South Orange County Bridal Guide

Plan YOURPeRfect Weddingdream Spots, catering & cakes, gowns & Rings,

Wedding do’s & don’ts, Bride’s check list

lOcal flORiStS, PhOtOgRaPheRS,

MUSicianS and MORe

Plus:

From the publishers of the San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times and The Capistrano Dispatch

3South Orange County Bridal Guide

Photos (from top): Matthew Morgan, Broccardo Photography, Rod Foster

elcome to the South Orange County Bridal Guide 2010, the only comprehensive bridal guide dedicated exclusively to South Orange County. Inside this magazine you’ll � nd everything you need to help plan for your ultimate South County wedding—from magical locations to mouth-watering catering and cakes, from dream dresses to wonderful � orists, the South Orange County Bridal Guide has it all.

� is magazine is produced by the publishers of the area’s leading community newspapers and Web sites—San Clemente Times, Dana Point Times, � e Capistrano Dispatch and El Despacho. You’ll be able to � nd the bridal guide online all year long at www.socbridalguide.com.

We hope you’ll � nd the guide as fun to use as we had producing it. Here’s to your wedding! Norb Garrett, Publisher

A Picket Fence Media Publication

PublisherNorb Garrett

Art DirectorJasmine Smith

Senior EditorJoanthan Volzke

DREAM SPOTS

YOUR PARADISE AWAITSWe spotlight � ve special South Orange County locations PLUS: List of other area venuesBY TAWNEE PRAZAK

CATERING & CAKES

DELIGHTFUL DISHES: CATERING YOUR BIG DAYWe’ll help you � nd the perfect caterer for your special day BY SHELLEY MURPHY

ONE-OF-A-KIND CAKE CREATIONSSeveral local bakeries can help make the cake of your dreams BY SHELLEY MURPHY

FASHION & BEAUTY

LOOK GREAT, FEEL GREATFrom wedding dresses to manicures: � e 411 on all you need to look great for your weddingBY TAWNEE PRAZAK

THE DETAILS

BURSTING WITH COLORFlowers in Bloom: Florists who can bring your day to life BY SHELLEY MURPHY

MEMORIES THAT LAST A LIFETIMECapturing the moment with three local wedding photographersBY SHELLEY MURPHY

ASK THE WEDDING PLANNER

THE DO’S AND DON’TS OF PLANNING A WEDDINGEtiquette tips from our resident wedding plannerBY LINDA FUCHSER

BRIDAL TO-DO LISTDon’t miss a beat wih our easy-to-use wedding checklistBY LINDA FUCHSER

THIS ISSUEInside4

The South Orange County Bridal Guide is published annually by Picket Fence Media, publishers of the SC

Times (www.sanclementetimes.com ), DP Times (www.danapointtimes.com), The Capistrano Dispatch (www.

thecapistranodispatch.com) and El Despacho (www.el-despacho.com). Copyright: No articles, illustrations,

photographs, or other editorial matter or advertisements herein may be reproduced without written permis-

sion of the publisher. The publisher assumes no responsibility for return of unsolicited manuscripts, art,

photos or negatives. Copyright 2010. All rights reserved. Proudly printed in the United States of America at

Trend Offset Printing, Los Alamitos, Calif.

4DREAM SPOTS

26WEDDING TO-DO’S

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El Despacho

COVER CREDITS Hair/Model: Nicole Kruse, 949.246.6294, www.diamondbrides.net Floral Design: Wildfl ower of San Clemente, 949.498.3454, www.wildfl owerfl oral.com Photography: Rod Foster, 949.290.5999, www.rodfoster.com Location: Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org

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Graphic DesignerHeidi Mefferd

WritersTawnee Prazak, Shelley Murphy,

Linda Fuchser

PhotographersRod Foster, Matthew Morgan

AdvertisingSusie Lantz, Lauralyn Loynes,

Michelle Reddick, Sergio Sanchez

DistributionAndrea Swayne

Billing ManagerAlyssa Garrett

Special ThanksJamal Al-Sarraf, Sandra Moran,

Tawnee Prazak

From the Publishers of

www.socbridalguide.com

10TASTY TREATS

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DReam SPOTSDReam SPOTS

The Villa San Juan Capistrano. Photo: Emet Martinez

T H E V I L L A S A N J UA N C A PI ST R A NO

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There’s no need to leave town when a destination-type wedding awaits you right around the corner. The place you say “I do” is an intimate reflection

of the bride and groom, and South Orange County offers those dream spots to fit the character and style of any couple—whether on the beach, in

a garden oasis, at a historic setting or grand retreat. From the traditional to never-been-done from the casual to formal, it’s all here. In the following

pages, South Orange County Bridal Guide profiles five local spots for your ceremony, reception or both. We’ve also included an extensive list of

additional ceremony and reception sites. Your dream wedding is only footsteps away…

Your

AwAits...Paradise

BY TAWNEE PRAZAK

South Orange County Bridal Guide

Where the nontraditional wedding meets class and elegance. The Villa San Juan Capistrano is a memorable wedding venue whose historic roots run deep. This stylish antique residence is one of the most romantic yet unique OC sites for nuptials. Owner John Q. Humphreys traveled the world for inspiration and the materials to remodel his turn-of-the-century house—Italian marble, Peruvian statues, Mexican brick and adobe and East Coast barn wood are just some of the features that accentuate this 10,000-square-foot dream spot. “We still kept it true to the neighborhood, though,” said Humphreys, “and gave it that Spanish-mission style.”

Sunset weddings are ideal with The Villa’s ambiance—gas lanterns and thousands of candles dimly light the premise. Ceremonies take place in “the church” with the reception held in the tree-lined courtyard overlooking Mission SJC. Hiding within the antique décor is a modern machine—namely a state-of-the-art sound system and deluxe kitchen with Humphreys, a musician, chef and owner of the acclaimed Ramos House Café, in charge. “The place is one big amplifier,” he said. As for the food: “We’re trying to change weddings from the standard stuff.” Think: exquisite hors d’oeuvres, a gourmet meal, flaming cocktails and no buffet lines for miles.

Although a wedding at The Villa will undoubtedly exude Humphrey’s unique style, the staff meets with a couple at least six times to customize the wedding to their liking. Practically every service is included in the cost—floral, flatware, friendly staff. “We take care of all the details for you,” said Humphreys. “It’s a one-stop destination and it’s not going to be generic.”

The house opens at 9 a.m., doesn’t close until midnight and includes a Bridal Suite for prep and an upstairs pool hall for the guys—both areas have TVs with live shots of guests arriving.

31431 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, 949.443.1342, www.thevillasjc.comThe Villa San Juan Capistrano. Photos: Emet Martinez

6 South Orange County Bridal Guide

This seaside locale is ideal for a beach wedding without all the sand. Nestled in San Clemente State Beach, the Historic Cottage is off the beaten path, allowing for an in-timate, private ocean-view setting—without the high price tag. “It’s a beautiful historic place offered at an exceptional price,” said Diane Frankovich of State Parks.

The classic adobe cottage is encompassed by a roomy tiled courtyard and grassy area all overlooking the Pacific Ocean. And although guests can’t use the inside of the cottage, why would you need it when you have palm trees, waves, sea breezes and not an ounce of traffic in sight?

The Cottage does not provide any wedding particulars except the site, giving the bride and groom full range to plan their ideal day. “You can make it whatever you want, high-end to casual,” said Frankovich. “Bring your own food, have it catered—your choice.”

It’s common to have the ceremony on the nearby cliffs overlooking Calafia Beach and then arrive at the Historic Cottage for the reception. The site opens at 2 p.m. and guests can eat, drink, celebrate, watch the sunset and dance under the stars until the 10 p.m. curfew.

The Cottage is owned and operated by the state, so there are guidelines that must be followed and a ranger is onsite during the event.

San Clemente, 949.366.8589, www.parks.ca.govSan Clemente State Beach. Photo: Matthew Morgan

H I STOR IC C OT TAG E AT S A n C l E m E n T E STAT E BE AC H

DReam SPOTS

The name says it all. This stunning bluff-top estate exudes romance—lush gardens with butterflies and fountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Spanish-Colonial architecture circa 1927. As the former home of San Clemente’s founder Ole Hanson, Casa Romantica is a historic landmark that’s kept in immaculate condition. But on your wedding day, the Casa becomes yours.

“Most couples choose the Ocean Terrace—overlooking the San Clemente Pier, Dana Point and Catalina—for their ceremony and many times for the cocktail reception, while dinner receptions can take place in the Courtyard or the Main Salon indoors,” said coordinator Susie Sullivan.

The Casa is the ideal choice for a coastal wedding that’s sophisticated and elegant. The classic Spanish ambiance—

C AS A ROm A n T IC A C U lT U R A l C E n T E R A n D G A R DE n S

white stucco walls, red roof, tiled floors—ocean views and abundant green foliage offer “photography options [that] are phenomenal,” said Sullivan. And full access to the Casa is granted to the wedding party. Just imagine: After watching the sunset on the water, your guests can dance the night away on the moonlit blufftop and mingle inside the inviting salon.

Casa staff helps with much of the planning, including five set caterers from which to choose and a top-notch rental company that covers many needs. The time allowed for ceremony and reception is five and a half hours, with a 10 p.m. curfew.

415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949.498.2139, www.casaromantica.org

Bella Collina Towne & Golf CluBSan Clemente, 949.498.0517www.bellacollinagolf.com

Casino san ClemenTeSan Clemente [email protected]

Calvary ChapelSan Juan Capistrano, 949.443.2572www.ccsanjuancapistrano.com

Cannon’s seafood GrilleDana Point, 949.496.6146www.cannonsrestaurant.com

dana poinT yaChT CluBDana Point, 949.542.3820www.dpyc.org

dana wharf sporTfishinGDana Point, 949.496.5794www.danawharfsportfishing.com

doheny sTaTe BeaChDana Point, 949.496.3617www.dohenystatebeach.org

douBleTree GuesT suiTes Dana Point, 949.661.1100www.doubletree.com

el adoBe de CapisTranoSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1163www.eladobedecapistrano.com

The forsTer mansion San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.6676www.forstermansionevents.com

The franCisCan Gardens San Juan Capistrano, 949.248.1586www.franciscangardens.com

Garden CoTTaGe Bed & BreakfasTSan Clemente, 949.498.0593www.gardencottageinn.com

irons in The fireSan Clemente, 949.542.3900www.beachfire.com

JaCk’s resTauranT & BarDana Point, 949.489.1903www.jacksdp.com

Jolly roGer resTauranTDana Point, 949.496.0855www.aloharestaurants.com

laGuna Cliffs marrioTT resorT & spaDana Point, 949.661.5000www.lagunacliffs.com

luCiana’s risToranTeDana Point, 949.661.6500www.lucianas.com

marBella CounTry CluBSan Juan Capistrano, 949.248.3700www.marbellacc.net

oCean hills CommuniTy ChurChSan Juan Capistrano, 949.496.7411www.oceanhillschurch.com

MOREWeddingVEnuEs

Photo: Matthew Morgan

Casa Romantica. Photo: Matthew Morgan

CEREMONY & RECEPTION


For the luxurious and grand wedding, look no further. St. Regis is like a European destination wedding complete with majestic Italian-style architecture, trickling fountains, pools, elaborate décor and, of course, breathtaking ocean and golf-course views. Within the vast grounds of the � ve-star, � ve-diamond resort, there are numerous settings for a ceremony and reception. Say “I do” on the ocean-view palm-lined Grand Lawn accessed by two sweep-ing staircases, then celebrate in the Sunset Terrace and Monarch Ballroom. For larger weddings, the Paci� c Lawn and 12,000-square-foot Paci� c Ballroom are ideal, while unique and quaint weddings can be held in the Botanical Garden and St. Regis’ Club 19.

No matter the wedding size you’ll be treated like royalty with St. Regis’ � rst-class service. A wedding can be a multi-day celebration within the vast hotel. “We like to sell our weddings as a total weekend experience,” said Director of Catering Amy Botdorf. “We try to capture it all for the wedding party: rehearsal dinner, ceremony, reception, day-a� er brunch. � ere’s a golf course for men; salons for the women.”

All the while, attention to detail is superb at St. Regis—the catering manager works with you and your wedding coordinator for the perfect meals, and service

with views of the Harbor and vast coastline. Pines Park—situated on a cli� side and intimately engulfed by trees—is one of the top ceremony locales. “� e view mainly draws people,” said Dana Point’s Sue Steinriede. “And for 100 people it’s only about $75 and hour, with a three-hour limit.” Numerous quaint parks are scattered throughout Dana Point and may � t your dream nuptial site. With romantic layouts of paths, benches, plant life and in some cases oceanfront gazeboes—like at Palisades Park—an outdoor ceremony in Dana Point is a cost-friendly option for the surroundings. And like with Salt Creek Beach, receptions following a park ceremony are usually held at a nearby facility.

Salt Creek: 33333 S. Paci� c Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.923.2280, www.ocparks.com/saltcreekbeach. DP Parks: 949.248.3530, www.danapoint.org

Getting married on the beach with the sand beneath your toes is a dream shared by many. In Dana Point, that dream can easily become a reality on Salt Creek Beach, a picturesque piece of heaven that’s perfect for saying “I do,” and not to mention, is a world-class surf spot. Permits allow you to have a private ceremony with no public interference—a factor that’s o� en problematic with other public beach ceremonies. Up to 500 guests are allowed on the sand, as are chairs, an arch and decorative accents. Although receptions are also allowed, couples usually relocate to one of the many restaurants or venues nearby (see our venue list for options). Permits for Salt Creek are granted through the County of Orange and start at $194 per hour; other fees also apply.

If an outdoor oceanfront ceremony on lush green grass instead of sand sounds more ideal, then Dana Point has a plethora of well-maintained beautifully landscaped parks

Salt Creek. Photo: Jonathan Michael Photography

DA NA P OI N T ’ S BE AC H E S & PA R K S

St. Regis Monarch Beach. Photo: Matthew Morgan

ST. R E G I S MONA RC H BE AC H R E S ORT & SPA

DREAM SPOTS

wear is provided (other rentals and vendors are at your discretion). Plus wedding guests are o� ered discounted rates on rooms.

1 Monarch Beach Resort Drive, Dana Point, 949.234.3455, www.stregismb.com

OCEAN INSTITUTEDana Point, 949.496.2274www.ocean-institute.org

OC SAILING & EVENTS CENTERDana Point, 949.923.2215www.ocsail.com

OLE HANSON BEACH CLUBSan Clemente, 949.361.8264www.olehansonbeachclub.com

OUR LADY OF FATIMA CATHOLIC PARISHSan Clemente, 949.492.4101www.olfchurch.net

RENAISSANCE Dana Point, 949.661.6003www.renaissance-danapoint.com

RITZ-CARLTON Dana Point, 949.240.2000www.ritzcarlton.com

SAN CLEMENTE BEACH WEDDINGThe Pier and various sites, 949.361.8264www.san-clemente.org

SALT CREEK GRILLEDana Point, 949.661.7799www.saltcreekgrille.com

SAN JUAN COMMUNITY CENTERSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1171www.sanjuancapistrano.org

SAN JUAN HILLS GOLF CLUBSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1167www.sanjuanhillsgolf.com

SARDUCCI’S CAPISTRANO DEPOTSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.9593www.capistranodepot.com

SOUTH SHORES CHURCHMonarch Beach, 949.496.9331x123www.southshores.org

ST. ANDREWS BY-THE-SEA METHODIST CHURCHSan Clemente, 949.492.2537www.sabts.org

ST. EDWARDS CHURCHDana Point, 949.496.1307www.stedward.com

TALEGA GOLF CLUBSan Clemente, 949.369.6226www.talegagolfclub.com.

TEA HOUSE ON LOS RIOSSan Juan Capistrano, 949.443.3914www.theteahouseonlosrios.com

WIND & SEA RESTAURANTDana Point, 949.496.6500www.windandsearestaurants.com

YACHTS OF LOVEDana Point Harbor, 949.544.1524

See our complete A-Z listing online at www.socbridalguide.com

MOREWeddingVENUES

CEREMONY & RECEPTION


By Shelley Murphy

Iva Lee’s

Lisa Wagoner has been in the catering busi-ness for more than 20 years and has owned Iva Lee’s Catering—a service offered by the popular restaurant—for the past seven years. Lately, she’s noticing a new trend among brides. “A lot of brides, especially the younger brides, seem to be more eco-friendly and concerned with recycling,” she said. Environmentally friendly foods are not a problem for Wagoner. “We do lobster macaroni and cheese, and we serve it as a passed hors d’oeuvre in bamboo disposable spoons—once they hit the dirt they dis-integrate in 10 days. And, when we use plastic cups, we use cups made of corn; they are clear plastic and also disintegrate.”

One thing that hasn’t changed over the years is

Wagoner’s devotion to serving quality food and a menu based on a couple’s request. “We can do any kind of cuisine, we don’t do southern food unless the bride asks for it; most our weddings are California-French cuisine. We do a lot of signature cocktails too,” she said. “When we cater we use prime meat and that in itself makes a big difference; a lot of the produce we use is organic.”

Ninety percent of Iva Lee’s Catering is for wed-dings, and full service at your venue is included. “I strongly believe in good quality and service, and we bring something special to them on their day,” she said. Sample catering menus are available on their Web site.

San Clemente, 949.361.2855, www.ivalees.com

Salt Creek Grille

“Salt Creek Grille offers incredible pricing for [weddings]; I know few other places that charge for the food like we do,” said Christy Carson, the restaurant’s event coordinator. Salt Creek Grille has hosted weddings for more than 11 years, and just

recently began catering offsite. “We started last year and we are planning on doing bigger venues in the future,” said Carson.

A popular trend Carson said she sees with today’s couples involves the bride and groom personalizing their wedding menus. “For example: He proposed in Cape Cod so let’s do a clambake-style bar; their favorite food is Mexican, so the rehearsal dinner is a fiesta with taco stands; or, they are avid fast-food fans so they want us to set up a slider bar with bags of french fries and passed mini milkshakes,” she said. “I love when I see personality in the decora-tions and, of course, the food,” she said. Still, Salt Creek Grille offers a full range of pre-established menu options that will fit any budget and satisfy all palates. Ask about special packages.

Carson has worked countless weddings and said she still looks forward to each one. “I love when I see families having a good time—moms watching their daughters, people getting together and just having a great celebration. I get to see people at their best,” she said.

Dana Point, 949.661.7799, www.saltcreekgrille.com

Delightful DISHES

DReam SPOTSCATERING & CaKeS

Whether it’s a sumptuous sit-down dinner for

150 or fabulously fun food stations for 250,

these five caterers create palate-pleasing menus

sure to impress even the most ardent foodies.

CATERING YOUR BIG DAY

Iva lee’s phyllo triangles with spinach, feta & caramelized onions. photo: lane Dittoe


DREAM SPOTSCATERING & CAKES

LOCALCatering5 STAR CATERING San Clemente, 949.795.4721www.fi vestarcateringoc.com

AVILA’S EL RANCHITOSan Clemente, 949.498.5000 www.avilaselranchito.net

BAD TO THE BONESan Clemente/San Juan Capist-rano, 949.361.9132 www.badtothebone-bbq.com

BEACHFIRE EXTREME CATERINGSan Clemente, 949.282.9264www.beachfi re.com

BILLY’S MEATS & SEAFOOD DELISan Clemente, 949.498.5924www.downtownsanclemente.com

BLISS CATERINGSan Clemente, 949.498.8886www.blisscatering.com

BLUE DANUBESan Clemente, 949.218.5186www.bluedanubeoc.com

BRIO TUSCANY GRILLDana Point, 949.443.1476www.briorestaurant.com

CAFÉ MOZARTSan Juan Capistrano, 949.496.0212www.cafemozart.net

CAPISTRANO CATERINGSan Juan Capistrano, 949.276.5757

CHEF GREGORY’S GOURMET CATERING Dana Point, 949.429.3435 www.chefgregory.com

CIAO PASTA TRATTORIASan Juan Capistrano, 949.496.5002www.ciaopasta.net

COURTSIDE CATERINGSan Clemente, 949.492.1516www.courtsidecateringsc.com

EL ADOBE DE CAPISTRANOSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1163www.eladobedecapistrano.com

EL MOLINO DE OROSan Juan Capistrano, 949.489.4430

FERRANTELLI’S RISTORANTEDana Point, 949.493.1401 www.ferrantellis.com

FRATELLO’S ITALIAN FAMILY RESTAURANT San Clemente, 949.661.5200

GEMMELL’SDana Point, 949.234.0063 www.gemmellsrestaurant.com

JACK’S Dana Point, 949.489.1903 www.jacksdp.com

JANICE’S KITCHENSan Juan Capistrano, 949.831.7779www.janiceskitchen.com

LINDA KIRBY CATERINGSan Juan Capistrano, 949.496.4851

LUCIANA’S RISTORANTEDana Point, 949.661.6500 www.lucianas.com

MICHELLE LOUISE PERSONAL CHEF SERVICESan Clemente, 949.547.5152www.michelle-louise.com

RICARDO’S PLACESan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4941www.ricardosplace.net

SKIMMER’SSan Juan Capistrano, 949.276.6300www.skimmerspaninigrill.com

SMOKEY’S HOUSE OF BBQDana Point, 949.388.8102www.smokeyshouseofbbq.com

SONNY’S PIZZA & PASTASan Clemente, 949.498.2540www.sonnys.com

STELLA’S SERIOUS ITALIAN RESTAURANT & LOUNGEDana Point, 949.234.1679www.stellasitalian.com

TANNINS RESTAURANT AND WINE BARSan Juan Capistrano, 949.661.8466www.tanninsrestaurant.com

TWO GUYS GRILLINGSan Clemente, 949.248.1269 www.twoguysgrilling.com

VINESan Clemente, 949.361.2079www.vinesanclemente.com

VITO & ROCCO’S CATERINGSan Clemente, 949.498.5156

WHAT A DISH CATERINGDana Point, 949.276.4884www.whatadishoc.com

Sundried Tomato American Bistro and Café

“Our catering chef, Reymundo Montoya, is amazing; he’s the main chef for all three restaurants and he’s been with Sundried Tomato for 17 years,” said Patti Pracht, catering coordinator for Sundried Tomato.

� e secret to Sundried Tomato’s catering success is its fresh ingredients and preparation. “We bring stoves and we cook everything fresh onsite and prepare it onsite. It’s very, very fresh. We use a lot of organic ingredients—all of our lettuce is organic,” said Pracht.

Sundried Tomato catering has been creating mouthwatering meals and making hungry wedding guests happy for years. “We can do anything o� the menu from all three restaurants, like our Black-ened Chicken Spring Rolls, which is one of our most popular appetizers,” she said. “We have a full sample catering menu online, or we can customize a menu for anything a bride might want—we can do anything.”

San Juan Capistrano & San Clemente, 949.661.1239, www.sundriedtomatocafe.com

Carbonara Catering

Christy Carbonara, catering director of Car-bonara Catering tells couples, “I think it is really important to have a good personal relationship and feel comfortable with a caterer—you are going to be spending a lot of time together.”

For more than 18 years, Carbonara Catering has been making weddings memorable, providing Ital-ian-style food with an abundance of menu options. Carbonara advises, “Go with an experienced caterer who knows what they can and can’t do, and go with local vendors. � e closer they are to the site the less likely it is that something [wrong] will happen.”

What sets Carbonara’s Catering apart from other caterers is the superior service and quality of food—whether it’s chicken marsala, � let mignon or cheesy tortellini being served. “We’ve had the same sta� for 10 years; they are professional and they really go that extra mile,” she said. “We aren’t just showing up and dropping o� food—it’s about the attention to detail and the exceptional service that we provide.”

“I connect with the brides and get that personal relationship. I want their day to be perfect, and I’ll do what it takes to make it happen,” said Carbonara.

San Clemente, 949.283.0387, www.carbonaracatering.com

CONTACTS

Jeff the Silent Chef

“We’re a � ne-dining experience,” said Je� John-son, chef and owner of Je� the Silent Chef. “We do not transport hot foods; we do prep work in our kitchen, and the � nishing touches—such as sauté-ing, braising and searing—are done onsite.”

A third-generation chef, with years of training and experience, Johnson said it’s important to meet with each couple. “I listen to their vision of what they want done, and then I throw in my experience. From there we base it on their budget. I am very conscious about the budget they have,” he said.

Experienced in many types of traditional and fusion cuisine, Johnson said, “I have a lot of couples come in that have two di� erent cultures and we in-corporate their cultures into the food; just recently we did a Polynesian-Peruvian wedding.

“I believe food and decoration go hand and hand—we specialize in great food and great presen-tation,” he said. “I am very passionate about what I do.” Over the years that passion has paid o� in friendships: “My clients o� en become my friends, maybe a� er the wedding I’ll do their baby shower or anniversary.”

San Clemente, 949.218.2320, www.silentche� e� .com

Photo: Carbonara CateringPhoto: Sundried Tomato American Bistro and CaféPhoto: Broccardo Photography


Assisting brides with the cake selection process is what Castro enjoys the most, saying, “It’s the excitement on the bride’s face after picking the perfect style of cake, and then knowing that her cake will be a part of her memories for years to come.”

31886 Del Obispo, Suite D1, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.4430

“I believe that a wedding cake is the cherry on top of the wedding,” said Hector San Juan, owner of Hector’s Bakery.

Having been in the bakery business most his life, San Juan said he frequently sees many brides making the same mistake. “Often brides will request a cake design from a previous wedding they attended. I strongly suggest to my brides that they allow me to create a unique design for

their special day,” he said. He also suggests that brides gather cake designs that they like and bring them to his bakery, saying, “We are not going to copy a design, but we are going to create their own cake. We can accommodate anyone’s taste.”

San Juan is involved in every step of the process. “I meet with the couples, and then I create, decorate and deliver the cake myself. I love to create—I be-lieve that every cake has its special touch,” he said.

“Creating a wedding cake is something really special for me, brides and grooms let me be part of their happiness. What I like best about my business is that I build long-term relationships with my customers; I have customers from 15 years ago that keep coming back for cakes.”

818 S. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.498.3099, www.hectorscakeshop.com


By Shelley Murphy

“What’s different about my bakery is that we do a lot of two- and three-dimensional work—that sets us apart,” said Diane Richey, owner of the award-winning custom-cake design studio located in Dana Point Harbor. “Brides are a little more savvy today and want a little more difficult cake.”

Brides are impressed by Richey’s skillful attention to detail. “Not only do brides want the presentation of the cake to be perfect, but they want a cake that tastes phenomenal; I take pride and spend a lot of money on my ingredients. Brides are surprised that my cakes taste wonderful and are edible works of art,” said Richey.

Richey suggests to brides that they bring the groom along when they visit her studio. “The fiancé usually doesn’t want to go to a lot of the wedding meetings, but they love the cake tasting—always include the fiancé in the cake tasting,” she said.

After 10 years, Richey still enjoys presenting brides with her confection-ery creations. “My passion is designing and creating. I love working with brides—it’s thrilling,” said Richey.

24921 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949.240.7100, www.itsallaboutthecake.com

“Not only do we have authentic traditional Mexican tres leches and mil hojas cakes but we also have very affordable pricing,” said Erika Castro, manager of family-owned El Molino De Oro Bakery.

“We offer all brides a consultation to help get to their dream design and style of cake,” said Castro. “Some brides do dream big and don’t always realize that some cake

designs are out of their means for the size of wedding they are having—but we always find a solution.”

With so many fun frostings and fillings available, Castro believes a wedding cake should show a couple’s personality. “Honestly, I don’t believe in following a trend, but rather setting your own. This is after all a day that you’ll remember for a lifetime,” she said. “Bring in your own ideas—pictures, magazines, colors, anything that will help us see your dream cake.”

One of a KindCakECreations

DReam SPOTSCATERING & CaKeS

AlbertsonsSan Clemente, 949.492.1755,

www.albertsons.com

DonnA b’s bAkerylaguna Niguel, 949.361.0100,

www.donnab.com

Gelson’s MArket/Viktor bene’s bAkery Dana point, 949.661.1469,

www.gelsons.com

Today’s wedding cakes are much more than flour and water; they are

beautifully executed edible masterpieces. On her wedding day, a bride can

have her cake and eat it too; however, brides may not want to cut into the

works of art these three bakeries create…

It’s All About The

Cake

El Molino De Oro Bakery

Hector’s Cake Shop & Bakery

MoreBakeries Miss DeborAh’s speciAlty cAkes

San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.9420

rAlphs Fresh FAreSan Clemente, 949.492.1648,

www.ralphs.com

Vons bAkerySan Juan Capistrano,

949.661.7594, www.vons.com

It’s All About The Cake. photo: Jasmine Smith


By TAWNEE PRAZAK

and that Perfect TouchFASHION, BEAUTY

DReam SPOTSFaSHION & BEAUTY

Paradise Creations Bridal

Chances are Judy Morrison will get you to try on a gown you might otherwise pass up. “I can pick out a particular style for a girl just by look-ing at her,” said Morrison, “and she’ll often end up liking that one.”

Morrison has owned Paradise Creations Bridal in San Clemente for more than 25 years. She knows wedding dresses, and in her 3,000-plus inventory a bride-to-be will find virtually every style. “If she can’t find it here, she’s going to have a hard time finding something at all,” Morrison said. “We have a huge selection and dresses to fit any budget. Girls come all the way from Las Vegas or Palm Springs to shop here. We carry an extensive line of award-winning designers.”

Morrison works with women one-on-one until they find that special gown. “They’re looking for someone with professional experience,” she said. “Our store is packed from one end to the other, and I give them the assistance they need.”

As for today’s popular trends: “Destination gowns—people are get-ting married on the beach or a boat and they don’t want a ton of fabric,” said Morrison. “Ballroom gowns are also popular. Anything that looks feminine and elegant.”

Paradise Creations also carries bridesmaid dresses, tuxedos, shoes and other formal wear.

111 W. Avenida Plaza, Suite 14A, San Clemente, 949.361.9500, www.pcfb.net

de’esse designer Bridal Veils & aCCessories

Tucked in Capo Beach is an in-novative wedding shop that’s sure to spice up the big day—and night. Owner Danna Danson makes cus-tomized headpiece tiaras and veils to accompany the gown, giving brides

Judy Morrison’s No. 1 Dress-Buying Tip:

Keep an open mind.

“Sometimes brides know what they’re looking for, oth-ers don’t. Some are hooked on one designer. But if she can keep an open mind, we’ll put dresses on her that we know will look good.”

that unique touch. But that’s not all. Her latest venture is specializing in bridal-suite decoration. “We bring romance into the room for that night,” she said. “We decorate their suite with candles, flowers and give it a romantic touch for after the reception.”

34231 Camino Capistrano, Capist-rano Beach, 949.487.5259

salon rougeThe crew over at Salon Rouge is set

to help you have some fun for your

big day. No stuffy attitudes, just lots of smiles, laughs and quality service. “We can handle any hair design,” said hairdresser Sarah Glass. “We often will do hair for the whole wedding party, and we can go on location or they can come to the salon. Since we’re right off PCH, we’ve become a very popular spot for wedding [hair-styling].” Glass said Salon Rouge’s hairdressers especially like doing elaborate up-do styles but are just as capable of doing a classic French Twist, something sleek and simple

A Maggie Sottero design. Available at Paradise Creations Bridal. Photo: Maggie Sottero

or customizing a bride’s dream style. “We all have years of experience,” said Glass. “We can put in hair accessories, a veil and we offer special makeup deals too.” Glass said even the groom and groomsmen often come in for cuts about a week before the wedding.

Prices for special-occasion styling starts at $65.

34255 Pacific Coast Hwy., Dana Point, 949.489.1565, www.salonrougedanapoint.com

Paradise JewelersWhether you’re searching for the

perfect engagement ring, a loose dia-mond for a unique setting or wedding bands, Paradise Jewelers offers a huge selection. Owners Rick and Debbie Dunning opened Paradise Jewelers in San Clemente in 2006 and now oper-ate two shops—the original location on N. El Camino Real, and a new lo-cation, Paradise II, at 210 Avenida Del Mar offering unique silver designs.

808 N. El Camino Real, San Clemente, 949.361.4367, www.paradisejewelers.com

MonaCo JewelersWith thousands of rings to choose

from in the 2,600-square-foot store, the selection at Monaco Jewelers is endless. Plus, Monaco’s staff is all highly qualified, knowledgeable and ready to help you find your dream ring. “We’re easy-going guys here,” said owner Jason Gulzartian. “We’ve been around for 20 years and help everyone from laid-back custom-ers to surfers to the filthy rich.” The rings Monaco carries range from the cheapest to most expensive available, and they also offer any jewelry service you can imagine—diamond setting, sizing, engraving, redesign. So, if you already have a ring, they can custom-ize it to your liking. “People tell usCont. on page 18

Finding the right dress, ring-buying

and beautifying are top priorities

in wedding prep.

Paradise Creations Bridal. Photo: Heidi Mefferd


DREAM SPOTSFASHION & BEAUTY

Cont. from page 16

we’re larger than Robbins Brothers,” said Gulzartian.

33955 Doheny Park Road, San Juan Capistrano, 949.489.3510, www.jewelsbymonaco.com

MAKEUP BY LIZLiz Castellanos is living her pas-

sion. She tried other career paths, but always came back to makeup. And now, a� er more than 11 years in the � eld, her talent and enthusiasm for the art are unmistakable. “I’ve always loved working with makeup. I’m constantly researching and studying makeup work. I just love the face, love accentuating features,” she said. “Bridal makeup is my favorite. It’s such a joy to see someone so happy on her special day.” Liz sets up an initial trial with a bride to see what she wants and then will go on location for the wedding. She’s capable of do-ing any style and will do makeup for multiple girls in the wedding—from moms to � ower girls.

32792 Parkplace Lane, San Juan Capistrano, 949.291.9130, www.makeupbyliz.com

TUTTA BELLASituated o� PCH, Tutta Bella is

perfect for � nding a fancy and memo-rable wedding gi� that won’t get lost in the mix. Imported glass, home-ac-cessory pieces, stemware, artwork and even clothing are just a taste of what you’ll � nd inside. “We buy from vendors that import from France, Italy, Poland, Romania,” said owner Robert Boragno. “You’ll � nd some-thing out of the ordinary, elegant and exceptional here.” Most items are � ne, high-end products and range from cutting-edge designs to traditional European styles.

7 Monarch Bay Plaza, Monarch Beach, 949.248.8030, www.shoptut-tabella.com

FAVORS BY SERENDIPITYEvery little wedding detail—name

cards, candy gi� s, candles, coasters, centerpieces—can all be found in one place: Favors by Serendipity. “Wedding favors are our specialty and we can customize anything to � t a wedding theme,” said owner Eileen Langdon. “Many of our favors are unique; you won’t � nd them anywhere else.”

� ough their o� ce is in San Clem-ente, Serendipity is more of an online retail shop, with a highly comprehen-sive Web site that’s easy to browse and has photos of every item. Langdon even has a special “Wedding Tip” blog.

� e possibilities are endless when you see all that Serendipity carries—too many items to list—and there’s something for every budget, even 99-cent trinkets. “� e big trend right now is edible favors,” said Langdon, who’s been in business for about a decade. “� e brownie pops especially, which taste incredible. Also having a candy or dessert bu� et in the color scheme of the wedding is popular.” Whether to accent your wedding or to give gi� s to your wedding party, Serendipity has that special something.

931 Calle Negocio, Unit A, San Clemente, 949.369.5678, www.favorsbyserendipity.com

JEWELERS

MARINELLI FINE JEWELRY Dana Point, 949.443.4030

ON THE ROCKS JEWELERS San Clemente, 949.366.0022www.ontherocksjewelers.com

SWISS CONNECTIONDana Point, 949.488.0900www.theswissconnection.com

ZIA JEWELRYSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.1322www.ziajewelryonline.com

BEAUTY SALONS & SPAS

5 ELEMENTS DAY SPA San Clemente, 949.361.0505 www.5elementsdayspa.com

BEAUTY A GO-GO!San Clemente, 949.492.5656www.beautyagogosc.com

BODYCENTRE MASSAGE & DAY SPADana Point, 949.487.0891www.danapointbodycentre.com

BROW BOUTIQUESan Clemente, 949.492.8218www.brow-boutique.com

C’SIREN DAY SPASan Clemente, 949.498.7700www.csirendayspa.com

DAWN’S DAY SPA Dana Point, 949.443.0300www.dawnsdayspa.com

DIAMOND BRIDESSan Clemente, 949.246.6294www.diamondbrides.net

ELEMENTS OF ARTISTRY BY LISA O’CONNOROrange County, 866.701.3452www.elementsofartistry.com

MERLIN SKIN CARE & SPASan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.9676 www.merlinskincare.com

WHITE LOTUS Dana Point, 949.496.2977www.whitelotusdayspa.com

HAIR SALONS

SALON BAMBOOSan Clemente, 949.361.3348www.salonbamboo.com

SALON BLEU San Clemente, 949.366.2060www.scsalonbleu.com

SALON DE LA MER Dana Point, 949.248.7700

SALON INCOGNITOSan Clemente, 949.492.1218www.salonincognito.com

SALON REVELATIONDana Point, 949.248.8595

THE SPA AT LAGUNA CLIFFS Dana Point, 949.487.7576www.lagunacliffspa.com

VINCENT MICHAEL SALONSan Juan Capistrano, 949.481.6577www.vincentmichaelhair.com

GIFTS

DOWNSTAIRS STORE Dana Point, 949.496.1424www.downstairsstore.com

ERBASan Clemente, 949.492.2355www.shoperba.com

SCHMID’S FINE CHOCOLATESSan Clemente, 949.369.1052

VILLA CUCINASan Clemente, 949.388.7512www.villacucina.com

WHIMSan Juan Capistrano, 949.388.9600 www.whim-sjc.com

NAILS

BELLAGIO NAIL SPASan Clemente, 949.366.6228

DANA SKIN & NAILS Dana Point, 949.661.3758

LILY NAILS San Juan Capistrano, 949.661.4942

MINGEE’S NAILS & SPA San Clemente, 949.369.1818

POSH NAILS Dana Point, 949.496.7674

WEIGHT LOSS/FITNESS

24 HOUR FITNESSSan Juan Capistrano, 949.489.9900 www.24hourfi tness.com

CURVESMultiple locations, www.curves.com

FITNESS ELITE San Clemente, 949.661.6060www.fi tnesselite4women.com

FITNESS TOGETHER Dana Point, 949.218.3100www.fi tnesstogether.com

TANNING

AMAZON TANSan Clemente, 949.661.1599

SALON SOLEIL SPA & TANSan Juan Capistrano, 949.481.8900

TAN-IN-TIME Dana Point, 949.573.6826www.tanintime.com

TAN-TALIZING CUSTOM AIRBRUSH TANNING San Clemente, 949.241.4616www.tan-talizingtan.com


Fun Favors: Elegant Starfi sh Design Bottle Stopper, starting at $2.50. Conch Shell Design Candle Holder, starting at $1.89. Available at www.favorsbyserendipity.com.

FashionCHOICES& BEAUTY

MORE

Photo: Makeup by Liz

20

with


By Shelley Murphy

An initial step in the planning process involves picking the perfect florist to create a dream wedding. From classic to contemporary, these five florists create arrangements so beautiful that brides may choose to skip the traditional tossing of their bouquets at the end of their special day.

Downtown Flowers. photo: John partridge

BurstinG

ColorDReam SPOTSTHE DeTaILS

Downtown Flowers

“My best advice to brides when choosing flowers for their wedding is to look at lots of pictures; this is the best way to figure out your likes and dislikes, and also a good way for your florist to see your vision,” said Krista Jon Levandofsky, lead designer and owner of Downtown Flowers.

As an experienced floral designer, with more than 100 weddings to her credit, Levandofsky said she recently started to see some inspiring new trends at weddings. “One of the trends I am most excited about and I strive to guide my brides toward is the idea of being green,” she said. “I love to draw inspiration from my brides and excite them with unique ideas that complement their style and taste.”

Levandofsky’s been in the business for 11 years and for the past six she’s owned Downtown Flowers. “We continually offer our brides the best we have in ideas, inspiration, quality and service,” she said.

“Working with brides during the creative process of designing and planning is my favorite part of my business,” said Levandofsky. “We love what we do, we have a great time doing it. It shows in our work.”

111 Avenida Del Mar, San Clemente, 949.492.7062, www.downtownflowersoc.com

McCool Flowers, Inc.

“Who doesn’t like flowers?” asked Cathy Mc-Cool, owner and president of McCool Flowers, Inc.

For the past 15 years, McCool has shared her expertise with countless couples in her Dana Point shop. “Brides have a tendency to leave the flowers for last and don’t save enough of their budget for the look that they see in the magazines,” she said. Thankfully, McCool offers a solution: “We’re open seven days a week and brides can come in any time and sit in our wedding area and look through our photo books to get ideas before scheduling a consultation.”

McCool’s friendly and knowledgeable staff takes extra time with brides-to-be. “We really listen to the brides’ ideas, and we want to make them happy. We also work with any budget and everything is custom,” said McCool.

While McCool enjoys the planning process, it’s the end result that she looks forward to, saying, “I love the wedding-day delivery to the bride and the moment I hand her the bouquet and she smiles and says, ‘It’s perfect!’”

32585 Golden Lantern, Dana Point, 949.488.7988, www.mccoolflowers.com

Salt Creek Flowers & Gifts

“The most important thing to consider when choosing wedding flowers is the mood or atmo-sphere you want to create,” said Loree Gass, co-owner of Salt Creek Flowers and Gifts.

Gass, together with her best friend of 20 years and co-owner Dianne Murdoch, brings 15 years of floral experience to brides. “My advice considering wedding flowers is to choose what you like, choose flowers that reflect your taste and personality. Go with your heart and you can’t go wrong, this is your day,” said Gass.

Gass also has some savvy cost-saving tips. “Cre-ativity is the best way to save on costs so you can have the wedding you want on a reasonable budget,” she said. “The sky’s the limit when it comes to the bride and groom’s imagination—have fun!”

Murdoch and Gass take pride in the personal attention they provide. “Planning wedding florals is an honor for us. Our clients become our friends and family,” said Gass. “Our favorite part of this business is being able to share in millions of smiles. Flowers are the soul of life.”

2 Ritz Carlton Drive, Suite 104, Monarch Beach, 949.276.7644, www.saltcreekflower.vpweb.com

Downtown Flowers. photo: John partridge McCool Flowers. photo: Murer Image photography

21

that Last


By Shelley Murphy

long after the last guest is gone, the bride and groom are left with memories and photographs of their wedding day. These three photographers can make the couple’s day picture perfect by capturing everything including the first kiss and all candids throughout the special day.

A LIFETIMEMemories

Iva Bloom Signature Florist

“If a bride can dream it, we can create it,” said Shawn Symes, designer and owner of Iva Bloom Signature Florist. “I am committed to providing each bride with wonderful service, gorgeous flowers and excellent value.”

Acknowledging that planning a wedding is a huge undertaking Symes said, “A bride needs a flo-ral designer who will understand the vision she has for her wedding. That kind of service is precisely what we provide to a bride for her special day.”

Symes’s biggest suggestion is to be creative when planning floral arrangements. “Choose flowers that you love, but don’t be afraid to consider using those flowers in original and imaginative ways,” she said. “I encourage brides to think outside the flower box. I find that a bride will often love something exotic that I create in a style she had not even considered, such as Japanese Ikebana.”

Symes said Iva Bloom is different from other flo-rists. “We are willing to devote the time and atten-tion necessary to ensure that a bride has signature floral designs that truly reflects her dream for her day. We will work to make her dream a reality,” she said. “We provide dedicated and highly personal-ized service.”

24691 Del Prado, Dana Point, 949.248.5200, www.ivabloom.com

Rod Foster Photography

“Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important aspects of wedding planning,” said Rod Foster, owner of Rod Foster Photogra-phy. “Make sure that you click well with them as a person; after all, the photographer may spend more time with you on your wedding day than anyone else.”

Foster thinks it’s important for today’s photog-raphers to keep up with current trends, saying, “The days of ‘look here and smile’ are long gone. The best modern wedding photographers walk a thin line between fashion, art, photojournalism and portraiture. My style is artistic and my method journalistic. I aim to combine the beauty of fine art portraiture with the spontaneity of storytelling.”

As for his advice to brides-to-be, Foster said, “The wedding day is one of the most fast-paced and technically challenging assignments a photographer can take on, and there are no second chances to capture those priceless moments. Your investment in photography will pay increasing dividends over time.”

Listening intently to bride and grooms he meets with is important. “If I know the couple’s story, I am better attuned to those fleeting glimpses of emotion or small details that would have otherwise gone unnoticed—then I can tell the love story of their wedding through timeless photographs,” he said.

San Clemente, 949.290.5999, www.rodfoster.com

Mother Earth Flowers

“We work closely with our brides and cover everything from A to Z,” said Shay Esmaili, designer and manager at Mother Earth Flowers. “I like to talk with the bride to find out what she really wants so that she feels completely comfortable and happy. We understand that every wedding is unique and special.”

Since 1986, Mother Earth has been helping couples choose flowers for their wedding. Esmaili encourages brides to go with their dreams. “This is your big day, go for what you want, make the fairytale come alive,” she said. “This one day will provide you with a lifetime of memories.”

Esmaili aims to make each bride’s bouquet one of a kind. “I like to suggest to the bride that she tuck something personal in her bouquet like a locket containing a photo that is dear to her, or a hair rib-bon that her mother has been saving since she was a baby, or any item that holds a sentimental value to her to really make her bridal bouquet unique,” said Esmaili. “I get sentimental and I really love that I get to be a part in helping make that day memo-rable.”

32158 Camino Capistrano, Suite 105, San Juan Capistrano, 949.493.4400, www.motherearthflorist.com

photo: rod Foster

photo: rod Foster


THE DETAILS:Photographers,FLOWERSMUSIC, VIDEOGRAPHERS,

DREAM SPOTSTHE DETAILS

Joe Photo

“� e clients that hire me place a very high priority on their photographs,” said Joe Photo who founded his business in 1995. “I’m in the business of creating ex-traordinary images, and it’s been so fun to establish my brand as one of the top wedding photographers in our industry.”

Joe advises brides to choose a photog-rapher with whom they communicate well. “� e most important thing is to select a photographer that you would like to have as a friend,” he said. “I think a lot of brides would be served well to do an engagement session with their top two picks, that way you have experience in front of each photographer’s camera and you get to see how they pose you and how you feel with them—it could save you a lot of frustration later.”

Joe said he works to ensure that each bride shines on her special day. “My job is to make brides feel beautiful in front of the camera. I want my brides to have

Jessica Claire

“A lot of brides get caught in the trap of using the photographer that their friend or family member used—remember they’re your wedding photographs, and you’re the one who’s going to be looking at the [photos] for the rest of your life,” said Jessica Claire, owner of Jessica Claire Photography. “Choose a photogra-pher that � ts the style and personality that works best for you.” Claire speaks from experience—in 2008, she was named one of the top 10 wedding photographers in the world by American Photo Magazine.

“My absolute, hands down favorite part of my business is getting to hear the stories of how people met. Hearing these stories helps me to � nd out what a couple loves about one another and helps me to � nd ways to capture things that are signi� cant to them,” said Claire.

Claire said she’s committed to providing customized and superior service. “What sets me apart from my competitors is my ability to � gure out what is most important to the bride about their wedding and bring that to life in my photo-graphs,” she said. “I like to think that my responsibility as a photographer is to do the absolute best job I can to make a couple’s wedding look beautiful.”

San Juan Capistrano, 949.388.0719, www.jessicaclaire.net

the best possible experience; I’m most satis� ed when they are thrilled with their photographs,” he said.

Dana Point, 949.493.4830, www.joephoto.com

Photos: Joe Photo

PHOTOGRAPHY

BROCCARDO PHOTOGRAPHY San Juan Capistrano, 949.481.0595 www.broccardophoto.com

DARREN DESILVA PHOTOGRAPHYSan Clemente, 949.412.9151www.darrenography.com

ELEGANT PHOTOGRAPHY San Clemente, 949.498.0218www.elegantphotography1.com

HAMMAN + MYERS PHOTOGRAPHYOrange County, 949.887.5720www.hammanphotography.com

MATTHEW MORGAN PHOTOGRAPHYDana Point, 949.412.7094www.matthewmorgan.net

JOHN PARTRIDGE PHOTOGRAPHYSan Clemente, 949.395.3799www.johnpartridgephotography.com

JACK RANDALL PHOTOGRAPHYDana Point, 949.248.5198www.jackrandallphotography.com

LISA RENEE PHOTOGRAPHYSan Juan Capistrano, 949.493.8686 www.lisareneephotography.com

SHARON KAY PHOTOGRAPHYSan Juan Capistrano, 949.661.2024 www.photographybysharonkay.com

TARA SIELING PHOTOGRAPHYSan Clemente, 949.338.1358 www.tarasieling.com

SHERI WADE PHOTOGRAPHYSan Clemente, [email protected] www.sheriwade.com

DAVID YTRURRALDEOrange County, [email protected]

VIDEOGRAPHERS

EPOCH PRODUCTIONSSan Juan Capistrano, 949.742.2926www.epochproductions.com

HD WEDDING PRO’S San Juan Capistrano, 949.677.3354 www.hdweddingpros.com

JENNIFER ANNE FILM & VIDEODana Point, 888.827.5079 www.jenniferannevideo.com

THOMAS HUGHES VIDEO PRODUCTIONSDana Point, 949.554.4890 www.thomashughesvideo.com

MUSIC

FLOCK OF 80’S (‘80S COVERS) San Clementewww.fl ockof80s.com

JR LEWIS MUSIC AND EVENTSOrange County, 714.809.1310www.jrlewissax.com

JUMPING JACK FLASH (ROLLING STONES TRIBUTE)San Clemente, www.jjfl ash.biz

M&M BAGPIPE ENTERPRISES Orange County, 949.573.5086www.mmbagpipeenterprises.com

MEMBERS LONELY 80’S BAND Dana Point, 949.632.3850www.memberslonely.com

MIKE JOHNSON & FRIENDS (JAZZ) San Juan Capistrano, 949.289.9000 www.mikejohnsonlive.com

MILLENNIUM ENTERTAINMENT DJ SERVICESDana Point, 877.570.1668www.millenniumentertainment.com

YOUR FIESTA & CO. (BILINGUAL DJ/MC) Orange County, 949.457.8103www.yourfi esta.com FLOWERS

BROWNE’S FLOWERSDana Point, 949.661.4748www.brownesfl owers.com

ENCHANTED FINE FLORALS San Clemente, 949.412.4868www.enchantedfi nefl orals.com

ENGLISH ROSE FLORAL Mission Viejo, 949.347.1305www.englishrosefl oral.com

FANTASY FLORAL DESIGNSSan Juan Capistrano, 949.240.3571 www.fantasyfl oraldesigns.com

FLORAL OCCASIONS San Juan Capistrano, 949.547.3351 www.fl oraloccasions.com

FLOWER CO. OF SAN CLEMENTESan Clemente, 949.661.0641www.fl owercompanyofsc.com

FLOWER GIRL Dana Point, 949.248.1570www.myfl owergirl.com

FLOWER SHOP LAGUNA CLIFFSDana Point, 949.661.5663www.lagunacliffs.com

FLOWERS & FRIENDS San Clemente, 949.366.9150www.fl owersandfriendssanclemente.com

SAN CLEMENTE FLORIST San Clemente, 949.492.5702www.sanclementefl orist.net

THE VINES LEAF San Clemente, 949.481.4754www.thevinesleaf.com

WILDFLOWER OF SAN CLEMENTESan Clemente, 949.498.3454www.sanclementewildfl ower.com


Bridal B

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Do make your wedding a joint venture between bride and groom. Some grooms just want to know what to wear and where and when to show up. Some brides want to call all the shots and make all the decisions. Make your decisions together—you will be doing this for the rest of your lives and this is a good place to start.

Do use a wedding-planning guide to coordinate everything. This will ensure that everything needed to be done is done, and done on time. Buy a wed-ding binder to stay organized with vendors and receipts.

Do hire a wedding coordinator if your wedding is large enough (and most are). There are “day-of ” coordinators who will make sure your big day runs smoothly.

Do ask who is paying for what. Not in those blunt terms, however. Sit down with family (both sides) and see what financial contributions they can take on. Keep the parents—bride and groom’s—updated with plans.

Do get things done as far in advance as possible. You don’t want to discover the day before the wedding that you forgot to

get a marriage license or your dress isn’t ready.

Do let the ceremony reflect who the bride and groom are as individuals and who you are as a couple. Do this through music, scriptural

readings, vows and other personal stories.

Do take into consideration “family tensions” or “sore spots” when planning seating. If parents are divorced and remarried, and there’s tension be-tween them, be sensitive about how they’re seated

at both the ceremony and reception or dinner. This will prevent unnecessary stress and perhaps tears.

Do delegate, delegate, delegate! Let others help so when wedding week arrives you have time to enjoy your guests rather than arriving at your own wed-ding too tired to enjoy it.

To the Bride: Do wait as long as possible to take off the dress. Once it’s off, the magic is over and the day is done. So, stay in that dress until the last dance is done and you’ve waved good-bye to every guest.

To the Groom: Do go on a date with your “beloved” during this planning time at least once a month without discussing wedding plans; concentrate on your relationship.

By Linda FuChSer

Do…

Don’t think you have to spend more money on a wedding than it would cost for a college education or new house; however, consider twice about hiring cheap professionals. Some things are worth paying that little bit extra for. Remember, a good picture can bring back amazing thoughts and memories, and a bad one will bring back nothing.

Don’t forget to get a marriage license. That is your sole responsibility not that of the minister or offici-ant. You must go to the courthouse in the county where the ceremony will be held. No exceptions.

Don’t buy a dress in a smaller size and think you’ll diet and squeeze in by the wedding date. Buy a dress that fits and be dedicated to taking good care of your body. If you happen to lose a ton of weight by the wedding day, get the dress altered.

Don’t be shy about speaking up for yourselves. This is your wedding. Just because your bridesmaid has her idea of what she wants to wear doesn’t mean

you have to let her. Or because your “I-think-I-can-sing-but-can’t” cousin wants to sing doesn’t mean you have to let him. Tell these people how much you love them and thank them for their wonderful offer with a gentle statement that you’ve already chosen your dresses and planned your music (or whatever it may be).

Don’t procrastinate. If you want a disaster the day before and the day of the wedding, just put things off. But the more organized you are and the better you’ve delegated those last-minute things, the more you will be able to participate in and enjoy wedding day.

Don’t have unrealistic expectations about every-thing being perfect. Beautiful? Yes. Perfect is harder. Remember that this is a joyful celebration of love rather than an exercise in perfection. Once the day arrives, let go and enjoy. All the hard work is done. Unwind and have fun.

Don’t drink alcoholic beverages prior to the ceremony, save it for the reception (even then remember to sip your drinks slowly—you’ll want to remember your wedding). There are enough chal-lenges without having a best man, maid of honor, groom or even the bride drunk at the ceremony. Yes, nerves are raging and tension is high. But how

does this sound when it’s time to say your vows: “Please slur after me?”

Don’t overdo it the night before your wedding. This is not the time to stay out late drinking with the out-of-town guest, put last-minute favors to-gether or pack for the honeymoon. A good wedding starts the day before with a good meal and sleep.

Brides: Don’t forget your groom’s parents. Re-member, this day is just as important for them as for your parents. After all, without them you would not be getting married to your wonderful man!

Don’t forget: This is the happiest day of your life!

Don’t…

WeddingDo’s DoN’Ts&

Linda Fuchser is a

San Clemente resident

and wedding coordina-

tor at Ocean hills

Church in San Juan

Capistrano. She can

be reached at linda.

[email protected]

DReam SPOTSASK THE WeDDING PLaNNeR

Resource PROFILESRascal’s Ladies

Rascal’s offers specialty lingerie from Arianne, Cosabella, DKNY, Hanky Panky, Lucy B, Mary Green, and Shirley of Hol-lywood. Let us help you find the perfect foundation for your wedding dress. Bridal shower registry, special orders and gift boxing available.

114 Ave. Del Mar #2, San Clemente, CA 92672949.492.4621 • www.rascalsladies.com

Events TaylorMadeA wedding, by its very nature is all about the heart. At Events TaylorMade, we help you create your magical day filled with memories within your budget - nothing more, nothing less. Your event, TaylorMade for you - it’s what you want and what we do!

Erin Taylor, 714.657.8845www.eventstaylormade.com

Lake Forest LimosLake Forest Limos, now located in San Clemente, has provided first class wedding transportation since 1985. Now offering the American Rolls Royce Packards One Hour Wedding Package starting at $249. Large wedding parties and families needs are no problem with Lake Forest Limos diverse fleet.

Call now 800.300.4546, 949.380.7794www.lakeforestlimos.com

Castle for Brides and TuxedoCastle for Brides is a full service bridal salon offering the Finest Quality, Selection and Service. Designers: 2Be, Venus, Private Label by G, Moonlight, Essence of Australia and more. Join us on Facebook and Twitter.

15091 Goldenwest St., Huntington Beach, CA 92647714.891.6800 • www.castleforbrides.com

Nature’s BeautyPreserve your wedding flowers! Nature’s BeautyTM freeze-dries your flowers and mounts them in a shadowbox or frame of your choice for an everlasting memento of the most important day in your life.

Visit www.naturesbeauty.us for more information. We are located in Southern Orange County. 800.682.3580

Lovely LashesEyelash Extensions is what Lovely Lashes is all about, we offer the most affordable service in a salon atmosphere with a sterile clean setting. Full Set: $125. Touch-up or Fills: $60. Mini Touch-up or fill $40.

115 Broadway, Costa Mesa, CA 92627949.548.5274 • www.lovelylashes4u.com

HD Wedding ProsCreating unforgettable cinematic wedding films at affordable prices! Your special day deserves to be preserved with the best picture quality possible. We have been in full-time media for over 5 years capturing your moments in an unobtrusive and documentary style.

Visit www.hdweddingpros.com or call 949.677.3354 to discuss your wedding videography.

Donna B’s Bakery Family owned and operated since 1993. Featuring the finest and freshest Wedding Cakes at a truly unbeatable price. We also can do a wonderful dessert table with our mini cookies,cupcakes and double dipped brownies. Our picture cookies are the perfect party favor.

26022 Cape Drive, Ste B., Laguna Niguel, CA 92677 949.367.0100 • www.donnab.com

Blue Laguna Restaurant and LoungeBlue Laguna Restaurant and Lounge is just two blocks south of downtown Laguna Beach. The restaurant offers a tapas-style and a full scale California cuisine menu. Start with orders of many small plates or combine them for a full meal. Pre-arranged menus can be tailor-made for special events.

696 S Coast Hwy, Laguna Beach, CA 92651949.376.2583, [email protected]

Arroyo Trabuco Golf ClubOur goal is to make your wedding a memorable and relaxing experience. Our lush, rolling golf course rimmed with breath-taking views of hills and canyons provides the perfect setting for your special day. We offer complete ceremony and reception services designed for you at a reasonable price!

26772 Avery Parkway, Mission Viejo, CA 92692949.305.5100 • www.arroyotrabuco.com

Talega Day SpaHave your Bridal or Groom Party in style. Treat your party to our luscious menu of spa treatments while the group enjoys the steam room, sauna, swiss showers, relaxation room, and food. We can customize your party to fit your needs. For a description of our spa and services, visit our Web site.

1161 Puerta del Sol, San Clemente, CA 92673949.429.5757 • www.talegadayspa.com

C’Siren Day SpaAn intimate full service day spa meeting all your bridal preparation needs. Great prices and packages on services such as Massage, Body Wraps and Scrubs, Facials, Waxing, Make Up, Airbrush Tanning, Spa Parties, and more. Come relax with us.

312 Avenida De La Estrella, San Clemente, CA 92672949.498.7700 • www.csirendayspa.com

Pure Clover Skin SpaHave perfect skin on your perfect day. Pure Clover Skin Spa in Dana Point specializes in customized facials to help you and your wedding party look picture perfect. We also provide Sugaring Hair Removal for your bikini ready Honeymoon. Mention this ad and receive special pricing.

24655 La Plaza, Dana Point, CA 92629949.735.1948 • www.pureclover.com

Ricardo’s PlaceAt Ricardo’s Place it is our tradition to provide you with the most authentic Mexican cuisine and memorable service whether you are planning a private party or wedding recep-tion. It is our duty to accommodate you and your guests to a wonderful time and to ensure everything goes as planned.

32082 Camino Capistrano, San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675949.493.4941 • www.ricardosplace.net

PAID ADVERTISING SECTION

Si x or mor e mon t h S a h e a d

☐ Think about the type of wedding you want: formal or informal, big or small, time of year.☐ Set a budget.☐ Hire a wedding coordinator, if you desire.☐ Compile your guest list, organize addresses.☐ Finalize wedding date.☐ Reserve ceremony and reception sites.☐ Choose attendants.☐ Order dress and accessories, including veil and shoes.☐ Book officiant.☐ Book caterer.☐ Order wedding cake.☐ Book florist.☐ Book music for ceremony and reception.☐ Book photographer and videographer.☐ Plan and book honeymoon.☐ Send save-the-date cards. Especially for summer weddings.

F ou r to Si x mon t h S a h e a d

☐ Reserve rental equipment, tables, chairs, tents and tablecloths.☐ Arrange transportation for the wedding day.☐ Order stationary, including invitations and thank you notes.☐ Register for gifts.☐ Purchase wedding rings.☐ Purchase or reserve groom’s attire.☐ Choose attendant’s attire.☐ Buy stockings and any special lingerie your dress requires.☐ Choose favors.☐ Book a room for wedding night.☐ Choose gifts for the wedding party.☐ Reserve accommodations for out-of-town guests.☐ Sign up for dance lessons, if desired.☐ Book hairstylist and makeup artist.

t wo to F ou r mon t h S a h e a d

☐ Discuss details of menu with caterer.☐ Discuss service with officiant.☐ Choose readings for ceremony.☐ Schedule rehearsal time and rehearsal dinner.☐ Mail invitations.☐ Write thank-you notes as gifts arrive.☐ Have first dress fitting (with shoes).

on e to t wo mon t h S a h e a d

☐ Have programs printed.☐ Obtain marriage license.☐ Try out hairstyles and makeup.☐ Send change-of-address information to post office.☐ Buy a guest book.☐ Contact local newspaper about publishing a wedding announcement, if desired.

t wo w e e k S a h e a d

☐ Have your final dress fitting.☐ Begin seating plans and write place cards.☐ Notify caterer of guest count.☐ Address announcements.☐ Break in wedding shoes at home.☐ Designate someone to care for your home while you’re on your honeymoon.

26

To-Do

on e w e e k a h e a d

☐ Finalize seating plan.☐ Assign specific responsibilities to wedding attendants.☐ Pick up the dress.☐ Confirm details with caterer.☐ Confirm honeymoon arrangements. In case of emergency make sure to give itinerary to a family member.☐ Pack for honeymoon.☐ Update caterer with final guest count.

on e day a h e a d

☐ Confirm transportation arrangements for ceremony and reception.☐ Give announcements to an attendant for mailing after the wedding.☐ Have a manicure and pedicure.☐ Rehearsal ceremony.☐ Rehearsal dinner. Give gifts to wedding party, and “thank yous” to parents for their love and support.☐ Prepare payment envelopes for all vendors. Make arrangements for proper distribution.

you r w e ddi ng day

☐ Give the responsibilities to your coordinator.☐ Relax it’s your wedding day.


By Linda FuChSer

Start planning with this easy-to-use wedding checklist that will keep you organized!

Photo: rod Foster

Notes:

List

BridalDReam SPOTSAsK tHe WeDDING PLaNNeR

South Orange County Bridal Guide

Documents

comprehensive bridal

wedding dos donts

sc times

dp times

wedding plannerthe dos

dana point times

greatfrom wedding dresses

magazine youll nd