeba Music
3. Gin Martini recipe courtesy of Kriste Michelini
SPRING HALOS
Some of the sweetest spring halos around…
Top Row: Relaxing Darling from Angie & Brett’s Santa Barbara Wedding/Wax Rokit Flower Hat via Bright Young Twins
Second Row: Organic Splendor from Nicole & Mathew Hummingbird Nest Ranch Wedding
Third Row: Floaty Formal via Clementine Posy /Cute as a Button at Bettina & Brian’s Malibu Wedding
Fourth Row: Dainty in Baby’s Breath at Stella & Peter’s Hawaiian Wedding
Last Row: Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012-2013 via Mademoiselle Le K /Patel Delights from Stella & Peter’s Hawaiian Wedding
WHAT WE LOVE FOR SPRING
Spring is finally here…Just a few breezy details that are currently inspiring us this season.
Top Row: Beautiful Landscape from Liz & Chris’s Los Olivos Wedding/ Todd Reed Earrings
Second Row: Simple Corner Perfection via Daily Dream Decor/ Stella and Peter’s Hawaii Wedding shot by Jose Villa
Third Row: Himmeli Air Plant Holder via Houzz/ Fendi Leather Lamps via Inhabitat
Fourth Row: Sky Photography via Designspiration/ Gray Wedding Dress via Vera Wang
Fifth Row: Chefs Table from Bettina & Brian’s Malibu Wedding
Sixth Row: Giuseppe Zanotti Colorblock Pump via Saks/ Natural Clean Side Table via Marie-Laure Helmkampf
Last Row: Balinese Beach Soiree
